Norway Manager Solbakken Criticizes Liverpool's Defense: Full-Backs Are a 'Walking Nightmare', Van Dijk Has Declined

Norway national team manager Solbakken publicly criticized Liverpool's defensive issues, pointing out that the team's full-backs have been weak defensively and suggesting that Van Dijk is no longer the player he once was.

In an interview, Solbakken singled out Jeremy Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. He said: "The full-backs are a walking nightmare defensively. Kerkez seems to always struggle to handle defensive situations, even under his former manager. In my view, Frimpong's positional awareness is poor; his ability to move forward in attack is much stronger than his ability to track back."

Since joining Liverpool, Frimpong has continued to face problems and his performances have not met expectations. As the team's first-choice right-back, his defensive displays have been poor, causing Liverpool's back line to struggle. Meanwhile, Kerkez has found his first season at Liverpool difficult and has yet to show his best form. He is currently playing under former Bournemouth manager Iraola, but the coach has also been unable to bring out the best in the former Bournemouth defender.

Van Dijk accused of declining form

Besides the two full-backs, Solbakken was also critical of Liverpool defensive leader Van Dijk. "Is Van Dijk playing his final chapter? I am not sure. His speed is clearly not what it used to be," the Norway manager said. He added: "I do not think they will be lifting the trophy at the end of this season."

Solbakken believes Liverpool must improve defensively. At present, the full-back positions have become a clear weakness for the team, and it remains to be seen whether the Reds can solve the issue and bring in necessary reinforcements.