Steve Nicol says he'd take 'outstanding' Everton man at Anfield to solve major Liverpool 'problem'

By Shamanth Jayaram

Steve Nicol appeared on the Extra Time show on ESPN FC this week and he boldly claimed that he’d take Everton star Abdoulaye Doucoure to solve a key Liverpool problem.

The Reds, thanks to Mo Salah, don’t seem to have too many issues at the moment. However, when you take a closer look, they have had their troubles, especially when Fabinho has missed games.

The Brazilian’s absence has exposed Liverpool’s defence at times. Teams are able to run at the Reds’ backline and although it hasn’t really cost them this season, it is something Jurgen Klopp would like to eradicate.

Nicol was asked about a player he would sign as a backup to Fabinho. The ex-Liverpool man surprised everyone with his answer.

Nicol: I would take Everton star Doucoure at Liverpool

Nicol admitted that Fabinho’s absence has caused chaos recently. Missing the Brazilian is a major problem for Liverpool and they’ll have to do something about it in the January transfer window.

The ex-Liverpool man has a suggestion, but it’s never going to happen.

He said on ESPN FC: “It has been (chaos) recently (without Fabinho). I wouldn’t have a problem if they can bring somebody in. There’s not that many going that are really good.

“The one problem Liverpool have right now is regardless of who they’re playing against, they’re getting at the back four. 100 per cent I would take either (Rice or Phillips) of them.

“I’ll tell you what, I’d take Doucoure from Everton.”

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Doucoure, labelled ‘outstanding‘ by Michael Owen, has had a phenomenal season at Everton so far, but the chances of the Frenchman moving to Anfield are about the same as Salah moving in the opposite direction.

However, the concern for Liverpool is a real one. When Fabinho is fit, the Reds have no problem in defensive midfield whatsoever. But, when he’s out, they are a easier to play against.

The January transfer window will give Klopp a chance to address the issue. Doucoure almost certainly won’t be the man joining Liverpool, but it won’t be a bad idea at all for the Reds to bring in a backup number six to bolster their squad depth.