Liverpool appear poised to enter the upcoming Premier League season with almost the same squad that concluded the previous one.
While the club has experienced considerable changes on the sidelines and in the boardroom this summer, the roster remains largely intact.
With the news that Liverpool will not be acquiring Martin Zubimendi, new head coach Arne Slot will start the season relying on nearly the same group of players.
Though this is not necessarily a disadvantage, Liverpool will need to manage injuries more effectively than in recent seasons.
According to former defender Jamie Carragher, one player, in particular, needs to take more responsibility for his injury history.
Carragher has advised Diogo Jota to avoid engaging in “unnecessary” challenges that could jeopardize his fitness.
Unusually, Liverpool is beginning the season without any injury concerns, which could indicate a positive trend for the team.
In Sunday’s matches against Sevilla and Las Palmas, Liverpool’s depth was evident when all players were available. The first match, a decisive victory over Sevilla at Anfield, highlighted Diogo Jota’s potential, especially after he scored an impressive volley with his supposedly weaker foot.
Speaking on the Blood Red: Liverpool FC podcast, Carragher encouraged Jota to avoid risky challenges that could lead to injury.
Carragher noted, “Jota’s effort and willingness to go into every challenge are qualities we all appreciate, but he needs to be more selective. There’s no need for him to engage in certain tackles, especially those where he has no chance of winning.”
Carragher continued, “Even with the ball, there are times when Jota seems to be tackling his way through. While his determination is admirable, he should avoid unnecessary risks. Sometimes, I watch him and think he should just hold back. It’s crucial for him to use his judgement, given his injury history.”
Will Diogo Jota be Liverpool’s primary striker?
It’s reassuring for Jota that he has managed to avoid injuries throughout pre-season, a relief given his past two summers have been plagued with issues.
Currently, with Darwin Nunez absent, Jota has taken the lead in Slot’s attack. Heading into Saturday’s Premier League opener against Ipswich, it’s likely Jota will continue as Liverpool’s central striker.
Slot plans a significant role for Nunez, making it interesting to see how the Dutch forward will adapt to the team’s dynamics moving forward.
For now, if Jota continues to deliver performances like he did on Sunday, it will be challenging to replace him in the starting lineup. Adhering to Carragher’s advice might help him maintain his place.
