Liverpool’s ‘Schoolboy’ Defending Slammed by Rooney in Merseyside Derby Defeat
Liverpool’s defensive performance in their Merseyside derby defeat to Everton on Monday has been heavily criticized by former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney.
The Reds fell behind in the 27th minute when Jarrad Branthwaite poked home from close range after Liverpool failed to clear their lines from a set-piece.
Rooney was particularly scathing in his assessment of Liverpool’s defending, calling it “school-boy” and saying that it was “the way they pulled defenders is school boy really.”
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher echoed Rooney’s views, describing the Reds’ defending as “awful” and saying that “the naivety of Liverpool in terms of how you play a derby game”.
Liverpool’s defeat at Goodison Park leaves them three points behind leaders Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
Rooney’s Criticism of Liverpool’s Defending
Rooney, who is now manager of Championship side Derby County, was highly critical of Liverpool’s defending in his post-match analysis.
“We’ve seen this five or six times Everton have one the first contact in the penalty area,” Rooney said.
“Liverpool will have known this is one of Everton’s biggest strengths. This goal the way they pulled defenders is school boy really.”
Rooney also pointed to Liverpool’s poor record in defending set-pieces this season.
“Everton have put them under pressure and they’ve got into half-time deserved the lead,” Rooney added.
Carragher’s Views on Liverpool’s Defending
Carragher, who played for Liverpool for 17 years, was equally critical of the Reds’ defending.
“Awful,” Carragher said.
“How many times have Liverpool given free-kicks away?
“That is the name of the game for Everton. Konate, what is he doing? He doesn’t know where he is.
“The naivety of Liverpool in terms of how you play a derby game.”
Liverpool’s Title Hopes Dented
Liverpool’s defeat at Goodison Park leaves them three points behind leaders Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
The Reds have now lost three of their last four league games and their title hopes are hanging in the balance.
Liverpool will need to improve their defensive performance if they are to have any chance of winning the title this season.
