Liverpool Banter Archive August 11 2016

 

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11 Aug 2016 22:24:43
Fantasy league code reminder 160919-52411.160919-52411 league name liverpool-rumours. co. uk.

Believable5 Unbelievable3

12 Aug 2016 06:13:34
Please give more details as I would like to join. Site name, etc.


12 Aug 2016 08:44:25
Xper it's the official premier league fantasy football site, google that and then use the code to add your team to the league.


12 Aug 2016 10:01:53
Yes that's what I did Swish.


12 Aug 2016 10:55:41
Joined.


12 Aug 2016 10:59:48
Joined.


12 Aug 2016 13:08:04
Is borussia munchkin flapjack in?
Some reason can't log on off iPad.


12 Aug 2016 19:02:43
Can't see that team name Agger.
Why not just get the app? It's a free download.


11 Aug 2016 20:38:45
Bland = blame. Autocorrect.

Believable1 Unbelievable5

11 Aug 2016 20:33:43
Woodgate had a successful career imo, can't bland the guy for injuries!

Hope he is as good as scouting as on field:)

Believable12 Unbelievable5

12 Aug 2016 00:18:54
Bar his Real Madrid debut of course, was just reminded of it by football's funniest moments.


12 Aug 2016 03:09:14
I remember when Marseille played Newcastle in the UEFA Cup semis in 2004 and Drogba went against Woodgate in the first leg at St James. The game ended goalless. That was some battle and Drogba said after the game that Woodgate was a thorn in his flesh However, he would be suspended for the return leg and Drogba scored two goals. Many believed Woodgate was the best CB in England, even better than Rio. Shame that injuries destroyed his career.


12 Aug 2016 10:30:58
Wasn't it David beckham who recommended him to Real Madrid?


11 Aug 2016 19:54:10
Was just looking at Spurs squad compared to ours and although there first teams looks very strong we definitely have much more depth in the forwards department. They have no back up at all to Kane . If he's injured they struggle up front.

Believable1 Unbelievable7

{Ed002's Note - Spurs have added another striker already and are looking at other forward players. They will be just fine.}

11 Aug 2016 20:30:19
Vincent Janssen is a great striker. Spurs have failed to a dress some key areas in their squad; most notably full backs, although like us I think that is down to a lack of options in the current market.

You cannot question their striking options though. They already had Kane and Son. With the addition of Janssen (who I think is a better overall player than Kane, with far more strings to his bow) they have one of the best strike forces in the league.

As Ron would say though, our strikers are still better ;)


11 Aug 2016 21:50:55
Spurs are a better side.

Table proved it.

Plus, they have one of the best managers in Europe.

They might struggle with the Champions league, but dontbever write them off as their manager has kept a great spine to the team and will invest wisely and shrewdly.


11 Aug 2016 21:58:00
Kane is a busted flush as proven at the Euros.
I think we will have at least 2 strikers who get 20+ league goals this season. 😎.


11 Aug 2016 22:23:51
Tottenham are poch, aslong as they have him then that's there fergie, Wenger. Even when both of them didn't have the strongest teams they always achieved, and had strong league positions.

Lose poch and it all falls apart because those players aren't that good.

Kane at the euros without poch was diabolical, sorry hazza but you were terrible in ever aspect.

Mason, eriken, lamela, walker, ali aren't as good as Coutinho, Firmino, mane, hendo or clyne but there system and familiarity is. For now. don't get me wrong there good players but not as good as ours. There just in the best system.

We will get there, just watch us roar this season, I'm telling you.

Tottenham will be consistent without anything spectacular.

Chelsea will be raved about for there defensive performances (playing as a team etc) until it falls apart around November and they need to start attacking and then struggle.

Untied top 4 solid mourinho summer, got what he wanted.

City, pep under estimating the league, will play like ridge and val gall, slow boring methodical. 5-3 my bet.

Arsenal top 4 as mentioned below the most arsenal summer arsenal have ever had.

Leicester love there moves, really got something good building there I still reckon 3rd in the league or around there. They will be written off again and it will play to their advantage, it won't be until next year there taken seriously.

Westbam forget them, like when Swansea won 3 games at the start of last season and jonjo was talking about top 4 or when they had michu and thought he was torress mark 2. Will pitter away, fancy getting told your getting a top 25 mil striker and then sign ayew.

Liverpool anywhere between 4th and 1st. We will blow teams away next year. No learning for klopp, no adapting for the players. Straight in and bang it goes at the emriates, the season starts.

All the teams btw I have in the top four is simply because I can't split them and I don't think anyone can make a real decision until 5 games jn because right now someone big is getting the saxk regardless.

Klopp, poch, wdnger, mourinho, pep, Conte. Someone isn't making top four.


11 Aug 2016 22:39:23
Ron I feel you're being a little harsh on Kane. Players don't turn bad overnight. Every single England player was bad at that tournament and you have to put that down to tactics and management. I am a little biased being a spurs fan but 14/ 15 - 31 goals and 15/ 16 - 28 goals. I love having him in the spurs side as his work rate is tremendous. A fit Sturridge could compete with that but the problem is keeping him fit. Looking forward to the new season. Good Luck.


11 Aug 2016 22:57:09
No worries Ryan, I'm just hyper about the new season.
In all honestly I like Kane, I think he needs more support this season though.
Good luck to him and Spurs, wouldn't be upset to see you come 2nd.


11 Aug 2016 23:47:43
I think Spurs have a very solid squad and they have strengthened that further this summer with improvements, plus they have a very good tactical manager. Whether they can keep up the level of performance in the PL alongside the CL will be their biggest challenge this season IMO.


12 Aug 2016 01:12:28
In terms of Harry Kane I think it was just one extended period of footy to much for the lad . He must have been tired he's played 2 full seasons on the bounce with the under 21 euros after the first season and the the euros after the second season . He's a very good striker and I feel just needed a rest .


12 Aug 2016 03:14:03
Kane is a good player but only under Poch. He's not better than Studge Snd only marginally better than Origi due to having more experience. We'll see what happens with Spurs as it will be interesting to see how they fair.


11 Aug 2016 18:26:23
Edd001 what do you make of our midfield mate? most probably henderson / can / Wijnaldum/ Grujic. To me its unbalanced and and I'm not sure we improved it, defensively anyways.

Believable4 Unbelievable7

{Ed001's Note - Hendo, Stewart and Chirivella provide the defensive edge we need imo.}

11 Aug 2016 18:39:21
I agree with Stewart but defensive balance from Henderson and chirivella? Idk about that one Ed.


{Ed001's Note - Chirivella is very as a defensive midfielder and Hendo protects the back four very well.}

11 Aug 2016 18:48:25
Don't see the obsession with defencive midfielders.
How many teams do we fear that badly that we need to stick another defender on the pitch?
If the defence does it's job and the midfield does there's then we don't need one.


