Andy Robertson sends emotional message as ‘legend’ sees Liverpool exit confirmed
Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson has taken to social media to send a farewell message after another departure from the club was confirmed.
This has been a memorable campaign for the Reds which saw them storm to the Premier League title, although they already look set for a busy summer.
Robertson has already bid farewell to Trent Alexander-Arnold after his exit from Liverpool to join Real Madrid, though it is not just on the pitch where there will be changes.
Experts are already predicting that Arne Slot will oversee a major squad overhaul at Anfield this summer (LiverpoolNews247).
John Heitinga makes Anfield exit
On Saturday (31 May), it was confirmed that John Heitinga has left the Premier League champions after a year with the club.
The former Everton centre-back had made the move to Anfield last summer as an assistant coach following the appointment of Slot.
He would even take charge on the touchline back in February, when Slot and Sipke Hulshoff served bans for Liverpool following the Merseyside derby.
However, Heitinga has now departed to take on the role of head coach at another of his former club’s, in the form of Dutch giants Ajax.
Even with his connection to their local rivals, it seems Robertson is still sad to see the 41-year-old make his exit from Anfield.
Taking to his Instagram story after Heitinga’s departure was announced, the Liverpool left-back shared an image of the two celebrating at the club’s recent Premier League trophy parade.
He then added the emotional caption: “Success this season wouldn’t of been possible without you!! Good luck legend.”
Liverpool in a good position to replace departing coach
Football Insider Verdict
It appears as though the Reds are not going to take long to find a replacement for Heitinga after his exit from the club.
Earlier this week, Football Insider reported that Liverpool are lining up their former striker Dirk Kuyt to replace Heitinga as part of Slot’s coaching staff.
As well as knowing the club and being a popular figure at Anfield, he is another Dutchman to add to the coaching staff, which will ensure he fits in well with Slot’s set-up.
With that in mind Liverpool will likely be confident that this change behind-the-scenes will indeed work out as they aim to build on what they have achieved this season.
Even so, judging by this tribute to Heitinga from Robertson, there are big shoes to fill for Kuyt or whoever else might take on that role.