Why it’s imperative that Liverpool get Adam Lallana match fit as soon as possible

You could perhaps be forgiven for forgetting just how important a fully fit, in form Adam Lallana was for Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool side last season.

After a slightly slower start to life at Anfield than some expected, in the last couple of seasons under Klopp, Lallana has blossomed into a relentless, menacing and creative threat and has played a pivotal part in the Liverpool attack.

But a bad thigh injury sustained during pre-season has hampered the former Southampton man from continuing his fine form into the current campaign, although he is once again a regular in the match day squad.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – Saturday, December 30, 2017: Liverpool’s manager Jürgen Klopp celebrates his side’s late 2-1 victory over Burnley with Adam Lallana during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool and Leicester City at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Most of his appearances this season have come from the bench, as Klopp once again demonstrates his tactic of easing players back into the fray after time on the sidelines – but perhaps now is the perfect time to start fast-tracking Lallana’s recuperation and return his status as one of the first names on the team sheet.

Team mate Joe Gomez recently described Lallana as a “shark” that “senses blood” – referencing his ability and nous to carry out his manager’s instructions and lead from the front with the gegenpressing – and Gomez is not far wrong.

Lallana often reminds fans of former favourite, Dirk Kuyt, with his impressive energy levels and often looks to be the one to spring Liverpool on their way.

It is true that, in his absence, the likes of Firmino and Salah in particular have shown that they are more than capable of being stand-out examples of a similar intensity of pressure, with the rest of the team often following their lead.

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – Saturday, December 30, 2017: Liverpool’s Adam Lallana during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool and Leicester City at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Yet, with Lallana in the side (and when he’s at his best) it not only gives Liverpool’s attack an added intensity in the press, but it involves a player that once he has the ball at his feet or is charging forward in support of his team mates, has the creativity and prowess to really add a cutting edge to Liverpool’s forward momentum.

We all know about Philippe Coutinho and his drawn-out transfer to Barcelona and the qualities that he’s taken away from Klopp’s Reds in the process of leaving, but if Liverpool are looking for an immediate replacement, maybe having a fully fit Lallana can help to fill this void – partially at least?

Although Liverpool are being constantly linked with young French star Thomas Lemar as the man who could step into the shoes vacated by Coutinho, Lallana is being a little overlooked.

It’s true that it may take a little time for him to regain his peak form and fitness, but to have Lallana at his fearsome best again would certainly go some way to giving this Liverpool team more guile in their attack.

Lallana contributed more than just this creative spark, but he had really begun to add goals and assists to his game, too. Last season, he was directly involved in 15 goals.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – Sunday, May 21, 2017: Liverpool’s Adam Lallana in action against Middlesbrough during the FA Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Imagine adding that to Liverpool’s almost free-scoring attack this season? 15 more goals could have turned some of those frustrating draws into wins.

In addition to all of this, and forgetting Coutinho’s absence, having Adam Lallana readily available will simply be a massive boost to Klopp as the season wears on.

The Reds have weathered the busy months of December and January very well so far, but a serious injury to any player could potentially only be around the corner at any given time.

Having all of the members of his squad fully fit and raring to go will help Klopp make the most of the rest of the season and steer his side to a second consecutive top four finish at the very least.

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – Saturday, November 25, 2017: Liverpool’s Adam Lallana (bottom) challenges Chelsea’s Pedro during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield. (Pic by Lindsey Parnaby/Propaganda)

A full squad will become increasingly important when the Reds return to Champions League action, as fresh legs with plenty of running in them (like Lallana’s are bound to have) will be vital as the German manager will undoubtedly look to rotate his squad once more during busy periods.

Someone with Lallana’s vitality will provide a massive boost, whether that’s coming on from the bench or making a start in the first 11.

And what should happen if Mo Salah, Sadio Mané or Roberto Firmino did pick up an injury? Adam Lallana would be the immediate choice to be thrust into their place, either in the midfield three with someone like Oxlade-Chamberlain playing further forward, or vice-versa.

It’s crucial for the rest of Liverpool’s season that he rediscovers not only his fitness, but his form. It’s also crucial that Liverpool fans don’t forget just how important Lallana has been, is and will continue to be for Jürgen Klopp’s side.

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Source: anfieldhq.com