Adam Lallana Set for Three-Year Contract Extension

In September, reliable reports indicated that Adam Lallana was set to sign a new contract. The 28-year-old has been a key player since Jürgen Klopp became manager in October 2015, perfectly matching his manager’s demands for hard running, counter pressing, and attacking football.

After suffering a groin injury during the international break, Lallana missed the trip to Southampton to face his boyhood club and will be absent for the next couple of games. The England international has thrived this season as the most attacking member of a midfield three, and without his presence, Liverpool lack composure in possession and spark in tight spaces. Moving forward under Gareth Southgate, Lallana is set for a key role in the England setup.

For the past two seasons, Lallana's hard work and skills haven't been enough to ward of criticisms of his productivity. His stunning displays in Southampton shirt raised expectations ahead of a move to Anfield. An intelligent English schemer who was comfortable playing with either foot in a system under Mauricio Pochettino that demanded diligence, flair, and quality was a rarity. While he did prove to be a player who made the team better, his status as a crucial player for Liverpool is now unquestionable.

Lallana's contract expires in the summer of 2019, shortly after he turns 31. This extension is a sign of his long-term importance to the club where Klopp is expected to build a side to compete over a number of years. Lallana isn't a player who relies on pace or physicality to excel, and if a midfield role is where he will continue to feature for Liverpool, only injuries should prevent him from being a trusted member of a very competitive first-team squad.