Former Liverpool centre-back Stephane Henchoz has explained why Xherdan Shaqiri sees his future lying away from Anfield this summer.

The Lowdown: Shaqiri linked with exit

Shaqiri has spent three seasons as a Reds player, making 63 appearances and famously scoring a match-winning double at home to Manchester United back in 2018/19.

It looks as though the 29-year-old's time on Merseyside is coming to an end, however, with first-team opportunities few and far between.

Lyon are the latest club to be linked with a move for Shaqiri, who James Pearce once hailed for having 'breathtaking technique'.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

The Latest: Henchoz provides update

Speaking to Blick [via Sport Witness], Henchoz claims it is only natural that Shaqiri wants to move on, given his lack of playing time:

"Shaqiri is an outstanding player, he has shown that many times. At Liverpool, however, the competition is simply too great.

"After this excellent Euro 2020, he would like to be a regular at a club. That is why he has now sent a clear signal to Liverpool with these clear words."

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/the-latest-liverpool-transfer-news-9/" title="The latest Liverpool transfer news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align=“none"]

The Verdict: Best for all parties

It makes sense for everyone that Shaqiri finds a new club this summer, allowing him to be a key man elsewhere and generating transfer funds for Liverpool.

In Harvey Elliott, the Reds look to have a tailor-made younger replacement for the Switzerland international, and his path won't be blocked by his senior teammate staying put.

Shaqiri has a huge amount of quality and could enjoy success elsewhere, but his time for the Reds has run its course.

In other news, Liverpool could reportedly make a move for a midfielder this summer. Find out who it is here.