Previously, Takumi Minamino's former manager Jesse Marsch said that the player is best fitted for the No.8 or the No.10 position, where his talents can be fully utilised.
Liverpool legend John Barnes agrees with RB Salzburg's manager. The former forward discussed Minamino's role on Sky Sports after the 0-0 draw against Everton.
"Minamino is an attacking midfielder or a number 10. When Liverpool play with Salah and Mane out wide, they stay wide or, if they come inside, they’re going to run directly at defenders with pace.
"Minamino hasn’t got that pace, he likes the ball to his feet. So does Firmino, so they’re really doing the same role, and that’s why I’m surprised he (Minamino) played.
"He (Jurgen Klopp) wants to give him time and confidence but the relationship between the two full-backs and the two wide men cannot be underestimated and they haven’t got that yet."
Barnes analysis echoes with something else that Marsch said of his former player: "He's not pure explosive but he understands football, he understands how to make final plays and tactics."
Minamino's pace is not his strongest suit - he is better suited at receiving the ball in the middle of the park and then advancing forward with it while trying to create spaces and chances for his teammates.
The 25-year-old is indeed a very intelligent player and it was a curious choice by Klopp to field him out wide. Once Salah returns, we're sure that Minamino will be given more time in the positions that suit him better.
Minamino had a good game regardless, and we hope to see more of him in the future!
What did you think of Minamino's performance, Reds? Do let us know!
