Liverpool Banter Archive October 22 2015

 

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22 Oct 2015 23:23:16
Whether this team needs to fall into a structure or not, there just wasn't enough quality tonight. I know Lallana was one of our best, but in saying that it's just an indictment of how average we were. Not *bad*, just average. He looked a little flashy at times and got into good spaces, but apart from that there was no game defining contribution from him. He dawdles on the ball too much and isn't direct enough. For a guy with no pace I don't know why he doesn't try to make up for it with quicker play. My assessment would be different if he was involved in a few clear cut chances. In saying that I watched on a shitty stream so maybe I missed some things.

The team seriously needs some better width. Can't help but feel like we'll run into a dead end and lose the ball- or give a poor cross- if the ball goes out wide.

Coutinho needs to harden the f*** up and just play football. I wouldn't call him weak-minded but I wouldn't call him strong-minded either. But he's more on the weak side.

Origi looks like he has zero instinct for playing as a lone striker.

The positives: the manager is Jurgen Klopp.

Believable6 Unbelievable1

22 Oct 2015 23:52:18
Nick
It's going to take time, we need our best players back including sturridge and henderson. For example look at arsenal with sanchez! They are a different side with him, without him they are average. People underate sturridge because he's injured. Sturridge is worldclass when he's at his best, he's absolutely right up there with the best strikers in the world.
This season is going to be a slog Imo. It will take months before the team is settled. Even flannaghans return is a massive boost. Milner and sktrl I hope eventually are benched and others who offer something are in.
Rodgers left a mess thougH. There are holes in the first team that need filled next summer.

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23 Oct 2015 01:41:51
Lallana was poor for me. Sure he ran a lot but his end product was piss poor such as just playing blind crosses without even looking to see who was available in the box hence, crossing the ball behind or over the head of the strikers. He dallied too much on the ball and always seems to want to do tricks before passing the ball instead of doing the simple things right. As for the game itself, Milner, Lallana, Couts and Allen were not good enuff. Firmino and Benteke with Lucas gave us some vereve as Allen went missing at the DM position often hence, he got the hook. We really need to start winning games because these draws are doing my head in. I sure hope people are seeing the mess BR left Klopp to fix but still better than the dross he found at BVB when he got there. Keep the faith, lads!

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23 Oct 2015 01:45:42
I know it will take time, just judging the performance for what it was.

If Brendan Rodgers was in charge of this match we'd all be bemoaning how rubbish it was.

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{Ed001's Note - no we wouldn't, not if it came on the back of the previous ones. We aren't moaning because we can see the improvement in the play.}

23 Oct 2015 04:03:57
Who goes in defence instead of skrtel. Him being benched would be a nonsensical decision. Milner on the other hand I agree with, but only when Henderson comes back.

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23 Oct 2015 07:42:18
The performances have improved. We just lack strikers and have had a week to adapt to a new system.

Let's look for positives not negatives in everything! Get behind the manager, players and the long project ahead.

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22 Oct 2015 23:20:30
It's going to take time.

Klopp has has 5 days training the team?

it's not the result anyone wanted - then again he would have learnt something from the time played.

I personally though Sakho, Lucas and Lallana had very good games - we gave brendan 3.25 yeats let's reserve judgement after 2 games!

Believable7 Unbelievable2

22 Oct 2015 23:42:21
Rodgers left a dreadful mess. Markovic loaned out. Sterling sold. Both these players were pissed off with him. I expect Ancelotti looked at what was there and had second thoughts.

Klopp is not Harry Potter who can waive a wand of instant success. Except for a few players. He has been dealt a poor hand of cards. A poor hand that cost £200 million.

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23 Oct 2015 06:28:55
Markovic loaned out?! Shouldn't you be saying "instead of gotten rid of". I'm getting more and more frustrated with suggestions that this lad is good enough. He's not, he wasn't and therefore he was a mistake in the buying. Need quality not Markovic. If Ancelotti had second thoughts that worries me too - that we would even consider Ancelotti!

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22 Oct 2015 23:10:47
Lets not start talking about everything that may or may not be working right now.

I know we hoped for fireworks but it was always unrealistic to expect a a quick turnaround in our form.

Right off the next few weeks, if we win some be happy but don't fret if we lose or draw. Come Christmas time Klopp will have the team playing how he wants them to and then we can judge what this team is capable of.

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22 Oct 2015 23:52:09
With the amount of injuries we have at present any result other than defeat is a bonus. You cannot win games without a striker. With every striker injured apart from Origi we will struggle to win games, who wouldn't. Origi is a kid in a new, fasted and more physical league. Personally I would bring Markovic back, at least he could keep up with Origi, he has played as striker before and could compliment Origi. Hopefully we will have more strikers back soon. Even then Marko could offer some natural width. Even with a full squad the rest of this season was always going to be a learning curve for Klopp in my opinion.

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23 Oct 2015 01:47:18
It's not so much the injuries but more about the position we have them. Three first choice striker out is no way for a new manager to get the ball rolling. That is the bad hand Klopp has been dealt and it may take time for things to he'll. At least, Benteke is back playing again and with more sharpness would've defo scored today.

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23 Oct 2015 06:22:11
It's early days lads. Next game up is Southampton and that should be a proper game. Hopefully Sturridge back to go with benteke.

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22 Oct 2015 23:02:21
Again, I want to counsel patience for LFC fans out there.

Beyond the Suarez-led anomaly in 2013/14, this has been a pretty mediocre side.

Far, far, too much mediocrity in the squad (from Allen to Milner to Skrtel to. I could go on) for Klopp to walk in here and turn us into a either a title contending or a even a top 4 team over night (which we also haven't been for years, beyond the 13/14 anomaly).

At BvB, though the team improved every year, it took Klopp several years before he was close to contending for the Bundesliga title.

So, we need to give him time to put his mark on this squad. Seems to me that from his time at BvB, Klopp prefers to work with very technical players; we don't have many of those presently.

Klopp will have to adjust somewhat, but so do we, with our expectations for this year, and even next year.

I expect improvement, but I want to give Klopp time. I don't expect him to make miracles with this Brendan Rodgers side.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

23 Oct 2015 01:49:41
Allen, Skrtel, Milner should be sold or in the case of Milner, never have been bought. Skrtel is just pants while Allen is not a DM and doesn't fit the high press in CM. They were aweful today and to think that they were BR's favs tells you all you need to know.

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22 Oct 2015 22:59:47
One of the commentators said something like klopp needs to find out how to play our best players. Except all our best players play centrally, (Sturridge, benteke, coutinho, Ings, firmino, can, Henderson, Lucas) so some bigger players are going to have to be sold.

Either we play 2 up front with a number 10 probably in a 442 diamond (and lallana Allen and maybe markovic sacrificed, and creative central midfielder bought or a kind of 4-2-3-1 and one of our strikers sold and a winger purchased. I'd prefer a 442 diamond as I like benteke, Sturridge, coutinho with Ings and firmino as options, in front of can hendo and Lucas. I think that's our best team at the moment. We just need an identity and I set formation.

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22 Oct 2015 22:58:06
hi all,

ive been watching mingolet in the last 2 games and i know it very early to make a judgement but to me he has improved, he even looks more mobile, if he keeps it up i will owe him an apology for his bad performances under BR because it will show that he was playing bad because of the instructions he was following off BR and i wonder how many other players will get better now BR is no longer telling them how to play

I was excited that we signed james milner thinking he would bring his energy and experience to our club but up to now he seems to be going backwards he is not the player i thought he would be at the moment, but i thought it might just be that he is getting used to the central midfield role he wanted and he has to learn it all over again because that's the only reason i can think off as to why he has not played well

overall though the game for me was a bit quiet and the fans themselves, but we never got beat and that's has to be a positive, we would all like free flowing football and for us to win with plenty of goals and clean sheets but football is not like that so 2 games under klopp and unbeaten so its a start, i feel once we get a win under our belt that will be the start of a good run for us and some exciting games ahead,

Believable1 Unbelievable2

22 Oct 2015 23:12:02
I didn't think the fans where quiet, was at the game and was the loudest I've seen anfield for a while.

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23 Oct 2015 00:52:25
It's strange with Milner, at times he looked their best midfielder (bar silva obviously) but for us he's been poor.

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23 Oct 2015 06:33:54
Instructions from BR. What: don't be a calamity between the sticks? All keepers can have good games - this same one did for BR on a few occasions! He's just not consistent and he's just not good enough. Bog dan is actually the better GK overall IMO but neither good enough for a first at LFC!

