Liverpool Banter Archive December 27 2017

 

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27 Dec 2017 23:57:09
Just got in to hear the news and I want to add my two pence worth.

Ignore the money, if VVD is the best CB available for Klopp's style then it's right to pay the asking price. Far better that than we buy someone not as good who won't fix our problems and we're stuck with for three years.

This raises the obvious question, is VVD the best CB available? I won't claim to be able to answer this, I know he's highly thought of by some and less so by others. All I can say is that Klopp clearly thinks he is and if we have faith in Klopp we have to back him now.

I will point out one concern I have however, VVDs situation is similar to Coutinho's but one's playing really well for his team with an excellent attitude, the other isn't. I find VVDs lack of professionalism worrying, I hope I'm proved wrong in this matter.

Believable5 Unbelievable4

28 Dec 2017 00:10:26
Completely agree with your first paragraph. Sure all signings are gambles, but he is the real deal. Better to get it sorted now than sign average players and be in the same position.
Disagree with your 3rd paragraph though mate. Couts may be playing well for the highlight reel, but his tracking back and attitude has been appalling.


28 Dec 2017 00:28:17
BBC interview with former Celtic scout (someone mcguinness i think) is quite interesting. Few good points made about new dimension he'll give. Does seem to err on the side of attack over defence, however. Pace and strength is not always enough. I'm pretty optimistic though.


28 Dec 2017 00:42:29
From my eyes I don't think his tracking back has been appalling. I think he does have that lazy style look about him at times but I'd much rather him save energy and was effective in our attacking third than him being laboured come half way through the game. I believe it may be an instruction of Klopp to do just that. Having said that I thought he worked well against Swansea but that's playing in the front 3 so perhaps that's where he is most suited.


28 Dec 2017 05:10:53
I think it’s important that we get the players in which the manager wants. Klopp clearly wanted VVD for about the last 12 months.
The club has done the business, there’s nothing to complain about from my point of view. If you’re going to support the manager you have to spend the money.
It’s up to Klopp and VVD now to do the business on the field. I think he’s a very good signing, but he’s not the final piece in the puzzle.


{Ed001's Note - is there ever such a thing as a final piece? Unless you are Wenger, in which case it was Petr Cech who was the final piece to bring the league title to Ars..... oh wait! The key is to never rest on your laurels and keep improving constantly.

I totally agree with your post by the way Ron. This is the way it should be, buy the players that are identified as the right ones, rather than settling for someone who will do. Klopp will have no reason to complain now if we are not at least 4th by the end of the season. Preferably higher, but staying in the top 4 while being competitive in Europe is progress.}

28 Dec 2017 05:27:51
The best aspect about the VVD is that this was the player we want, look at what happened when we went after our plans B or C's. We ended up with the likes of Balotelli and Aquilani. Also when we have taken risks on promising players we ended up with Albero, Aspas, Borini, Allen, Assaidi and Markovic to name a few - how much wastage is in that lot?


28 Dec 2017 06:25:33
Good run in the fa cup and Cl with a top four finish is definitely progress for this season.


28 Dec 2017 09:06:04
Carlos great shout mate.


28 Dec 2017 09:21:43
Wasn't Salah plan C as well?


28 Dec 2017 09:46:52
Yes Europe and he wants out already.


27 Dec 2017 23:25:11
This VVD transfer proves that fault finders will never stop complaining even if they are in the paradise! 😪.

Believable10 Unbelievable2

28 Dec 2017 04:05:38
Some people are never happy ey?! ;)


27 Dec 2017 23:12:44
Butland and Alisson of Roma being looked at. Goretzka 50/ 50 chance, apparently interested in the move. Akanji from Basel a possible summer target.

Believable8 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 23:43:04
*Credit to Graeme Kelly/ Grizz Khan (twitter) *.


28 Dec 2017 00:17:32
Oh, I mentioned Alisson here few days ago saying we should go for him. May be Klopp has read my post!


28 Dec 2017 02:01:03
German media: Goretzka will probably move to Barcelona. His agent talked to them in last summer.

Haven’t really seen him being linked with Liverpool (at least nothing in recent past in German media) . He has to decide his future in the next few months (Manager told him that he has till the end of winter to decide if he wants to renew his contract or leave in the summer) so there will be a decision in the next few months but it will probably be either Barcelona or Juventus.