{Ed041's Note - it's about having someone there to allow your 1,000,000 attacking CM to play their natural games.

11 Aug 2016 18:54:08
Tbh ed I tend to agree mate. And imo Hendo and Can as a 2 sitting works best. Would you agree?


{Ed041's Note - I don't rate Henderson as high as some, Can I see as a very good prospect. For me when fit I'd play Lucas and Can there.

11 Aug 2016 18:59:37
Never really thought our midfield lacked defensively in terms of options in the squad. We had Hendo and Lucas who are very good positionally, and at reading the game. It was just an issue last season because as we all know Lucas is injury prone, but even Hendo was injured for most of last year. We were just massively unlucky and you can't legislate for that many injuries. When Lucas was rarely fit, we were usually struggling for centre backs so he had to play there!

With the emergence of Stewart though, we can now afford to move on Lucas. Stewart has a much better injury record than Lucas as well and hopefully Hendo has got past his problems. Stewart is also a very good player as well. Vastly under rated in my opinion.

So yeah, fingers crossed we are much harder to break down next year.

I am just glad we've added goals to the midfield. Since Gerrard's decline, we've not had a single midfielder who could regularly crop up with a goal. Yet now we have Grujic and Wijnaldum!


11 Aug 2016 19:18:03
Haven't seen much if chirivella but Henderson has never struck me as one to protect the back well. He works hard and is a good all around player but the problem with him is. what is he great at?


11 Aug 2016 19:38:21
I really like lallana gw and hendo in cm in a 4 1 4 1.


11 Aug 2016 20:25:51
Our midfield was walked through like there was no one there far too often last season. So to say there isn't a problem is either being blind or just plain daft. And that still hasn't been addressed. You can't hope to win things without a solid spine and we simply don't have that as our centre backs will be exposed far to often through a weak and defensively naive central midfield.


{Ed001's Note - Henderson was out injured. Without him we struggle.}

11 Aug 2016 20:44:10
I think we have midfielders who aren't outstanding in either going forward or defensively. Can and grujic will only get better but I've my reservations on henderson and Wijnaldum For different reasons. Wijnaldum wouldn't get into my starting 11 and henderson hasn't been the same Imo since his injury, hasn't taken his game to the next level.


11 Aug 2016 21:12:14
Ed 1 what have you thought of grujic so far.


{Ed001's Note - I don't watch friendlies mate.}

11 Aug 2016 21:14:48
Frankly, Our midfield last season usually harboured E. Can plus Milner and/ or Allen. None of whom have good positional awareness. They all just charge about trying hard, looking good sometimes, but usually achieving nothing. So you cannot judge our midfield options this season based on mainly Allen and Milner not being good enough; especially not considering Allen is gone and Milner is now the left back! Can is good enough on the ball and has enough potential to be persevered with though.

Stewart now has some experience under his belt and will look to kick on, Henderson should be fit and Can is only young and should be improving the defensive side of his game; in fact if he isn't he really shouldn't be starting ahead of Stewart who offers more defensive cover, or Wiji/ Grujic who offer more offensive firepower. Can needs to step up big time for me. He should be scoring a lot more goals, he should be breaking up play without getting booked constantly, and he needs to choose his runs both on and off the ball more carefully. He has brilliant technical skills and his passing range is clearly very good. Added to that the raw power he brings to the position.

I agree our midfield was poor last season. But we now have 2 new players, Stewart and Chirivella progressing and a fit Henderson to add to Can. So why the doom and gloom?


11 Aug 2016 21:52:42
Agree Mikey and said it for years.

The defensive midfielder is just a trend and not necessary.

Proper defenders don't need one.


{Ed002's Note - Sort of like "real men don't use talc" Davey?}

11 Aug 2016 22:01:56
Hendo and Can just don't work. Both great players but as a partnership no. Wijnaldum in centre, god I hope not. Stewart has shown some promise but enough to warrant a starting berth? I'm not convinced. Chirivella? High hopes in the youth set up but I have seen very little when he's been given a start in the first team, in fact he's been disappointing in my opinion. Our midfield is still imbalanced in my opinion and lacks something.


11 Aug 2016 22:46:39
Got to disagree there Poolie. I think it is balanced. Stewart, Henderson and Chirivella give us stability and playmaker capabilities. Can, Brannagan, Wijnaldum and Grujic give us drive going forward though. That is why I think Can needs to add something extra to his game though. He doesn't score many, doesn't create many, isn't a set piece specialist etc. Brannagan isn't really a regular goal scorer, but he is very creative and is better at set pieces than most of our first team. Grujic and Wijnaldum will create and score goals though, so they bring something extra. Can is at risk of flattering to deceive.

I can genuinely see Can losing his place if he doesn't bring something else to the table like the others do. Brannagan looks to be going on loan now and Chirivella is still very young, but right now Wijnaldum, Henderson and Grujic are ahead of Can for me. Stewart is not far behind either.

I have every faith Can will rise to the challenge next season though, and hopefully realise his potential.


11 Aug 2016 23:16:45
MK - That's the whole problem with our midfield in my opinion, yes we have a barrel full of midfielders but all flatter to deceive. Can is very one dimensional, take away his drive and enthusiasm and there's not a lot else there. Stewart for his age just hasn't shown enough to warrant a regular starting birth. Chirivella has only shown promise at youth level and has disappointed mostly when given first team starts. Grujic and Wijnaldum time will tell. For me though midfield is still one true quality midfielder short, especially if we're after top four. I think this will show this season. We've improved GK, we've improved CB, LB is still an issue but you can't blame every bad display on LB. When our midfield is still getting walked past this season then they can't just blame the GK, they can't say the CB aren't good enough. I think this up and coming season will be a hugely important one for most of our midfielders.


11 Aug 2016 23:38:44
Personally I just don't see that we have any balance in midfield, Lucas is the closest that we have to a player that you'd call a midfield anchor and injuries have clearly taken their toll on him, any manager who wants to beat us only needs to bully us in midfield (or attack from the right or stick high balls into Mignolet. ) that's patently obvious, we've seriously got no answer to that. The other very concerning thing (aside from centre midfield, left back and Mignolet) is that we don't have anyone who makes us a threat from dead ball situations, our corners and free kicks last year were bloody awful and we still have no one who can take a decent one. Top four is a pipe dream, we can't honestly say that we're better than City, United, Chelsea, Arsenal and even Spurs, we finished 8th last year because of our failings, those failings are still there and haven't really been addressed. It's almost like some of you have forgotten some of our more abject performances last year.


11 Aug 2016 23:45:37
I disagree with MK Scouser on Emre Can needing to score more goals; Clearly, Klopp sees him as the base of the 3 man midfield or the more defensive midfielder in a 2 man midfield, and as such I think his main priority this season onwards should be stopping the opposition score than getting goals. I agree he needs to improve his positioning and decision making when defending though.

