'Muppet' Milos Kerkez told he has 'mashed potato for brains' after being hooked during calamitous first half of Liverpool's trip to Burnley

Kerkez was acquired by the reigning Premier League champions as a supposed upgrade on veteran Scottish full-back Andy Robertson. The 21-year-old has gone straight into Arne Slot’s favoured starting XI.

He did, however, do his claims to regular selection few favours during a forgettable performance at Burnley. Kerkez was booked inside 22 minutes of that contest for simulation - with a dive being taken inside the penalty area.

With the threat of one mistimed challenge seeing him sent for an early bath, Slot decided to take no risks and sent Robertson on in place of Kerkez. Those watching on from afar were left less than impressed by the Hungarian defender’s antics.

@BenwyneJones posted on social media: “Unfortunately Kerkez has mashed potato for brains.” 

@Ful_ler added: “Kerkez can have no complaints, diving like some muppet.” 

@Errol0151 chimed in with: “Kerkez been ragged off against Burnley. Lad it's not looking good.” 

@UsiBenno said: “1 thing about Slot, he is ruthless. Good decision hooking Kerkez, who was having a stinker and 1 tackle away from getting sent off.” 

On a similar note, @JayP2160 added: “Look I like Kerkez but the man is too aggressive at times. He needs to find that level of control to it.”

Liverpool invested £40 million ($54m) in Kerkez and consider him to be part of their long-term future. They do, however, need a combative character to rein in a reckless streak that could get him into trouble with match officials.