28 Dec 2017 07:06:57
Butland is still struggling after injury IMO.
I don’t think the timing is right to sign him but I do think he will be a good keeper in the future.
Don’t know much about Alisson.


28 Dec 2017 09:45:35
doesnt allison keep ederson out of the brazil team? who we know is a good keeper.


28 Dec 2017 12:49:04
I still think Karius can rise to the occasion if given the chance and confidence by Klopp. Don't see the need to be looking at other keepers. Unless Mignolet is moved on.


27 Dec 2017 23:10:57
Nice to have signed VVD. Now let's sign up Stefan De Vrij and Jose Maria Gimenez on free transfers for next season if possible. We'd have a miserly defence next season if we did and great squad depth.

Believable6 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 23:25:44
Eds do u think there is room too buy a defensive midfielder an keeper in January, I know the keeper situation awkward as we have 2 others ward an karius who potentially could b good, surely mignolets had his chance, a Def mid an quality keeper would b defensive heaven along with big vvd.


{Ed002's Note - The club are doing Ok and it seems unlikely that Klopp would look to a change of formation.}

28 Dec 2017 00:54:33
do we need a defensive midfielder? or just a midfielder who is naturally more defensive? are they the same thing!? CDM doesn't suit our formation, but it may be more helpful to have someone in that midfield group that is naturally adept to reading the game defensive side of things. altho i do think Hendo and Can are learning the role well, but obviously one is on his way out.


28 Dec 2017 13:13:43
gimenez contract expires 2019 he came out and said.


27 Dec 2017 22:43:12
Hey eds and Reds, trying to get a neutral opinion on the VVD transfer so if either ed002 or maybe ed025 could give us an opinion of the official VVD transfer? I understand the fee might be inflated but I don't really want to go into figures about it just more about the player himself. Do you think he is a good fit for lfc and will he improve us as a team?

Believable2 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - He has the capability to be a very good player but will need to apply himself. A defensive coach would help.}

27 Dec 2017 22:58:52
Could a defensive coach have improved Lovren et al?

Hopefully the set pieces debacle may now be reduced,

Also I hope the lads injury issues are a thing of the past,


27 Dec 2017 23:17:00
Is a defensive coach something that is being considered ed002? I agree I think vvd could become a real great player for lfc but am concerned that under klopp the type of football we are seeing and at times amazing as it is then we won't see a great lfc defensive team. Hope I'm wrong because sometimes watching us break on teams and how we go about attacking them is breathtaking just hope vvd can help us be more solid and help us win trophies.


{Ed002's Note - Klopp has always said no.}

27 Dec 2017 23:29:28
Do the other top 6 have defensive coaches, like city last year they were all over the place an this season got it right, Chelsea last year started iffy then went too 3 at back an won league, have they got defence coaches influencing what goes on pitch.


{Ed002's Note - Most clubs do and yes, they influence the team.}

27 Dec 2017 23:36:43
See Gary Neville havin a go at money we spent on vvd, bottom line if u a top six club after top players u have too spend big, he only has too look at man utd, nearly hundred each for pogba an lukaku, lindelof 38 million Shaw 35 million, martial 75 million, think Neville should b moaning about utd, sour grapes sounds like cos he knows if vvd is on form there isn't many better.


28 Dec 2017 00:17:10
The same Neville who after the Arsenal game slated Lfc for not spending big money on defence! Our back 5 in that game pretty much cost the same as Lindalof or mangala both of whom who are subs at our rivals. The fee is higher than I had hoped but as everyone has said our defence has needed money spent on it for some time, hopefully a top gk arrives also. As compared with our rivals whos gk saves them a lot of points over a season. Mignolet just doesn't and cost us points.


27 Dec 2017 22:06:26
Yes Klopp has got it terribly wrong in tapping up VVD in the summer.
Yes we are all entitled to our opinion on this open forum.

Can we all just take in that most of the players that Klopp has signed or has used through the youth set up have come in and done a grand job giving time and patience.

Salah, Mane, Ox, Moreno, TAA, Gomez. Just to name a few. Personally I'm going to give VVD until the summer and judge him then. Remember, he didn't ask to be priced at £75m. That's what Liverpool payed
Welcome Virgil and good luck.

Believable18 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 22:20:38
Fair point gazza.