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22 Oct 2015 22:28:14
Gonna put my two pennies worth in. Should have been 2-0 down easily, defending at times as shocking as ever. Very narrow and a distinct lack of urgency and penetration, playing 2 number 10's simply does not work.
Sakho for the armband in Hendos absence for me, took that game by the scruff of the neck.

Seeing that Skrtel is the scapegoat as ever, he did nothing wrong because he had nothing to do.
We had chances to win it, don't forget that and look at it from both perspectives.
Simply unacceptable, couple of players were shocking yet getting praised, don't get it!

Not going to lose any sleep after it, but we need width and coutinho must play as a lone number 10 with quality ahead of him and 2 holding midfield players.
Note to self and many others, klopp is a football manager not a magician.

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22 Oct 2015 23:06:52
have to disagree with youon skertal, skertal was bad for the 1st goal, he got caught out of position and he should be winning long balls up to the striker its that simple, so no he is not a scape goat he is just not good enough and i think he is our weak link in the team and the defence because i think our other players don't trust him and get nervouse when he is playing, in our last game not tonights skertal made so many mistakes against spurs, he was getting skinned most of the game, i would just like to see him be dropped and lovren put in just to see if i'm right or wrong, if i'm wrong i will admit it, but we can't be any worse by dropping him or resting him, i agree with you on sakho and couthino, but ithink you are expecting too much too soon and as you say klopp is a football manager, what you don't say is he is a very good football manager who is using some one else;s team and players and when he get his own players in i think he will show you just how good he is at his job because he has not done too bad before in his other managerial roles at other clubs.

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22 Oct 2015 23:12:33
I'm not starting a witch hunt - look at their Goal - why was Skrtel 2 yards behind the rest of the defensive line?

Klopps going to have to deal with a few issues - Coutinho is not firing as yet and Milner looks worse than average - neither are bad so let's give Klopp time to sort this out!

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23 Oct 2015 01:52:31
Skrtel has been pants for three years so tonight is just another validation of how aweful he is. No news ther.

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23 Oct 2015 01:54:32
Agree with Welsh Kop Sakho for vice-captain
In fact I'd rest Milner and make him captain next game vs Southampton.
I'd like us to do away with the 4-3-2-1 formation as it doesn't get enuff penetration in the final third, I'd love to see us try a diamond with Studge and Benteke up front.
In the meantime let's serenade our Man of the Match with a song to the tune (Agadoo do do)

MAM MA DO DO DO
His names Sakho he's a brute
MAM MA DO DO DO
He's a ****ing unit too
To the left, To the right he gives Strikers such a fright (Lukaku)
To the left, To the right THEY'LL BE NO GOALS SCORED TONIGHT
(There is also a dance to this)
Would love to see this sung on the Kop
HE DESERVES IT.

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23 Oct 2015 05:15:33
So the goal was nothing to do with clyne being the wrong side of him man, in the penalty area!
Definitely skrtels fault. Pppffftttt.
And I'd love to see one example of skrtel looking nervous from last night. He wasn't put under any pressure to be nervous. Liverpool can play badly, concede a goal and it not be skrtels fault sometimes too.

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{Ed001's Note - while I agree Clyne was the wrong side and he should have been screaming at Skrtel to come across and make the challenge, the point is it was Skrtel's man, so it was also his fault for losing him. Both players were badly at fault, the usual lack of communication from Skittles, compounded by Clyne's lack of awareness, poor positioning and his own lack of communication. For me, the main blame is defo Clyne's, but Skrtel should have done better too.}

22 Oct 2015 22:26:21
Tbf is Klopps secnd game and started with a large portion of players injured.

But can't decide if either the ball takes too long to go through the midfield or that there isn't pace and movement up front to play into.

So do you think we would have benefited more from signing a midfielder who can move the ball quicker and more precise through the middle or an attacking player to provide movement, pace, and width?

Not trying to be negative think we have a good set of players, just need to remove one or two and replace one or two as have a lot who seem to play the same role or not really fit in.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

22 Oct 2015 22:45:29
Yes roland, if we had signed Kovacic or a player similar even with injuries we would look a far better team. I hope we sign that type of player next summer.

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22 Oct 2015 23:12:04
we do have the midfielder you have asked for his name is firmino, ok he has not set the prem alight but we don't know the reason for this but you only have to watch his playing time at his last club to see how good he is and you will see he is the midfielder you have asked for

lets give klopp the time he needs and judge him and his tactics and formations when he gets his own players in because i think once he gets his own players in he will get the right players for his needs and they should slot in and play good for the team and fit his tactics and formations.

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22 Oct 2015 23:31:55
Brock,
Firminho is not a central midfielder.

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23 Oct 2015 01:58:31
You are right, Roland. We don't move the ball quick enuff and we won't get better at it because we have players like Lallana and Couts taking forever for tricks and flicks instead passing and moving in rhythm. Firmino is a false 9 who can score goals. Klopp's teams play with winger or wide forwards with pace like Aubameyang and Reus. We have CMs playing wide which only makes us more narrow because they all cut in at every time. that needs to change.

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22 Oct 2015 22:05:57
As an assessment, i think we are defensively more organised and give less away. Still individual errors costing us at times but for me there are less of them in the last 2 games. Were as toothless as we were under rodgers but hopefully Klopp can identify which of the attacking players can play well together and develop an understanding so were not making so many poor decisions in the final third. I think once he gets his first choice forwards working well together we will move forward.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

22 Oct 2015 22:42:55
I honestly don't understand the negativity. It wasn't the greatest performance or result but it's our managers second game in charge and we had more attempts on goal than the last ten Rogers game put together. More clinical finishing was needed to go with the huff and puff but there were chances and wood shavings and the boys put in a proper shift. The Europa matches start at 4am where I am and this one kept me awake the full 90 which is more than can be said under the last managerial regime.

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22 Oct 2015 23:30:06
We're just judging the game for what it actually was and not necessarily the implications. None of this is Klopp's fault. We did have a lot of shots but that's what happens when you always go for it outside the box.

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23 Oct 2015 02:00:29
We were toothless until Benteke came on but we played better than the Spurs game as well as under BR before he was deservedly sacked. We are getting better but patience is needed.

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22 Oct 2015 22:05:43
Bad defending for first goal. overall not a great performance. Our midfield with the exception of can are offering nothing. Milner should be dropped Imo and Ibe or texeria iN. Skrtl also dropped.
A lot of players need to significantly up their game. Still waiting on lallana to pull the strings since Southampton.

Not much else to say. Flannaghan, sturridge and hendersons returns will significantly improve the side. Firminho and benteke will have to start showing what they are capable of in the next few games coming up and I expect benteke to do a lot more pressing and work than he did under Rodgers.

Believable1 Unbelievable3

23 Oct 2015 02:01:49
With you Big Al on Lallana. He was poor today. Ran a lot but end product was useless.

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22 Oct 2015 22:13:17
Well, this is the legacy that Rodgers has left and what a legacy,
I'll get on to a few things and they will be but my own humble opinions, firstly how the hell did Rodgers see fit to never play Sakho?! a top top player who you get the impression with a good side would be a monster, he's imperative to us going forward and I'd make him captain tomorrow,
Moreno I personally think is learning already, if you watch closely you can see him communicating with Sakho and trying to cover each other where possible,
Skrtel i think has had his days with us, I really like his commitment but its always last ditch due to being out of position and that's just not good enough, Clyne I think has just had a poor game for him but I like him to be fair.

Can is a bit of an enigma for me, he looks quality in so many ways but then goes missing too, I'm sure he's one to watch in the next two years with good guidance, Allen to be honest I think will turn out to be a Rodgers man, you can see him going wherever Rodgers goes next and it just hasn't worked here for him, Lucas is a far better option for me,
Milner i just don't get, what is he? winger? no centre mid? no tricks? no he runs around a lot but he's paid for that so what gives, he'll never be good enough for me and someone of quality needs to come in asap,
Lallana i'd really like to work out, I really would, but his decision making is so ofetn poor or obvious.

And then Couthino, well what of him? he currently looks poor, whther its a bad pathc or not i don't know but my personal opinion is he's always been overrated, his shooting is lacklustre at best, he's so easy to push off the ball, he gets frustrated way too early in games, I don't know what the answer is with him but he's not at it right now and i reckon i'd rather have seen Ibe than Firmino in the second half who did look sharp against Spurs,
Origi just hasn't got what we need, he's another Ngog for me, i'm sorry i just don't see it happening for him at all,
Well, you have two paintings to look at now Jurgen and neither are a collectors piece, time to get to work old son!
Bring on the Saints.

