Jamie O’Hara: Frimpong a Strong Signing, But Alexander-Arnold Leaves Big Shoes to Fill
Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara believes Jeremie Frimpong is a solid addition to Liverpool’s squad, but he remains unconvinced that the Dutchman can fully replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, the 38-year-old praised Liverpool’s decision to bring in Frimpong, describing it as smart business. However, he still considers Alexander-Arnold to be the superior player overall.
“Frimpong is a fantastic signing for Liverpool,” O’Hara said. “He’s more athletic than Trent and can run the flanks all game long. That kind of stamina wasn’t Trent’s strong suit – as we saw in the Club World Cup, where he’s struggled a bit in a Real Madrid shirt.”
Frimpong joined Liverpool last month after playing a vital role in Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable Bundesliga title win. He was also included in the Bundesliga Team of the Season two years in a row (2022-23 and 2023-24).
Despite Frimpong’s rising profile and growing interest from other Premier League clubs, O’Hara doesn’t see him matching the level Alexander-Arnold reached at Liverpool.
“I don’t think Frimpong will get to the heights Trent did,” he added. “Trent’s vision and technical ability set him apart. He was often likened to Kevin De Bruyne for his passing and creativity. His assist record was second to none, which is why Real Madrid were so eager to sign him.”
Alexander-Arnold’s move to Madrid was confirmed on May 30—the same day Liverpool announced Frimpong as his replacement. Since the England international signaled his departure on May 5, new manager Arne Slot has used young Northern Irish full-back Conor Bradley in the right-back role.
While Bradley has made a promising impact since graduating from the Liverpool Academy in 2023, O’Hara is skeptical about his readiness for a starting role at a top club like Liverpool.
“Conor Bradley is talented, no doubt,” O’Hara said. “But he’s not ready to be Liverpool’s first-choice defender. He simply can’t replicate what Trent brought to the team.”
O’Hara also expressed surprise at Liverpool allowing backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to leave for Brentford, saying he expected the Irish international to secure a starting role at a top European side.
“Kelleher’s a brilliant addition for Brentford,” he said. “He’s way too good to sit on the bench at Liverpool. Honestly, I thought he’d end up at a Champions League-level club.”
Kelleher, who joined Liverpool from Ringmahon Rangers in 2015, made his senior debut in 2019. Over his time with the Reds, he recorded 24 clean sheets in 67 matches and holds the club record for most penalty shootout saves (6) and wins (4).
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