27 Dec 2017 22:38:49
I think he will do okay this season for us through to summer. Might even come, click straight away and be that missing piece. Think he should give us that etc to make sure we get fourth at least again.

But he should get a good pre-season specially since Holland aren't going to the world cup. Next season he should be that focal point of the back four.


27 Dec 2017 21:21:32
Quick question for Ed7 if I may, how much was raised in total for the Hamilton food bank Charity mate?

Believable6 Unbelievable0

{Ed007's Note - All in we raised £860 mate, with the Just Giving fees off it was £796 that I just rounded up to the £800. That's an absolutely fantastic amount that was greatly appreciated by the women who run it.}

27 Dec 2017 22:12:58
Fantastic news mate, I had no idea it'd be that much, it's a pleasure to donate to such a charity. Well done for setting this up Ed7, this kind of stuff should be more often :)


27 Dec 2017 22:00:35
Vvd with matip, vvd with Gomez when Clyne is back, vvd with lovren or none as stated wats your back 4 if not for this season but next season Ed’s? mine is Clyne, vvd, matip, Gomes left back until he gets more experience to challenge for Cb cheers guys.

Believable0 Unbelievable12

27 Dec 2017 22:09:54
You really want Clyne back? for me it'd be Moreno VVD, Gomez, TAA/ a new RB.


27 Dec 2017 22:26:38
For the rest of the season I would like to see the below given a run. However I think how the full backs are worked with the four players is good for them.

Karius.
Alexander-Arnold/ Gomez.
Van Dijk.
Lovren.
Moreno/ Robertson.


27 Dec 2017 23:59:04
Good possibility if we secure one of Gimenez or De Vrij as a free transfer next month for the summer, we can move one of Klavan or Matip or both even next summer.

With both Meyer and Goretzka both able to be signed for free for next summer in January I really hope we secure these two as well. Would be a great position to know that come next summer we have already secured Goretzka, Meyer, De Vrij/ Gimenez and Keita already.


28 Dec 2017 01:32:59
For me Klaven has head and shoulders been our best centre back the last few matches.
Not a high bar I know but he does everything a third / forth pick CB should do, and I'd trust him over our first two CBs all day long.


27 Dec 2017 21:59:54
Ed's-do you think we will buy a massive tent after our "statement of intent" signing?

Believable2 Unbelievable3

27 Dec 2017 23:56:38
Please take this to the 'bad jokes' page please;)


27 Dec 2017 21:56:58
Anyone else feel like I do that announcing the VVD deal so early is a precept to Coutinho leaving? Just feels like we can only spend £75m on a defender if there’s big money incoming.
Pleased that we appear to have improved the CB position but gutted about Coutinho (even though he has been a very naughty boy. then again Torres, Mascherano, Suarez all did the same to leave us and Mcmanaman was even worse)

Believable0 Unbelievable3

{Ed002's Note - There have been a whole load of transfers agreed and announced.}

27 Dec 2017 21:09:00
Really hate the phrase "statement of intent" only makes us seem more like a club chasing after the likes of United, City, Chelsea etc. Do either of their fans say this when they sign players.? What's the intent? The only intent has been to fill a problem position within the team that's so desperately needed attention for some time. Do people really think the owners or club care about sending messages to any of the other clubs. Do people actually think that other teams will actually sit back and say, "oh Jesus Liverpool have just signed such an such". The only ones of them that care are the clubs that have sold the player or the teams that didn't manage to sign them.

Anyway happy we've signed a CB to try and help solve our problems, don't think VVD was the answer though and certainly not at the price paid, but hopefully he proves me wrong.

Believable2 Unbelievable11

27 Dec 2017 21:14:46
It’s media BS remember when Lukaku was winning the league for the Man U boys down in Kent?


27 Dec 2017 21:45:12
Spot on, OP. That phrase is nothing but complete horse manure. Club's and managers do not do their transfer business with that nonsensical phrase in mind and neither do they do it in function of what their rivals do. Clubs work hard to improve their teams and nothing more. It is all a way by the media to get the fans riled up for no reason and make them turn on the club or manager if things do not work out.


27 Dec 2017 21:56:45
Well said BR.


27 Dec 2017 23:10:30
Whether any of us agree or disagree on VVD is not really important,

Klopp said that there were certain players he would sign if possible, not compromise players that got us to where we were under Brendan,
VVD is one, Kieta is another,

These players now know a top manager wanted them and didn't go elsewhere when the going got tough buying compromise signings on big wages and long contracts.

