Liverpool Banter Archive June 24 2015

24 Jun 2015 22:58:10
Hypothetically question:

If Wilfried bony could be a part of the Sterling deal, would you take it?

{Ed030's Note - No. }

24 Jun 2015 23:21:55
Obviously depends how much they were offering alongside, but unless it were £35m+ +Bony, I wouldn't

25 Jun 2015 02:56:06
No, no and no

25 Jun 2015 03:47:50
I would hold out for Bacca instead of going for Bony. Take the cash from City and pay for Bacca. Bony is good but Bacca suits our play better.

25 Jun 2015 10:07:26
I'd take £25m plus Bony. No question.

If Bony doesn't play much this season and he's happy with that then I'd change my opinion, I'd want a player who wants to play rather than just collect his wages.

24 Jun 2015 21:59:31
So Ilori is off injured again? as i keep saying, him and Sakho can not guarantee you run of games through a season. and Lovren is not better than Skrtel.

25 Jun 2015 10:09:19
You might keep saying it but most people (including me) don't seem to agree with you.

24 Jun 2015 21:57:46
Where-oh-where is Rogers? OK. I know it's been said that he's on holiday until July, but seeing as though he seems to have a lot to say about a lot of things, you would think there would be a comment about his mate being sacked? How about us signing a decent player?
Do you think he has been told to button-it?
Also, I'm pleased with the early transfers for a change. Do you think they're spending all the money before he comes back, so there's none left for Benteke? ;-)

24 Jun 2015 23:50:27
Great post !

24 Jun 2015 23:59:21
IMO, he's been told to lay low and shot his gob by the owners because for now, he is nothing but a lame duck manager ATM until things change.

25 Jun 2015 05:00:08
OP, maybe after the end of season review, FSG have told Brendan to keep his mouth shut about club business.

25 Jun 2015 07:00:43
I think it's cute the way you are all missing him.

25 Jun 2015 07:49:36
We moan when he speaks and moan when he doesn't :-D

25 Jun 2015 09:35:10
I think it is quite refreshing not having to listen to his inane drivel

24 Jun 2015 21:31:03
Eds fellow reds ,just read a report that kovacic has sign an extension at inter til 2019 .have you heard any thing or does he's current contract that anyway

{Ed001's Note - his contract runs until then anyway mate. Maybe it was an old report?}

24 Jun 2015 21:51:02
Cheers ed001 , that's why his price is so high then .

24 Jun 2015 21:23:18
Imagine we managed to get bacca. Could the unthinkable happen and our transfer committee actually receive some praise lol

24 Jun 2015 22:02:28
Like last season when everyone was happy with the signings. What if they don't work out? Will fans be demanding Brendan's head on a plate again?

Red Rum

24 Jun 2015 22:10:59
He'd score a boatload with Coutinho, Firmino, Lallana & Ibe behind him.

24 Jun 2015 23:35:19
That would be 4-1-4-1 formation?
Who's the 1? Lucas or hendo or can?

25 Jun 2015 07:22:20
Not everyone was happy with our signings last season eg: Mario, Lambert and Lallana all received criticism at some point.

25 Jun 2015 07:42:55
Not in the same team fella!

I'd usually go 4-2-3-1 - Mignolet; Clyne, Lovren, Sakho, Moreno; Henderson, Milner; Lallana, Coutinho, Firmino; Bacca/Sturridge for a strong looking "best" XI if we sign Clyne & Bacca. You could swap Can for Milner& stick Milner where Lallana is and its just as strong. Lucas & Hendo in the more tactical games for maximum solidity.

24 Jun 2015 20:26:41
Ed01 question about the Milner and Firmino signings. assuming that Sterling will be sold, I'm curious what you believe these two signings do to two of our high profile signings from last year, Lallana and Markovic. If Can moves into the midfield and Milner and Hendo are also going to be regularly in the starting 11 and it looks like Coutinho and Firmino will be starters as well. with Ings in for Sturridge until he is healthy you quickly find very little room for Lallana/Markovic or Ibe. I hope there is a plan but you are going to end up with someone being really unhappy with their playing time next year. Oh and I haven't mentioned Lucas or a potential Kovacic move either. I realize you need more than just 11 players and require depth off the bench, but a lot of these guys are not going to be content with that role. Curious what yours or anyone else's thoughts are about how all this plays out.

thanks.

Lee

{Ed001's Note - I expect Markovic to be sent out on loan for a season, for he is clearly not ready for the Prem yet.
Lallana is a different matter, he picked up quite a few injuries and never really established himself. He is going to have the choice of upping his game consistently, settling for a bit part role or moving on. I would expect him to fight for his place next season and then reconsider his options next summer depending on how things work out. Personally I think he will end up leaving next summer to be honest, though I hope he just ups his game, as that would be best for Liverpool.}

24 Jun 2015 20:52:31
There will be plenty of games next season, Firmino and Coutinho can't play all of them. I'm sure Lallana and Ibe will compete with them for places in the starting line up in the prem and probably start in the League Cup and Europa group matches. Hope we see Ojo, Sinclair, Kent, Rossiter in the cup competitions.

24 Jun 2015 21:16:46
Assuming Markovic is loaned out, I'm not convinced there is a real issue in terms of who is 'left out'. Ignoring the '2 players for each position' rule, we have Firmino, Couts, Ibe fighting over maybe 2 positions. We have Milner, Hendo, Lucas, Can, Allen (I know) fighting over 3 positions. There is a lot of scope for everyone to get their chance. Seems a good place to be in IMO.

24 Jun 2015 21:19:00
I said at the time Lallana was a poor buy, I hate being proved right when it's about a player gone bad but no doubt we will take a big hit on him. I don't know if it's me but he just never really looked like he tried that hard :/

{Ed001's Note - I think his issue is more that he tries too hard personally.}

24 Jun 2015 21:28:51
Eds, you say he's not ready for PL football yet, but wouldn't we look to send Markovic on loan to another Premier League club? He's shown at Benfica he's talented, just hasn't adapted to English football yet for me.

{Ed001's Note - I would hope he got a Prem deal, I think that would be best, but we would have to find a Prem club that wanted to take him on loan. That is not as easy as it sounds. The limits on loans within the Prem are tight. It would be the most suitable option, but I am just not sure if the club will be able to make it work.}

24 Jun 2015 21:37:46
When you have players for all positions it really makes you work harder for your place in the starting 11 . We just need players who want to fight that starting place .
Cheers
Jamesee

24 Jun 2015 22:37:36
All I ever think about Lallana is he's mediocre, he'll do job for you and will a few deft touches but he won't impact games which is what you need for a player of his position. He is talented and he will run himself into the ground for you, but he is not worth 25 million. I was staggered when we paid that much for a good squad player in my opinion. Put it this way, if we player 4231 next season which seems likely he would be 5th choice in the attacking midfield positions behind Coutinho, Ibe, Firmino and milner who could well be used in AM. As I say I like him but we way overpaid

24 Jun 2015 23:05:11
Edd001 man lallana is a top player when he's on form. I hope he gets back to his best because if he can this year he will be one of the best players in the squad. He's had injuries but also been messed about by Rodgers.

25 Jun 2015 08:26:34
Lallana was easily one of our better players last season when he got a run of games. If he can stay fit I fully expect him to up his game from last year. His footwork around the box absolutely mesmerises me,and creates him so much space where it doesn't look possible. A player like him can only help Liverpool for me.

24 Jun 2015 18:53:43
Just read on a report Firminho used to play defensive midfield earlier in his career.

Oh dear Brendan's bought him for defensive mid.

24 Jun 2015 19:22:12
These jokes are getting old now. First time it was amusing but now it's quite annoying

24 Jun 2015 19:08:41
Hi Eds!

I couldn't find any on this player since last year.

I just saw that Arda Turans agent is pointing him towards England. I know that we have a rather packed MF and all, but he is a real fighter previously known to be a LFC fan. Any chance at all that he could end up on our attacking MF?

I'm thinking for instance if Markovic goes on loan to build experience as mentioned.

Thanks in advance!!!

{Ed030's Note - I think our interest in Turan may have past, Good players though. }

24 Jun 2015 18:41:40
Away from all the rumours and pandemonium of firmino now.

I always wondered. if there is a few non speaking english players in the team. how is that handeled in the dressing room between them and the coach. do the club provide for each a translator. how does that work out if its a few diffrent langauges?
How do clubs handle that?
Any thoughts dear eds?
Many thnx

{Ed001's Note - the club provides a translator if necessary, though they usually find one of the players acts in that role, which is preferred as it can bring the squad closer. Usually through them playing jokes through the translation. They also provide English lessons which the players will take until they are fluent or they leave, whichever comes sooner.}

24 Jun 2015 19:17:22
I always wondered about this, cheers ed. Curious as well do players from the same country often band together? How much mixing goes on in the squad outside of working hours? Are there any good examples of friends from different countries or do friendships tend to be drawn down nationality lines??

