Alexis Mac Allister’s struggles have mirrored Liverpool’s this season
Heskey Backs Colwill, Questions Mac Allister Form and Sees Leadership in Szoboszlai
Former Emile Heskey has offered a deeper and more nuanced assessment of Liverpool FC, touching on recruitment strategy, dressing room leadership, and concerns over individual performances as the club continues to evolve. Heskey spoke exclusively to Sports Talk Media for Betinia: with Liverpool balancing immediate expectations and long term planning, Heskey’s insights highlight both optimism and areas that still require clarity.
Levi Colwill would shine at Liverpool, but injuries are a concern
“I like Colwill. I like him a lot. Technically sound. I’m not sure if he’s been really troubled… but I do like him. Him and Guehi… were two that you looked at and thought, yes, these two are really, really quality players. The only thing now is that he’s had these injuries, so the question is how he comes back from them.”
Heskey’s comments on Levi Colwill reflect a broader conversation around Liverpool’s defensive future. The club has often prioritized defenders who are comfortable on the ball and capable of playing in a high line, and Colwill fits that profile. His composure in possession and positional awareness make him an attractive option.
However, as Heskey points out, availability is just as important as ability. Injuries at a crucial stage of development can disrupt momentum, and for a club competing on multiple fronts, reliability is essential. The key question is not just whether Colwill is talented enough, but whether he can consistently deliver at the highest level.
Szoboszlai is a leader and could be Liverpool captain
“Yes. He’s a leader and he leads by example… he doesn’t really complain about having to play in different positions… I think Szoboszlai could definitely become captain.”
In Dominik Szoboszlai, Heskey sees more than just technical quality, he sees leadership. His comparison to Steven Gerrard is particularly telling, emphasizing versatility, professionalism, and a team first mentality.
Szoboszlai’s willingness to adapt and perform in multiple roles reflects a mentality that resonates strongly at Liverpool, where work rate and accountability are non negotiable. Leadership, as Heskey suggests, is not always about vocal presence, but about setting standards through performance and consistency.
Mbappé to Liverpool would be exciting, but unlikely
“I would love to see him at Liverpool… but it would be a lot of money… I don’t know if Liverpool would go that far.”
The idea of Kylian Mbappé at Liverpool is one that naturally excites supporters, but Heskey’s grounded perspective highlights the financial realities of modern soccer.
While Mbappé represents elite attacking output and global star power, Liverpool’s model has traditionally focused on strategic investment rather than blockbuster spending. Heskey’s comments suggest that while the dream is appealing, it does not align with the club’s current approach to squad building.
Mac Allister has not looked the same this season
“I watch the games and he doesn’t move the same way… I can’t quite put my finger on it, but he hasn’t done the same.”
Heskey’s concern regarding Alexis Mac Allister raises important tactical questions. Whether it is a change in role, physical fatigue, or a subtle injury, the midfielder’s dip in form has not gone unnoticed.
Mac Allister was instrumental in Liverpool’s previous Premier League success, and any drop in performance can have a ripple effect across the team. Heskey’s observation points to the importance of role clarity, as players often perform best when deployed in positions that maximize their strengths.
As Liverpool continues to push forward, balancing squad evolution with consistent performance will remain critical. Heskey’s analysis captures that tension, offering insight into both the promise and the challenges facing the club.