I think Henderson is a player who needs to step up and be the main man in central midfield for Liverpool, because if he doesn't, there is every chance his position in the lineup will be under threat with Grujic, Wijnaldum and even Lallana being looked at by Klopp to play there.


11 Aug 2016 23:45:40
Stewart is young and still has much to prove before he's considered ready to start in midfield. Chirivella is very inexperienced and hasn't impressed as yet when picked despite his obvious very high potential, do I wouldn't count him as a genuine regular option yet. Henderson is solid, positionally sound and fine to start as the more defensive option for the most part but in certain games you may want a Dm behind him and I'm not that convinced by Stewart yet. Another experienced defensive minded midfielder would be ideal in my opinion.


12 Aug 2016 01:26:13
I think Can and Hendo would be my pick in a 4-2-3-1, both can defend and push forward equally, and Hendo keeps Can in check positionally and covers his mistakes when he goes walkabout. There were very few games they managed to play together last year when both fit but IMO they were some of our most balanced.

In a 4-3-3 it's a tougher one. Can has had some excellent games there (Villareal back from injury) but also some poor ones and not quite as positionally aware as he could be (and doesn't always stick tight to runners, tends to amble back sometimes) . I would persevere as he has the prospect of being a great long term solution there, but right now he has occasional defensive lapses and he's not quite quick enough to recover from mistakes easily so needs to be watched closely for form.

Against Arsenal, given Can doesn't look 100% back up to speed just yet, I'd be tempted to go with Stewart there given his performance vs Barca. Play him with Hendo and Wijnaldum and we should have a good balance going forward too.


12 Aug 2016 03:35:30
Funny, still a lot of henderson doubters despite his stellar season where without him out title challenge evaporated. A season injured practically and all of a sudden he is a bad player again. Fickle to say the least. He is our best cm atm and given time to regain form after recovering from injury he will throw some of that muck in some of your faces. Come on hendo, i think you are great and i support you matey.


12 Aug 2016 06:37:07
Im thinking our midfield will surprise a few teams with their defensive work this year. If you watch Hendo, he is very good at covering the channels and shielding the back 4. Plus he is very good with direct passes into the forward line which clearly Klopp is asking the midfield to do. Can offers power and the ability to dribble forward at pace. From watching the friendlies, it appears Stewart is making a conscious effort to do more forward passes too. Yes he got caught a few times from people pressing him from behind but so did Busquets. Chirivella's main issue has been he is too easily pushed off the ball but he is young and should bulk up over the coming year. With Grujic and GW to push them on, i reckon our midfield is the least of our worries.


12 Aug 2016 12:48:44
"Stewart is young"?
Isn't he older than Can and Grujic?


11 Aug 2016 17:05:03
Id be interested to get the eds opinion or mk scouser opinion on woodgate as scout, I won't judge him on his playing career as it was average but then shearer was world class and poor as coach/ manager/ pundit so is woodgate intelligent or have an eye for a good player or is he here to learn from other scouts before moving up into chief scout or coaching/ managing.

cheers for any replys.

Believable0 Unbelievable7

11 Aug 2016 17:11:06
I've met Woodgate a few years ago. He's not a bad lad, not a very bright chap and needs to grow up a lot.
Time will tell if he's a good scout, he deserves a chance.


11 Aug 2016 17:44:08
Jonathan woodgate was a brilliant defender. It was his injuries that stompled his career. Brilliant player when fit.


11 Aug 2016 18:32:55
Right who has hacked Ron's account?

That was way too negative for it to have been him ;)


11 Aug 2016 19:20:03
It's impossible to say. How he performs cannot really be judged for at least 5 years. He needs to build a bank of contacts, I would imagine largely using his connections at Real Madrid.

What I will say, Is players who struggle with injuries tend to have far more time to spend analysing the game and can therefore become good back room staff. By all accounts Rob Jones is a great coach, and he also spent a lot of time on the side lines. If I'm not mistaken Liverpool also utilised Lucas as a scout/ analyst during one of his longer injury periods.

As I say though, we need to reserve judgement until he has a) set up a network b) got his feet under the table and c) actually found some talent for us to judge.

I wish him well though.


11 Aug 2016 20:32:49
To say he didn't play at the highest level is a ridiculous comment, he played for Real Madrid .


11 Aug 2016 20:37:28
smplfc - that was quite positive really because I still remember what he and Bowyer got up to. He was young so deserves a chance to turn it round.


12 Aug 2016 03:36:47
But ron have you met him lately, how do you know he has not matured?


12 Aug 2016 06:00:30
It was about 3 years ago and he hadn't matured then.
I met him twice, once with his girlfriend when he seemed like a really decent down to earth bloke and then 6 months later when he was with s group of mates and still acting like he did in his early 20's i. e. An obnoxious 'person' openly passing round certain 'substances', flashing cash and lauding it over hard working people.


11 Aug 2016 16:54:38
Some light relief away from our left back malaise

A man arrives at the gates of heaven, where St. Peter greets him and says: "Before I can let you enter I must ask you what you have done in your life that was particularly good. "

The man racks his brains for a few minutes and then admits to St. Peter that he hasn't done anything particularly good in his life.

"Well, " says St. Peter, "have you done anything particularly brave in your life? "

"Yes, I have, " replies the man proudly.

St. Peter asks the man to give an account of his bravery.

So the man explains, "I was refereeing this important match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield. The score was 0-0 and there was only one more minute of play to go in the second half when I awarded a penalty against Liverpool at the Kop end. "

"Yes, " responded St. Peter, "I agree that was a real act of bravery. Can you perhaps tell me when this took place? "

"Certainly, " the man replied, "about three minutes ago. "

Believable9 Unbelievable8

11 Aug 2016 16:04:46
I know it's not liverpool relAted but do you guys like the adid as ace 16.1 leather.

Believable2 Unbelievable8

11 Aug 2016 14:22:51
Ed1 you rate klopp highly - yet ed 2 thinks he has no plan b etc or words to that effect - so what's your take on klopp not rating highly with ed2 - genuine question, just wondering how you guys have such opposed views.

Believable7 Unbelievable8

11 Aug 2016 14:57:10
Crazy to think two people have different opinions. Ed1 and Ed2 have pretty different views on a lot of things. Ed1 has admitted though the Klopp has some learning and developing to do, but has all of the tools to be great manager. I think we'll see this season how good of a manager Klopp is.


11 Aug 2016 15:04:10
Translates to:please undermine ed002 so we can get some juicy conflict :p.


11 Aug 2016 15:09:48
How do most people have opposing views!? Where do you want them to start? How they were raised as kids lol.


11 Aug 2016 16:21:51
They disagreed pretty strongly on Joey Barton the other day as well. I think they're having marital problems myself.

It needs to stop really, because it's not fair on Ed033 and Ed007 who are caught in the middle. The kids should come first.


