After years as Liverpool’s unshakable left-back, Andy Robertson has found himself in a new role this season: fighting his way back into the starting XI.
With the emergence of Kostas Tsimikas under new head coach Arne Slot, Robertson has occasionally been relegated to the bench, sparking questions about his long-term place in the squad. But for the Scottish captain, the doubters only add fuel to the fire.
Robertson, who joined Liverpool from Hull City in 2017 and swiftly became a pivotal player, admitted that he feels written off for the first time in his career at Anfield. His early-season struggles and lack of pre-season due to injury, compounded by a poor showing against Arsenal, led to his being benched for matches against Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen.
Reflecting on this rare period of uncertainty, Robertson expressed his readiness to prove people wrong. “I got doubters for the first time in a long time,” he revealed. “But it suits me. I’m trying to prove people wrong again.” Determined to bounce back, Robertson returned to the starting XI against Aston Villa and delivered a performance that showed why he’s been indispensable to Liverpool over the last seven years.
Robertson’s resilience was evident as he spoke about overcoming challenges and injuries that kept him from the pitch. After a frustrating few games on the sidelines, he seized the opportunity against Villa, helping Liverpool secure a 5-point lead atop the Premier League. “I missed pre-season, which is never ideal,” Robertson explained, adding that an ankle injury against Wolves further delayed his return to full fitness.
The 29-year-old left-back also touched on the perspective he’s gained since joining Liverpool. “I’m a lot older and a lot wiser now than when I came in,” he said. “When I first joined, I was only 23, playing for a big club for the first time. Now, with everything I’ve won and all the big games I’ve played, I’m better at handling criticism and staying focused on my own standards.”
Robertson recalled that his poor 45 minutes against Arsenal seemed to set off a chain reaction. “It was not great. I think pretty much everyone had written me off after that.” But he quickly brushed off the doubters: “People can write me off all they want. I’ll always keep working, keep improving. I’ve shown that [against Villa], and I intend to keep proving it.”
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His determination has been supported by a strong relationship with Arne Slot, whom Robertson praised for his direct communication style. According to Robertson, Slot has been “very open and honest” with him about team decisions, even when they don’t see eye to eye. “There’s mutual respect,” Robertson said, highlighting his respect for the new manager’s vision, even if it occasionally leaves him on the sidelines.
It’s not the first time Robertson has navigated challenges with a manager. Under Jurgen Klopp and with the Scottish national team, he’s always maintained respect for the decisions, no matter how hard it is to accept. “I like starting and being on the pitch, but when I’m not, I try to be as professional as I can. I try to do my talking on the training pitch and wait for my chance.”
Liverpool’s rapid adjustment under Slot has surprised many, with the team winning 15 of their 17 matches. Robertson attributes their success to Slot’s tactical preparations and a team full of confidence. “Winning games breeds confidence,” Robertson explained. “At the start, we had full weeks in between games to focus on tactics, which was crucial since we didn’t get much time in pre-season.”
Despite some major lineup changes, Liverpool’s form has barely dipped, with several players flourishing under Slot’s guidance. “The lads are playing really well at the moment. Some have been unbelievable,” Robertson said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum to keep the team’s confidence high.
In the midst of all the transition, Robertson remains as committed as ever to Liverpool’s goals, both on and off the pitch. Slot’s appointment has brought a new tactical approach, but Robertson’s attitude remains unchanged: keep working hard, support his teammates, and rise to the challenge whenever called upon.
As Liverpool continue their push for both domestic and European glory, Robertson’s competitive spirit will be crucial to their depth and resilience. The Scotland captain’s desire to silence critics and his loyalty to the club are a testament to his character—traits that have helped Liverpool to their golden period over the past decade.
For fans and pundits alike, Robertson’s battle back to form embodies the relentless mentality that has defined Liverpool’s success in recent years. And with TNT Sports streaming Liverpool’s Champions League and Premier League pursuits, fans can look forward to seeing Robertson continue his mission to silence the doubters on the biggest stages in world football.
