Liverpool already knew they had plenty of work to do this summer even before a chastening defeat against Fulham on Sunday.

The loss at Craven Cottage should not affect the Reds becoming Premier League champions this season, although it has added a new sense of nervousness for the fanbase.

What it did do, however, is shine a light on several positions within the Liverpool squad which could do with addressing.

Andy Robertson made another high profile error, dispelling any lingering doubts that the Scot’s time as first choice left-back is coming to an end.

Dean Huijsen has just given Liverpool a big reason not to sign him as £42m alternative waits - opinion	Report: What Jurgen Klopp really now thinks about quitting Red Bull to become Brazil’s new manager	Liverpool legend says 'best on planet' is Richard Hughes' next priority after Virgil van Dijk

Both centre-backs were also poor, highlighting how Liverpool badly need reinforcements in this area, too.

But perhaps the most interesting aspect was how much better the Reds looked when Harvey Elliott replaced Dominik Szoboszlai in attacking midfield.

With Elliott not fully trusted by Arne Slot, it makes rumours linking Liverpool with Xavi Simons all the more interesting.

Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images

Elliott almost changed the game for Liverpool on Sunday.

The 22-year-old was inches away from equalising with an excellent effort which crashed off the bar.

He was also involved in plenty of build-up play too, making a refreshing change from the more blood and thunder approach of Szoboszlai.

MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES

Szoboszlai has been good this season and deserves credit for his role in what should still be a Liverpool title win.

But in games where the Reds are struggling to break through, he rarely looks like providing that creative spark that Liverpool need from him.

READ MORE: I saw ‘magnificent’ player prove he’s going to be a star for Liverpool next season despite Fulham loss

Elliott can do it, but the former Fulham prospect is limited in other ways.

With rumours Liverpool may let Elliott go this summer, there’s a growing feeling that Slot wants someone else to fulfil this role.

Given his similarities to Elliott in terms of playing style, there’s reason to believe Simons could be the answer Slot is looking for.

In many ways it would really be a shame for Elliott to leave Liverpool this summer.

He has done well at times this season but it hasn’t been enough to convince the Liverpool head coach.

Bringing in his own player to play the role of creative midfielder should now be a matter of urgency for Slot.