{Ed001's Note - Ed033 is Ed002's grandfather.}

11 Aug 2016 19:39:17
Wow Ed033 must be old then! I always imagined Ed002 as a little old lady sat in a rocking chair knitting, editing this site, or making phone calls to her grandchildren who just happened to be well placed agents and scouts in the football industry. So I dread to think how old 33 is. His face must look like a raisin.


11 Aug 2016 22:33:19
I imagine ed002 to be a bit like Jack Nicholsons character in the film 'Wolf' 😄.


11 Aug 2016 23:51:16
Agreed, great eds think alike.


12 Aug 2016 02:06:18
I visualise ed2 as "the oracle" from movie Matrix hehehe.


12 Aug 2016 03:39:13
MK a little bit ageist there, i like raisins.


11 Aug 2016 14:19:56
No doubt there will be a few more big signings across the PL in the next 20 days but the league starts in 48 hours and it's time to talk predictions.

Liverpool - Klopp's looked to put his stamp on the squad this summer but it's not been the most inspiring of transfer windows. Mane looks the best piece of business and Karius could fix one of our two problem areas but I'm withholding judgement on whether we've improved at CB and I can't really bare to talk about LB. I think a title challenge may be wishful thinking (and there's nothing wrong with that Ron) but if we have better luck with injuries then third or fourth is there for the taking.

City - The best squad in the league now has the highest profile manager in the world, if they can mesh properly they could be spectacular. Their biggest weakness may be in defense and it will be interesting to see if Stones can step up to the level everyone says he's capable of. Finishing third or lower would equate to failure.

Utd - All the talk is about Zlatan (Ok, and Pogba too) and I have a feeling that his signing may be a masterstroke. The brilliance of it is that Zlatan will draw the attention allowing Martial and Mkhitaryan to thrive. Utd will be the best they've been since Ferguson left but I don't think they'll have enough to finish above City.

Chelsea - I'm really underwhelmed by Chelsea this summer. That's partly because I know little about Conte but, by their standards, they've barely spent anything on transfers. Are Conte and Kante enough to get them back to the head of the table? I don't think so. Unless something changes in the next three weeks I don't see them making the top four.

Arsenal - This may be the most Arsenal summer Arsenal have ever had. An early signing that gets everyone excited followed by the failure to buy a decent striker followed by an injury crisis. Wenger gets top four so I'm probably wrong but I think they may be heading for 5th or 6th.

Spurs - Have Spurs improved their starting 11? No, they haven't. Spurs will take some big scalps this year but if your not going forwards your going backwards. They may compete again for top four but I think they've missed their shot at the title.

Leicester - I predicted that Leicester would falter last season (don't lie, you thought that too! ) . With the exception of Kante they've kept the band together so theoretically they should be capable of repeating last season but unless they can carry their momentum through I can't see lightning striking twice. A top six finish would still be something to be proud of.

Everyone else - Who the hell knows.

What I'm saying is City will win, Utd will come second and Liverpool, Spurs, Chelsea, Arsenal and Leicester will fight it out for 3rd and 4th.

Believable3 Unbelievable12

11 Aug 2016 15:28:10
"This may be the most Arsenal summer Arsenal have ever had". Brilliant. That made me smile.


11 Aug 2016 15:58:38
i wouldn't rule west ham out.

had an excellent last season and have kept hold of their better players up to now.

i agree city will win the league, with united in the top 4 and us chelsea, spurs, west ham, arsenal and Leicester will fight for the other two places.


11 Aug 2016 16:31:36
1st. United
2nd city
3rd Spurs
4th West Ham
5th Chelsea . Manager change by crimbo
6th arsenal
7th Everton
8th Liverpool
9th Leicester

I don't see Klopp learning that 5 attacking midfielders and playing full backs as wingers makes us drop points . Summer business for us, no matter how you dress it up has been poor . To many square pegs in round holes still imo


Arsenal still don't have a striker so unless that changes I feel this is arsenes last summer.


11 Aug 2016 16:49:21
Leicester will struggle to finish top 10, and just like last season I don't see what all the fuss is about with United.

I was the only one on here and at work who didn't think they did very good business last season and said so, don't get me wrong they've definitely recruited better this season but there 3 or 4 players away for me top 4 yes title no chance.

City have a very good spine and are building around that and it's that and there new manager that makes them favourites.

Arsenal are in real danger of missing out on top 4 unless they pull a few rabbits out of the hat last minute but I can't see it.

Chelsea are certain top 4 for me, conte will make them very hard to beat and I think there's two or three signings in the pipeline that will cement top 4 for them.

We are certs for top 4 and if we'd brought in a top left back and karius hadn't gotten injured and was between the posts from the first game then I genuinely would have had us going for the title but as it stands I'm looking at top 4.

Forget West ham, flash in the pan haven't bought well this window and will struggle to find a rhythm at the new ground.

Top 4

1St City
2nd Chelsea
3Rd Liverpool
4th United

League cup Arsenal

F. a. Cup Liverpool.


11 Aug 2016 17:12:56
Can't believe no-one else thinks we'll win it.
We're the best team in the league IMO.,


11 Aug 2016 17:27:07
I can see your point Ron. Personally a top 4 finish this season and the next ten seasons will do me though (obviously at some point you would want to be challenging for or winning the league)
Let's just get back in the elite competition and go from there. One step at a time.


11 Aug 2016 17:46:40
It's our year lads.
1.Liverpool
2.Chelsea.


11 Aug 2016 18:25:13
Forgot spurs, they'll finish 6th not a lot of depth to there squad and lots of teams have strengthend, think they'll do what we did when we challenged for the league, next season hangover though won't implode as badly as we did.


11 Aug 2016 18:26:49
City: Looks good on paper, but Kompany and Aguero makes Sturridge look like Ironman. Title goes away with injuries.
Utd: Might work out, but how will Rooney react to Mourinho leaving him on the bench? I smell trouble. Plus the negative, cynical approach by JM feels somewhat outdated.
Chelsea: Speaking of parking the bus. Conte will struggle with awaygames, in my opinion. Short on strikers aswell. No title.
Arsenal: Lacking a top striker. Lacking a defensive partner for Koscielny. Will struggle with injuries, as always. Will look like champions at some point but fail to deliver at the end.
Spurs: Tricky. Not a great deal of business in the summer, but more time for Pochettino to work with his young team. Maybe.
Leicester: one hit wonder, Kante will be missed.
West Ham: Besides Payet slightly short on true quality.
Us: GET A DECENT LEFT BACK! Other than that we look good. Defence and goalkeeping improved, competition and options in midfield and attack and a preseason for Klopp to work with the squad. Like our chances. Sort out Hector or someone like him and we are a sure bet for top 4, maybe better.