{Ed001's Note - it depends on the club, some clubs try and break up those kind of groupings as they tend to form cliques if left unchecked.}

24 Jun 2015 20:20:51
It might be a shot in the dark but I'm an English teacher and have thought about approaching clubs offering my services. I don't suppose you know how I could do this, do you?

{Ed001's Note - they usually advertise positions on their website. Failing that, you could approach a club directly, sending in a CV/resume with a covering letter. A lot of the time they will use agencies for cover work, so it might be worth signing up to any local ones, you can always turn down other stuff they send you. The other option is to take your CV/resume into the club offices and try and get someone in a managerial role to speak to you. Even if you just make sure they get your details, you will have a chance of being called if they get let down by one translator. Which club were you considering?}

24 Jun 2015 20:40:52
Thanx ed

{Ed001's Note - you are welcome.}

24 Jun 2015 23:40:11
This would be an interpreter, guys, like Jose Mourinho before he became a manager, at Barca. Translators only deal in reading and writing, so perhaps they'd be used for signing any paperwork with the players, whereas interpreters are for speaking and listening. I've always wondered how a manager does a team talk to players who don't speak English so well.

25 Jun 2015 10:55:26
Thanks for the info. I would love to do it for Liverpool but I'm based in London so was thinking about approaching teams down here.

{Ed001's Note - it is always worth a try, if you don't ask you don't get.}

24 Jun 2015 18:04:17
In regards to our interest in Bacca, if we were to make a bid do you think it would be possible to offer Luis Alberto as part of the deal or is that out of the question?

{Ed001's Note - it is possible, though they would have to be interested in him and he would have to be interested in joining them.}

24 Jun 2015 20:40:33
Weren't Sevilla one of the clubs that were not happy with the way LFC dealt with them in transfers?

{Ed001's Note - yes, the Moreno deal upset them.}

24 Jun 2015 22:50:04
Is there any interest in Alberto? It was a really weird buy from us and he struggled at Malaga. Whatever happens we will take a sizeable hit on him

{Ed002's Note - Malaga has kicked him out. Try the search engine.}

24 Jun 2015 17:06:21
Wanted to ask if any of the eds know anything regarding pep defensively. I know he is well regarded and enjoys a high pressing attacking style, but do you think he can get our defence sorted also. I wonder how much input he will have with Brendan involved. As Brendan has been so quite would love to know what was said at the review, we can only guess. It does seem that more of are younger players will get game time, and played in the correct position. You guys think this has anything to do with the owners

{Ed001's Note - if the high press is done correctly, which is what he emphasises, then it takes the pressure off the defence as the whole team is working together to defend. In my opinion, and having spoken to numerous coaches over the years regarding this, every part of the game should be done as a team and the best defences start from the forwards. Barcelona can get away with Mascherano and his total inability to actually play central defence because he very rarely has to actually act as a standard central defender. Because the team are working a full press, he is able to play like a defensive midfielder and harry and hassle, rather than as a centre back and channel players away from the goal. You only have to look at how Morata skipped past him without any real effort on the couple of occasions the press failed and he was forced to try and be a centre back to see how poor he actually is in that role. The press protects him and allows him to play to his strengths, rather than exposes his weaknesses in the role. Lovren is a similar type of player, in that he also wants to harry and hassle, rather than just block off runs and force attackers out wide etc. A high press will allow him to just be a part of that press, rather than making him look rash and wild as he did at times last season. If the coaching staff can get the press to work, then it is a very good way of protecting defensive weakness, which is why Bielsa used it to such great effect while managing a Chile team that had almost no defensive players to speak of. He knew the defence was extremely weak, so he used the press to protect it. The main issue with a press is that it can be exposed by long balls over the top, but having pace such as Sakho and Ilori at the back can negate that threat to a major extent, and that it can be energy sapping. So we will need our players to up their fitness, which can take time, some players can take a couple of seasons to gain the necessary stamina to work well in the system. It is definitely possible for stamina to improve to cope though, you only have to look at the difference all the extra work Charlie Adam has done in recent years has made to him. It is because he is not just doing the one training session then lazing around or partying like most players. He is staying behind and putting in extra training. We will need our players to do more training sessions and expect to see them struggle a bit in the early months with fatigue late in games, but the fitness will come if they stick with it.}

24 Jun 2015 17:54:10
Thanks for such a well written reply Ed01

{Ed001's Note - I got a bit carried away sorry. Good job we have a timer to stop us locking up posts for hours from the other editors or I would have ended up writing War And Peace!}

24 Jun 2015 18:08:47
That's a great answer 01. Absolutely bang-on.
This might sound a lil vague as a question. but I'd be interested to hear your opinion on how we will line up next season when at full-strength (with the players we currently have - I'm not asking who we will sign or anything silly, just factoring the players we currently have In our squad - minus Sterling, I suppose). I mean, will Ings start with Sturridge up front? What of the seemingly similar Lallana, Coutinho & Firmino? Will Milner start in the middle with Hendo, Can and what about Lucas and Allen? What of Ibe and Markovic? Who are the best centre back pairing? Is Moreno for you? Who plays at LB, if anyone? I ask because with this latest raft of signings I can see Rodgers taking a bit of time trying to find his best team. And let's face it - the one thing he doesn't have is time! That will bring its own problems.

{Ed001's Note - for me it has to be Studge with Firmino up top, Couts, Milner, Hendo, Lucas in midfield. Wisdom, Ilori, Sakho and Moreno as a back four. Though in practice it would be more of a 3 up top with Couts and Firmino with freedom behind Sturridge. Milner has not come in to sit on the bench, so he has to be in the team somewhere. The advantage of this is that you can change the formation in midfield very easily with those five, if you include Firmino, offering a lot of different possible formations without having to make major changes, just minor tweaks.}

24 Jun 2015 18:35:58
I agree with your potential first XI ed, my question though is what does this mean for Lallana? A player we paid a lot of money for is seemingly going to become a mere squad player in the coming season - will he be happy with that role (which I think is a nigh on certainty as I don't see him ahead of any other player)?

24 Jun 2015 18:40:53
Where dos that leave Lallana Ed001? He cost 25 million GBP and no way will he want to be a squad player. There will be a lot of unhappy midfielders at the club next season, and i have not even thought of Markovic and Texiera who both hopefully get good loan moves to further their careers. Even Ibe will find game time difficult to come by especially in the premier league. Brendan needs to learn how to rotate his squad properly or there will be a lot of frustration in that dressing room.

{Ed001's Note - I always said that good as he is Lallana was a mistake, he now has to step up and prove that opinion is wrong by forcing his way into the team. Right now he is on the edges and needs to change that by playing well when he gets his chances.}

24 Jun 2015 18:49:34
Ed is on the money. The prob is wthat to play the high press, you need a GK that can play as a sweeper-keeper as well so even if the ball is hit over the top, the keeper will always get there before the player because he is already advanced to some degree. That is why Mingo will not succeed and needs to be sold IF we are playing that system. Also, Bielsa did the same at OM this season as their defence is a shambles hence, he presses the opponents high up and BANG, they cough it up BUT each time that defence got exposed, it was aweful. If you wanna see how great the high press is, watch Germany and Costa Rica at the WC in Brazil and see how well that can work IF you have the right players to play it which is why I wanted Kaylor Navas to come to us because he was brilliant in that system as the sweeper-keepr just like Neuer was with Germany

25 Jun 2015 02:40:49
Is it not likely that players will rotate more, you could argue we have the depth in the squad - finally - to do so?

{Ed001's Note - the teams that work the press best do not use rotation much. It requires a high degree of teamwork, you really want a settled unit that know each other well. If we do use more rotation it would be a worry.}

24 Jun 2015 17:29:30
Isn't it great to be a Liverpool fan? Let's sign bacca and I'll be over the moon

24 Jun 2015 18:50:10
I would love Bacca and I`m praying we get the deal done, as well

24 Jun 2015 17:18:48
3 weeks ago if you mentioned us signing firmino kovacic and bacca I would have laughed, but now a little bit of me believes we could. At least 1. Why couldn't we do this last year!

24 Jun 2015 18:37:13
This is the frustration! We could of went for these sort of targets last year, especially with the money we had from the Suarez transfer - why didn't we?

