Doubt cast on Liverpool star’s Premier League suitability amid exit links

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John Barnes believes Liverpool forward Rhian Brewster may find it difficult to find another Premier League club willing to bring him on board.

The Reds have one of the most settled front threes in European football.

Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have proven themselves capable of firing Liverpool to silverware. While regular back-up Divock Origi has come up with important contributions when called upon.

That has left emerging talent Rhian Brewster facing an uncertain future at Anfield.

Several Premier League clubs have been touted as possible landing spots for the 20-year-old, either via the permanent or loan routes.

However, Liverpool legend and former England winger John Barnes isn’t so sure the relatively inexperienced and raw Brewster would be a suitable fit for the sort of teams that have registered an interest.

Barnes said: “Despite Rhian Brewster having a good loan spell at Swansea City last season, Liverpool clearly don’t see him as a long-term prospect.

“If the centre-forward gets injured, they obviously don’t feel like he would be the right replacement.

“However, it is also a good thing for the player. If he feels like he is not going to play regular football at Liverpool, it is right for him to want to move in order to play each week.

“Rather than waiting at the club, hoping to get game time, it is good that he can look to find a home for himself at a club where he will play regularly and then maybe a few years down the line, Liverpool try to buy him for £50m.

Rhian Brewster Liverpool TEAMtalk

“Rhian Brewster moving away will be good for both parties, and he can evolve into an even better player over the next few seasons.

“Regarding where he may move to, you have to look at what other Premier League clubs are looking for.

“Clubs will want a proven international player from abroad who could cost £30m, rather than someone who has not performed at a top six club, especially if you are a club in the bottom half of the Premier League table.”

 

Van Dijk labelled “arrogant” after shaky Leeds display

Van Dijk Liverpool TEAMtalk

Meanwhile, Gabby Agbonlahor believes Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk had an air of arrogance about him in Saturday’s 4-3 win over Leeds.

The Reds looked typically frightening going forward but shakiness was present at the back for Jurgen Klopp’s men.

Klopp admitted Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson made a mistake that should “never happen” for Jack Harrison’s first equaliser.

And before half-time, Van Dijk was at fault as his attempted flicked clearance fell to Patrick Bamford. The Englishman smartly slotted home to make it 2-2.

Speaking to talkSPORT about the latter incident, Agbonlahor questioned whether Van Dijk can yet be considered among the greatest defenders in Premier League history.