Andy Robertson has stated he is ready to compete for his place as Liverpool’s first-choice left-back next season, even if the club decides to sign a new player in his position.
The 31-year-old has endured a difficult campaign with a number of underwhelming displays for Arne Slot’s side. He was sent off against Fulham, replaced after 65 minutes at Nottingham Forest and run ragged by Bukayo Saka in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal this season. Robertson, like a few Liverpool players, also had a game to forget at Wembley on Sunday and was partly at fault for Newcastle's second goal in the Carabao Cup final loss.
Jamie Carragher has repeatedly called for Liverpool to make an upgrade at left-back this summer and replace the experienced Robertson, with the likes of Milos Kerkez, Jorrel Hato and Antonee Robinson linked with a switch to Anfield.
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Speaking on Wednesday, Robertson said he is ready for the challenge if it comes next season, but suggested the criticism over his performances have been greatly exaggerated.
“I think we’ve been linked with pretty much every left-back in the world. But listen, that comes with playing for one of the greatest clubs in the world,” the ex-Hull City man said ahead of Scotland’s Nations League play-off against Greece.
“I look back on the eight years I’ve had at Liverpool and think I’ve been the starting left-back at the club. I feel a lot of pride about that. Eventually, your time comes. But I don’t think it’s my time yet. Even if we do bring someone else in, so be it. I’ll always back myself.
“Sure, this season there have been a couple of moments when I haven’t covered myself in glory. But some of the things have been blown way out of proportion.
“I think my performance levels have been there. I’ve had a relatively good season and one thing people can say about me is that I’ve always been pretty consistent. But when you make a couple of mistakes, then people talk.
“That’s the world we live in, that’s the Premier League. Everyone has eyes on you, everyone has an opinion. But I’m always confident in my own ability. I’ve shown that, right throughout my career - but especially during my time at Liverpool.”
Robertson is set to move up to third in the all-time list of Scotland international appearances, assuming he plays in Athens on Wednesday night. The Liverpool defender joked earlier this week that he has eyes on overtaking Sir Kenny Dalglish’s record of 102 Scotland caps.