24 Jun 2015 18:52:11
Cos BR had no idea what he`s doing and acts like a kid in a candy store as soon as money is given to him and starts buying everything in the shop with no idea if it will taste good or not. Seems none of that happened this year so there may be hope for us yet

24 Jun 2015 16:45:58
Hey eds, does the Firmino signing impact Lallana's future with the club? Seems we have a bit of a logjam at attacking midfielder.
Thanks

{Ed002's Note - I really don't know what the club are planning for a number of the players bought last season.}

24 Jun 2015 18:20:01
Lallana didn't perform. He was bought to hit the ground running and dictate games when he played. And Unlike Lazar ect. He doesn't have age as an excuse

24 Jun 2015 18:56:55
Lallana is a very skillful player and showed his worth last season when he actually got to play. injuries hurt him, dearly so let`s hope he can perform this year instead of criticizing him after one injury-hit season which is unfair, IMO.

24 Jun 2015 20:45:16
Next season, there is no doubt that Lallana and Lovren need to step up big time.

24 Jun 2015 21:40:39
Lallana is quality. He'll be an important player this season. Our ability to rotate high quality players like Firmino, Coutinho & Lallana is exciting and a sign that the squad depth is improving. Sturridge, Bacca, Ings & Origi is a similarly stronger and better balanced set of strike options. Bacca looks a proper predator. Fingers crossed fellow Reds!

24 Jun 2015 14:36:01
Hi eds

Long time reader first time poster.
I no a lot of speculation has been going around different players but just heard area turans agent claiming he wants to leave Spain for the epl and they are talking to three premier league teams

Any knowledge on this and who the teams might be?

Cheers

{Ed002's Note - Try searching.}

24 Jun 2015 16:12:11
Just searched there and saw your previous comments on turan. Looks like it utd or arsenal. Pity as he a good player and a lfc fan from what I hear.

Cheers for the reply.

24 Jun 2015 16:47:39
Why, did someone just sort out our defensive issues and sack the manager?

24 Jun 2015 05:52:08
Hi eds 001/2

Seems like there has been old interest rekindled in Firmino.
Who else is there interest in?

Please if you have the time to inform us on the latest updates in and out of the club.
Illori staying, Sterling to City/Chelsea.

Looking like a good season ahead.

Thanks for the greatest transfer site.

{Ed002's Note - I am not aware of any changes.}

24 Jun 2015 14:35:49
Hi Eds - Banter page please.

It's my 43rd wedding anniversary today, and still going strong.

My first ever visit to Anfield was on 26th December 1964 when we played Stoke. It was 1-1 at half time, and my dad said at half time 'don't worry lad, we'll score 5 in the second half. Full time score was 6-1. How was that for a prediction?

50 years later it was the reverse score - I bet he'd never have seen that one coming.

Let's hope we can return the favour this season.

KBL

24 Jun 2015 15:54:59
Congrats KBL and let's hope you're right.

24 Jun 2015 16:13:05
Congratulations KBL

24 Jun 2015 17:27:59
That's a great story KBL, and it makes me a bit envious that your first match was when we were champions under Shankly and a few months away from winning the FA Cup for the first time - what an amazing time to be a Red. I'm a bit younger than you and my first match at Anfield was 20 years later. against Stoke! 23rd Feb 1985, Stevie Nicol and King Kenny scored in a 2-0 win. Happy Days.

24 Jun 2015 18:44:14
Love seeing a story like this on the site! And I seriously hope you're right. And of course congratulations last but foremost!

24 Jun 2015 13:51:02
HI been thinking about Illori's situation. Edds what do you think of the idea of Brenda using him as the right back beanz we've not bid for the Saints man again!!

{Ed001's Note - why would we do that? Why not just play him as a centre back?}

24 Jun 2015 14:46:07
ed

That just makes no sense

{Ed001's Note - I know but sometimes I have these wild ideas about playing players in the position they are used to. Mad but it happens. I will try to ensure it doesn't sneak into my replies again though.}

24 Jun 2015 15:43:45
sos I should of said isn't that the type of thing we are used to seeing from the great man.Playing people out of position

24 Jun 2015 17:31:16
I'm just curious ed, I remember reading that Wisdom was played in midfield to improve his ability on the ball,is it common for young players to be played out of position purely in order to gain certain certain skills or to broaden their understanding of that position? e.g. a defender playing as a striker.

{Ed001's Note - quite often it happens yes. Kolo Toure was often used on the wings when he first broke into the Arsenal team, it was just to make sure he got on the ball and got a feel for the first team without pressure. Gerrard played just about everywhere on the pitch, and Sterling played numerous roles to improve on his understanding of the tactical side of the game. Sometimes it can help, other times it is just stopping them getting a better understanding of their natural role.}

24 Jun 2015 13:48:13
who are fans preferred centre back partnership this season with llori now being given a shot?
Mine would be llori and Sakho. Power and pace with wisdom and moreno either side

24 Jun 2015 14:04:36
Moreno sakho ilori Flanaghan, not moaning or being pessimistic but I would love balanta and darmain to come in also.hope you're reading this Brendan

24 Jun 2015 14:08:25
Not bothered as long as skrtel isn't there. It would be itneresting to see how Lovren performs without Skrtel,certainly worth a second chance.Hopefully the first season was just nerves and poor performances by liverpool as a whole.

24 Jun 2015 14:25:50
Lovren and Sakho being gradually changed to ilori and sakho

24 Jun 2015 14:26:43
Sahko starts automatically with ilori/Lovren to compete for the other spot with toure as cover. Skrtel? The less said, the better

24 Jun 2015 14:29:31
Ilori & Lovren.

Completely compliment each other.

24 Jun 2015 14:30:57
Id like to see lovren and sakho given a chance.

24 Jun 2015 14:34:03
Funny enough, my friend and I were just talking about this and our choice of starting 11 ( as it stands atm and keeping in mind injuries to Sturridge and Flanno.)

Mignolet
Moreno
Ilori
Sahko
Wisdom
Henderson
Milner
Couthino
Ibe
Firmino
Ings

So yes, I agree with that defence you named lol

24 Jun 2015 14:56:07
Think my 11 would be:
GK Mignolet
LB Moreno
CB Sakho
CB Illori
RB Milner
CM Can
CM Henderson
CAMCoutinho
RAM Firmino
LAM Lallana
ST Ings

24 Jun 2015 15:24:46
Milner would have had assurances that he'll be played in the middle of the park, his prefered position

24 Jun 2015 15:16:01
Milner at right back? Are you related to Rodgers?

24 Jun 2015 18:11:27
I'd prefer 2 up top, never been a fan of the lone striker.

How many times did our strikers look lostlast season.

24 Jun 2015 20:47:49
Lavers
I think with a front 3 of Couts,Firmino and Ings/Origi/Studge(Whoever is chosen) There's enough movement pace trickery,to cause defences problems without necessarily needing another striker. That said if we finally bought another good striker I wouldn't mind playing 2 up top.Which Studge prefers

24 Jun 2015 13:40:21
Moreno is pretty much the same albeit he is better defensively. Position and anticipation really lacking due to the pace of the game. Hopefully he has settled in and hopefully we play 4 at the back because he always get out of position as WB.

24 Jun 2015 13:23:26
Eds how come a deal for firnino cab ve tbay bleeding quick and there not all like that.

I mean the interview with him is on lfc web, he's also half way round the world with medicals and that.

{Ed001's Note - some deals are easier to do than others.}

24 Jun 2015 12:59:39
Great signings so far, Firimino is a quality signing and it looks likely we could get Rondon and/or Bacca as well, all looking positive. Are we still interested in signing Konoplyanka? not bad on a free signing. Also heard we've bid for Bartra and Abdennour to sort out our defense.

24 Jun 2015 12:49:06
Hi ed, do you not allow the posting of links to other sites? I posted one earlier to a sky sports article about firmino which I thought might interest people.

{Ed001's Note - links have to be filtered and checked before they come through as we get a lot of spam from people like Sly, so we tend to just automatically filter out links to them now. I would prefer not to give them the business after the way they spammed our sites in recent years with their faked links.}

24 Jun 2015 13:44:52
My apologies ed, I'll be sure not to link them in future. There is a good article on Firmino using stats from WhoScored.com, it doesn't paint a complete picture but at least gives a little insight when used in the correct context

{Ed001's Note - no worries mate, I am not a big fan of Sly anyway, get sick of them copying stuff said on the sites as 'sly sources say' rather than just admitting where the copied it from. But the spamming slybet did a while back just took it too far. They could have easily afforded to pay for adverts but they would rather spam us. That was the reason Ed033 created the spam filter, purely down to them.}

24 Jun 2015 14:24:48
I'm not a fan of sly either, only ever interested in furthering their own interests, sometimes at the expense or detriment of the people they supposedly support.