Believable4 Unbelievable1

22 Oct 2015 22:40:09
Coutinhos best position is on the left. Why does everyone go on about him. playing centrally?
Also we have been piss poor for months, the players need time under klopp. Coutinho is top drawer but he cannot do it all on his own. Can will be a great midfielder and needs games and games to progress. Remember he was playing in a back 3 for a long time under Rodgers.

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22 Oct 2015 23:31:56
TheMeeowmers,

do you expect all our players to play great in every game and not make one mistake because that's what is sounds like. couthino is one of our best players, some of you make me laugh, he is a creative midfielder who creates chances for other players, he is not a long ball specialist, and if he has no one to pass to up front like sturridge or suarez then he can't create chances for players who have not got the skill to make runs or find the space for couthino to pass into.

i know suarez is not playing for us but when he did, i know not many fans had a go at couthino for creating goals for suarez and sturridge. its a fact that when there is not good players ahead of him, couthino does not look good because there is no one to finish off his passes, so he shoots, but what makes me laugh is I've read posts on here saying couthino does not score enough so for him to score he has to take shots from outside the box because that's where he plays.

he never really gets into the 6 yard box to try for goal all his efforts are from the edge of the aread or outside it, so you either want him to try and score or you dont, if you do he has to shoot from outside the box, and maybe he gets frustrated because he makes easy chances but someone who is not good enough fluffs it, and you are wrong about him getting pushed off the ball easy, he gets singled out for rough treatment because he's that good.

also, he wins a lot of tackles and wins the ball back of players, i suggest you go and watch his games when he was playing good, and you will see what i am on about. you should give the players a chance now that BR has gone to get used to klopp's ideas and the way he wants them to play. already Can and mingolet have improved, even lucas has got a little bit better and i guarantee that when the players are all fit and we have no injuries then you will see us playing better and winning.

but by the sound of you and the way you have tore into the players, i think you would find fault at a 4-0 win, saying how bad certain players were. why don't you try being positive, because under klopp we are unbeaten, that's positive.

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23 Oct 2015 02:06:23
Coutinho is incredibly inconsistent man. He's either centre stage or completely anonymous.

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22 Oct 2015 21:59:57
I wasn't able to catch the game but just saw that Allen was subbed at half time for Lucas. Was this due to injury or another predictably poor performance? If the latter the old saying of "first impressions count" spring to mind!

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22 Oct 2015 22:14:13
He was booked and I guess klopp wanted to push more men forward and leave Lucas holding. I guess he didn't think Allen was that players, especially booked.

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22 Oct 2015 23:17:54
Chicken nuggets👍.

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22 Oct 2015 21:59:19
Not the result we all wanted but definitely a step in the right direction. Seemed a bit flat until the sending off, completely dominated them as you would expect with the extra man. Everyone definitely gave their all but we didn't really create enough clear cut chances. Also still need to work on set pieces.

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22 Oct 2015 22:13:36
I was expecting a new and exciting regime under Klopp, but in the 2 games up till now I haven't seen anything different than before. I know it will take him time to get his ideas across, but I did expect to see more of an attacking formation and I hoped to see better decision making in the final third. Perhaps I am expecting too much too soon, but if it doesn't happen soon then top 4 is definitely out of the question.

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22 Oct 2015 22:14:32
Step in the very wrong direction. We probably have watched a different match. If BR was in charge today no one would have thought there is any improvement. WE are playing worse if anything. WE dominated in midfield a poor team who played with 10 men for more than an hour.

What is impressive in that? Our passing was poor, our crossing never found a target, we lost the ball every five seconds, we created almost nothing. I really hope people will not start to improve improvement just because we have a different manager. let's be honest guys our team today looked exactly like in some of BR's poor nights.

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22 Oct 2015 22:19:11
Well I didn't see much in terms of improvement myself. but not doubting the coach at all, just didn't see much good in terms of players ability to pass a decisive ball.

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22 Oct 2015 22:19:45
It was only in the 80th minute that we really started to properly attack.

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22 Oct 2015 22:38:00
Anyone who didn't see any improvement is kidding themselves.
The only area of the field we were lacking is the final third.
If you class Firmino as a striker, we started the game with Origi, our 5th choice striker. Is it any wonder we were lacking in the final third.

We are lacking confidence, it's coming. We are definitely improving, no question at all.
Once Sturridge is back you will see a vast improvement.

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22 Oct 2015 22:57:25
Ron, I almost always disagree with you, but you're spot on. Final third is where we lacked. Let's take into account we had only our 4th choice striker (who isn't great to be honest). When Benteke finally came on he looked a threat, his movement alone. If he'd have started it may have been a dif story (though he should have still done better but he's rusty). Again, when studge returns we'll be a dif proposition.

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23 Oct 2015 02:06:36
Ron is on the money there. I disagree with him a lot but on this and other issues, he is right. Red64 and Fano, I propose you go watch the game again because we played a lot better than the Sion game and showed a lot more spirit. We'll get there but patience is needed.

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22 Oct 2015 21:58:13
Well we know Klopp is a top manager, So drawing at home to 10 men 4th from bottom rubin is a clear sign its the players that are rubbish, klopp needs money in jan/summer move on the poor players buy 2 or 3 top players and promote promising youth.

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22 Oct 2015 22:12:40
Jay we have sturridge, flannaghan and henderson to return soon enough and them three players when all fit will slot straight into the team. Flannaghan is top class when He's on form. Plenty of real quailty there.
Benteke and firminho I'm sure will show us their worth and firminho really should excite the fans.
Milner and sktrl I have no idea why they remain in the starting selection and I don't see them going anywhere soon.

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22 Oct 2015 22:22:07
Don't you suspect it has anything to do with the fact that the ink hasn't even dried on the managers contract?

This was a Brendan team under the Brendan mentality.

Things take time.

I still insist though that Lucas and Sakho are class, Can is dodgy and Llana will shine under Klopp.

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22 Oct 2015 22:23:44
WOW come on man!

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22 Oct 2015 22:38:58
Ridiculous to slam the players after 2 games.

Get a grip and get behind them!

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22 Oct 2015 22:41:28
Davey, lucas is a sloppy passer for me. Defensively our best but he needs two central midfielders ahead of him.

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22 Oct 2015 21:57:49
not he most convincing performance, you can start to see a little change i think. Lallana looked decent tonight. i'm not his biggest fan but fair play he worked hard and played well. Sahko top class. Thought the rest of the team were pretty average.

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{Ed001's Note - do you not think Lallana is still doing the same thing as he was before? I mean taking too many touches. He does a lovely touch to open up space for a pass, then takes another touch, then another, then another and another and another, before then looking for a pass when it is too late as the defence have had time to set themselves. Actually they have had time to get the deckchairs out and make themselves comfy waiting while Lallana dances around aimlessly.}

22 Oct 2015 22:02:34
Perhaps if the other players actually moved he would have someone to pass to.

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22 Oct 2015 22:06:23
This. He is such a dawdler! The guy already has very limited pace as it is, so I have no idea why he tries to slow his game down even more! It's clear he's got ability but he simply does not make enough positive impact on the game.

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22 Oct 2015 22:16:18
I always think he does great things but his final ball, touch or shot, is off 9/10! When was the last time he did a good turn then used the ball well? Or a good control touch and hit a shot that tested the keeper never mind scored? Just needs to be more direct and keep the attacking simple when he can.

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22 Oct 2015 22:22:03
He needs to be releasing the ball quicker. Has a great 1st touch and abilty to turn on a sixpence, reminds me of Shaggy at times.

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22 Oct 2015 22:40:59
Too many touches and never does the simple things. Always looking for the magic flick. He needs to watch how Frank Lampard played IMO.

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22 Oct 2015 22:04:59
Fair point Ed1 mate. I thought he looked improved as to previous games. I still prefer coutinho in the centre. Very true I also thought when he picked it up in the centre with some space he didn't really start driving the ball towards their goal which would have been nice to draw a defender towards him and possibly create a bit of space behind or find a pass like you mentioned!

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{Ed001's Note - he does work exceptionally hard, but it is so frustrating watching him mess up all his own hard work dawdling on the ball. As for magico, get your head out of his backside, the movement is gone because he takes so long to do anything, everyone's given up. Reminds me of Beagrie, when he used to beat his man and everyone would make a run to get on the end of a cross but instead he would turn back and beat his man again and again while the players in the middle just gave up on runs because they had no idea when the ball was coming. That is exactly what is happening with Lallana now, his team mates have made a move and he has wasted the chance to release the ball.}

22 Oct 2015 22:15:29
ED001 I agree, I like his effort but its like he's trying to hard to fit at Anfield instead of taking the bull by the horns, you get those extra touches in lower leagues but at this level you just don't get the time, big shame i reckon, rather have seen Ibe second half let off the leash.

