For only the third time since the turn of the century, Liverpool are set to miss out on European Football.
The Reds Europa League Final 3-1 defeat to Sevilla not only ended there hopes of brining home the clubs 9th European title, but also denied them a chance to do so next year.
Although it may seem a disappoint for Jurgen Klopp and the club – especially Roy Evans who described “Liverpool without European football is like a banquet without wine.” – the last time Liverpool did not play on the continent, they finished 2nd in the league in one of their most successful ever campaigns.
The lack of European football however certainly doesn’t seem to have detracted players from coming to Anfield, with Liverpool having already signed Joel Matip, Marko Grujic, Mainz keeper Loris Karius and most recently Sadio Mane from Southampton.
Players coming in means players leaving, and Jurgen Klopp will have to say farewell to a few names from Anfield as he looks to build a title worthy squad.
Our fans at the Transfer Tavern think these FOUR could be the first to the exit door. Do you agree?
Joe Allen
The ‘Welsh Pirlo’ as known by the beloved Wales fans, Allen will now be struggling for a starting place amongst the likes of Marko Grujic and Sadio Mane – as well as Philippe Coutinho, James Milner and Emre Can.
Despite Wales enjoying their most successful ever tournament this summer in France, Allen didn’t impress enough for Klopp to give him a run-out in the recent pre-season friendly win against Fleetwood Town.
Christian Benteke
Last summer’s supposed marquee signing, Benteke has had a tough season at Anfield.
Too often scapegoated, Benteke was still the Red’s second top scorer in the league with 9, and popped with crucial goals throughout the campaign.
However the former Villa man is down the pecking order behind Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and Roberto Firmino, and with Danny Ings also set to return the big Belgian striker is certain to leave in search of first team football.
Jordan Henderson
Another midfielder who may struggle for game time next season is Jordan Henderson. A poor Euro 2016 and a drop in form towards the end of last season too certainly won’t have helped his cause.
Ridiculed upon his arrival from Sunderland, Henderson managed to win back many of the Anfield faithful as his form improved and he began to look like the player that could partially vill the void left by Steven Gerrard.
Hendo seems to have done a complete 360 however as he now once again struggling to capture the fans hearts.
Martin Skrtel
Liverpool now have a whole host of centre-backs on the books at Anfield ahead of the new season.
Dejan Lovren seems to have finally found his form, as does veteran defender Kolo Toure. Mamadou Sakho’s drug ban has now been lifted and the incoming Joel Matip looks set for a starting place.
This leaves Martin Skrtel in no mans land, with first team football looking very unlikely next season and the Slovakian is seemingly set to join Fenerbahce.
