Mac Allister arrived at Liverpool and already causing trouble, this is his new enemy

Liverpool's first signing for the 2023-2024 season came in the form of Argentine 2022 World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, for whom the Reds paid more than 40 million euros to Brighton, but none of it convinced a former England player who doubts the South American can succeed at the club.

Former Tottenham and Three Lions striker Darren Bent believes Liverpool made a mistake in signing the Argentine midfielder. Despite his signing being considered a great deal by most, the former England man said he will not solve the Reds' midfield problems because he "can't run". Bent's arguments about Mac Allister centred on the South American "not running" and "not having the pace" to really help Liverpool in the game, appealing to the dynamism that other elements have imposed and which they currently need after being relegated to the Europa League after finishing fifth in the Premiership.

Is he what you (Liverpool) need?" asked Bent. "Don't get me wrong, I like him," he told talkSPORT. "I think he's very good. He can't run. What's the problem with Liverpool's midfield? You've got no legs." "Don't get me wrong, he's an amazing midfielder, but when I think about Liverpool in the past and what made you so successful, you've got people like Wijnaldum who were going around like 'pace, pace, pace in the middle of the park'."

The criticism

Mac Allister was ever-present for the Brighton & Hove Albion side last season as they finished sixth in the Premier League to qualify for Europe for the first time in their history. The South American scored 12 goals and registered three assists in 40 appearances in all competitions for Brighton.