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22 Oct 2015 22:15:53
Edd001 lallana is infuriating me. The boy was top class at Southampton and looks completely unsure under us. He too isn't offering anything but slowing play and haltering any potential attack. I was ecstatic when he joined but he has yet to prove his worth now nearly two seasons in. He has to start performing soon and show confidence.

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{Ed001's Note - at Southampton he had to make things happen, with us he is just trying too hard to do that. I keep hoping he will realise but it doesn't seem to be happening.}

23 Oct 2015 01:52:33
Yes, Frank Lampard is a perfect role model. Kept it simple. He was very efficient. It's not just Lallana spending too much time on the ball either, it's Coutinho too, and they both get pushed off it way too easily.

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22 Oct 2015 21:50:58
Sorry lads, the boring performance may be my fault. I rarely get the chance to watch football live and when I do it's usually a poor game. Ed01 can't watch Tottenham games, I can't watch any games!

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22 Oct 2015 21:34:04
It frightens me to think that, when available, Rodgers chose Lovren over Sakho.

The mind boggles.

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22 Oct 2015 21:38:38
100% agree mate. Been solid since we bought him. A bit calamitous in posetion rarely though.

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22 Oct 2015 21:43:11
Can't believe how bad the atmosphere at Anfield is.

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22 Oct 2015 21:16:43
Missed the first half. but watching now. god its dull and poor quality football. wheres the atmosphere too.

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22 Oct 2015 21:30:20
Lallana is bar far the best player out there. Milner delivery is shocking.

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22 Oct 2015 20:58:24
Good first half. Plenty of chances, just half chances though. Their goal was a great ball and great bit of skill. Personally think skrtle was marking him, then got attracted to the ball to easily leaving him open and clyne coming from the wrong side to mark him. Can, lallana and sakho are real quality. Failing to see what Allen brings to the team though.
Fingers crossed for the 3 points :)

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{Ed001's Note - Clyne was caught out badly and so was Skrtel, just poor defending by the pair.}

22 Oct 2015 21:12:01
Skrtel's positioning is terrible though. What reason was there for standing 2 yards in front of your man.

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22 Oct 2015 22:06:22
spot on ed001 mate, but i can't think of any other top flight side that would get done by a long ball and have 2 players out of position, i also think clyne was unlucky to be involved in it because skertal should have been closer to the player to start with so clyne had to come across to cover, yes i know its his job to come across and cover, but not when there's only on striker and 2 CBs to mark the guy, but the last 2 games has shown Skertal is the weak link and he needs to be dropped, i would love for klopp to start with lovren and sakho for a few games just to see if it is skertal being the weak link because lovren might feel more confident not playing alongside skertal what do you think ed001.

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{Ed001's Note - Skrtel needs to be dropped, yes, but I am unconvinced Lovren is the answer right now.}

22 Oct 2015 20:31:49
Edd001 you watching the match?

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{Ed001's Note - yes mate.}

22 Oct 2015 20:58:11
what you thinking ed? or do I have to wait till the podcast haha. we are missing that bit of magic upfront. I do miss suarez he played such magical football.

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{Ed001's Note - decent press etc, but we are struggling as it is like playing with 9 men and Skrtel having Milner on the pitch. Again he is offering nothing, I really thought tonight he might step up. At least Mignolet is looking better.}

22 Oct 2015 21:06:08
Stop watching it!

We may just win this and we don't need your jinx, ed001! Lol.

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{Ed001's Note - only the Spurs game that affected mate.}

22 Oct 2015 21:43:46
Edd001 came back on the page to mention milner and the midfield. Man he offers absolutely nothing, the captaincy must be ensuring him a spot. Apart from can going forward our midfield is dire of quailty and creativity.

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22 Oct 2015 20:43:05
Harsh second yellow card for Kuzmin!
Btw first goal for the German by the German!

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22 Oct 2015 20:52:29
No way was it a harsh second yellow! He completely cut Can off and you could see him clip his leg (I think)

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22 Oct 2015 20:55:01
No it wasn't harsh imo. It was more of a rugby tackle. Ed001 your thoughts on the game?
P. s coutinho is so frustrating at times.

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{Ed001's Note - definite yellow, silly tackle to make. Disappointed with Clyne, at fault on their goal, not just allowing the attacker to get goalside, but he made no attempt to scream at Skrtel to cover, when there was no one else for them to worry about.}

22 Oct 2015 20:55:13
Silly thing to do right after skrtle got booked for the exact same scenario. Poor play from the captain.

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22 Oct 2015 20:55:20
not at all. Took up a poor position, was flat footed and straight facing. Ran across Can to take him down, no intention of going for the ball. Second yellow all day.

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22 Oct 2015 20:58:11
The point was Can was passed him, it was a professional foul and deserved a yellow. How he fouled him isn't really relevant.

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22 Oct 2015 20:59:10
It was not harsh. The player is stupid for blocking can when he was already on a yellow.

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22 Oct 2015 20:40:07
Till now we are attacking with quantity but without any quality!

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22 Oct 2015 20:59:38
He probably shouldn't dive in like that on a yellow. I'm watching with no sound though. What happened on that goal it looked like the keeper could have at least dove to put Can off a bit?

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{Ed001's Note - took a deflection.}

22 Oct 2015 21:44:21
I saw the deflection but thought he could have spread himself a bit. Watching in class tho so could be wrong. Think he could have thrown himself at it Ed?

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{Ed001's Note - I don't think he could reverse his direction quickly enough.}

22 Oct 2015 20:34:11
2 things are blatantly obvious to me already
1- under Klopp we will work harder
2- within 2 seasons at least 6 of tonight's starting eleven won't be anywhere near the team.

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22 Oct 2015 20:59:46
Allen Skrtel Migs for sure.

Who are the others, Origi is still young, and klopp has admitted at Dortmund he bid for him, so he might see something.
Clyne and Moreno are pretty attacking fullbacks, who for me easily do a job, (though not exceptional)
Milner possibly.
Coutinho, might get sold, but I don't think we will be desoerate to get rid
Lallana, maybe but I don't think he's doing much wrong atm
Can will stay.

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22 Oct 2015 21:11:59
I think Clyne and Moreno will be extremely lucky to stay as will Lallana and Milner. The only ones I can see as definites are Origi Sakho Coutinho and Can
As I said fairly recently I don't go along with those who say we've got a good squad.

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22 Oct 2015 21:24:28
Hopefully more than 6 and less than 2 years. The softer LFC side ever.

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22 Oct 2015 21:58:46
So you expect the owners to stump up more millions to buy replacements for these players you so casually dismiss. Don't say we will get the funds to buy replacements by selling first, because if they are not good enough for LFC then no team is going to give us what we value them at. Afraid we are stuck with what we have, and it is up to Klopp to turn them into a winning side.

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22 Oct 2015 22:06:26
Totally agree with Chris this exposed the dreadful recruitment policy Clyne, Milner, Moreno, Skrtle, Allen are not Liverpool players and Can, Ogi, Coutinho and Benteke have much development to realise yet. Llallana frustrates immensely but shouldn't be another with "potential" for the money outlay.
Firminio needs to play more, Sahko appears the only one with strength and desire to win.
Milner should never be captain and I do think Klopp has some big decisions and clearout come January.
Long slog ahead and lots of hard work.

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22 Oct 2015 22:23:55
You can't make a silk purse out of a sows ear
They will be sold and the owners will find some money.

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22 Oct 2015 22:42:11
Good analagy Chris. My wife said "you can't polish a turd" after watching the game. I think she meant "you can polish it but it's still a turd".
Either way your analagy is much more diplomatic and though it pains me to call Liverpool players poo we have to accept they are simply bloody rubbish. When you have ex Everton players saying none of ours would get in their side you know we have fallen a long way!
New era but no miracle cure, Mr Klopp asked for patience and now we know how much is required.

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22 Oct 2015 19:10:09
Welsh Xavi in for tonight's game. Resting Lucas for Sunday you think?

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22 Oct 2015 19:42:47
No, I don't think, I think he wants to see if Allen is better than Lucas
I'm sure I already know the answer to that and JK will see it soon enough
Tells me though that he's going to want a new DM.

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22 Oct 2015 19:45:16
I bet he has a good game to be honest.

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22 Oct 2015 19:57:44
Well why wasn't skittles drop to give toure a shot? Think lucas is being rested personally.

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22 Oct 2015 21:10:59
Guess allen didn't do so well. No surprise there. He should of gone in summer but for his injury.

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22 Oct 2015 18:54:27
Liverpool scouts in attendance today at the Anderlecht vs. Spurs game. No idea who they are scouting.