24 Jun 2015 12:39:55
Eds what is the clubs support network for overseas players like in comparison to other clubs? (For instance finding accommodation, help with language, etc etc.) Or are they all the same? In broad strokes what do clubs offer them?

Don't know if it is to long a post with to many questions. Thanks for all the hard work.

{Ed001's Note - very poor, we do little other than find them a place to stay and then leave it up to their team mates to make them feel welcome.

Every club has a different way of handling it, Chelsea I am told look after this side of things better than anyone else in the Prem. I haven't really looked into it properly, to be honest. If I get a chance I will do some research and asking around the clubs to get an idea of how they all differ and put it all down in an article.}

24 Jun 2015 13:27:26
I've heard United have an army of assistants that come in and basically do everything for a foreign new signing for the first 6 months.

24 Jun 2015 13:50:21
I know at a couple of italian clubs (can't speak for all) they give help with language, orientation, finding a home, moving family and at least at two clubs they also offer an in house sports psychologist who will help them adjust to new surroundings and people.

The players often help out as well if they are a/ experienced or b/from a similar area of the world.

24 Jun 2015 14:20:50
thanks Ed

{Ed001's Note - sorry I could not help more.}

24 Jun 2015 16:42:24
no worries. hope the thanks didn't come across as sarcastic!!

{Ed001's Note - not at all mate, I am just sorry I don't know more to be able to give a proper answer. I will have to take the time to look into it as it is something that has been mentioned a few times as an issue at the club by people who have found themselves left pretty much to fend for themselves after signing. We always get so hung up on finding out about new signings, we forget all about what happens once they sign, obviously I am as guilty of that as anyone. I will have to make an effort to change that before the next transfer window and put together a full article about how the clubs deal with it for our FNV site. Or pass on the info to someone on there to write up, if I don't have time to do it myself.}

24 Jun 2015 18:25:21
brilliant, thanks for that and I will look forward to it. last thing on this thread so you can concentrate on other things, what is the FNV site?

24 Jun 2015 12:10:24
Just wanted to say how impressed and optimistic I am at just this Firmino deal alone.

Now I'm not jumping on some Firmino league title bang wagon, I am not going to expect anything of him.

I am just over the moon at how the deal came about. Last night at half 9 bid agreement announced and this morning signed him, boom.that is elite club mentality. That is what should happen, we've been knocking on that door for an age. Willian, costa and mkhitaryan. I'm just glad we have gone through it now.

I think we very much need a striker though, I wasn't as bothered until Firmino went through. But to get the best out of all these technically gifted creators they need a striker. Otherwise they're (I use the word lightly) useless, as there qualities won't been seen.

If we can get Bacca (as he is the closest to a Suarez type there is) and its been proven Brendan and this team can't work with other type of strikers then that will be a perfect window.

I still would love Kovacic but he seems like a luxury signing now and unlikely.

I would like to ask eds in the Kovacic deal, I know everyone is reporting we have no interest (I trust ed002 a lot more) but if inter wanted other interest in him would they not want to leak our bid, to make other clubs come for him, and since they haven't are they trying there hardest to sell others instead of him?

I am sad though that Mignoley is still the keeper. We either had to go up top fix or defence fix and I think we can see were we have chosen.

Another question eds since were all in a good mood for once, with regards to ward. How does he compare to a de gea, hart, Coutois when they were his age. The reason I ask is because they all just got thrown in goal, and look were they are now. Would the club look at that for ward? Granted it might be a few shaky seasons whilst he develops but I just cannot see him doing worse than Mignolet (I know that's not really a bench mark) but can he really do worse in your personal opinion?

A great day for Liverpool? Oh yes.

Can it get better? We'll see

Thanks in advance if you respond and Tha ks anyway if you can't for just running this website. I dint know what i'd do if it wasn't around.

I think that's enough ass kissing to warrant a reply haha

{Ed001's Note - Inter want to keep him and sell other players. So the last thing they want is to invite others in.}

24 Jun 2015 12:33:26
good point on Ward - why not chuck him in at n.o 2 instead of getting Bogdan and blood him properly at a higher level than potential championship or lower level, think Eds mentioned in a previous reply about cup games etc (if not sorry)

24 Jun 2015 12:42:52
Redman
I like ward And I think if he has the right mind frame he would be an improvement over mignolet In the present. He is not the tallest of goalkeepers. I think he's 5.8/9. Reina we thought as as a short goalkeeper and ward is shorter. However reina more than made up for it. I think ward will turn out a good reliable goalkeeper . Is he our future ? I don't think so but he could make a great number 2 option. Bogdon I do not rate at all at this level

24 Jun 2015 12:59:42
5ft11/6ft0

24 Jun 2015 13:18:15
Yeah like last season I just didn't see him offering less than jones, and also less than mignolet.

If we had of played him now we would have a great idea where we stood and might not of needed bogdan! Who is woeful.

But he has been giving a long contract. So we will see shortly what the plan is for him.

24 Jun 2015 14:48:55
5ft, 11 inches ain`t guys, just saying. To me, Bogdan was a pointless signing and is not better than Mingo so clearly, Mingo can sleep well all season. If we were going to get and inferior keeper to Mingo, might as well have given Ward some games and experience. Baffling!

24 Jun 2015 11:56:36
Hey Ed's 001 I know you've been a busy boy today with all the Firmino stuff and thanks for all your hard work. Just wanted to ask if you get a second do you not think Roger's being silent for so long is deafening???

{Ed001's Note - I do think it is strange. He is normally desperate to take the credit for anything good that happens. I am just enjoying the time without him putting his foot in his mouth to be honest.}

24 Jun 2015 13:46:10
Something is happening/has happened. Maybe he's got a final warning about performance and opening his mouth. Maybe something else. It's certainly strange

24 Jun 2015 14:51:52
Well said Ed

24 Jun 2015 15:15:55
IMO, the owners are fed up with his mindless ramblings and deflection and have shut his trap for him because clearly after three years, he is severely incapable of doing that and LONG may it continue

24 Jun 2015 11:49:40
I know this is negative, but we now have so many attackers and cms we cannot keep them all happy, especially seeing it seems 2 more are targeted. I don't believe we will buy a striker, but even if you disclude the ones who should go, we could have about 12/3 players for 6 positions. I know you normally say 2 per position, but barring maybe origi, all the players I would say are good enough to start. And when fit, lucas, hebderson, coutinho, Sturridge and now probably firmino, would probably start in out best 11, and say we added kovacic or bacca?
I think marko should go on loan, Allen should be sold (I don't hate him, he's just not can/hendo/lucas level) and probably origi loaned to a prem team, although I doubt this. I fear rodgers may underplay can or out of position, or lucas again may want to leave? I love lallanas touch and effort but has he got the edge to force his way into the starting 11 regularly? I know this sounds pessimistic, and I am happy with the summer so far, I just fear we may force out a very promising or important player if handled wrong, or lack a settled team if rotated too much.

24 Jun 2015 12:21:23
I think Allen has a good head on him especially in organising the defence, as pointed out on MOTD early last season he could clearly be seen shouting at other players to get in position, pick up un marked players etc.

He's just not up to it physically.

Just my view, but I agree he cannot be anywhere near top pick now.

{Ed001's Note - he also tends to leave the centre backs stranded when they have the ball. I lost count of the number of expletives I aimed in his direction when one of the centre backs received the ball and he was too busy walking up field not even looking in their direction to make himself available. Just making an angle there would have made a huge difference to his performances.}

24 Jun 2015 12:50:47
Is that him ed or direction from the coaches with regards to where be should position himself when we have the ball! Is someone else instructed tl move for the cb's.

I like you can't understand with the type of player he is (possesion type) isn't moving for the ball, and it annoys me more and more when be doesn't.

But for 3 seasons he's never done that, so that's why I feel he could be instructed to not! Maybe Brendan likes him further forward.

{Ed001's Note - maybe it is instructions, but an intelligent player knows when to ignore instruction, rather than having to be told to do so by Sakho. If he is not able to show initiative, then he is not what we need.}

24 Jun 2015 13:27:45
When he arrived the thing he did best was back up the play and always provide an angle. Some of his early performances were very encouraging. He was great in the 2-2 at home to City I recall. In fact, he always seems to do well against City. Unfortunately he'll probably be 5th pick for those 2 more withdrawn midfield positions now, unless we sell Lucas which I wouldn't.

