Milos Kerkez Opens Up on Liverpool Left-Back Competition With Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas

Liverpool defender Milos Kerkez has spoken positively about the competition for the left-back position at Anfield, praising former teammate Andy Robertson and current rival Kostas Tsimikas while making it clear that he welcomes the challenge of fighting for his place in the team.

The Hungarian international arrived at Liverpool from Bournemouth last summer with the expectation of becoming the club’s long-term solution at left-back. The transfer was seen as part of Liverpool’s plan to refresh their squad and prepare for the future, with Kerkez viewed as a player capable of eventually taking over from the experienced Robertson.

However, his first season at Anfield was not completely straightforward. The defender found it difficult to immediately adapt to Liverpool’s style of play, which relied more heavily on possession and controlled build-up compared with the more direct and energetic approach he experienced at Bournemouth.

Kerkez’s Difficult Adjustment at Liverpool

During his time with Bournemouth, Kerkez was known for his attacking intensity, athleticism, and ability to constantly push forward. Under former manager Andoni Iraola, he developed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting young full-backs.

But moving to Liverpool presented a different tactical challenge. The Reds demanded greater discipline, patience, and positional awareness, requiring Kerkez to adjust to a more structured system.

Because of those difficulties, manager Arne Slot occasionally turned back to the experienced Andy Robertson during the season. The Scotland international provided stability and defensive reliability, helping Liverpool maintain balance even if the team sometimes lost some of the attacking energy that Kerkez could offer.

Despite those challenges, Kerkez remained confident in his ability and continued working to improve.

Respect for Liverpool Legend Andy Robertson

With Robertson eventually leaving Liverpool, Kerkez now has a major opportunity to establish himself as the club’s first-choice left-back.

The Hungarian defender has made it clear that he has huge respect for Robertson and believes competing alongside such an experienced player helped him develop.

Speaking during Liverpool’s pre-season tour, Kerkez explained that Robertson was not an obstacle to his progress but rather someone who helped him grow.

“Andy helped me a lot,” Kerkez said. “He’s a legend. He has achieved so many great things for this club and won everything.”

The defender acknowledged Robertson’s incredible contribution to Liverpool over the years, highlighting that the Scottish full-back remains someone he admires.

However, Kerkez also stressed that he has always embraced competition and does not feel intimidated by competing against established players.

He explained that his focus has always been on improving himself and creating his own path at the club.

“It’s not like I was held back because Andy was there,” Kerkez said. “I just do my own thing. I want to make my own way. I always like to compete, no matter who it is.”

Positive Relationship With Kostas Tsimikas

Although Robertson’s departure has opened the door for Kerkez, he will still face competition from Kostas Tsimikas.

The Greek defender has returned to Liverpool after a difficult loan spell with Roma and will be determined to prove himself under the new management team.

Despite competing for the same position, Kerkez insists there is no tension between the two players.

He revealed that he has a strong relationship with Tsimikas and believes they share similar personalities and backgrounds.

“Kostas is back and I get on well with him,” Kerkez explained. “There is no bad blood. Kostas is Greek, I’m Serbian, and we have that kind of similar mentality.”

The comments underline Kerkez’s positive attitude toward squad competition. Rather than seeing rivals as threats, he views them as motivation to improve.

Andoni Iraola Factor

One of the biggest advantages for Kerkez heading into the new season could be his previous relationship with Liverpool’s new coach Andoni Iraola.

Kerkez worked under Iraola at Bournemouth, where the Spanish coach helped bring out some of the best performances of his career.

During their time together, Kerkez became one of the most exciting attacking full-backs in the Premier League. He made more than 70 appearances under Iraola and developed confidence in an aggressive style of football.

The defender has previously described Iraola as a demanding coach who pushes players to their limits but also understands how to get the best out of them.

A reunion with Iraola at Liverpool could therefore help Kerkez settle more quickly and rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders.

Battle for the Left-Back Position

As the new season approaches, the competition between Kerkez and Tsimikas is expected to be one of the interesting battles within Liverpool’s squad.

Many observers believe Kerkez is likely to start as the favourite due to his age, potential, and previous success under Iraola.

His attacking ability, pace, and physical strength fit the modern style of full-back play, and Liverpool may see him as an important part of their future.

However, Tsimikas will not give up his place easily.

The Greek international has experience at the highest level, including Premier League and Champions League football, and the arrival of a new manager provides him with a fresh opportunity.

With every player starting on a clean slate, Tsimikas will hope to impress Iraola during pre-season and challenge Kerkez for regular minutes.

A Healthy Competition at Liverpool

For Liverpool, having two talented left-backs competing for one position could prove beneficial.

Healthy competition often raises standards within a squad, encouraging players to improve and maintain high levels of performance.

Kerkez’s comments suggest that the atmosphere between the defenders is positive, with both players focused on helping the team rather than personal battles.

The Hungarian’s confidence, combined with his respect for Robertson and friendship with Tsimikas, shows a mature approach from a young player entering an important stage of his career.

After learning from one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever full-backs and preparing to compete with another experienced teammate, Kerkez now has the chance to prove he can become a key figure at Anfield.

The coming season will determine whether he can secure the left-back position permanently, but his attitude and willingness to embrace competition have already impressed many supporters.