Jeremie Frimpong may have only just arrived at Anfield, but his signing is already drawing scrutiny from one of Liverpool’s all-time greats.
The 24-year-old joined the Reds this summer from Bayer Leverkusen in a £29.5 million move, yet some are unsure if he’s the right fit.
With Arne Slot looking to reshape the squad following a title-winning campaign, Frimpong’s addition adds pace and attacking drive to the right flank.
He’s expected to compete with Conor Bradley at right-back and also offer cover further forward when Mohamed Salah heads to the Africa Cup of Nations later this season.
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Nicol unconvinced by Frimpong’s fit
Despite not seeing him in action yet for Liverpool, Steve Nicol has cast doubt on Frimpong’s role in the team.
The former defender, a European Cup winner and four-time league champion with the club openly questioned the Dutchman’s defensive capabilities and how his style might clash with Salah’s.
Speaking on ESPN, Nicol said he’s unsure where Frimpong fits in when the squad is fully healthy.
“Yeah, (it’s Frimpong or Bradley who start) if Salah’s fit.
“If Salah’s not fit then Frimpong starts where Salah plays,” he commented.
“I’m interested to see what Arne Slot wants him to do. Because right now, in my head, I’m thinking, ‘is he going to get in Salah’s way?’ That’s what I’m thinking.”
Nicol also compared Frimpong’s defensive qualities to those of Trent Alexander-Arnold, expressing concern over the balance on the right side.
Frimpong is set to begin pre-season later this summer, where fans and Slot alike will get a clearer picture of how he can be integrated.
Until then, questions like Nicol’s will linger, but the final answer will come on the pitch.
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