24 Jun 2015 13:28:39
You call it initiative,managers call it disregarding orders,so sit on the bench for a while

{Ed001's Note - not if it works.}

24 Jun 2015 17:07:47
Joe Allen, he's a master of winning the ball back and then immediately losing it again! ;)

24 Jun 2015 11:29:28
hey eds,

just read your thoughts about a centre back leaving and none arriving. today I read an article in the telegraph about us opening talks with aymen abdennour of monaco. it said we opened talks, but gave no real quote or definitive statement that we were actually looking at signing him. IMO the telegraph used to be a great source of information on events that were true, but this article suggests to me that this is starting to change. I am from australia so i don't have the luxury of reading this source daily. is the telegraph a credible source of information or is it becoming more like the mirror and other tabloids.

thanks guys really appreciate it

{Ed001's Note - I honestly have no idea, I do not have the time to read newspapers any more. The only time is when someone mentions them here or one of the other editors puts a link up on our editors' widget to look at. The only reason I know some stuff regarding how Balague works is because one of the editors we used to have did some ghostwriting for his website a few years ago. Judging by the stuff people ask us about on here, it seems all the papers are just hitwhoring these days sadly.}

24 Jun 2015 12:06:08
Just extending that line of thought - is there any significance to which articles are linked on the LFC website Media Watch Page or do they just show all the rumours going around?

{Ed001's Note - they just link to all they find.}

24 Jun 2015 11:19:13
Hey Eds, with the Clyne bids/rumours RB appears to be a position we're looking at. I think you guys are satisfied that we have Flanagan and Wisdom to compete for that spot. Do you think that either of these guys could develop to be top class RBs or is it simply that you don't think Clyne isn't any better?

{Ed001's Note - I think they are as good as Clyne, they are also younger, so have more potential. Clyne suits Southampton well, as they have a lot of protection for their full backs, so he can charge forward at will, not having to worry too much about defending. We do not give our full backs the same protection, we don't have Wanyama purely sitting in to cover, so I am not convinced he would suit us. Wisdom and Flanagan are both much better defensively, though neither are as good going forward, so suit our team better, I think.}

24 Jun 2015 16:02:05
Spot on Ed. I have posted the exact same thing. if Clyne is bought and doesn`t play in the same system that makes him look good at the saints then he will struggle as Lovren has. I like you, think he is not a better defender than Flanno and Wisdom who is just tough to beat one on one. As for going forward, that can be coached and he/Flanno can be mentored to do that if the manager is willing to give the time and effort to coach him up BUT as well all know, our defenders` issues are uncoachable per BR so I doubt he will do any of that

24 Jun 2015 10:58:26
Could the speed that the firmino deal was done suggest a deal has been reached for sterling but it's being kept quiet until we got a replacement? Similar to what happened when bale went to Madrid, the worst kept secret in history

24 Jun 2015 11:41:44
Probably looks like it. With Firmino joining lallana, Ibe, Markovic and Coutinho in the attacking midfield ranks, Sterling imo is now surplus to requirements and anything more than 40 million GBP for him would represent brilliant business for the club and give us the necessary cash to sign a quality CF which looks to be Bacca right now. The club needs a CF now, not Sterling so i hope it is Bacca in, Sterling out.

24 Jun 2015 16:03:58
With you, Buzzer! If Bacca is the guy which I hope he is because he is just perfect for the high press system we wanna play under Pepin then Ayre, get on your bike and get it done NOW.

24 Jun 2015 10:44:27
Morning Eds
Just wanted to ask you a quick question if I may.
Witn the likelihood being that Sterling leaves and the fact that our main targets are likely to be foreign, do you think that the main attraction of Ings and Milner weren't that they were free but were also English and would help maintain our homegrown quotient?

{Ed001's Note - good question, but Ings was targeted in January, so I would suggest it is more of a bonus regarding him. Plus there is no homegrown quotient as such, it is just that you can only have 18 (if I am remembering correctly) that are not homegrown. You do not have to have 7 homegrown players, you can leave a gap in the squad if you choose. We already have a fair few to fill the homegrown quotient, Hendo, Allen, Sturridge, for instance. I doubt it is any more than a plus if the player happens to be fit in the homegrown category.}

24 Jun 2015 11:24:04
Thanks for the reply Eds. Have to say that it's great to come on and read some optimism for a change. Get Bacca and Kovacic and ecstasy may be on the cards. Thanks for putting up with us lot eds it is appreciated.

{Ed001's Note - it is much nicer to edit when it is positive!!}

24 Jun 2015 12:17:27
Hendo, flanno, sturridge, ibe, wisdom, lallana, ings, Gomez, lambert. I think were the only club that doesn't have to think about out homegrown quota!

24 Jun 2015 10:36:56
Wheres brendan rodgers? He seems awfully quiet consideri g all the new faces and the new tour announcements. not heard a peep since the managers review.

24 Jun 2015 11:04:50
He's hiding out wth Elvis Presley and Salman Rushdie trying to avoid being sacked.

24 Jun 2015 11:06:04
It seems he has awoken from the coma the dentist 'accidentally' induced a few weeks back (you may remember me informing you of the situation).

However he is apparently suffering from Amnesia and was last seen outside Swansea City's training ground having a fist fight with Garry Monk. Joe Allen has been notified and it's expected he'll get the next flight out to pick Brendan up and take him back to their secret home in Kirkby. Colin Pascoe is delighted Brendan has forgotten about the last year and is hoping to seduce Brendan with a candle lit dinner when he returns.

24 Jun 2015 11:07:16
In Marbs as its called now. It's still a shock he's not spoken, but that is expected even if it's a toned down interview.
Be interesting to see how some of the obvious questions like Pascoe/
Marsh and Sterling will be answered. Could be very clear whether he's under instruction or it's as you were.

24 Jun 2015 11:42:56
I think he's under the floor boards at anfield in full hannibal lector constraints to keep him from the media

24 Jun 2015 14:49:35
Yeah because so many other PL managers are talking to the media right now. Get off the man's back. When he f^%$s something up again have a pop. Until then give it a rest. It's not even banter. There's nothing original about a jibe about a) His teeth b) His way with words or c) His desire to play Firmino in goal. It's like running into hundreds of those blokes who unzip next to you in the gents and say "make room for a big one" or belch or fart and grunt "better out than in". (Eyes roll)

{Ed001's Note - or, my personal faourite, when they go and piss in a cubicle say 'the waters cold innit?'}

24 Jun 2015 16:08:59
He`s been muzzled by the owners and long may it continue

24 Jun 2015 10:30:08
Eds Thanks for your extraordinary work.
After reading the posts of fellow reds i couldn't stop myself posting.

I am very happy with the signing of Firmino by the club.And am expecting few more surprises.Eds since our transfer committee learned the lesson and didn't repeat the mistakes of previous windows,I hope Rodgers surprises us all(not by playing firmino at cdm)by actually challenging for the title.

Finally Firmino welcome to LFC.

24 Jun 2015 10:23:24
Morning Eds.

First of all its good to see some positivity on here for once! seems like it has been lacking for the past few months!

Anyway i saw a few posts earlier alluding to the fact that Bacca is now our number 1 target in terms of a striker at least.

My question is, is it realistic we could actually get him? what wages would he want etc?

Thanks

{Ed001's Note - yes and no idea, nor do I even want to get into that.}

24 Jun 2015 10:46:37
Just a case of fingers crossed then i guess Ed? haha

{Ed001's Note - yes mate, I am not going to get excited that is for sure, I usually seem to have some kind of hoodoo on transfers. Though maybe Firmino signing is a sign that we are going to sign players a season after I want them to join?}

24 Jun 2015 11:29:16
LoL Ed001, can I request a few names for next season ???

{Ed001's Note - if it works I am all for it.}

24 Jun 2015 11:34:13
May I ask who you would personally prefer between Bacca and Benteke? Thanks.

{Ed001's Note - there is no contest, Bacca is twice the player Benteke is right now.}

24 Jun 2015 11:34:51
So the question is did you want us to sign Bacca a year ago or are we out of luck?

Also if that was true surely we should be signing Medel anyday now? we can dream.

{Ed001's Note - ah good point, he was one of those I liked the look of as a decent signing last summer so it could still work. And Medel might count as the summer before, or even the one before that.}

24 Jun 2015 11:46:25
Didn't you want Messi to sign last season ed??maybe he's next 😉

{Ed001's Note - actually I think it was Neymar Jr.}

24 Jun 2015 10:06:14
All seems very rosy this morning on here, I'm worried! Great bit o news last night. The transfer window is still young, here's hoping for another good few weeks ahead.