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22 Oct 2015 19:30:26
Everyone and there dog is interested in Tielemans, so maybe him?

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22 Oct 2015 19:34:17
Possibly tielemens?

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22 Oct 2015 19:35:01
Praet i would think. Else after getting klopp ayre has developed so much confidence that he thinks he can wrest away eriksen on cheap 😂😂.

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22 Oct 2015 20:20:14
Oh tielemans too forgot about him completely.

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22 Oct 2015 18:46:34
I sometimes don't understand watching spurs. I feel there squad is similar to our, they have similar problems and strengths but somehow their defence is fairly reliable but as far as I can work out, individually they all have problems. Lloris is the big difference, maybe that's all it is.

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22 Oct 2015 19:50:01
I reckon its their centre back partnership and their goalkeeper.

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22 Oct 2015 15:55:43
back from the long over due holiday! excited for klopps first anfield game, even bought tickets for the spurs game. hopefully record a podcast tonight on the europa game, and after the saints match. come on the pool! :)

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22 Oct 2015 14:21:16
Team for tonight will be interesting for me. I expect origi to start and sakho skrtel and Moreno but apart from that it could be anyone. Probably ibe for one wing, kinda hope Clyne gets a rest, and a few youngsters may play. Given that Sturridge benteke and firmino are given as returning by the weekend, I guess it will probably mean lallana starts this week, and probably Milner right side. Allen will probably get a start with can or lucas, unless chirivella starts there or another youngster out wide and Milner in the middle.

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22 Oct 2015 14:18:31
The differing views on Lucas are interesting. I think a lot of people have come to love him because of the attitude and commitment he has shown despite not always being a regular in the team, despite being messed around a bit by management and despite having some bad luck with injuries. I certainly have huge admiration and affection for him for these reasons. However, let's not allow this to cloud our view on Lucas's playing abilities. He's not top drawer (or top four) quality.

Is he the best player we have in that out and out defensive midfielder role? Yes. Do the stats suggest that we get better results when he plays? Yes. Do we play better football when he's in the team? Arguably we do, but all of this isn't simply down to Lucas as an individual, it's down to the fact that if he plays, it means we're setting out the team in a certain way that also allows other players in other positions to be at their best. And that's why it's such a key position. The best players in this position protect the back four and liberate the attacking players.

For me, based on the current squad and the optimal formation and personnel to get the best out of all of our players, Lucas should be in the team whenever he's fit, probably alongside another powerful, running central midfielder in front of a back four and behind an attacking trio supporting one striker. However, if we had a top drawer defensive central midfielder at the club (Mascherano, Hamann, Matic, Makalele), Lucas wouldn't be in the side, and I think bringing in top drawer quality in this position should be our number one priority, particularly if we're going to line up under Klopp in the way that everybody expects.

So, lots of admiration for Lucas, and within the constraints of our current squad, he should be in the first team, but bringing in an upgrade in that position should be our top transfer priority, which would consign Lucas to a squad role.

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{Ed001's Note - whereas I disagree, I think he is far better than you give him credit for, twice the player of that vile little rat Mascherano. Similar level to Hamann, not quite Makalele or Matic at his best.}

22 Oct 2015 15:01:48
I think Lucas is playing really well, for me there is not too many players that could replace him without spending silly money even then there are not too many better in his position, I am glad now that we got a manager that will appreciate him and an injury free Lucas is vital to this team.

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22 Oct 2015 15:04:28
Lucas is not as good as any of those 4 imo let alone twice the player Mascherano is, whether he's a vile little rat or not as you put it, is neither here nor there, I think most people would pick him over Lucas. I would anyway but I don't have your expertise just an opinion.

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22 Oct 2015 15:05:26
I like this post, football is all about opinions and everyone has views on who the best player and that is but if it's put across the right way without too much slating I think people will understand people's views much better (whilst they may not agree with them) I'm kinda with the above poster and not ED001 on this one, think lucas has been through pretty much hell whilst at lfc and I have huge admiration for him and how many times he has got back up after being knocked down, I still ask myself a question, would he get into a premier league winning starting 11? I'm not so sure but hey just my opinion and I suppose we would never know and I tend to believe you appreciate better players after they leave the club. Hopefully with klopp he might get a good run of games because I think lucas needs lots of games to get his sharpness back upto speed and hey who knows he might be in a premier league winning team @ lfc in the coming years.

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22 Oct 2015 15:06:16
Lucas is a decent player like Ed01 said above, but had we bought a top class DM after Masch was sold, Lucas would have been a fringe player long back.
There are better DM outside. We will have to pay top dollar to land one. The club along with Brendan spend close to 300 million without looking into a top class DM nor s Playmaker.

For eg. Medal is a better player than Lucas in his position.
My fav player is at Sevilla.

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22 Oct 2015 14:51:57
Ed001, whatever you view on what mascherano done to get his move and as much as I rate Lucas as a player. Twice the player mascherano is, I don't think so. Mash is world class and that can't be be said for Lucas.

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{Ed001's Note - he has never been world class, most overrated midfielder I have ever seen. Just because he ran around a lot didn't mean he was any good.}

22 Oct 2015 15:11:30
It makes me happy when I see him in the starting 11, he's got a love for the club, keeping him over the summer was one of the best bits of business we did I think.

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22 Oct 2015 15:27:58
Mascherano was a very limited player, I can't remember much he did was great on the ball and the reason he used to run around a lot and make last ditch tackles because he was out of position, Alonso made Mascherano look a good player.

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22 Oct 2015 16:05:35
Agree with the OP, I like Lucas a lot and he's our best DM but I've been saying for 3 seasons he's not the best we could or should have.
As for saying he's as good as Hamann that's just ridiculous.

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22 Oct 2015 16:30:09
I think Lucas is okay, I always feel like we are a little more stable (more recently) when he's on the team sheet. I also have to agree with others about his passion and commitment to the club which is a breath of fresh air. But then again, time after time I have noticed he is very error prone. I realise he's the type of player that likes to break up play, which as a result, fouls will be committed - more regularly than other players in relation to their position. But the sheer number of dangerous areas he commits into with poorly timed challenges or slow/hesitant play is what puts me on edge with him. He never let's us down with his read of the game (which is his saving grace),
I just feel he lacks a little bit of speed and imagination. And I think players also know they can take advantage of Lucas when he's on the ball, they don't fear making a mistake against him. Don't think anyone can play his position better than him at the moment which doesn't mean much I suppose (We lack a little currently for that role). Who knows, he looked a lot better in the Tottenham game. Perhaps (And I do hope) he can do some great things under Klopp.

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22 Oct 2015 16:31:21
I agree on Ed001 opinion on masch

before this site morphed into what it is now, remember commenting on how we wouldn't win the league because we didn't score enough

forget fact his position was DM- he has to bring something else to the party and simply didn't.

however, Lucas doesn't weigh in with goals either.

we have only had, IMHO, Hamann (and although not tagged as "defensive") Alonso who did that.

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22 Oct 2015 16:46:12
Lucas is a much better player than Mascherano, I like Mascherano as a player but Lucas is just so much more composed in that role.
How many players in Europe can say that whenever they play the teams win rate shoots up as much as Lucas? Only a handful no doubt.
He's not world class but he is easily top 4 quality but his attitude and commitment IS world class and that can be just as important if not more so in the modern game.
Could you imagine what Suarez would have cost Barcelona if he had the attitude of Lucas and not a little runt?

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22 Oct 2015 16:55:02
A bit overrated for me, especially at this stage of his career. He is Ok, I am not saying he is a bad player but he gets a lot of credit for our successes and is never to be blamed for our poor defence even though a lot of our problems in defence is how poor our midfield defence is and how often opposition gets near our goal. The opposite of Skertl and Mings who always are blamed for poor results and never get credit for clean sheets. I agree Masch is also slightly overrated but still a much better player for me.

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22 Oct 2015 15:29:55
Lucas Twice the player of Masch haha. C'mon ed this is the most outrageous thing you've suggested since wanting Erik Lamela in a red shirt.

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{Ed001's Note - why? Is running round a lot now the mark of a good player? If so why isn't Milner liked by anyone?}

22 Oct 2015 17:12:30
If Masch was as good as many claim on here, why has he almost NEVER played a single game for Barcelona at DM or is Guardiola or Enrique that clueless not to play him there?

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22 Oct 2015 17:16:32
There's very little of a defence without Lucas.

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22 Oct 2015 17:28:26
I'm sorry guys, Hamann was the best for me. So controlled, never seemed to worry, just read the game perfectly. Him Xabi and Gerrard would be choice of spine in years gone by.

