Merson defends struggling Fabinho; backs Liverpool to beat Tottenham

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Paul Merson has told Sportskeeda that he expects Liverpool to beat Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, and issued a defence of Fabinho with the Brazilian struggling for the Reds right now.

The Reds have a huge point to prove after a baffling couple of weeks for Jurgen Klopp’s men. They ended their Champions League group-stage campaign on a high, beating both Ajax and Napoli.

However, they have also lost to both Nottingham Forest and Leeds in the last two weeks. And with that, they now find themselves well off the pace in the Premier League.

Merson defends struggling Fabinho

In fact, some are questioning whether they will even make the top-four.

One of those who has struggled in recent times is Fabinho. Merson however, believes that some of the criticism has been unfair.

The pundit also explained why he can see Liverpool coming out on top against Spurs this weekend.

“Everybody’s been highlighting Fabinho on this run. He’s been out of the team and injured as well, and I still think he’s a good player. He’s not the only player in their midfield. Liverpool’s midfield trio has been the bedrock of their success, and it’s just not clicking at the moment,” he told Sportskeeda, as he predicted a 2-1 away win.

“With Son, Kulusevski, and Richarlison injured, Harry Kane will be isolated up front. I’ve watched Tottenham a lot this season, and I don’t think Kane can do it on his own. Liverpool like their Premier League away games against Tottenham, and they will back themselves to win this game.”

The criticism for Fabinho probably stems from the standards he has previously set. He has previously been the absolutely pivotal part of the Reds’ midfield. And he has been one of the world’s best in that role for a few years now.

So watching the performances he has produced at times this season probably has been harder to watch for supporters.

It is interesting that Merson believes that Liverpool will win against Spurs. But they do have a major point to prove after their last two Premier League results.

They showed against Manchester City that they can raise their game on the big occasion. And facing Antonio Conte’s Spurs side is certainly a big stage – particularly when you consider how important a positive result for Liverpool is.