24 Jun 2015 13:42:12
Let's not be greedy, I'd love a proven striker but if we can't find the right guy we have enough talent to provide for Ings and Origi until Studge is fit.

I'd like to see some outs now, Sterling, Enrique, Balotellil Skrtel and Allen and the ones i'd want to leave. If Coates and Borini can find good clubs as well then I think we will have a great squad if believing our youngsters are as good as we hear for cover.

Striker nice, but not a deal breaker for me In terms of transfer window happiness.

24 Jun 2015 09:58:12
Whoa really happy we just signed our new goal keeper for 29 mill will surly give mignolet a headache for keeper

24 Jun 2015 10:41:53
Unnecessary bro. Been said, laughed about, move on.

24 Jun 2015 11:46:11
What dwarf said.

Leave it.

Migs needs our support now.

24 Jun 2015 09:51:50
Hey ed01 - how do you see Sturridge's long term future in the club? Are there any new updates about his recovery, and do you think that he would be able to rediscover his great form in the future?
If we are getting another striker in, then it would on one hand allow us to ease him in slowly, so I do hope that long-term, Sturridge can get back on his feet.
Also, I do not like the news about Marcovic, I was hoping he would push forth this season, but mayhaps with increased competition a loan would be the best for him. In your opinion, is there a chance he would make it at our club - if not this year, then the one after? He has the potential, his pass is good, the problem for me is mostly his abysmal shooting, and the fact that he does not quite fit in out system (not that there was such a thing last year). However, he has shown willingness to play further back than he ought to, and I like his passing game.

{Ed001's Note - I would think it will depend on his ability to stay fit. If he can stay fit, I do not see any issues with him regaining his form. I believe Sturridge is best when he has a partner to work with, so bringing in a forward to play with him is not an issue in my opinion. It is purely his fitness that will end up deciding his future in my opinion.
I like Markovic's attitude, his willingness to work hard and play out of position, but I am not sure he is anywhere near ready for the Prem. If his attitude when did play is any indication though, I am sure he can make the improvements needed, if he gets game time on a regular basis. He does need a lot of work though, he is severely lacking when he gets in dangerous areas, which should be the positions he is at his best.}

24 Jun 2015 09:39:55
Welcome Roberto Firmino to LFC .
It is good signing.

24 Jun 2015 09:25:36
Hi eds . It's been that long since I posted I had to change my password lol .
I was wondering if you knew much about the youth set up. I was watching my son at training last night and there was a kid doing his own training session over in the corner of the field . I am from Durham . I have heard he was at Newcastle and they had really high hopes for him but the story yesterday was he is moving to Liverpool . Just wondered if your knowledge went that deep into the club . Sorry if it's a daft question . Cheers
Jamesee

{Ed001's Note - it is impossible to keep track of the academy lads, they don't have the same registrations etc to follow. Do you have a name for him? I can try and ask around about him if you have.}

24 Jun 2015 09:43:26
Thanks ed I will try and find out ASAP that would be great
Jamesee

{Ed001's Note - cheers mate. Oh and his age would be a help too.}

24 Jun 2015 09:14:40
Eds - Last summer transfer window Suarez was sold, everyone new we were loaded and we probably overpaid for Lallana (Though I rate him and think He'll come good), Markovic, Loveren etc.
Is the signing of Firmino and possibly Bacca & Kovacic etc. before we've parted with Sterling for big money a sign that he club has learned a lesson here.
Contrariwise, if £29m is an overpayment for Firmino, has it not made any difference??

{Ed001's Note - it really does seem like we have begun to learn lessons, examining each move and seeing what we could have done better. While it may be seen as an overpayment, you have to pay what it takes to improve the team, rather than just filling in the squad.}

24 Jun 2015 10:03:04
Considering the lad's quality at the age of 23 and establishing himself as a Brazilian international, his value is going to rocket if he keeps up his previous form and makes an impression in the PL. The £29M transfer fee may seem like a bargain over the coming seasons.

24 Jun 2015 12:32:53
Have to agree, considering we're holding out for £50M for Sterling and Villa want roughly £32M for Benteke can't see £29M being a bad amount to pay for a relatively proven 23yr old.

24 Jun 2015 09:11:41
Hi Ed001. Firmino looks decent but just worries me where the signing leaves Lallana, Markovic, Ibe etc (assuming Sterling leaves). Could you see Firmino playing the '7' role as a second striker off Ings or Studge?

{Ed001's Note - I expect Markovic will be sent on loan if a good one can be found. I think you are correct, Firmino will play behind the striker.}

24 Jun 2015 11:59:54
No disrespect but if Sterling is moving why would we be willing to move on Markovic? His personal preference or Brendaned?

{Ed001's Note - because he has dropped behind Ibe anyway. So he needs to get some game time. Nothing to do with Rodgers, he just hasn't made the hoped for impact.}

24 Jun 2015 12:35:49
Considering the formations that have been played and the development of Ibe is Markovich likely to end up as a total spare or does he still have a chance to make his mark? (Personally I did think he was unnecessary considering existing options but haven't seen enough to see if ultimately it might be someone else to move on).

{Ed001's Note - it really depends on how he develops.}

24 Jun 2015 13:53:26
He's clearly talented but the Premier League is a big step up week on week compared to Portugal and, let's be honest, he joined a team that struggled from the off. He needs a loan to regain some form and confidence. It rather reinforces Ed02's comments about Chelsea not thinking he was ready. Wouldn't write him off yet though.

24 Jun 2015 09:02:31
Without trying to complicate myself or anyone else discussing money do the ED'S think our current business is based on sterling moving? I think I read somewhere down the page that we have a genuine interest in a out & out striker & rb looks to have been targeted(clyne) & the constant links with kovacic however real or not keep appearing. I really can't see all 3 potential signings happening without some major players leaving. I.e sterling, skate, boring so on so fourth.

{Ed001's Note - only in terms of we have to replace him as well as doing our normal business.}

24 Jun 2015 10:10:18
Do you believe we need to replace Sterling if he leaves ed? We do have tons of players in midfield that can also play as a wide forward (coutinho, Lallana, Firmino, Markovic, Ibe). If so who do you think the club might target to replace him?

{Ed001's Note - I believe we have already replaced Sterling now, Firmino and Milner cover all the roles he held in the side.}

24 Jun 2015 10:13:05
To be honest I expect a mass clear out or at least an attempt at one because we have a lot of fringe players that we do not need and that can sell for decent money. I still expect players like balotelli, lambert, borini, manquillo, Enrique, Coates, Alberto, illori/wisdom, sterling and possibly even Lucas (should be Allen moving on but Allen accepts the squad player role and Lucas won't, plus he gets injured too consistently unfortunately, otherwise he should be first choice midfielder) to all be sold or at least moved on.

With a few others going out on loans. The reason everything seems a bit packed at the moment is because none of these players have been moved on yet, partly due to the fact the transfer window hasn't really opened yet. Once we do get rid of most if not all these players plus a couple more signings that squad will look a lot better.

24 Jun 2015 09:00:18
Shrewd bit of business there lads get in! the link up between firmino and coutinho has been awesome to watch during the copa and freindly games I see trouble for defences around the world with firmino and coutinho in there and if Rodgers don't work out the new boss will have some gems to work with, what a difference a day makes.

24 Jun 2015 08:34:14
Question for the eds. Do you think the way we handled the Kovacic situation had any impact to the way we handled the Firmino deal? Did we realize that the way we messed Inter about was not the way to go and so we just went in and outbid everyone and got the deal done? Could the way we handled the Firmino deal have a positive impact on us completing the Kovacic deal?

{Ed001's Note - I would like to think we learnt a lesson from that. I don't see how it could relate to the Kovacic deal now though?}

24 Jun 2015 09:07:11
I hope they did because as much as on field failure depresses the hell out of me, being belittled and embarrassed by other clubs when it comes to doing business together depresses me even more

24 Jun 2015 08:29:09
Logic to me says the fact we are not seeking a defensive midfielder suggests Lucas may stay. Though logic doesn't always go hand in hand with our club at present. Let's hope anyway.

24 Jun 2015 08:24:01
Great signing by Liverpool's newly appointed manager Jurgen Klopp, plus Bacca and Rondon to sign today!!

Carlsberg don't do Wednesday's but if they did.

24 Jun 2015 08:44:11
If 2 months ago I had been allowed a sneak preview of just one post in the future and this had been it, I would have been very happy!