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22 Oct 2015 18:12:21
Love Lucas. His attitude is first class and if half the team had the same values we'd be much higher up the league. For me his only failing is the amount of silly fouls he gives away in his own half - too eager to get a foot in instead of standing up and jockeying a player.

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22 Oct 2015 18:15:05
Neither Lucas nor Masch World class! Neither twice as good as the other! Excellent original post RR and agree entirely. Lucas excellent embassador and hugely decent chap and a decent player as was Masch but yep we need a WC CDM as a matter of priority for me!

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22 Oct 2015 18:51:37
In my opinion a DM is no where near a priority at this moment in time. We have Lucas who whether you think he is world class or not is more than capable fulfilling the role whereas there are other positions that we are severely lacking in quality such as GK, CD and traditional winger (not a ACM pigeon-holed into a wingers role)

In regards to Lucas, I personally think we have not only got a quality DM but also a leader with experience that more importantly communicates on the pitch. This in itself is a quality we are severely lacking at the moment with our current Capt/Vice Capt both being very quiet. Also people need to remember Lucas was originally bought as an attacking midfielder and spent his early Liverpool career trying to learn a new position while living in xabi alonso's shadow. As a result the guy got tons and tons of stick for a number of seasons. He's since up'd his game vastly and has stuck with Liverpool when the majority of players would have thrown in the towel. I personally would prefer a player that might not be world class but will always play his heart out for the supporters. In my book he should be first name on the team sheet and possibly captain if not definitely vice captain.

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22 Oct 2015 18:53:25
Agree with Ed1's comment.

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22 Oct 2015 19:05:30
Mascherano is the best defensive midfielder in the world. He was the one who took Argentina to the final of the world cup, not Messi. He was the best player at the tournament too. He understood his job and did it well. He wasn't someone who had to pass the ball 40 yards, he had to get the ball back and give it to Alonso/Gerrard. He did that perfectly. He wasn't as good in 2009/10 because he didn't have an Alonso to pass to. Only Gerrard who seemed downhearted that Alonso left and wasn't replaced when they were so close to the title.

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22 Oct 2015 13:29:48
Just read Rogers is appointed new manager, my heart jumped thinking have the last few weeks been a dream or something!

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22 Oct 2015 13:14:28
Question for Ed001: I note that you feel that Lucas would have been the right guy to captain the squad but also read, I think, that you would not change it now. What is it you feel that Lucas has above Henderson (who I personally think was the right choice with the former as vice) .

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{Ed001's Note - leadership, experience, the respect of the team, attitude. I like Henderson, but I just don't think he is ready.}

22 Oct 2015 13:33:26
I do like both and I definitely agree Lucas has experience, it appears he has the respect (from where I view) and he certainly has the attitude. But from the Henderson viewpoint I think that the only thing he lacks is the experience and is at least equal on all other points. Then, Henderson is the better player IMO, I know positions are different and I know you will say that it is not about the best player being captain but it helps if you are going to keep a first team place when fit and the better player would. Then on top of that, last year we lost a captain who was as good a captain as any I care to remember (I know I will be biased) but he was captain for a long time and from a young, inexperienced age. He grew with the role and with the selection/position as captain. While Hendo is not Stevie G my view is that he could also grow with it, and giving it to him now, or actually leaving it with him now, is not too early because of the mainly equal and some greater qualities he has. Like I say just a vote for Hendo and not a dig at a great ambassador for club in Lucas.

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{Ed001's Note - Gerrard was an awful captain! The last thing we need is another like that. Yes he was the best player for long periods, but he was never the best captain.}

22 Oct 2015 13:42:21
Really? In your view he was an "awful" captain? Wow! Of course we are all entitled to our views and the most important view for anyone is their own I guess but I am really interested on the wider reader views of this. I hope you don't mind then if I ask the collective readers. Please therefore press AGREE if you all think Stevie was an awful captain and DISAGREE if you thought he was a very decent one?

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{Ed001's Note - if you really think that is a good test of it, then you need help. Carragher should have been captain, Gerrard was too quiet on the pitch.}

22 Oct 2015 14:25:09
I don't suggest he was the best captain, but in his prime he did rescue us and lead by example. Yes carragher was more vocal but I wouldn't say Gerrard was awful. I know people will say trying hard isn't the only thing and he could still do the same if he wasn't captain, but when your captain is giving 100% to win a game, it encourages you to do the same. (This is not including the last few seasons mind)

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{Ed001's Note - sorry but those kind of captains are not leaders, they are players and should not be captains. Leading by example is nonsense, they need to inspire by more than example.}

22 Oct 2015 15:07:03
Carra would have been my choice. Gerrard was the best player (for certain periods) but that's not a reason to be captain.

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22 Oct 2015 15:07:34
Did ED said Gerrard was an awful captain? Lols.
You are sure and certain to get at least 50 million dislikes mate. 😂😂😂.

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{Ed001's Note - who cares? I don't even see them on my side of the site.}

22 Oct 2015 15:24:29
What was big Sami like as a captain Ed001? Was he vocal? Who would you say has been our best in terms of organising the team? Would Hansen be in your top 3?

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{Ed001's Note - Hyypia was excellent because he was so vocal and constantly organising the team. Hansen was before my time really, though I loved him and he was very much in control of the defence. To be honest, Hyypia is the best in recent years, though I always felt Carra could have been better, given the armband.}

22 Oct 2015 17:10:07
Cheers ed.

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22 Oct 2015 18:25:00
Would a decent captain allow one of his squad to voice an opinion in peaceful jest that differs to his own, without suggesting to him he needs help? ;)

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{Ed001's Note - depends on if he assumed the squad member could read or not to know that it wasn't the differing opinion that brought that jibe. I suppose I should just give up as not one person on here bothers reading what is said....}

22 Oct 2015 18:40:53
I think there is a subtle difference between a motivator and a leader. The manager should definitely be a leader no doubt but I think if you have a very decent leader off the pitch then an on field motivator is key for the 11 playing staff. Just an opinion but I think Gerard was an excellent motivator and you can absolutely "motivate by example" as I believe he did. Like I say just an opinion. For what it is worth I agree that people voting whether they thought Gerard was a very decent captain or not does not create a fact if those voting were the players in his squad then it counts significantly. I wonder therefore how his teammates might have voted? I suspect positively.

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22 Oct 2015 19:31:09
I agree Carra would have been the obvious choice of captain for me. The signed photo on my living room wall would testify to that! But question ed do you think Gerrard was more of a lead by example rather than vocal captain on the pitch- a la Sam Warburton for Wales and the Blues. Or do you think that type of captain doesn't translate from Rugby to football?

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{Ed001's Note - I don't think it works in any sport personally. The best teams have vocal players who do more than lead by example.}

22 Oct 2015 20:04:49
Being loud and over vocal does not make a good captain. In my opinion saying and doing the right things are important but they can be said without being what some consider vocal. Joey Barton for example is as vocal a player as I have seen. A decent captain? Nope! I think if your players can hear your messages of and on pitch and see your actions too off and on pitch and agree and follow them then you make a decent captain.

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22 Oct 2015 22:27:19
It important to have a captain that can walk the talk. If he isn't leading by example in the tough times then you can bet players will go missing. However players need a captain who is going to communicate on the field. Otherwise what is he captain for? He could just as well be a standard player.

So ideally a mix of the 2. If he is weak at communication then he needs to work on that just like any other part of his game. But in the end I reckon a good team needs to have a number of communicators (as long as they are all singing from the same page), to spread the load.

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22 Oct 2015 12:50:58
Can anyone tell me what Harrys new name name is please I like to read his posts.

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22 Oct 2015 12:55:50
It is UNBELIEVABLE that you feel the need to read his posts.

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22 Oct 2015 13:07:58
Are u sure you are not Harry in disguise? !

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22 Oct 2015 13:17:45
I find his post to be well thought out. Sometimes he gets it wrong and the edds always give a good reply so makes good reading seeing the 2 points of view plus the other posters give their opinions too.

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{Ed001's Note - you must be on a wind up or be him! One thing that is for sure, they are never thought out, let alone well thought out. That is the problem, he just jumps in repeating the same stuff on ever post, regardless of what the thread is about.}

22 Oct 2015 14:11:04
Clearly, you`ve never read Harry`s posts or you read someone else`s posts and thought they belonged to him since he changes usernames a lot, Negativeredwalter.

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22 Oct 2015 15:11:33
Common guys. i always post what I feel right and what I see out there. Doesn't copy people nor anyone. My opinions are driven from my precision and what I learn including from the Eds and other posters.

James Milner is not a CM to me and never was. ( example ) instead I wanted Kovacic. 😎😎😎.

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22 Oct 2015 17:32:29
You are spot on with the James Milner comment, I will give you that.

