Player turned pundit Owen Hargreaves opines that Liverpool have the easiest draw in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. The former Manchester United man says the Reds are lucky to have Porto as their next opponent when the continental tournament restarts in February.
Well given the other possibilities Coach Jurgen Klopp would be contented that they got Porto as the pool of second Pot had very tough teams. With the Porto draw, Liverpool avoid top teams like Real Madrid and Juventus. Many, including Hargreaves, expect Liverpool to get past the Portuguese side in the knockout phase.
However, Hargreaves praised Liverpool for their goalscoring. He said their goal difference in the group stage was “remarkable” but he complained of their defensive liabilities. He wishes the Reds would be able to resolve those issues ahead of the next round of games, picking clearly on the defense and goalkeeper.
“Maybe if Jurgen Klopp plays a little more defensive, trust the front four to cause havoc because I think against anyone they will score goals. But they’re just a little too open defensively at times. If he can address that, Liverpool I think can beat anyone. They’re favourites in this tie, no question, against Porto.”
Liverpool are expected to sign defensive players in the winter window as they push for a top four finish and good performances in other competitions they are involved in.
Of all the Premier League sides Chelsea have the toughest draw as they play Barcelona. Tottenham also face a tough draw against last season’s finalist Juventus. Manchester United play Spanish giants Sevilla and a stellar Manchester City side will play Basel.