24 Jun 2015 08:04:16
Hi Eds

With the signing of Firmino please tell me this puts to bed any move for benteke!! let's just hope this proves we are learning by our mistakes as he would of been yet another one!

{Ed001's Note - not related, Benteke interest was for a different role and it was shelved a while back. Hence the recent interest shown in Bacca and Rondon.}

24 Jun 2015 09:22:44
Really hope its Bacca ED001. Have only seen him play a couple of times but he strikes me as a Suarez/Tevez type of player who runs between lines and can also drag defenders out wide allowing his teammates to run through the centre. Decent pace and bucket full of goals. Beats Rondon any day for me.

{Ed001's Note - I am not a fan of Rondon at all. He reminds me of what Andy Carroll would play like if he was on valium when I have watched him. Big and strong but slow and lacking any movement at all. If we do get him, I just hope that the times I have seen him I have misjudged him or he was carrying an injury which hindered him, otherwise it would be a huge mistake.}

24 Jun 2015 09:33:28
Bacca all day long for me. If we cannot get Tevez or Aubameyang, then Bacca is the next best option out there who would fit into the team seamlessly. I would prefer to see players with movement and pace than big target men at the club.

24 Jun 2015 10:33:17
Hi Ed1 do you think we have a chance to go for Bacca though, it looks like were learning from our mistakes that we are no longer faffing about with fees? Also do you see kovaic going through and if so do you think that will be it for our transfers? then its a case of selling of some players?

{Ed001's Note - we have a chance if we can convince him to leave behind Champions League football. As for Kovacic, I have no idea, Inter would prefer to sell someone else, and there is a long way to go there. I am told that might be it other than outs as Gomez might be instead of Clyne, but it is merely conjecture right now. In that instance it would be Wisdom given a chance to prove himself.}

24 Jun 2015 11:28:18
Great thanks Ed1 i think it would be great to get Kovacic and Bacca in, and leave it at that, it would be nice to see wisdom tearing up the field in a reds shirt he sure deserves the chance to have a shot at RB or CB cover.

{Ed001's Note - I know it is not a popular view, but I like Wisdom, he has a good attitude and is very good on the ball, which is why he ended up at full back in the first place.}

24 Jun 2015 12:13:45
Yeah from what I've seen of him too he seems to be level headed player who maybe like ibe will try and improve and with him and flanagan when he's back playing RB we don't need yet more players taken up their spots that they are working hard to deserve.

24 Jun 2015 12:39:42
Ed - if Clyne did come in would that be instead of Wisdom (and potentially him moving) or the pair being allowed to compete/develop?

{Ed001's Note - it would be to compete.}

24 Jun 2015 13:59:16
I wouldn't rule out the possibility of Gomez being in the first team squad next season. I've been talking to a Charlton season ticket holder who says the kid isn't phased. Slotted straight in and never looked out of place. Sometimes you get a Rooney or Owen or Sterling who gets a chance early and just takes it at the highest level. From what I've been told this kid is a bit like that. Would love to see him live up to the hype and have a great pre-season.

24 Jun 2015 08:00:55
Hi Ed's,

do you see us actually going for a striker after Firmino signed? He's not an out and out striker but with Sturridge 1st choice, then Ings/Firmino as back up. maybe Origi if he doesn't go out on loan? what are your thoughts.

{Ed001's Note - I still expect us to try and get one other forward yes. The interest in an out and out striker is genuine.}

24 Jun 2015 09:12:00
Ed. If the interest in an out and out striker is genuine, do you know who the number 1 target is?

{Ed001's Note - I believe it is Bacca now.}

24 Jun 2015 10:02:51
Ed1 a few days/weeks ago the general view was we should not hold our breath over Bacca - has this changed?

I don't want to get too excited just because we have finally splashed some cash and made a real quality signing (subject to medical. ) but it looks like our aspirations might have changed and our fortunes along with.

What would your view be on the possibilities of

Bacca
Rondon
Kovacic
Coyne

Any others you think may be on the horizon?

I see Lacazzette rumours have surfaced again? I think it's odd if his agent is trying to talk up a move or is more about talking up a pay rise?

Many thanks once again,




Rob.

{Ed001's Note - I would prefer to stick to not holding our breath, as I am extremely superstitious and the one player we signed which I wanted I was not allowing myself to dare to believe it would happen. As for Lacazette, you would be better speaking to Ed002, he would have a much better idea there.

As far as those 4, we are talking over Bacca and Rondon, but it is out there at the Copa this is going on, so really out of my reach in terms of keeping tabs. I, like all of you, are heavily reliant on Ed002 for information there. Kovacic deal is all set up ready to go, but Inter are trying to do other business so they do not have to sell him. I assume you mean Clyne and it was a typo? If so, we seem to have dropped out of that for now. Maybe it will be a deal we will return to after other business is done.}

24 Jun 2015 10:45:49
Great response there Ed, cheers!

Ed2, would be grateful if you could fill us all in!

{Ed002's Note - I have no idea where you are getting any of this Lacazette stuff from.}

24 Jun 2015 07:42:20
What difference a signing makes!! This is the positive banter page I've seen in ages

24 Jun 2015 08:25:48
yes its good to see some +ve vibes. i mean lallana coutino firmino it just seems an excellent attacking trio. Oh i can just imagine the fluidity and skill in the attacking third the trio can bring. They can be all over the attacking third just harassing defenders.
Now just some good defensive training and stratergy with 4 at back will sort out our problems. we don't need to buy anyone i believe ,just practice more and play with a solid RB LB and two CB.

24 Jun 2015 10:04:04
Positive bants by the best fans in the world.

Just saying.

24 Jun 2015 10:09:27
Good to see positivity back it's a must easier read for me but one swallow and all that jazz, we need to ship out the players that we don't want and the one that does not want us , I wish them all the best etc etc except when playing us . I don't know much about our new lad but he seems to be a decent player by all reports

24 Jun 2015 07:16:20
If we sign Firmino 'if', then I make that 3 first team quality number 10s. The others being Lallana, Coutinho. I can only assume 1 of them will be played wide.

Quesrion. does Firmino like to play from the left? By all accounts I've heard he is best played as a traditional n10?

{Ed001's Note - Firmino can play on either flank. Why not play the 3 of them as a fluid trio that just go where there is space and fill in gaps defensively? Why have one stuck out left and one out right?}

24 Jun 2015 08:21:02
Eds if we play all 3 across the front with an out and out striker. Doesn't thatlikely limit us to 4 at the back? I thought initially BR was looking to stick with the 3 centrebacks and 2 wingbacks?
Do you think the new coach (Lijnders?) will be able to sort the defensive mess?
I'm a bit worried we are just trying to do 13/14 again and forget about defense and go all out attack and attempt to score more,without addressing the issue which could see a well balanced team.

{Ed001's Note - I have heard nothing about whether we are going back four or three, but I would be very surprised if we did not play a back four next season. Lijnders can help, but it really comes down to the head coach to set the right tactics to get the most out of the defence.}

24 Jun 2015 08:21:13
That's a fair point 01. I would be happy with that, as long as everyone understood that role. It worked well when we had Suarez, Sturridge, Coutinho/Sterling interchanging!

If we follow up in reported interest in an out and out striker, do you see us going 4-4-2 diamond?

I'd like to see us be more versatile and change between the diamond and 4-3-3 as and when needed.

{Ed001's Note - I would expect more of a 4-2-3-1. Two sitting in front of the defence allowing the front four more freedom.}

24 Jun 2015 08:22:27
I agree with ed but then no room for ibe and he needs to start games for him to progress

{Ed001's Note - Ibe could surely act as one of those 3?}

24 Jun 2015 08:47:10
Cheers ed001. Agree. I hope we go a back 4 and play more of a 4-2-3-1. It will be interesting to see what happens when Studge is fit again and whether one of thos front 3 gets dropped,or he choses play play him sparingly.All questions for further down the road I feel.
^^^^Agree above Ibe should slot in nicely across those 3 from what I saw this season at Derby and us. (Feel slightly sorry for markovic,who it looks more and more likely may warm the pines,or get force into another role)

24 Jun 2015 10:07:54
It's great to feel we may finally have depth in the squad and players can rotate if required through suspension, injury, fatigue, etc.

24 Jun 2015 06:07:03
not lfc related but dmitri payet is moving to west ham for cheap.( or may be not )
i think he had an astonishing season for marsielle. goals assists, free kicks, he seems a real good player.
we didn't even have a look at him. eds just wondering is it true that some french clubs sell players to bigger clubs at very high prices while the same player is made available to other clubs at reasonable price ? i even feel stupid writing this but i read it somewhere.