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22 Oct 2015 12:37:51
Top 3 players of all time?
Maradona, messi, Pele for me.
If messi plays at this level for another two years I'd put him as the greatest.

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22 Oct 2015 13:19:35
Messi is great with great players around him. Could he come to Liverpool or a Chelsea and be as prolific as he has been. Known fact that in Spain. Most of the lower clubs play there squad players against the top two as they know it's a loss regardless.
Messi does not have a great international scoring record either, I don't believe he adapts to play that's not suited to him.

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22 Oct 2015 14:24:53
Messis is and will NEVER be in Diego`s or pele`s class. I grew up watching both Pele (some) and Maradona (his whole career) and there is no comparison. Pele was in advance and did things on the pitch that no one had ever done before him especially at 17 on the biggest stage. Maradona played on average teams and made them better. It was really Maradonna and 10 others on those Napoli and Argentina teams he took from obscurity to champions and UEFA winners and World champions. Let me know when Messi has achieved any of the above and we can talk then.

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22 Oct 2015 14:26:05
Messi will never rank alongside Maradona.

Maradona is head and shoulders above anyone else by any measure.

Pele second because being good at football was more difficult in those days, defenders used to get away with leg breaking tackles and wet balls were like canon balls. He won a World Cup 3 times and scored in the final aged 17 on a foreign continent.

Messi is the best of this generation for me. That's as far as he can go.

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22 Oct 2015 14:35:16
Messi, Messi left foot and Messi right foot for me.

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22 Oct 2015 14:35:17
George Best! He was Messi nearly 50 years ago only on worse pitches, heavy boots and no fly away ball. Love him.

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22 Oct 2015 14:55:26
Maradona for me. Just watch some of the footage of his runs and why he doesn't score as many goals as messi - because he was blatantly taken out time after time. Playing 20+ years ago was a totally different level of protection To what they get now. That aside he made average teams into champions.

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22 Oct 2015 15:24:12
Diego was the best. But to suggest Messi wouldn't come to liverpool and be prolific is absured. He'd instantly make us league favourites and smash 40+ goals.
Look what Suarez did. Times that by 3.

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22 Oct 2015 13:52:11
Difficult one, but for me Pele is my number one choice although Brazil produced so many wonderful players around that era. Jairzinho a close second.

Gerd Muller also deserves a mention. 68 goals in 62 international games. 14 world cup goals was a record that stood for 32 years (thank you wikipedia)

Bobby Moore simply because he could stop Pele.

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22 Oct 2015 17:36:42
Ron is spot on with his appraisal of Diego and Pele. Messi? he is the only worlsd`s best player i`ve ever seen play a WC final without breaking a sweat nor wasn`t even arsed about the game as walked all over the pitch while players like Klose, Scweini played like their lives depended on it. Pele, Maradona, Zidane, O phenomeno and the rest who played in WC finals never did that. Great player, disgusting attitude.

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22 Oct 2015 18:29:25
Pele over Maradona for me. The only man to have an almost 1:1 ratio over his entire career.

Pele revolutionised football. Eusebio was also a very very good player during that era too.

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22 Oct 2015 22:40:11
Maradona was brilliant for a couple of years and then faded as he started to lose his struggle with weight. Messi has dominated for a much longer period of time.
From all accounts, Duncan Edwards could've been mentioned in the same breath as these guys if his life hadn't been cut short.

Players who saw him (and I know hindsight can romanticise players) rate him as good as Pele.
But can't believe Zidane isn't being mentioned here. For me, he was a player who made his team look better - controlled games brilliantly. Dominated 2 world cups.

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22 Oct 2015 11:54:38
Ive just see that Johan Cruyff has been diagnosed with lung cancer. I remember watching him in the 1974 world cup when I was a youngster.

I hope he makes a speedy recovery.

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22 Oct 2015 14:26:46
Chain smoker, it will be difficult for him to recover unfortunately.

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22 Oct 2015 17:37:03
Praying for him.

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22 Oct 2015 11:36:23
Rogers confirmed as LFC Ladies manager.

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22 Oct 2015 12:30:39
Nah that was probably the excuse he came up with when they found him hanging round the locker room.

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22 Oct 2015 12:59:15
My heart stopped for a moment when I thought you meant Rodgers!

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22 Oct 2015 11:36:06
I've been watching videos of Flanagan online and I'd almost forgotten just how much he was progressing and how good he was at various aspects of the game, not just defending.

Fingers crossed he comes back strong after his injury - it'd be great to have someone with such desire and commitment in and around the first 11.

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22 Oct 2015 11:25:07
Hi guys. I'm taking the son to the match on Sunday and was going to take him to melwood that morning to see if there's a chance he could get an autograph or a picture. Anyone know the best time to be there? Thanks.

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22 Oct 2015 10:49:08
Morning guys.

Can anyone get a last minute spare ticket for the game tonight?

I'm heading up to Liverpool tomorrow to do the Ultimate Anfield Tour - so wouldn't mind getting a ticket to the game tonight also.

Thanks in advance.

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22 Oct 2015 13:08:56
Think they are still on sale.

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22 Oct 2015 13:33:40
game is a sell out, says on thre LFC website if you don't have a ticket, d not travel to the game.

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22 Oct 2015 10:30:07
Can't wait for the match tonight, haven't felt this excited about going to Anfield for a while. Let make Anfield bounce and show Jurgen we're the best fans in the world!

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22 Oct 2015 14:27:28
Build up has started for me too. Can't wait!

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22 Oct 2015 15:44:18
I think I'm looking forward to it more than my first European match vs MyPa back in 96!

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22 Oct 2015 09:05:38
Are Rubin not one of our Affilliate clubs ?

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22 Oct 2015 09:15:01
{Ed's Note - We have posted a new article entitled, Premier League Standouts

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22 Oct 2015 10:18:44
Another fun artcile.
I'd have certainly picked Amavi for Villa as their standout though. At the moment he's really getting up and down the pitch, putting in crosses to gustede and covering for lescots constant failures.

Mori was a great pick, I've been impressed with him so far.

I'd have though that given Tris picked a player that's not playing atm for villa as the best player, he might have picked Eriksen for spurs, who's shown himself to be their main driving force, and attacking threat (atfer his injury) over Dier who I think only gets into the team whilst Mason is out and can't get in at centreback.

Azpilicueta was a good pick, so far the only chelsea player that's doing the business.

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22 Oct 2015 12:23:56
I'd say Sakho over Ings for us, but can't argue with most of them. Maybe Amavi for Villa and Redmond for Norwich although like you say, there is hardly a lot to pick from!

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22 Oct 2015 15:55:09
Agree with those mentioned, I've also been impressed by Scott Dann, Cabaye (still can't believe no big sides went in for him), Wijnaldum, (hate to say it) Darmian, Shelvey, Willian, Fernandinho and Butland.

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22 Oct 2015 08:48:38
Does anyone know what the players think of henderson as a capatin? i haven't really heard any players speak about him as a captain (dont know if its because he's injured) . Ed001 what do you think about him as captain and would you give the armband to someone else?

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{Ed001's Note - I wouldn't change it now he has got it, but he wouldn't have been my choice. The players have said nothing but good things about him to be honest, but whether that is just toeing the party line or their honest opinion, I really couldn't say. I am of the opinion that he is very well liked and respected though.}

22 Oct 2015 09:38:47
who would have been your choice?

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{Ed001's Note - Lucas.}

22 Oct 2015 09:50:33
He is consistent, reliable and was never injured (but now) . Leadership qualities, we haven't seen enough of from Henderson, but I agree with Ed001 that taking him off the role now will be a big blow for him personally.

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22 Oct 2015 10:17:13
ed001 that's fair enough. I must admit i was shocked he or sakho wasn't named vice captain.

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22 Oct 2015 12:12:49
Problem was that our previous manager wasn't giving Lucas or Sakho any game time when he was dishing out the captaincies. Mr Leiva by a country mile for me.

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22 Oct 2015 12:14:16
NOt sakho! Let him do his job at the back but not for captain. Lucas or henderson.

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22 Oct 2015 12:35:19
Hendo for me.
Lucas was in and out of the team for various reasons including injury and Rodgers garbage team selections, so he couldn't have got it, I agree he would make an excellent captain though, maybe vice captain when Milner drops out the team.
Hendo is an excelent choice still, leads by example but in a different way to Gerrard.

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22 Oct 2015 08:29:52
Who are the 2 guys in grey tracksuit tops with Klopp on the training ground photos (LFC Website) ?
One looks like Micky Flanagan and the other looks like a fat faced Lucas.
Whoever they are, they don't appear on the Staff list either.

