Andy Robertson has admitted the past few months have been “a bit difficult”, but insists his heart remains firmly at Liverpool despite slipping behind new signing Milos Kerkez in the pecking order.
The Scotland captain, recently named Reds vice-captain, has had to adjust to an unfamiliar role on the fringes, with just 30 minutes of Premier League action so far this season. At 31, it marks the first time in eight years at Anfield that Robertson has not been the undisputed first-choice left-back.
Liverpool’s £40 million summer move for Hungary international Kerkez sparked speculation over Robertson’s future, particularly as he is now into the final year of his contract.
Speaking to BBC Scotland, Robertson acknowledged that missing games feels unfamiliar.
“I’ve missed the feeling of playing games. I’m used to being a regular starter for so many years and it’s been a bit difficult with the transition but I think I’ve dealt with it fairly well.”
Back in June, when Atletico Madrid’s interest in the Scottish defender was strongest, it would have been easy for Robertson to picture himself in La Liga, playing a key role for Diego Simeone’s side in another Champions League campaign. Yet, he insists, the pull of Anfield was stronger.
After discussions with his family, Robertson says the decision to stay was his own and one he feels at peace with.
“I had a think about what I wanted to do and I came to the decision, committed to the decision and I’m happy to be there. We had options and we just worked through it as a family. Everything boiled down to that my heart was still in Liverpool and we wanted to stay. We’re very settled there and we’re at one of the biggest clubs in the world.”
The left-back’s loyalty only adds to his standing with supporters, many of whom still see him as the heartbeat of the Jurgen Klopp era.
Since arriving from Hull City in 2017, Robertson has made 344 competitive appearances for the Reds, winning the Premier League twice, the Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.
While he may no longer be guaranteed a starting place, Robertson remains determined to fight for his shirt and provide leadership as vice-captain. And with Scotland facing World Cup qualifiers against Denmark and Belarus, his focus is now ensuring his trademark sharpness returns.
