Former Liverpool and Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing had a storied career in the Premier League, making over 400 appearances in the league. But after a 20 year career, Downing retired from the game in August, 2021.
Betting Expert caught up with the former England international to discuss the Premier League title race, as well as his former club Liverpool’s strengths going forward and who they could possibly target as new signings this upcoming Summer transfer window.
“I’ve just got a feeling Man City may slip up in the next couple of games, maybe draw a game and that’s when Liverpool have got to be ready,” comments Downing.
“Maybe that’s in my heart ruling over my head, but I think Liverpool will just nick it in the end.”
One of the reasons why Liverpool have made up a 14 point deficit to be within a point of Manchester City is partly due to their improved strength in depth in the attacking department. The signing of Luis Diaz and improved form of Diogo Jota has given manager Jurgen Klopp a luxury when it comes to rotating his forward line.
But heading into another transfer window Liverpool may need to make more reinforcements to keep contending with City year upon year.
Downing highlights Borussia Dortmund’s teenage midfielder Jude Bellingham who at only just 18-years-old, has made over 50 Bundesliga appearances and 12 England caps.
“I do like the look of Bellingham, I think he would suit the Liverpool style,” stated Downing.
“It depends if Naby Keita leaves or someone like Jordan Henderson, is getting a lot older now, but I think he’d be a really good signing. He’s the sort of Jurgen Klopp-type player.”
Downing also had time to discuss Christian Eriksen’s phenomenal return to form and whether or not a career as a DJ is a viable post-retirement career for the 37-year-old.