{Ed001's Note - it was a comment by one particular owner that English clubs will pay more that dates back a number of years now. I am not even sure that owner is still around and it was only about players he didn't want to sell, he was saying he would ask ridiculous money and get it from English clubs.}

24 Jun 2015 08:51:23
@ ED001: I think it was te Lyon chairman/president Jean.Michel AULAS who once said that. If I remeber correctly.

{Ed001's Note - that is it! You are spot on thank you, well it was certainly Lyon's chairman anyway, so I assume it was him as he is the only chairman there I have heard of.}

24 Jun 2015 09:07:52
There was some interest a few years back ( maybe 4?) he had a great season last year but seemed fairly inconsistent and was out injured at the time ( which most likely ended the interest) seems good value at 12 odd mil.

24 Jun 2015 05:16:44
Imagine this coming days FSG decide to part ways with Rodgers? or telling him that we like to continue with you but if only you agree to no2 role? after announcing Firmino and co signings. this would have been a fortune turning decision by FSG and they could win many friends and even get a song from the kop. to Sakho & Ilori raters, don't harm yourselves and the club progression. despite their potential, the potential of reliability is not there and they are likely to get crook and miss games on season process. to me Skrtel is a v.good defender, reliable and adaptive as he played under different managers here, winning lfc best player of the year under the previous manager. it is apparent that defensive set up and positioning is coachable along with any system, Guadiola, Mou etc are doing it which Rodgers has fail in his 3yrs here, despite the personality at the back, Rodgers defense is always at lost. we will lament Skrtel departure.

24 Jun 2015 04:17:18
Just Tell me when the season starts. Firmino is a good signing, seen him play a few times and he is very gifted, has flair and can score goals. Hope we do better this season YWNA

24 Jun 2015 00:29:16
DO you think Eds if Firmino deal likely that perhaps Sterling has been sold in principle too, or that a silent deal has been agreed?

{Ed002's Note - I would not try to complicate matters that way.}

24 Jun 2015 00:24:02
HI Eds
I think attracting Firmino is great and not someone i thought would potentially come to us. I see some mentioning £20 million though and while i am not asking for costs etc i think its closer to £40 million.
Anyhow my question is do you think, while very talented, he is the player we need?
Do you rate him

Also i personally hope Lucas stays and we end up with 3 brazilians to keep him company!

{Ed002's Note - Firmino is certainly a decent player and a good addition. Not sure how he will be used.}

23 Jun 2015 23:56:27
Eds,

How many players do you think we will buy this summer. Its already seeming like a fair few (5 already if firminho is confirmed)

+ potentially kovacic.

Do you think we will look to buy someone to replace sterling once he has gone too?

Thanks v much

{Ed002's Note - I have explained where there is interest and would think Rodgers may look to use the new and existing resources to replace Sterling.}

24 Jun 2015 05:02:32
Looks like we haven't learnt our lesson from last year. I know people are excited, but this is looking like a shambles again. Where are the two or three absolute quality additions we need for the first team? Firmino should be a first team addition, as will Milner - but was Milner needed? Bogdan to replace Jones, Ings (with Origi coming back)another young defender? We are clueless in the transfer market.

24 Jun 2015 06:29:58
Good news about Firmino but he is not the answer to our striker woes, and neither is Ings. Unless we sign a top striker this window, i do not expect us to make the top4 next season either as goals win u matches, and our midfielders simply do not score enough to compensate for the lack of a world class striker. Hopefully Bacca is next on the list rather than Kovacic who imo would be a luxury signing at this point.

24 Jun 2015 08:54:52
Early days yet people. The club just make a very decent signing (hopefully finalised!), with no messing around as usual, and you instantly moan?! Just enjoy the moment and have a little patience.

24 Jun 2015 10:36:49
I don't think kovacic would be a luxury signing at all. Firmino was the luxury signing.!

23 Jun 2015 23:48:32
I know we tend not to talk about money, but the £29m reported on the BBC just seems unbelievable!

Surely they must be talking about total value of transfer rather than just the transfer fee?

Not saying he isn't worth that, but the reports to date had the fee pegged so much lower?

Are you able to clarify at all Eds?

{Ed002's Note - I have explained the situation as far as I need to.}

23 Jun 2015 23:20:45
Ed can I ask the question on everyone's mind? Is Sky sports correct about Firmino being close to signing after a deal has been agreed with hoffeinham?
Thanks

{Ed002's Note - See previous answers.}

24 Jun 2015 01:07:23
No point in signing quality attacking players if we don't have a dm and play skrtel as first choice.

24 Jun 2015 01:52:49
Yeah look at Barcelona.

Mate, this lad is going to be a great player for us.

24 Jun 2015 07:06:46
To be fair I don't think signing boss defensive players would make much difference when it's clear there is something not right with the way the defence is coached.

23 Jun 2015 23:40:40
Ian Ayre. You went and signed Firminio

AND TOTALLY REDEEMED YOURSELF.

24 Jun 2015 02:44:46
Redeemed himself? Liverpool are a transfer joke regardless of getting firmino. Not putting the blame firmly on ayre but we had an alright reputation before he started negotiating deals. So yeah.

24 Jun 2015 10:18:44
You missed the reference Kman!

23 Jun 2015 23:06:44
We've all read the firmino reports at this stage and hopefully after you've flushed away your used tissues you'll read give your take on my observation.

Despite now knowing it's not the useful and reliable source it once was I still tend to go into the echos site each day.

I've been on it a couple of times today and all they had about firmino was a report about Liverpool being linked with him, bacca and rondon, the Eds have been answering questions all day as a result. only after reading these reports coming out in the last hour or so I decided to go back into the echo site and all of a sudden they too are saying a deal is agreed but the part that caught my attention is the time they claim the report was published. 1.45pm today.

Now I've been on that site since then and that report was nowhere to be seen and only appeared after it broke from another source.

Anyone else notice this????!

23 Jun 2015 23:10:14
I have to say the Firmino deal looks more and more as it is going to happened. I hope no last minute surprises. Unlike other people here who keep on moaning about him or Kovachich this is not exactly what we need, I think this is exactly what we need.

I know that a lot of people here believe that our squad is made of 11 Ronaldos and the only reason we were rubbish last year is that BR played them our of position or is clueless more generally. Without taking anything from his responsibility to our form, I think we have several players in the team that wouldn't make it even to the bench of some of the other top4 and are just not good enough. And this include the midfield.

In any case - nothing bad in having many options - ManU have the following options in midfield: Mata, Di Maria, Carrick,Herrera, Blind, Fellaini,Janusz, Valencia Young and Depay. Most of them would have walked into our starting 11 and they are still looking for more . Why we have to have only 4-5?

The two questions left are of course what made Firmino chose us given that many CL clubs were probably interested and also what happened to the warning that we have to sell first before we buy. Not complaining at all, very happy with that, but how come it suddenly seems BR has open cheque and on the other hand there is no urgency to sell players (e.g. rejecting 40M bid for Sterling, keeping Baloteli, Toure, Skertl, Lucas etc).

24 Jun 2015 03:10:54
A few people have said the same about our players but i disagree. Player for player we have a really strong squad, its just not being used effectively.
We are short on a quality striker but our midfield is solid and we have some good defenders. Easily as good as Man u, and arsenal Imo, but maybe man city and chelsea have a slighlty better squad. but not much in it for me. if we can grab a great finisher

{Ed001's Note - I think the main difference is in the teams, Chelsea, City and Arsenal have a stronger first choice team, right now. Squad wise ours is as strong as anyone's. I hope we continue to work on improving the team, rather than the squad. Chelsea have shown clearly that a small tight knit squad works best. Barcelona do not use all that many players either. You need to keep a strong core that plays together consistently and develops a good understanding of the system you use, most of the time. We used too many players and too many systems, styles of play and formations.}

23 Jun 2015 22:35:52
The thought of Coutinho and Firmino REALLY excites me. I don't even think he's what we need but when a quality player like him comes up in the market then you don't say no. He is a pure FLAIR footballer. This signing is up there with Suarez and Torres and that they have shown obvious substantial amounts of quality with a LOT more to go.

This is a step in the right direction, I hope we follow this up with perhaps Bacca and Clyne. Then focusing on shifting players out,

Man am I going to look silly if it doesn't eventually finalise.

{Ed007's Note - Never mind looking silly if it doesn't happen, emphasising 'really' the way you did makes you sound kind of creepy, just remember and wash your hands :)