11 Aug 2016 18:43:39
Dooter or Doubter? Love Rons optimism! I'm with you On this one Ronald! 👍👍.


11 Aug 2016 20:32:38
I don't think city have that good a squad tbh. Kompany, Aguero both struggling to stay fit due to injuries. Haven't looked at an updated on Gundogan but they are an aging squad, Yaya isn't the best he used to be. Guradiola might not have instant success either. The city squad he is inheriting are nothing like Barcelona and Bayern he got.

Utd are a bit hit and miss, we remember how Mourinho left the prem, he will need to come in at the right pace with the players onside which he probably will but Zlatan will want to be the main man vs Rooney, Rooney might even end up on the bench, Pogba is fiery to, he left due to fergy not playing him if i recall? JM drops players who perform badly.

Mata probably isn't too happy, I don't think i'd be too happy in Martial shoes having my number ripped off me when he was one of the better players. I don't really like any UTD players but i think Rashford is okay. Will he get that much game time now Zlatan is in as he has to compete with Rooney so i think there could just be some unhappy players are a few months just egos vs egos really and we know how it ended up with Chelsea, i just can't see it being a clear cut as people make it with UTD.

I think Spurs will do well if Kane is back to his best and rested. Poch has been doing very well.

I can't comment on Arsenal i don't know about their injuries and such atm. But they usually get top 4

I think if we have had a decent summer and should be able to give it a good go, i think we have the potential to win it, but so do a lot of other teams so will just have to see how everything pans out.


11 Aug 2016 22:00:00
We will definitely win it IMO. I'm predicting records to tumble 😎.


12 Aug 2016 06:45:50
1 Don't care
2 Don't care
3 Don't care
4 Liverpool.


11 Aug 2016 13:48:18
any fantasy league codes lads and laddets?

Believable0 Unbelievable3

11 Aug 2016 19:01:08
1. Liverpool
2. Chelsea
3. City
4. West Ham.


11 Aug 2016 12:27:18
Some great names set up for the fantasy league group which was set up. 'Show me the mane, ' ' benteke fried chicken' and 'spank the mancs' amongst my faves!

Believable1 Unbelievable6

11 Aug 2016 12:52:03
Mines called, Can Mane Karius to the title.


11 Aug 2016 13:04:33
Mines 'Mane Can Karius' :/.


11 Aug 2016 13:19:42
What are the details to join?


11 Aug 2016 13:44:43
Code is 160919-52411 on the official premier league fantasy site.


11 Aug 2016 13:52:16
Mines, Migsballsorrylads.


11 Aug 2016 14:25:59
My mate has 2 teams: AC McCann and Inter McCann.

Can you guess what his surname is!


11 Aug 2016 14:51:32
Dave?


11 Aug 2016 15:13:41
I always go with Substandard Liege.


11 Aug 2016 18:17:40
Just joined, sorting squad out.


11 Aug 2016 22:28:07
I have posted a few reminders of the code to join the league.

I used liverpool-rumours. co. uk as league name. The code is 160919-52411.


11 Aug 2016 12:13:16
Nice interview from joe allen in the echo, good luck mate.

Believable11 Unbelievable3

11 Aug 2016 11:25:27
Any truth in the rumours Jonathon Woodgate has joined as a scout?

Believable5 Unbelievable3

11 Aug 2016 11:41:25
Its true, but he is out for 2 weeks with a hamstring issue

😉.


11 Aug 2016 11:47:43
Yeah but he slipped on a dropped cheese and onion pie in St Mary's and is sidelined for the next 6 months.


11 Aug 2016 11:49:04
To be honest he might make a great scout, he certainly spent most of his career sat watching football rather than playing it.


11 Aug 2016 11:02:53
Hey eds back again with some queries,
1. what's your opinion on milner as a possible first choice LB

2. If we maybe trim the squad more, do you think we have what it takes to compete for it all?

Believable1 Unbelievable4

{Ed001's Note - 1. Not good enough to be first choice, he should only be there as injury cover.

2. We have Klopp, so yes I feel we can compete.}

11 Aug 2016 11:36:46
How many left back posts do you get a day ed001?


11 Aug 2016 11:36:46
How many left back posts do you get a day ed001?


{Ed001's Note - lost count mate, must be 20+.}

11 Aug 2016 12:12:09
And that's just from lfc forever isn't it ed?


11 Aug 2016 15:55:33
Are we getting a Left-Back?


11 Aug 2016 10:24:42
Fair play to Howard Gayle for turning down his nomination for an MBE. Hats off to you.

Believable10 Unbelievable7

11 Aug 2016 11:05:34
Has he? Good lad, we'll in howie 👍👍.


11 Aug 2016 17:17:27
Great explanation he wrote too.

A man of great integrity, YNWA Howie.


11 Aug 2016 10:16:39
Thierry Henry when asked who he is most exciting to watch in this seasons Premier League said

"Sadio Mane, there's the usual suspects like Zlatan and Pogba but the outsider for me who I think will have a great season is Sadio Mane at Liverpool, I want to see how he is going to do and with the way Liverpool play I think he could have a very good season and be a crowd favourite"

Believable20 Unbelievable0

11 Aug 2016 10:24:27
I agree with him.
Looking forward to this season, going to be interesting to see just how good Klopp really is and if he has achieved in turning our team around.
Really like the way we have so much quality up front this year, goals win games and points and we have so many players who can score loads in our team now.


11 Aug 2016 13:01:48
Mane is the x-factor for me especially when we play away games. His ability to switch defence into attack within a 5 yard give and go is just lethal. Vs Arsenal, he will be our main outlet and he will cause damage to them, I feel.


11 Aug 2016 09:04:41
Ed01 and ed02 if your around - coukd yiu give yiur opinion on the best cb pairing - when all fit? This area still concerns me- not numbers quality- akso musrafi to aresnal would you prefer someone like him? Left back still not resolved any fresh news? Thanks.

Believable1 Unbelievable3

{Ed001's Note - impossible to say who are the best until we get to watch them play together.}

11 Aug 2016 09:41:44
Matip Sakho for me.


11 Aug 2016 10:26:18
Lovren and matip I suspect.
But I'm not writing off sakho just yet.
Strong Competition is good, keeps them on their toes.


11 Aug 2016 10:31:13
Lovren and Klaven for me.


11 Aug 2016 12:22:56
I think it may end up being Matip and Klavan eventually. I think the other two can be a little unreliable at times, though I do like Lovren and Sakho's one of my favourite players.


11 Aug 2016 12:52:07
Lovren and Sakho played really really well into year end. Having said that I think we'll start Lovren/ Klavan due to injuries and they've looked very good so far - think Klavan could well be surprise at the back as he looks so sensible. Matip I have high hopes for but suspect may take a bit of time to adjust to PL physicality. Once he's adjusted though, think he'll be massive for us with his heading, passing and decent pace.

In short, I really have no idea - which is a good thing i suppose, better than not knowing because we had limited choices.


