Andy Robertson has defended fellow left-back Milos Kerkez after the £40m summer signing endured a tough afternoon during Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Burnley on Sunday.
Kerkez, recruited from Bournemouth, was withdrawn before half-time after receiving a yellow card for simulation, with manager Arne Slot admitting he feared the 20-year-old might be sent off.
Robertson, who has lost his place as Liverpool’s first-choice left-back to the Hungarian this season, replaced him and helped the Reds secure a hard-fought victory that kept them three points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Despite being rivals for the same position, Liverpool’s new vice-captain made it clear he intends to back Kerkez while still fighting for his own place.
“He was fantastic for Bournemouth last season and he’s still only young,” Robertson said. “Sometimes we forget that. All the new signings are young, but with incredible potential—they are the future of this club.
“My job is to help him as much as I can, but also to push him because I want to play games. He will be Liverpool’s left-back for the future. For now, it’s about me challenging him, helping him improve, and making sure Sunday doesn’t affect his confidence, which it won’t because he’s a confident lad.”
Robertson also highlighted the value of the international break, where he played two full matches for Scotland, restoring fitness and confidence.
“At Burnley, I had to be ready a bit earlier than expected, but once you get booked in a game like that, it can be difficult. I know what he’s going through because when I arrived from Hull eight years ago, it took me a while to settle too. It’s a big jump—from Bournemouth to Liverpool, just as it was from Hull.
“There are a lot more eyes on you in a Liverpool shirt. He’s adapting to a new style and a lot of information, but he’s done well so far. He just needs to keep going and keep his confidence.”