The manager and the club have followed through for these players,

These players now know how high they were rated and should be ready to run through a brick wall for the manager,

Exciting times ahead for us,

YNWA.


27 Dec 2017 20:58:42
Klopp is always right in the end.

Believable6 Unbelievable2

27 Dec 2017 21:45:39
We shall see, Jezza.


27 Dec 2017 20:53:24
I'm staggered by the VVD transfer. I shouldn't be because football has transcended into this obscure surreal reality. The fees, wages etc are like telephone numbers and yet we still all feed into it and enable the madness. I for one don't think VVD is the best use of 75 million quid and I think there were better CB's out there for the price. But then again I didn't want us to sign The Ox and he's on his way to proving me wrong. I truly hope VVD does the same and if he does I'll gladly eat 3 slices of humble pie. Welcome to Liverpool Football Club Virgil and I hope you go on to become a club legend. YNWA.

Believable15 Unbelievable2

27 Dec 2017 21:02:31
Let’s be honest. When there are people homeless and starving in our own country it seems vulgar. But it is what it is. Can’t say that I’m not impressed with the work that the club have put in.


27 Dec 2017 21:15:43
At the end of the day if LFC said ‘we aren’t signing anybody we’re giving it to charity’ I’m sure everybody would be happy?


27 Dec 2017 21:49:40
Well, we can sign people for what the market demands unfortunately AND be very socially active in the community in terms of charitable work and caring for the most vulnerable. Both can be done at the same time.

As for VVD, OI am with you Ed333. Id id not want Ox here neither and he is coming good so I will defer to Klopp on this one and he will have my full backing cos if he succeeds in helping us fix the defence (he will not solve all our issues) then that is all I care about in the end.


27 Dec 2017 21:59:28
Who is better then? I don't see many centre backs world wide with leader qualities, quick and mobile and with a good free kick too
If you want silly prices wait till the world cups over
Stop whining about money, we all know how the market has gone, it ain't pretty but i guarantee if city had signed him for that money and gone on to be a revelation then youd all be complaining we didn't sign him.
Give the boy a chance hey.


27 Dec 2017 23:19:06
Any club with 2 decent centre backs know that the best they can hope for is to have 2,3,or 4 top Prem clubs after their players.

With the money available in the prem these selling clubs can rebuild their whole team on one sale from a bidding war.


27 Dec 2017 20:50:41
Now that Van Dijk has been confirmed I'm hoping we can agree a pre contract deal for De Vrij for the summer. Would also give us the opportunity to let Klavan go, you could even argue one of Matip or Lovren could leave also.

Four is enough centre back wise and a quartet of Van Dijk, Gomez, De Vrij and one of Lovren/ Matip is more than enough. We also have Keita agreed so that's another guaranteed. Hopefully Karius can get a run in the first team in this second part of the season.

I hope we also look at the number of players who can agree free transfers in the summer such as Goretzka and Meyer both would be great additions and both can sign pre contracts next month. We know we are losing Coutinho and Can in the summer so business could be done as early as January for three additions in De Vrij, Goretzka and Meyer.

I know it won't happen but for me I'd also be pushing to trying to sign Sanchez in this window, but I'm dreaming I just feel if you don't try you don't know.

Believable5 Unbelievable3

27 Dec 2017 21:51:39
Jonesred, I do not rate De Vrij as he is injury prone and lacks the pace and athleticism that is needed to play in the PL and in a high line as he plays in a slower league. We don't need a CB right now as we already have 5 on the books already and again, how will Gomez develop at CB if another one is signed?


27 Dec 2017 22:06:08
He has had one injury since coming to England. He is very athletic and he is quicker than matip lovren and raggy together. Think your thinking of dik van dyke.


27 Dec 2017 20:23:26
Cautiously optimistic about VVD, clearly an upgrade, but will he do the business and be the player we all hope he will be? Hope so.
Just need to find him a partner (maybe he's already at the club) and a top goalie and we won't be far off the top again.

Believable5 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 20:29:52
Now we have him, I'd like to see Gomez partner him and us go for a quality RB and rotate him with TAA, we all know TAA will probably move onto the midfield so in an ideal situation, I'd hope for a quality RB incoming but that probably won't happen lol either way, we've added to the ranks and I'm quite chuft, said earlier I was always against the transfer but he will be an improvement and gets my backing 100%.


