Arne Slot has explained his decision to start Milos Kerkez ahead of Andy Robertson in Liverpool’s 3-0 Champions League win over Marseille, pointing to the Hungarian defender’s rapid physical development and growing impact in the team.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Bournemouth, the Liverpool head coach said the club’s recent signings are steadily adapting to his demands, with Kerkez showing clear progress in strength and consistency.
“If you talk about Milos and a lot of the signings we’ve made, you can see the progression they are making in terms of adjustment to the team, but definitely also in power.”
Slot highlighted how carefully Liverpool have managed Kerkez’s workload, explaining that the 20-year-old has not often been asked to play both at the weekend and midweek.
“And for Milos, it doesn’t happen many times that he plays on the weekend and also during the week.”
The Liverpool boss admitted he has relied more heavily on Robertson during busy periods in the past, but believes Kerkez is now physically ready for greater responsibility.
“I think a few times I’ve played Robbo during the week, but Milos is getting stronger and stronger and stronger, in my opinion.”
Slot also praised Kerkez’s on-pitch performances, suggesting his overall level has continued to rise with each appearance.
“He plays better and better and better.”
That improvement convinced Slot to hand Kerkez a Champions League start in Marseille, a decision he felt was fully justified by the player’s display.
“So it was a moment to give him that game during the week as well, and he did really well, in my opinion in Marseille, and he’s improving, which is normal.”
Liverpool now turn their focus back to domestic action with a Premier League visit to Bournemouth, as Slot continues to balance experience and youth across a demanding schedule.
