Liverpool manager’s comment spoke volumes about Andy Robertson in contract renewal talks

Andy Robertson could be set for a Liverpool exit this summer amid the Reds’ pursuit of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, with Atletico Madrid now interested in signing the Scottish left-back

Jurgen Klopp’s comments about Andy Robertson during his previous contract renewal talks spoke volumes about the Liverpool star’s character. Robertson looks increasingly likely to leave Anfield this summer amid interest from La Liga side Atletico Madrid.

Talks between Atletico and Robertson’s camp are said to have already taken place. The 31-year-old’s mixed form this season had led Liverpool to begin their search for a new left-back, deciding to work on a deal for Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, who they are now closing in on.

The expectation initially was that Kostas Tsimikas would be the one to leave, leaving Robertson and Kerkez to compete for the left-back position. But Robertson’s departure would make it more likely that Tsimikas stays on as the second-choice next season.

If the Scotland captain has played his last game in a Reds shirt, he will certainly go down as a club legend. Since his arrival in 2017, he has won every trophy possible while becoming a fan favourite.

Robertson’s passion and dedication in particular has earned him the adoration of supporters throughout the years. And even his former manager, Klopp, summed up his loyalty when speaking about the Scot’s contract extension back in 2019.

Klopp told club media at the time (via Liverpool.com): “I think of all the contract renewals I have been involved with, this one was done in almost record time. It’s fair to say Robbo didn’t hesitate for even a second when we spoke about extending his stay at our club for longer.

“I remember when we signed him back in the summer of 2017, I spoke a lot about ‘his story, his journey’ and how much I loved it and thought it pointed to the type of person and player he would be for us.

“He has exceeded these expectations. He might be from Glasgow originally, but everything about him screams Liverpool.

“It has been fantastic to see him grow, develop and improve. It was not the easiest of starts for him maybe, because we are blessed with another fantastic left-back in Alberto Moreno.

“He had to be patient – he had to be ready when his chance came and his progression since is an example to any player joining us. Everyone knows about his personality, on and off the pitch, but maybe we are guilty at times of overlooking his quality.

“Ask those who play against him – be it matchday or training – and they speak about his technical and tactical qualities, just as much as his character and heart.

“Our supporters have fallen in love with him, he has fallen in love with them – and both he and his amazing young family are very much at home in Liverpool.”

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