Why Liverpool signing Daryl Janmaat would be a smart move amidst defensive crisis
According to Daily Star, Daryl Janmaat has emerged as a surprise option for Liverpool. Liverpool have been dealt a couple of more injury blows as defenders Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been ruled out with long-term injuries.
The Reds were just starting to steady themselves after Virgil Van Dijk’s ACL injury and subsequent injuries to Matip and Fabinho. Youngsters Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips have stepped in for a few games until Matip returned. Now, Andy Robertson is out injured as well.
Profile
Daryl Janmaat made more than 200 appearances for ADO Den Haag, Heerenveen, and Feyenoord in his homeland before moving to England with Newcastle United back in the summer of 2014. He featured 77 times (source – Transfermarkt) for the Magpies in all competitions over two seasons before switching boats to join Watford in 2016 following Newcastle’s relegation to the Championship.
The 31-year-old played a key role for the Hornets during his first two campaigns at Vicarage Road but gradually slipped down the pecking order due to injuries. He started only 7 games in the Premier League last term as the Hornets suffered relegation.
A full international for the Netherlands since 2012, Janmaat has amassed 34 caps and was a part of his nation’s squad that finished third at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Janmaat could be a good temporary solution for Liverpool
While the injuries in central defence were dealt well by giving chances to Williams and Phillips, the injury to Arnold just throws a huge spanner in the works. Neco Williams, 19, remains the only other right-back in the squad.
With all of their starting defenders out, it would be a huge gamble to throw on so many of the academy players in together. Luckily for Liverpool, a certain Daryl Janmaat is available on a free transfer after leaving Watford in October.
The Dutchman is a very handy and experienced option to have in the team. A right-back by trade, he can also slot in as a centre-back if required. With close to 150 Premier League appearances, he is a very eligible option that Liverpool can look into.
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According to the report, the player is keen on a short-term deal until the end of the season, something which the club are also in agreement with. With so many injuries to experienced players, it would benefit Liverpool to have someone like Janmaat to shore up the defence.
