Joe Gomez

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

As Liverpool navigate an uncertain campaign sitting sixth in the table, Joe Gomez has emerged as the dependable defensive utility player Arne Slot can trust. The 28-year-old England international may not command headlines like his elite defensive partner Virgil van Dijk or the emerging Ibrahima Konaté, but his contribution—0 goals, 2 assists across 10 appearances and 418 minutes—belies his true tactical value to the Reds. Gomez's strength lies in his versatility. Equally adept at centre-back or full-back, he provides Slot crucial positional flexibility in a reshaping squad. His ball-playing ability from deep allows Liverpool to build attacks with composure, while his aerial dominance and defensive positioning offer the steel needed to protect Alisson's goal. Valued at €18 million and contracted through 2027, the Charlton academy product represents continuity for a club seeking to reclaim its domestic dominance. He may operate in the shadows of Liverpool's defensive stars, but Gomez's Swiss Army knife versatility and positional intelligence make him the type of reliable, tactically astute defender every title-chasing team needs when navigating the demands of a grueling season.