Liverpool have endured a difficult week, with a hard-fought draw against Manchester United and a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final. The Reds' defensive form has raised concerns and the focus of criticism has been on the full-back position.
In the English Derby, although most of the attention was on Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right wing, Andy Robertson also had a day to forget on the left wing. This poor performance meant that the Scottish star did not get a single minute on the field against Tottenham.
A mainstay of Liverpool for nearly a decade, Robertson has not only been instrumental in the team's transformation under Jurgen Klopp but has also been an exemplary leader in the dressing room. However, the question is gradually being asked whether the 30-year-old defender is on the decline?
Andrew Robertson's form has been the subject of much speculation since disappointing performances against Chelsea and Arsenal in October. Although he shone against Aston Villa in November, the consistency hasn't lasted long enough to change the general perception of the 1994-born player's decline.
Robertson's defensive errors are becoming more and more frequent. He was passed in situations that led to goals against Leicester and Man United. In particular, in the goal against Amad Diallo, the Scotland captain failed to mark his opponent, leading to his failure to block the shot.
Not only that, his lack of confidence in handling the ball also led to Robertson committing fouls that led to penalties against Real Madrid and Southampton. The red card against Fulham was also a result of a bad touch. These mistakes are no longer isolated phenomena but are becoming alarming signs.
An ankle injury suffered towards the end of last season has had a significant impact on Robertson's form. He missed the summer tour of the United States and had to rotate with Kostas Tsimikas in the early stages of the season. With Tsimikas injured, Robertson was forced to play more frequently, putting more pressure on his fitness, especially as the defender turns 31 in March.
While Robertson’s defensive stats haven’t dropped much from previous seasons, his attacking output has dropped significantly. His assists per 90 minutes average is just 0.16 – his lowest since joining Liverpool. His open-cross success rate has dropped from 1.1 per game last season to 0.8 per game this season.
This decline is not just a personal issue but also affects the whole team. Robertson used to be the main spearhead on the left wing, but now his contribution in creating chances and supporting strikers like Cody Gakpo or Luis Diaz is no longer what it used to be.
There is no denying that Andrew Robertson is still a world-class full-back but his role at Liverpool may have to be adjusted in the near future. Finding a successor at left-back becomes a priority.
Robertson's contract expires in June 2026 and the summer of 2025 could be a good time for Liverpool to consider parting ways with him if they don't want to lose him for free. This would also be an opportunity for the club to recruit a younger defender who can learn from the Scottish star before officially replacing him.
