Milos Kerkez has revealed why he did not get too close to Andy Robertson after taking his place in the Liverpool side. The Hungarian left-back was signed as Robertson's long-term replacement and quickly became first choice under Arne Slot.
Replacing a legend
Robertson played 378 games for Liverpool over nine years and was a key figure under Jurgen Klopp. But with his career winding down, the club brought in Kerkez from Bournemouth. The Hungarian made 27 Premier League appearances, while Robertson managed only 11. Robertson left for Tottenham at the end of the season.
Keeping his distance
Kerkez told The Times: “I didn’t want to get a lot on to him because he was a bit emotional as everything was coming to an end. I didn’t want to get on to him too much.” Despite the competition, they still shared advice. “Throughout the year he helped me. We had a few conversations about the crosses and about we need big lungs so we can run until tomorrow. Where to put the last ball, to focus, to put your head up and sometimes put better crosses in.”
Kerkez added: “Andy helped me a lot, really and, like I said many times, he’s a legend. He’s someone I look up to. It’s not like I was held back or whatever because Andy was there. I always like to compete, it doesn’t matter who it is, and I’m going to push even more this year.”
Robertson's acceptance
Robertson himself acknowledged the situation earlier in the season: “The club has to move forward, the lads who have been here so long are not getting any younger. You have to accept it. I have had competition my whole career.” He has now taken his experience to Tottenham as one of several high-profile signings.