11 Aug 2016 13:06:14
Klavan for me, has been the revelation of this pre-season. There was a post on here comparing him to Skrtel before the Barcelona game. I hope said poster has eaten his words and if not, he should. The guy is very cool, calm, composed, has great positional sense, knows when to hoof it and when to play out of the back, takes no prisoners and very uncompromising. I know it`s preseason but the way he helped marshall the defence vs Barcelona was great to watch. The fact that he seemed to almost never be out of position was a joy to see. Lovren is still quite erratic at times but due to injuries, it will be him and Klavan vs Arsenal. Matip and Sahko will have a job on their hands if these two start playing well.


11 Aug 2016 16:57:05
I'd like to see Sakho-Matip get a run to form a partnership. Lovren showed some decent form towards the end of last season and Klavan has looked solid pre-season. Let's not forget Joe Gomez either! We look to have a decent CB unit this year. 🙏🏻🙏🏻.


11 Aug 2016 20:45:54
He has only played in preseason but looked a beast i think. Klavan for me just looks very solid at the back and also lovren looks more composed next to him, but again we haven't seen them all play together . So i'm not sure who i would pick but i think Lovren and Klavan have looked good.


11 Aug 2016 08:44:10
We all love our attacking football, bombing full back etc. but what I would not give for a boaring old defending first left back. Someone who will defend first and just send the ball onto the more flare players we have.

Question as well eds/ posters? Do we think Klopp could look at a back three with the lack of left full backs?

Believable4 Unbelievable2

{Ed001's Note - doubt it.}

11 Aug 2016 09:31:35
should have kept flannagan for sure.


11 Aug 2016 09:30:30
Thanks for the response Ed001, looking forward to the new season at this stage.

I know its a matter of time before Bentekers and Mario move on but with that amount of money coming in I don't think we will spend any more. Maybe if the right player becomes available?


{Ed001's Note - the club will always look to dive in if a player the manager feels is the right player becomes available.}

11 Aug 2016 14:46:03
A back three doesn`t work if you don`t have the right players who fit the system which we don`t. Juve, Italy and the Costa Rica team of the last World Cup are the only teams I`ve seen who play the 3-5-2 perfectly and that is because they have the right player personnel that fit the system.


11 Aug 2016 04:51:06
Hi Eds and fellow posters,

I would like Ed01 to share his views on a particular player, Ibrahimovic. I know he's not a Liverpool player, and it might seems irrelevant for me to post this here. Just would like to know your and other Liverpool fans' opinion on him as a player.

Me, he's one of my favorite. I found it hard nowadays to find that kind of players with bags of skills and tricks, which are really entertaining and exciting to watch; players like him, Henry, Ronaldinho etc. I think I might be watching lots of Man United games just because of this guy.

Thanks.

Believable2 Unbelievable5

{Ed001's Note - he is a fantastically athletic skilled player, his weakness is his lack of workrate when his team do not have possession. While you can say that about a lot of strikers, when you grow up watching Rush, you realise how much of a difference it makes having a striker who is willing to help out when your team do not have the ball too.

If he is on a team that is good enough to get a decent amount of possession, then he is a fantastic player, if you are struggling, then he becomes deadweight to carry. For me it is all worth it though, just to get him on the ball, because he is a delight to watch. He is like a better Cantona, who was excellent in his own right, but Zlatan just does the same things better.

It is not just the finishing and the control and skills, it is his ability to hold the ball up and then bring others in that has kept him at the top level so long. Last season he was able to collect the ball and play in the pace around him, so that defenders were lost on how to deal with him. If they followed him into deep areas to try and cut out the pass, he would play in someone else into the space left. If they stayed back, then he had time to turn and look up and play someone in. Quality player.}

11 Aug 2016 06:17:25
You pointed out on him being in the top level for long, even he is now close to the age that most will retire or started to get slowed down and such. Totally agreed on that.

I believe not many like this. Ronaldinho, my all time favorite, started to disappear when he moved to Italy and even more so when he moved back to Brazil eventhough he was just 30 or 31 back then.

Btw, thanks Ed01 for the sharing. Appreciate it.


{Ed001's Note - Ronaldinho was fading at 27, when he should have been peaking, sadly he was more interested in partying than training and so lost his way.}

11 Aug 2016 06:29:32
So I guess it will always goes down to the discipline and attitude ya Ed01. Coupled that with great talent, we'll get those like Zlatan and some others.


{Ed001's Note - yes, such as Ronaldo, who trains like crazy.}

11 Aug 2016 06:49:48
Yeah that guy Ronaldo is a beast. Again, thanks Ed01.


11 Aug 2016 08:44:53
One of the most overrated forwards in world football, capable of the sublime given enough time and space he'll get neither here, I think he'll probably just about make double figures but they'll be at home and feature the odd brace when a game is won to bring his average up. Plus he's trouble especially when everything isn't about him, he's a wrong'un in other words and is at the right club because it's full of them there.


11 Aug 2016 09:27:42
Haven't seen much of him on the ball in his time at United granted he's only played a handful of preseason games, but there's no denying the threat he causes when the ball is in the air which is worrying considering the amount of goals we shipped from such situations last season. With a bit of luck Jürgen's sorted that though. Watching him in Champions League games he hasn't particularly impressed me, whether he just doesn't turn up in the big games or not will be a lot easier to judge with the PL not consisting of one or two teams like the French league.


11 Aug 2016 09:33:40
Brazilian Ronaldo was the best for me as pure striker.


11 Aug 2016 09:49:45
Zlatan will be fantastic for manUtd


11 Aug 2016 11:01:40
very good player for me but can go missing in games when you need him to step up. I think he's just come to the league too late in his career. the pace won't suit him and he's not going into an established team. mourinho loves hardworking players and is prepared to concede possession which is why it seems a bit strange he's gone there than to be anything other than an impact player ( which surely isn't the case) i actually think arsenal should have gone for him- established team and style that has a lot of possession in and around oppositions penalty box but regularly does nothing. He could have made real difference to them.


11 Aug 2016 12:36:02
Agree Gareth. I think Brazilian Ronaldo at his peak beats any other striker at their peak IMO.


11 Aug 2016 12:36:02
Agree Gareth. I think Brazilian Ronaldo at his peak beats any other striker at their peak IMO.


11 Aug 2016 13:13:12
We will NEVER see a player like the Brazilian Ronaldo, that much I can assure people. As for Zlatan, he is just class. A technically and skillfully brilliant player, as Ed said. Some say he doesn`t work hard enough but Romarion never did either and his arguably one of the best CF`s to ever play the game. Zlatan is that good not only because of his talent, but due to the coaching he had at Ajax. While there, there was a certain Marco Van Basten who was coaching the strikers at that time for a while. You tell me if you won`t improve under the guidance of the one many consider to be the best CF to ever grace a football pitch. Zlatan is great in the right system where everyone does the water carrying and he`s allowed to just be himself. If he played under Klopp, he would be rubbish as his system doesn`t allow for great players who are slackers in terms of workrate. We will see how he does at UTD.


