January Exits Remain a ‘Real Possibility’ For Three Liverpool Stars – Opinion | OneFootball

January Moves Loom for Three Liverpool Players as Squad Depth Bites

As we’re three months out from the January transfer window, it’s becoming clearer which players may be seeking the exit door at Liverpool if nothing changes. Based on the ten games so far this season, some key names stand out, particularly as their minutes remain sparse and their potential untapped. With the relentless demands of competing on multiple fronts, Arne Slot’s side has seen significant rotation. However, even within this rotation, certain players have found themselves on the fringes, with Tyler Morton, Joe Gomez, and Wataru Endo all facing uncertain futures. Injuries could, of course, shake things up, but as things stand, their situations seem quite precarious.

Tyler Morton: Shining in the Wrong Place

Tyler Morton, who boasts England Under-21 caps and was courted by RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen this summer, has been making waves – but not where one would expect. His performances for Liverpool’s Under-21s have been remarkable, with two goals and an assist in his last two games, as seen in his winner against Manchester United in recent weeks.

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However, for a player of Morton’s calibre, with Bundesliga clubs sniffing around during the summer transfer window, this level of competition feels far beneath him. Morton is far too good to remain at the academy level, especially given his credentials and potential suitors. It’s hard to imagine him not pushing for a move in January, with plenty of clubs likely interested in securing his services. If he isn’t, he probably needs a new agent.

Joe Gomez: Time to Weigh Up His Options?

Joe Gomez, once a mainstay of Liverpool’s backline, has found himself in a difficult position this season. Although his versatility and defensive prowess are still valued, his game time has been limited. According to the stats from this season, Gomez has played just 90 minutes in the Carabao Cup and a mere 11 minutes in the UEFA Champions League. The Premier League? Just one solitary minute on the pitch. These figures tell a story of a player nowhere near a regular role.

Photo: IMAGO

While Gomez has played a role as cover during injury crises in the past, it seems unlikely that he will want to continue in a bit-part role, especially with clubs showing interest in the summer. He had expressed a desire to move this summer for more regular minutes, and it would be no surprise if he reignites those discussions when the January window opens. Slot might be reluctant to let him go, but the player’s desire for first-team football could push him towards the door.

Wataru Endo: An Underrated Figure?

Wataru Endo, who was hailed for his impressive cameo against Crystal Palace last weekend, is another player whose future may hang in the balance. Slot praised Endo for his impact off the bench, but when you examine his playing time, it becomes evident that he hasn’t been fully integrated into the manager’s plans. Aside from his full 90 minutes in the Carabao Cup, Endo has only featured for a total of three minutes across all other competitions.

Photo: IMAGO

Endo joined Liverpool with thoughts his unique skill set would make him valuable, but it appears that he hasn’t been able to secure a regular spot because Slot simply doesn’t fancy him. While his contributions are appreciated, it’s clear that his role is limited. With competition for places fierce in midfield, it wouldn’t be surprising if he started to look elsewhere for more consistent playing time. Endo may find himself considering his options come January, especially if his role doesn’t expand in the coming months.

January Decisions Loom

While Liverpool’s squad depth is undoubtedly a blessing for a long and gruelling season, it also presents challenges for certain players. As of now, Tyler Morton, Joe Gomez, and Wataru Endo all seem to be facing uncertain futures at Anfield. Injuries could always change the picture, but in the absence of that, it’s hard to see where their Liverpool careers are headed.

Morton’s performances at the academy level, while impressive, simply aren’t enough for a player of his talent, and his summer suitors are likely to come knocking again in January. Gomez may be forced to stay on as cover, but his limited minutes suggest that he could push for an exit. And Endo, despite his high potential, looks like a player on the fringes – someone who could seek a fresh start in the winter window. A lot of things could happen and injuries could change the picture, but as it’s stands it’s hard to see anything else.