27 Dec 2017 20:36:24
I would be happy for Gomez to stay at right back, he is doing well. Only when or if TAA is ready for a more regular spot would i move Gomez to CB.


27 Dec 2017 21:54:43
Gomez should continue his apprenticeship at RB, IMO. He will get his chance next season BUT he needs to be playing RB now to get him exposed to and get games under his belt while he is learning the ropes of top level football. Now, If I had to pick who should partner VVD, it would be Lovren cos he simply has more ability as a CB and is miles ahead of Matip. The prob with Lovren is what's between his ears, not his ability as a footballer.


27 Dec 2017 20:10:58
Ed will VVD be eligible to play against Burnley on jan 1. I know it's highly unlikely he would be picked if so as he wouldn't have trained but I was just wondering.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - No.}

27 Dec 2017 20:47:47
Like we need VVD against Burnley.


27 Dec 2017 21:00:15
Careful Acered.


27 Dec 2017 21:22:21
Niceone Acered you've jinxed it now.


27 Dec 2017 21:55:39
Acered, clearly you have not seen Burnley play. They are a nightmare to play against.


27 Dec 2017 20:10:40
I posted the other day how important I thought Jan transfer window would be for us- given the tight battle for securing a CL place.
Seems as though we have started on the right foot.

Believable6 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 20:03:53
Hi ed1 what do u make of mourinhos commenta that man utd haven't spent enough to compete with man city? I know man city have blown 400 mill since pep arrived but man u aren't far shy of that but haven't been finding the players they used to compete? Being that we have spent less and are only 5 points behind now with a good defender and hopefully a decent keeper if mignolet gets dropped we can push for higher up the league. I think mourinho is on the wane and results are showing it regardless of spend a good squad can be built over time doesn't need to be done over a summer?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - Jose is just embarrassing himself and has turned into a parody of all he stood for. I fail to see how lack of spending was behind United failing to beat Burnley, when their whole club could have been bought for the amount Jose has spent in just the last 2 seasons.}

27 Dec 2017 20:13:19
Andy, I agree. Jose is talking nonsense and it seems he is starting to implode a year earlier than normal.


27 Dec 2017 21:51:05
I will respect Jose when he wins a trophy and states it was down to the players.

The bloke is pure Teflon and when things don’t work out he blames others -when they do it’s down to him.


27 Dec 2017 21:58:14
Tony Pulis With Money, is embarrassing himself once again and we all knew this would happen as soon as things stopped going his way. He will be off in the summer as Utd will not win the PL nor CL which is what he was asked to do and not to win trophies like the CCC, EL or EFL, the very same trophies he trashed as Losers' Trophies years ago.


27 Dec 2017 22:51:30
Mourinho said City spend more on full backs than other teams do on strikers. Jesus 27 mill and Shaw 30 mill 🤦🏻‍♂.


27 Dec 2017 19:55:10


But were have all the morons come from? Instead of actually being happy we have signed a player its turned into slagging off one of the best people on this site Ed002.

Ed didn't get anything wrong at all. We DID turn our attention elsewere, We just got the green light and went about it quickly.

So to all the morons grow up you idiots.

Believable16 Unbelievable5

27 Dec 2017 20:02:16
Scarry, it is just posters who are interested in being right (which they are NOY, btw) . I would not pay attention to them if I were you.


27 Dec 2017 20:24:38
Exactly mate, good post, half of the fools giving him digs are never seen posting till now just to be idiotic, sad.


27 Dec 2017 19:46:33
VVD done and I for one am excited. Ed1 I know he can go for walkabouts but his talent is there and if he performs to his potential then we might well have one of the best defenders on our books. Klopp also has a habit of proving me and many of fans wrong with signings and current players who perform better than expected. I am not bothered about the transfer fee as its not my money and Man City have shown that sometimes you have to pay over the odds to get a player, although it could have been less if we didn't screw up in the summer. Personally would still buy Stefan De Vrij and partner him with VVD and have Gomez rotating with Arnold at right back but also in some games play a back 3 of Vrij, VVD and Gomez or days when Vrij needs a rest bring in Gomez alongside VVD.

