Ally McCoist baffled by Andy Robertson after Sunderland vs Liverpool scenes: ‘I can’t for the life of me…’
Ally McCoist revealed that he could not believe the lack of football that Andy Robertson has received at Liverpool during their win over Sunderland on Wednesday.
The left-back received just his fifth Premier League start of the season during his team’s victory at the Stadium of Light in midweek, as they closed the gap to the top four with a crucial three points.
Virgil van Dijk’s 61st-minute header proved to be the only difference between the two teams, who played out an entertaining encounter on Wearside.
Arne Slot has faced increasing scrutiny from supporters amid some inconsistent form in recent weeks, and now it is McCoist who has expressed his confusion at the Dutchman’s decisions.
Ally McCoist ‘so surprised’ by Andy Robertson snub
Robertson has been a crucial figure for Liverpool in recent years, as he has played a vital role in teams that have tasted both Premier League and Champions League glory.
However, he has fallen down the pecking order at Anfield this term, and that has prompted speculation regarding his future to intensify ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.
The Scotland international was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham in the January transfer window, but ultimately stayed put at Anfield for now at least.
The 31-year-old has been used sparingly by Slot so far in 2025-26, with the boss often preferring summer signing Milos Kerkez on the left side of the defence.
Robertson has played just over 600 minutes of league football all season, and that has left McCoist baffled, given the way that Liverpool’s campaign has played out.
“I’m so surprised he (Robertson) hasn’t played more”, the pundit said during TNT Sports’ coverage of the clash with Sunderland.
“That is the one position where I can’t for the life of me understand why Robertson hasn’t started more.”
Robertson produced game-leading stat in Liverpool win vs Sunderland
Robertson played his part in what ultimately proved to be a crucial clean sheet for Liverpool in their midweek victory, but it was arguably his attacking exploits that caught the eye the most.
The veteran created a game-high three chances across the 90 minutes in the North East, and although none were converted by his teammates, he was a thorn in the side of the Sunderland defence throughout proceedings.
| Stats | Robertson Total | Game Rank |
| Touches | 76 | 3rd |
| Accurate Passes | 56/63 (89%) | 1st |
| Chances Created | 3 | =1st |
| Passes into Final Third | 10 | N/A |
| Defensive Contributions | 2 | N/A |
His tally of 56 completed passes was also higher than any other player on the pitch, while 10 of those balls were played into dangerous areas inside the final third.
Kerkez has often been preferred to the former Hull City man for his additional energy and dynamism in recent months, but Robertson proved in midweek that his delivery from that left-back position is still unmatched.
Slot has seemingly had reservations about playing the Scotsman so far this season, but any doubts about his ability should have evaporated after his latest display.
For more expert analysis of Liverpool’s win away at Sunderland, check out Mackem News.