Injuries, suspensions, and tactical experiments often force managers into creative solutions. For Liverpool, the upcoming clash with Burnley has sparked an unusual but fascinating debate: which midfielder, if any, should start in the right-back position? While the question might sound unconventional, it reflects the modern flexibility of football, where players are no longer bound to a single role and versatility can define success.
Burnley, under Vincent Kompany, are a side that blends physicality with a willingness to play expansive football. Facing them at Turf Moor is rarely straightforward, and defensive solidity will be as crucial as attacking flair. With Liverpool dealing with questions around their defensive depth, particularly at right-back, Arne Slot might be tempted to deploy one of his midfielders in the role. But which option makes the most sense?
The Traditional Right-Back Role Versus the Modern Evolution
Before diving into individual players, it is worth acknowledging how much the right-back position has changed in recent years. Once considered primarily a defensive role, the right-back is now expected to contribute heavily in possession, support attacking transitions, and even step into midfield during build-up phases.
Liverpool themselves have been at the forefront of this evolution. Trent Alexander-Arnold redefined the role under Jürgen Klopp, acting more as a playmaker than a traditional full-back. With Trent sometimes unavailable or used differently, Slot may look to replicate aspects of this model by slotting a midfielder into the right-back role.
This is not without precedent. Clubs across Europe have experimented with “inverted full-backs,” where midfielders drop into the defensive line to help control possession and dictate tempo. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, for example, regularly use midfielders in hybrid defensive positions.
Candidate One: Alexis Mac Allister
Mac Allister is perhaps the most natural fit for this hybrid role. Known for his intelligence on the ball, calmness under pressure, and tactical discipline, the Argentine could easily step into a system that requires him to drift between midfield and defense.
His ability to pick passes from deep positions would mirror some of Alexander-Arnold’s qualities. Against a side like Burnley, who may sit deep and look to counter, Mac Allister could provide the creative spark needed to break lines while still offering positional awareness.
The concern, however, is physicality. Burnley are a team that thrive on aerial duels and physical battles, particularly targeting wide areas. Mac Allister, though technically excellent, may struggle against wingers who combine pace with strength. Slot would need to ensure that the right-sided center-back offers cover in these scenarios.
Candidate Two: Dominik Szoboszlai
Szoboszlai offers a more aggressive option. The Hungarian midfielder is athletic, energetic, and has the stamina to cover large areas of the pitch. His work rate makes him an appealing choice for a makeshift right-back, particularly in games where Liverpool need to press high and suffocate Burnley’s build-up.
In possession, Szoboszlai also carries a threat. He can drive forward with the ball, whip in dangerous crosses, and take long-range shots if given the space. Placing him at right-back could transform Liverpool’s shape into something unpredictable, forcing Burnley to adjust to an unfamiliar dynamic.
On the flip side, Szoboszlai’s defensive discipline is less tested. While he is aggressive in pressing, he has not consistently been asked to track runners over long defensive spells. Against wingers who look to isolate one-on-one, his lack of defensive experience could be exposed.
Candidate Three: Curtis Jones
Curtis Jones is another intriguing possibility. As a midfielder, he combines composure with tactical understanding, and under Klopp he often demonstrated his willingness to track back and contribute defensively. Jones may not have the same passing range as Mac Allister or the athletic burst of Szoboszlai, but he has a balanced profile.
What makes Jones appealing in this context is his ability to maintain possession and keep the tempo steady. Burnley often look to disrupt rhythm by forcing turnovers and launching quick counters. Having a calm figure like Jones at right-back could reduce mistakes and ensure Liverpool retain control of the game.
However, like Mac Allister, Jones does not have significant experience defending in wide areas. He is more comfortable centrally, and while adaptable, he may lack the instinctive positioning of a full-back.
Candidate Four: Ryan Gravenberch
The Dutchman is physically imposing and could provide defensive presence against Burnley’s direct style. His long strides and ability to carry the ball from deep make him an attractive option for a role that demands both defensive solidity and attacking transition.
Gravenberch, though, is still developing his tactical consistency. Slot may hesitate to entrust him with such a responsibility in a high-pressure match, particularly as Burnley will look to exploit any hesitation. Still, his natural athleticism and versatility cannot be ignored.
Tactical Considerations Against Burnley
Burnley’s style under Kompany combines elements of possession play with traditional Premier League directness. They will look to overload flanks, whip in crosses, and test defenders physically. Whoever starts at right-back will need to be ready for both aerial challenges and ground duels.
From Liverpool’s perspective, the choice may depend on how Slot wants to approach the game. If control and creativity are the priorities, Mac Allister would be the logical choice. If energy and verticality are desired, Szoboszlai might be the better option. For balance and composure, Jones could offer stability. For physical duels, Gravenberch is the wildcard.
The Bigger Picture
This discussion reflects more than just a one-off selection dilemma. It highlights how Liverpool are evolving under Slot, experimenting with roles and ensuring flexibility in the squad. The ability to deploy midfielders in defensive roles shows tactical innovation, but it also underscores the importance of squad depth.
While long-term solutions will always involve specialists in key positions, the willingness of midfielders to adapt demonstrates a collective commitment to the team’s success.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice
So, which Liverpool midfielder should start at right-back against Burnley? There is no perfect answer. Each option brings strengths and weaknesses, and Slot’s final decision will likely hinge on the tactical demands of the match.
If Liverpool expect Burnley to sit deep, Mac Allister’s vision could prove decisive. If pressing and energy are needed, Szoboszlai may be the right call. If composure and balance are prioritized, Jones could be trusted. And if Burnley’s physicality looms as the greatest threat, Gravenberch might be worth the gamble.