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22 Oct 2015 09:57:18
Mickey Flanagan look-alike is Zeljko Buvac, who is the assistant manager. He is the tactical guru if you like behind Klopp and Klopp calls him "the brain". The other person is Peter Krawietz, who is the "video analyst" and his job concerns analyzing the opposition who we will play next.

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22 Oct 2015 10:59:18
The eye and the brain.

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22 Oct 2015 08:20:23
when is Henderson due to return?

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22 Oct 2015 08:44:01
late November.

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22 Oct 2015 08:47:38
City away.

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22 Oct 2015 04:58:45
Hi Eds,

I checked LFC registered squad for Europa league and Teixeira's name is missing. Brannagan, Chirivella, Adam Phillips names are present in the list. Was there a plan to send Teixeira on loan which didn't materialize ? Or LFC coaches felt the above mentioned players are better then Teixeira ? Or its something else ?

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{Ed001's Note - age, those others can be included without using up a space, as such.}

22 Oct 2015 10:00:56
You can register 21 players who are 21 or over for the group stages (which can be altered if we qualify from the group, for the knockout phase) . Teixeira is over 21 and Rodgers didn't rate him enough to include him. It was a poor decision.

With Ings out injured for the season, I suspect Teixeira will be included as soon as when possible.

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22 Oct 2015 10:48:20
Hi Goan, we can have unlimited u-21 players as long as they've been with Liverpool for 2 years, that's why Chirivella, Phillips and Brannagan (and Ibe for that matter) can be in the squad. Beyond that you can have up to 25 first team players, 4 of which are reserved for Liverpool homegrown players (players that have been with the club for three years up to the age of 21), 4 for either Liverpool or England trained players with 17 places for the rest of the squad. Unfortunately Liverpool haven't trained anyone so our senior squad is restricted to 21 places.

Can, Origi and Gomez, although U-21, haven't been at the club long enough so they have to take senior squad places.

Teixeira isn't u-21 nor can he be considered home-grown, therefore he also has to go in the senior squad. Unfortunately he is 22nd on the list (Enrique was 23rd) and therefore wasn't included.

Unfortunately this puts Teixeira in a difficult spot, he's on the edge of the squad, can't play in Europe and he's getting to the age where he's no longer one for the future. I'd imagine his future depends on whether he can force his way into Klopp's first team plans this season.

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22 Oct 2015 00:08:05
Will be interesting to see what happens with joao teixeira. Another kid who has potential needing games! quick question. Eds, is illori returning out of the question? I think most fans would like to see him get a genuine chance for first team. Is the Villa deal restrictive of us calling an end to his loan? Sorry if you've done this one to death.

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{Ed001's Note - it is very unlikely he will return, he wanted to leave, unless Villa decide not to make the deal permanent. Klopp wants to have a look at all the players on our books, but Ilori is not even getting games to take a look at him.}

22 Oct 2015 06:26:44
Looking at Villa not even playing him or putting him on team sheet, how can they possibly evaluate him ? Don't see how they will buy him as it is, opinions?

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{Ed001's Note - depends on the next manager really, and whether he actually has balls or whether he just talks a lot of balls like the current manager.}

22 Oct 2015 06:50:28
That seems a bit odd Ed? ! If I were Klopp and I wanted to see all the players and they were not getting time on their loan then I'd enquire about a breakage. The man must have seen footage of the U21 Euros until he got injured to see it is with looking first hand. Even get over to an AV reserve game or something like that? ! Also Players sentiments regarding clubs and leaving / staying often change with new management and on the reverse to the point I make about Klopp putting himself out to view surely a player who has yet to really break into first team football consistently surely he would like to impress in whatever way he can? !

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{Ed001's Note - how is it odd? It is not as simple as you are making out. Villa have paid money for a contract to take him on loan with a view to buy, it would then cost us money to buy them out of the contract and we would then have the lad's wages back on the books too. So it is a lot of money being spent merely to have a look at a possibility. As for get over to a reserve game, do you not think he will do if he can, or at least get someone to check him out if not? I don't see your point there. It was just that the level of those games is no indicator of his ability. It is impossible to judge an on loan player on a reserve game appearance.}

22 Oct 2015 07:02:58
My point is we have Sakho! On the player front I would be thinking Sakho yes I could work with him, Skrtel hmm I can replace him and I am not getting my chances here. On the club front I would be thinking get a feel for whether Villa are really serious about this guy or whether actually we can take back and view. It really is not that much money you are talking about when you consider the less than gambles we have made recently - the Balo' debacle, the Markovic debarcle, need I go on? That is my point!

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{Ed001's Note - except you are saying we should just carry on spanking money away because that is what we have done in the past. Makes no sense whatsoever. I would like us to learn from our mistakes, not compound them like you are asking for. We are in huge amounts of debt, we need to cut spending, not increase it.}

22 Oct 2015 07:35:02
Forgive me also for questioning your knowledge of the contract but unless you are part of the LFC legal team I expect that you know not a great deal more than I about it? ! My humble view is that if the contract was as straight forward as you suggest in the "with the view to buy" area then it is a totally one sided contract. Loan deals are never written I such a way that the loaner club has no benefit and so there is either a over inflated buying value or an opportunity for loaner to retract. Otherwise it is not just half the squad needing to be replaced but the legal team too! Ok so we get his wages paid but we'd have done that if we had just sold him - there has to be a reason we never? !

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{Ed001's Note - I give up, you have no idea what you are talking about, this is just pointless. Humble is not a word you understand. One sided? He wanted out, do you not understand??? Or are you going to give me more of your clearly ignorant bull about no such thing as one sided contracts?}

22 Oct 2015 07:50:36
Reading this I think you might be missing Sid's point Ed sorry to say.

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{Ed001's Note - no I am not, he is missing the point, as clearly are you. Pointless conversation I am done with it. If you can't understand then I am wasting my time, as usual.}

22 Oct 2015 07:55:25
Ok I give up too! I don't know you and therefore not familiar with the level and span of knowledge you actually have (including, I recall, purported French National Team knowledge as to why Payet doesn't get a chance - a player that has been accepted well at West Ham) but I personally do have some knowledge myself around the subject of our discussion yet seem to be knocked down in conversation. Ok let's move on! I.

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{Ed001's Note - purported? Oh for heaven's sake! I give up. You really are making yourself look stupid now. I won't waste my time on you again, you are admitting ignorance, but still want to try and make out you are in the know. This is like having a discussion with Harry or a brick wall.}

22 Oct 2015 07:59:36
If a player wants out then decide if you want to try to turn his views which had been done on one or two grander scales or wouldn't you just sell? I see his point. Not sure I care about Ilori right now but see the point.

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{Ed001's Note - clearly you don't see the point, as you are also missing it by a mile. How many offers did we get matching the valuation we placed on him? You know so we could 'just sell' as you said to. Oh wait none.}

22 Oct 2015 09:09:57
If Villa are not playing him, it's possible they won't pay the agreed fee to make the move permanent or he won't want to stay there.
In that case he would be our player again. Then it gets interesting and will depend on what Ilori wants to do. If he still wants to leave, I imagine it will happen. If he wants to fight for a place with the new management then I imagine that will happen.
Currently we are 3rd in line for making decisions. 1) Ilori 2) Villa 3) LFC and nothing is likely to happen before next summer.

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22 Oct 2015 11:12:00
Plus if Villa get relegated? !

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22 Oct 2015 11:18:37
I think the biggest points are these
1.Nobody wanted him, certainly NOT for the fee we expected
2.Its in your own remarks, Villa aren't even playing him, Villa, I'll say it again, Villa, So why would we be so desperate to get him back to replace any of our experienced centre backs whether you rate them or not? I rate ALL our centre backs better than ALL of theirs and he can't get a game with them,
I really wish our fans would get a grip when it comes to their unrelenting support of our youth players and lads in reserve, granted we paid for Ilori but they don't all make it and clearly something isn't right otherwise he'd be playing
Hes gone move on.

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22 Oct 2015 12:53:00
Pretty sure the payet problems were pretty common in the media too, I'm not sure it needed purporting as such.

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22 Oct 2015 00:52:45
Anyone in the know regarding Sturridge's latest injury? Is it really just a knock or will it emerge that he will need more time on the sidelines?

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22 Oct 2015 04:49:11
Probably the latter. Someone clipped his heel and he must of shattered like glass. I know I'm slagging him off but I just don't see how an 'athlete' gets injured so consistently.

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22 Oct 2015 09:02:05
I thought it was knee not hill.

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22 Oct 2015 09:02:18
not heel I meant.

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22 Oct 2015 12:36:26
Fanobip lmfao u can't be serious.

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