11 Aug 2016 16:44:50
I cannot remember where I read it (maybe here) but I remember somebody saying that his biography ghost writer made up the whole ego nonsense and Zlatan signed it off because he hadn't read the book. When he realised it was in print he decided that instead of looking like an idiot he would play up to the I am Zlatan alter ego and take the nonsense even further. I'd love that to be true. A footballer with a self deprecating sense of humour.


11 Aug 2016 20:49:01
I was just a wee lad when Brazilian Ronaldo was around but i remember him being a beast and watching him back on YouTube his finishing on both feet looks sublime.

Ronaldhino is my favourite player of all time but i just wish he took Football a little more serious then going out and partying.


11 Aug 2016 04:17:59
Does Klopp work on a strict budget that he can't go over? Or is it a matter of if he wants to, he (or his people) can phone up fsg and get an extra 5-10 mil to get a target (say dahoud) over the line? Asking because there's so much chatter in the press (I know they are trying to sell their content so maybe this point is irrelevant) and frequently it's reported that the difference in price is relatively not that large (Chilwell for example) . I would think that if Klopp REALLY wanted somebody he could pick up the phone for a bit more cash. Or maybe that's not the case.

Any response you could give Eds would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Believable1 Unbelievable5

{Ed001's Note - the transfer budget is on a case by case basis, there is no strict amount.}

11 Aug 2016 04:59:15
'Our people' make valuations and don't seem to budge. Look at this situation during this current window and see if they're right or wrong.

We looked at Chilwell who has played about 2 games in the prem and has been unable to shift Fuchs. He looks a prospect. For this Leicester wanted at least £10m.

This was during a time we had a bid and sold Ibe for £15m, who could be classed as a bigger prospect and has over two seasons of first team game time in the prem.

We valued 2 games Chilwell at £7m, no small price hey. After selling Ibe for £15m would you feel Chilwell is worth at least £10m or walk away and look elsewhere? I think we shouldn't be mugged off so much with transfers like we used to be, so this time I agree. How is 2 games Chilwell worth close to Ibe? Positions might be different, but ibe's place up front is classed as more attractive, higher profile for sales of shirts and a game changer. LB isn't that.


{Ed001's Note - why are you talking about two games? Is that the stupidity you want transfers based on how many games a player has played? This was the kind of idiotic thinking that got Geoff Twentyman driven out of the club over the signing of a teenage Ian Rush! You base values on the quality of the player, not how many games they have played, or perhaps you think Tom Cleverley is a 40m player? I mean he has played regularly, even as a teenager....

Chilwell has been excellent, he was highly recommended by stats guys, Klopp's best mate at his loan club Huddersfield and all the scouts. Leicester didn't want to sell him cheap as they see him as the future of the position at their club, and were only willing to sell him at all as he was really keen to join us. Oh yeah, that's another thing, he wanted to join us, not another Prem team, us. We were his chosen move, so you know he has the desire to play for us, as well as being highly rated.

We, since deciding we wouldn't pay 'over the odds' to sign the left back we desperately needed, went and did exactly that for 3 players we did not desperately need in Grujic, Mane and Wijnaldum. That is more idiotic thinking by the club. Priority positions are what you pay over the odds for, not ones you don't need desperately. Then the club wonders why it has not won the league for so many years! They haven't a clue what they are doing. There is no intelligent, well thought out strategy or planning at the club.}

11 Aug 2016 06:43:41
The Chilwell scenario is made all the worse since there is such a lack of quality left-backs available elsewhere. We should have stumped up the extra few million regardless of our valuation if he was so well-recommended. If we end up paying more dosh for a worse fullback then we are really on a downward spiral with transfers.


11 Aug 2016 06:46:11
They would probably pay it if Chilwell is another attacking midfielder ed001!


{Ed001's Note - exactly, there is a belief that defensive players are less valuable so less should be paid for them. It should come down to their importance to the team.}

11 Aug 2016 07:06:05
Completely agree with you Ed

After years of charting a rudderless course between success and failure, it is about time to sort out the mess off-field.


11 Aug 2016 07:54:35
I know Chilwell has signed a new contract but can't we go back in for him. I know it would cost more but that's our doing.


11 Aug 2016 08:09:28
Bang on ed001!



If you can see it and many fans can see it, my question is, why is there no intelligent strategy or plan at the club? Without naming names, who is responsible for this and how much influence, if any, would klipperty have in this part of the club?

Also who or what needs to be changed?

Of course name names if you want ;)

Appreciate any reply and all the eds hardwork!


{Ed001's Note - it is above Klopp, it comes from the top down. Ayre is probably the main culprit, to be honest.}

11 Aug 2016 08:11:06
Leicester won't sell him now. Our best chance was before he became an established first team player and before he signed a longer contract.


11 Aug 2016 08:21:49
Ed001, in relation to your point that "There is no intelligent, well thought out strategy or planning at the club" (which I agree with and have alluded to in my previous posts about a need for a really good DOF or similar), I wanted to ask you something. Who is making the really essential decisions at the club? The ones that are responsible for charting of the course for the club in the medium and long term? Is it Gordon or is it Ayre? Is Gordon one of those laid-back minority shareholders who are only a presence but don't get involved too much, or is he a hands-on guy? Is it Ayre who's pulling the important strings that have future consequences? Thanks for the reply in advance.


{Ed001's Note - Gordon now.}

11 Aug 2016 08:37:03
Thanks Ed001. And can I ask you if you have an opinion on Gordon? (I understand if you decline to answer ) .


{Ed001's Note - still learning the difference between football and other business. It will be a while before he can be judged.}

11 Aug 2016 10:13:32
Never said he wasn't good enough? But their valuation of £10m after playing two games, regardless of who believes one day he could become a great player, £10m is too high. In the same week we sold Ibe for £15m. Is Ibe who has also been tipped for lofty heights, has played and proven himself in prem games over two season plus, worth just £5m more?

I'm using current market, two U21 English players, both tipped for the top. One has 2 games and proven nothing compared to the other. £10m was too high. I agree with the £7m.

It's easy to spend other people's money. The other sighing a you mention Ed. Grujic was £5m. Half the fee of Chilwell, but has played a part in winning a league title, not two games after the fact. Neither Mane or GW were over priced. Look at the prices paid during this window, the current market.

We did the right thing in standing our ground, he didn't exactly hold off signing a new deal, so hardly showed his desire to join us.


{Ed001's Note - sorry but it is stupidity to base valuation on number of games played. Clueless. Stop wasting time talking about money and valuations when you have no idea at all. Grujic's signing fee and wages were far higher than they should have been, while Chilwell was happy to take much less. Just give it up because you are just making yourself look foolish.}

11 Aug 2016 10:18:42
Hi Ed01,

Just going back to a point you made on overpaying and getting 3 un needed players in Grujic, Mane and Wijnaldum.
I agree on the whole but slightly disagree on some points though;

1. Mane, undoubtly costly but looking at transfers since, is it?, also I really think we needed this type of player.

2. Grujic, probably agree not really required, but didn't think we excessively overpayed on him, and he does look good and if we didn't act somebody else may have snapped him up?