Believable2 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - fingers crossed mate.}

27 Dec 2017 20:04:48
Alonso, VVD will not solve our defensive issues on his and the pressure on him is massive. As for De Vrij, I would not touch him at all as he is injury-prone and lacks pace. Wer have Gomez who will be THE CB of the future along with VVD so why sign a guy to block him from being the CB we all want him to be?


27 Dec 2017 20:46:58
Brover I respect your opinion but If you look back at my post I did not once say he would solve our defensive problems. Now if you ask me what will, it would be a defensive midfielder to protect the back 4, a goalkeeper who can do the basic whether that's Karius or we bring in someone and someone to partner VVD. Stefan De Vrij is a good defender and good option, is also a leader and experienced. Joe Gomez as we all know is a centre back but is also 20 years old let's not forget. In my post I stated bringing in De Vrij which would allow Joe Gomez to continue learning at right back but would give him plenty of games also in the centre, which would in turn allow Arnold who is 19 years old to grow in the right back role for a few years until he eventually moves further up the field.


27 Dec 2017 22:04:56
Alonso, I never said you said that. I just made that point as part of my post. I understand what you are or were saying overall. I just do not rate De Vrij and frankly, I'd give Gomez the chance to be the CB and not get anyone else in to block his progression which is what De Vrij would be, IMO.

As for DM's, Klopp does not play w/ a traditional DM as that will not work in the high tempo, high energy style we play in. What he wants to do is play with a double pivot of two dynamic midfielders say like Kante/ Bakayoko who are not true DM's BUT are capable of braking up play and launching attacks as soon as the ball is won. Conte is doing the same thing with Baka/ Kante (hence Cesc can't get a game) since he lost Matic. This is why Klopp signed Naby in the first place. Now the question becomes who will pair Naby in that double pivot scenario. That is the question now.


27 Dec 2017 22:10:52
Bro and Alonso, you have both made some great points, and I am sure that Klopp will be thinking about what is best to do and when, let's enjoy the good times that will be coming our way .


27 Dec 2017 22:30:23
Brover - We would have to agree to disagree on De Virj but on the midfield role I think you raised a good point. Defensive midfielder in the mold of Kante is what I should have said who is good at shielding the back 4 but doesn't just sit back and gets involved further up the pitch. Who to partner Naby Kieta is an interesting one indeed. I know who I would love and have said many times but he is out of reach and that is Julian Weigl. Would love to hear who you would have to partner Naby Keita?

Happy To Be Red - I am with you let's enjoy the good times that are hopefully to come.


28 Dec 2017 09:22:58
Is Kante a DM or is he an excellent midfielder who has all round abilities which include tackling, clearances, breaking up play and reading the game along with his attacking attributes as well.


27 Dec 2017 19:40:46
So what next in January for the mighty Liverpool can we make anymore quality signings and catch the park the bus brigade in second place?

Believable2 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 20:25:07
I’ve heard from a very good source that jack butland is virtually done as well.


27 Dec 2017 22:05:40
Pls no, Fowler. Butland is awful, overrated and injury prone.


27 Dec 2017 19:33:48
Just a few things after the Van Dijk signing:

1. This site is going to go into meltdown

2. Some people rate him, some people don't. Some people think the £75m was worth it and some people don't. Either way, he's now a Liverpool player and we all need to get behind him and support him. Also, he has had attitude problems in the past, but Mane also did. As long as VVD gives 100% for the club on and off the pitch, then I'll give him my support.

3. Did we try to repair relationships with Southampton? I really think this is more important than the Van Dijk signing. It's time we play by the rules, no matter what other clubs do, and foster good relations with other teams. We can't claim to be one of the biggest clubs in the world if we go about destroying players' careers and pissing off half the footballing world.

4. We now have five CBs although Gomez plays as RB more often than not. I still hope Gomez gets a chance in the centre even if chances look slim. I also feel for Klavan because Van Dijk and Lovren are guaranteed a place ahead of him on the left side of the defence. Yes, he was signed as a backup but he's always played his heart out and has been pretty solid. If I had to choose, I'd like Klavan to stay on as a backup next season too.

5. Are we going to sign another centreback? De Vrij can be snapped up for a free, and I think it could turn out to be a shrewd signing. He's Dutch and should be able to strike up a good partnership with Van Dijk, he plays on the right side whereas VVD plays on the left. He's good on the ball and a good organiser and leader. I can see it happening especially if two of Matip, Lovren and Klavan leave in the summer. I'd be quietly optimistic if our four CB options turn out to be VVD, De Vrij, Gomez and Klavan by the start of next season.

