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Mark Lawrenson says currently available Liverpool player is better than Ben Davies
that he thinks currently-available Liverpool defender Nat Phillips is a better option for Jurgen Klopp’s side than new signing Ben Davies – following the latter’s move from Preston North End.
Davies, 25, joined in one of the more surprising transfer deals of deadline day – despite being close to a move to Scottish champions Celtic. He has joined for a fee believed to be in the region of just £2million.
The left-footer’s contract at Deepdale was due to expire in the summer and that is why Preston have allowed such a bargain exit. He is one of two defenders to join Liverpool on deadline day, along with Ozan Kabak on loan.
Liverpool icon Lawrenson, though, is clearly unsure about a move for Davies – claiming Phillips, who has featured in Liverpool’s last two games, is better than the Englishman. It remains to be seen who is first choice.
“He’s a real steady Eddie. He’s left-footed and quick enough but he’s not got phenomenal pace or anything like that,” . “I’ve watched him. The extra nous and quality you get in the Premier League will be a test for him.
“You wouldn’t want to just throw him in to face Manchester City next Sunday, put it that way. This is obviously a great move for him, I just can’t see him getting near the first team. Phillips is probably a better player.”
TBR’s view – Lawrenson is probably right
Phillips has been excellent when he has come in. Notably, his performances in both wins over West Ham and against Tottenham despite coming on at half-time last week were faultless. He has earned the chance to start.
Davies has much more experience in terms of games played, but not at this level. Phillips also has the advantage of working under Klopp for longer – so if you were to choose between Phillips or Davies right now, it would be Phillips.