3. Wijnaldum, This the one I saw as the most strange! I would agree we overpayed and was he needed? I also didn't think so but on reflection we don't score enough from midfield so hopefully he will do this.

I am not disagreeing that left back shouldn't have been priority and I was gutted that we didn't pay the extra for Chilwell, but I am hoping that the 3 mentioned all improve the team this year.

Cheers Ed and Good Luck in Spain, but I've heard Harry has just bought a Villa near the place where you are going haha!


{Ed001's Note - 1. We did overpay, which we needed to go to get him, and he has improved the team, but it was not a priority need. We had tricky wingers, the likes of Kent, Ojo and Ibe, so it was not desperate like a left back is.

2. I like him and glad we signed him, but we overpaid massively on wages etc to get a work permit for him.

3. I do not get this signing at all.

The issue was though that we should have paid what it takes for a left back first, not an attacking mid. If we had £20+m to spend on him, why not get the left back first?

I think Harry is banned from Spain after stalking Kovacic....}

11 Aug 2016 10:28:49
Ed001 you could not have summed up the Chilwell fiasco better. We need a LB so go out and get one even if it's a couple of million over. I do like Ian Ayre but his specialty is on the commercial side of the game and I believe he has done a fantastic job. This fiasco can never happen again folk's.


{Ed001's Note - it is not like it was ridiculous amounts of money that we don't have either. That is why it bugs me. It makes the whole club look stupid to refuse to pay £10m for one player and then go out and spend £25m on someone we don't need.}

11 Aug 2016 11:09:10
Hi Ed001. Ok I don't disagree with your comments and knowing the amount of abuse you must get daily, I don't want to come across I'm arguing for the sake of it - it's just opinions.

It may well be foolish to compare fees etc and i agree £10m to solve a problem position which is high priority isn't a lot at all. I do however believe Chilwell was overpriced. Whether you see it the same or not, using the current window to gage prices and valuations or comparing one to another is just what a lot of fans do. I see Mane as better business now Bolasie is going for £25m-£30m, maybe I'm the only one doing that?

I doubt I'll see Ibe sold at £15m and Chilwell being valued at £10m as a reasonable price. Nice to have a bit of harmless banter on the subject.


{Ed001's Note - I am not objecting to you saying it is too much, I am disagreeing with your ridiculous decision to base that judgement on the number of games he has played. That is Rick Parry logic and why we are a mess.}

11 Aug 2016 11:09:53
Gordon's alive? Dispatch war rocket Ajax.


11 Aug 2016 11:12:53
Fair do's Ed.

You do realise Harry has several names, so will have different passports and disguises, a bit like Mr Benn!


{Ed001's Note - good point.}

11 Aug 2016 12:36:30
Yeah, don't want to be labelled a Rick Parry haha. Maybe I'm phrasing what I mean wrong. I don't see 1/ 2 games as not good enough, if we had a player in the U23 squad with no games but was doing well, I wouldn't say don't play him not good enough yet.

I was using the game time as a comparison to a similar category player in Ibe and the fact the £10m is overpriced due to his game time not showing this potential. Had he played 10 games and been part of winning that title, showed a bit of why he could be valued at £10m. Looking at what Ibe has achieved and games played, as experience in young players is important at this level, he is worth only £5m more? That can't be right and if so then walking away at £7m is the right thing to do.

He could well become a £50m LB, but right now he isn't a £10m player.


11 Aug 2016 12:36:30
Yeah, don't want to be labelled a Rick Parry haha. Maybe I'm phrasing what I mean wrong. I don't see 1/ 2 games as not good enough, if we had a player in the U23 squad with no games but was doing well, I wouldn't say don't play him not good enough yet.

I was using the game time as a comparison to a similar category player in Ibe and the fact the £10m is overpriced due to his game time not showing this potential. Had he played 10 games and been part of winning that title, showed a bit of why he could be valued at £10m. Looking at what Ibe has achieved and games played, as experience in young players is important at this level, he is worth only £5m more? That can't be right and if so then walking away at £7m is the right thing to do.

He could well become a £50m LB, but right now he isn't a £10m player.


11 Aug 2016 13:01:36
I agree Ed, Chilwell was a staggering decision in light of two things

1) if we'd been offered swapping Ibe for a decent LB and 5mln in the pocket at the start of the window, who in their right mind would have turned it down. 15mln for a player failing to impress made 10mln for another talented youngster in a position we desperately needed look like a bargain

2) why save 10mln on Chilwell who we needed badly and spend 25mln in Wijnaldum when we could have played Llalana, Grujic, Stewart, Brannagan as an alternative. I have high hopes for Wijnaldum but really not a critical piece of business and not exactly cheap

I hope we fix this still. maybe when Benteke goes well endorse spending on a new incoming.


11 Aug 2016 13:22:25
There is no logic at all to the club not paying the 3m extra based on their assertion that he is overpriced. Then we go out and spend 25m on an even more overpriced player. Nevermind the fact he is also decidedly average and not a priority.

The only logical conclusion is that they see moreno as the main left back and they viewed chillwell as just back up/ competition hence the unwillingness to pay the extra. But the same could arguably be said of wijnaldum who will be back up to hendo and can et al, so it makes even less sense.

Therefore the only logical conclusion we can come to is that the decision makers are just mentally impaired in some way.

However while it is vexing i will refrain from daubing abuse on the walls of anfield and setting effigies alight outside the ground. for now 😊.


11 Aug 2016 13:27:59
Maxx, you are having the wrong discussion. The thing is that you pay for potential and quality that you perceive the player has and based on what the scouts have seen of him through their due diligence, and not based on the amount of games he has played. Bolasie has played a lot of games yet he is awful, inconsistent, no skill, to technical ability and no end product. Do you want him here? I don`t. City paidd huge fees for Gabriel Jesus after watching him play in the Brazilian league and think based on his potential, he is worth 27m, not based on how many games he played. Playing games helps of course but that is not the argument nor the discussion we or the Ed is having. Ed is saying that the LB position was a need and Chilwell came highly recommended, not because he had played x amount of games, but because his skill set fit in well with what Klopp wants. Why did we not just pay the 10m (pocket change really) for a player we truly needed and who wanted to play for us yet paid 25m for a player (who I didn`t want here) we didn`t need? That is the question that you still have not answered. The idea that we were right to walk away would have made sense if we already had a more than capable LB and needed Chilwell for cover BUT that is not the case here and using Ibe as an example is again a false argument and a false equivalence. So again, your point does not apply here.


 
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