Skrtel’s future in the balance at Liverpool - Stick or Twist?

Jamie Carragher has already announced his retirement from football, leaving Liverpool a servant of the Kop, however it now seems as though Martin Skrtel is under pressure from Rodgers and may have to leave in the summer to make way for a new first team player.

The Liverpool Echo reports that Skrtel's future at the club remains uncertain after the was given a rollicking at full-time in dressing room after the defeat to Southampton in what was his first league start since the 2-1 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Skrtel has seemingly struggled under Rodgers management and it seems as though the former Swansea boss feels as though he needs a defender with better organisational skills.

This is where Carragher has progressed, even at his age, in recent matches; the veteran defender has the necessary leadership skills and had managed to bring some stability to the back line over the last two months. This may be reflected at Liverpool’s recent thrilling victories.

However, with his retirement fast approaching, he has left Rodgers with the unenviable fact that he must find a replacement who can instantly make a big impact in a defence.

That is where Skrtel goes out, and Williams comes in.

Williams appears top of the hit list for Liverpool as he has demonstrated his leadership skills by captaining Swansea to the League Cup and is well known to Rodgers.

Skrtel may be strong, but he cannot command the back line - despite him and Agger hitting it off. While Williams appears the number one target, the Echo reports that Liverpool may need to sign as many as three new centre-backs as both Skrtel and Sebastian Coates could both be allowed to leave the club in the summer.

The Uruguay international has not featured for the club since the FA Cup defeat to Oldham more than two months ago and has struggled to force his way into the first team ever since arriving at the club.

With a complete overhaul seemingly coming into play in the Merseyside’s club defence, it is likely that funds will need to be raised. Andy Carroll could well be the man that makes way.

It seems unlikely that West Ham will meet Liverpool's £17million asking price and therefore Rodgers will have to hope that there are other interested parties.

If not, he may have to look to sell others. It’s unlikely that FSG will feed more funds towards Liverpool after rumours emerged of a likely £20 million budget. So cashing in on Skrtel who was linked with Manchester City last summer could just be the ideal solution.

Should Liverpool keep or sell him?

image: © jbj