Why Liverpool Boss Is Correct To Back Daniel Agger

Liverpool defender Daniel Agger made his first start since his return from injury in last week's 4-3 victory over Swansea, but was substituted for Kolo Toure with the scoreline at 3-3. Reds' boss Brendan Rodgers was quick to defend the Denmark captain claiming the change was down to a "lack of physicality" and confirmed Agger will feature in Saturday's visit to Southampton. Much has been made of Liverpool's defensive errors this season, but is Agger the problem?

As a side that seem to do the job by outscoring their opponents, Liverpool have conceded more goals than 6 of the teams below them so far this season. £17m summer signing Mamadou Sakho has failed to live up to expectations following his move from PSG and injuries to himself and Agger, as well as the constantly injured Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique, show why Liverpool have been so inconsitent at the back. 

With Martin Skrtel scoring his third own goal of the season last weekend and a collection of comical errors from Kolo Toure, Liverpool fans must be anxious every time Simon Mignolet looks to play it short. In fact, it's third choice right-back Jon Flanagan who's been the most impressive in Liverpool's defence stepping in for the injured Johnson and Martin Kelly. 

Rodgers, though, was correct to defend Agger, as the defence usually looks a whole lot calmer with him in the side, and his undoubted quality over the years has seen the likes of Barcelona and Manchester City show interest. However, fresh faces in the full-back positions or a return to fitness for the likes of Sakho and Enrique are key to ensuring Liverpool maintain a consistent, regular back four.

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