Liverpool news: Joe Gomez is not tall enough to be a centre-back - Michael Owen

LIVERPOOL defender Joe Gomez has a long way to go to be the next Rio Ferdinand because he is not tall enough to be a centre-back, says pundit Michael Owen.

Liverpool's Joe Gomez takes the dizzy penalty challenge

Gomez has started the season strongly at Liverpool, having already made three starts in all competitions.

The 20-year-old has impressed at right-back, alternating with Trent Alexander-Arnold in that role.

Gomez has aspirations of playing in the centre of defence but despite standing at six-foot two inches tall, Owen says he is too short.

“He seems himself in the future as a centre-half, I’m not quite sure he’s tall enough,” Owen said on BT Sport.

“I just think he needs an extra inch or two to look like a centre-half. 

Liverpool news Joe GomezBT SPORT

Liverpool news: Joe Gomez is not tall enough to be a centre-back, says Michael Owen

I think playing at full-back will help his game. He’s an exceptional talent

Michael Owen on Liverpool star Joe Gomez

“I think playing at full-back will help his game. He’s an exceptional talent, very very solid, quick. 

“He was again one of the stand outs in the game against Arsenal. 

“It was really unfortunate for him to have an injury so early in his Liverpool career but it looks like it’s not affected him.”

Owen was then asked about comparisons of Gomez and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, who was working alongside in the BT studio.

Owen says he has a long way to go to reach the heights of the ex-England skipper.

Joe Gomez Michael OwenBT SPORT

Liverpool news: Joe Gomez has a lot of potential, says Owen

“Listen he’s going to be a good player but it’s embarrassing to talk about Rio when he’s a couple of yards away from me!” he added.

“Rio was a Rolls Royce, one of the best players or defenders England’s ever seen. 

“He’s got a long, long way to go but he’s certainly got a lot of potential.”

Ferdinand was thankful for the praise from Owen, replying: “Cheers Mike, you’ve got a fiver coming your way soon don’t you worry.” 

Gomez was sent off late on in the 2-2 Champions League draw with Sevilla last night after picking up two yellow cards.

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