Liverpool have been told they must enter the transfer market in January or risk their season failing.
That is the view of former Reds midfielder Jermaine Pennant, who highlighted the right-back as a particular concern.
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Arne Slot spent £450m on transfers in the summer after winning the Premier League title.
What was predicted, that the season in which they would defend their title would be an absolute challenge, has not worked out.
Slot’s side are 14 points behind leaders Arsenal in a run that has included nine defeats in 12 games in all competitions.
Surprisingly, Liverpool are lacking in many areas of the pitch: Mohamed Salah is suffering from a dip in form, Alexander Isak is battling a serious injury, while right-back has been a problem since Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid.
The defensive problems were compounded by Conor Bradley’s season-ending injury in the 0-0 draw with Arsenal.
During Salah’s absence from the Africa Cup of Nations, Jeremie Frimpong was occasionally used higher up the pitch.
Apart from Frimpong, the injury-prone Joe Gomez is the only recognized defender who can fill in there.
Liverpool will reportedly not look to strengthen their defense in January.
The Pitch Prospect’s YouTube show Inside Liverpool gave its verdict on the news.
Pennant said: “I’m very disappointed to hear that Liverpool won’t sign a right-back and not even consider the possibility of a loan deal… if you don’t want to spend your money fairly enough.”
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“We spent quite a lot in the summer but some sort of cover, maybe someone who can even just sit on the bench.
“At the moment we are injury-prone and we still have a lot of games ahead of us. We are still in a lot of competitions and we have to try to stay in the top four of the Champions League.”
“It’s a bit disappointing and as the hierarchy, the sporting director and the board should look into the matter, if we don’t bring anyone in then we’re taking a risk.
“If we get another injury it could ruin our season in every way. It’s disappointing to hear that we’re not looking to bring in someone. I don’t know how they can sit there and say, ‘Yeah, everything’s good, it’s fine’.”
Change for Marc Guehi?
Guehi’s move to Liverpool fell through on deadline day in the summer after Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner threatened to leave.
The England centre-back’s contract expires in the summer, where he has a choice of destination.
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Man City could make a move up the pitch by trying to sign him this month, despite their defensive players having injury problems.
However, Liverpool are unlikely to be able to keep up with City in January.
Former boxer and huge Liverpool fan Paul Smith said: “Speaking of Marc Guehi, if we don’t play well and City will choose who? Especially if they offer a bit more money.”
“Secondly, I’m not the expert but if I’m the owner I think I’ve just given you £450m. Why would I want to give him any more? We might think about getting rid of him and replacing him with another manager.”
“Let’s save it until the new manager comes or when the new manager comes.”
Listen to the latest episode of The Pitch Prospect’s Inside Liverpool show on YouTube.