Liverpool’s left-back conundrum may have a solution in 21-year-old James Norris who could feature for the Reds in this week’s League Cup quarter-final against Southampton.
The club’s usual left-back options are depleted, with Andy Robertson suspended after receiving a red card against Fulham and Kostas Tsimikas still recovering from an ankle injury.
This has opened the door for Norris, who has been impressing for the youth team, playing every minute in the Premier League 2 and scoring crucial goals.
Norris is no stranger to the senior team, having made his debut at just 17 in a 2019/20 League Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa.
He also made a last-minute appearance in an FA Cup third-round victory over Shrewsbury Town in 2021/22 before spending last season on loan at Tranmere Rovers.
Arne Slot has confirmed that Norris, along with youngster Amara Nallo, is in contention to start against Southampton.
“It’s very positive,” Slot said of the young players at Liverpool. “You talk about these two now, but there’s a few others who have made a good impact in training sessions.”
With Liverpool’s defensive options limited, Norris has a chance to establish himself as a reliable first-team option. If he seizes the opportunity, he could become a regular fixture in the Reds’ defense.