Anyway, I suppose this is Klopp's Christmas present, and I hope it turns out to be a fantastic investment.

Believable8 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 19:50:49
Great minds think alike as I just posted something similar that we should still buy Vrij and partner him with VVD, also was thinking the same thing that Klavan would be happy as a back up and can come into the team in crisis and still do a reasonably good job.


27 Dec 2017 19:50:51
Zpecialone, I am and always have been a VVD skeptic and the money is WAY too much for a CB tho talented BUT with that many flaws to his game. There are better options out there for that amount BUT this was a Klopp signing as we all know it was VVD or bust so I will defer to him as I did with Ox and Ox is coming good as we speak. BUT as you say, he is our player now and regardless of what I think, he will get my full support. Welcome to LFC, son! We are with you all the way.


27 Dec 2017 19:57:14
You didn't add a
6. Who will be the outs, to balance up the outlay on Van Dijk?
Can, Sturridge, Markovic?
I hope that Coutinho and Salah aren't sold (yet) ; that would be typical FSG - one step forward, one step back.

However, fair play to them for getting this done. We've got a very decent team in the making.


27 Dec 2017 20:20:09
BRover: I also think he's got flaws in his game, but who knows, this could be a Klopp masterstroke. He's definitely got all the physical attributes so it's up to Klopp and VVD to sort his concentration and mentality out. Getting a CB in this market for good money is not easy (look at Spurs spending £40m for Sanchez) so I'm all for giving him a chance and my full support.

The Juicer: Coutinho will leave either in January or in the summer, I think we have to accept that and the club should as well. I can see Sturridge, Markovic and at least one or two CBs sold by this summer as well. Can, Ings, Ward and Grujic will probably leave either on loan or on a free by this summer too so the club will be saving on those wages. I really don't think FSG and Peter Moore didn't consider balancing the books in signing VVD. They are businessmen after all, and I still have faith that they will get things right. They have thrown money into the club and I think they deserve our support too. Yes, they've screwed up but not due to malice. They want to make money on their investment in the club, and the only way to do that is to build the best team possible, it's a mutual and reciprocal relationship.


27 Dec 2017 19:30:52
75 million eh? Anything is possible, ask that 10/ 10 girl out, eat the whole damn cake, apply to play for Liverpool, ask for a wage rise, buy the London Shard, ask ed2 what his name is, get a beard as mighty as Joe Allens, aim for the skies!

Believable8 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 19:52:20
Not a VVD fan BUT he is ours now and will get my backing, 100%. One thing I do love about this signing is that, Klopp in some way kept his promise that he would sign him when the opportunity came again and I'm happy we did not leave him out to dry after the summer fiasco.


27 Dec 2017 19:27:11
Hi Ed

Just thought I would give you a break from all the Van Dijk stuff and ask you a quick question concerning Goretzka. Am I right in thinking he is pretty much nailed on to join Barcelona or has the situation changed?

I know Goretzka can sign a pre-contract in January, just wondering if there is any update on this front.

Thanks in advance, and I hope you have a happy new year when eventually comes around :D.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - Schalke has made him a very good offer to stay and Barcelona are one of the interested sides but there is no agreement at this time. One way or the other it will soon become clear.}

27 Dec 2017 19:33:59
Can Goretzka sign a pre contract? He's 22 now so I thought he would've been underage or is it that because his birthday is in February he'll be 23 by the time he joins his new club in the summer?


{Ed002's Note - In January. It is unrelated to his age.}

27 Dec 2017 19:36:45
Couple of reliable twitter accounts think Goretzka wants LFC too. Would be a good signing and probably Coutinho's direct replacement.


27 Dec 2017 19:37:10
My bad ed, I thought there was some stipulation involving age and signing pre contacts.


{Ed002's Note - Nope.}

27 Dec 2017 19:21:01
Ed001 while I'm not convinced VVD is the player the press think he is I'm pleased to see we've got the deal done, my question would be who would you pair him with? I think Matip would be best until Gomez is ready. Bigger issue for me is will we sign a keeper?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - do you not think Matip and VVD are too similar in style?}

27 Dec 2017 19:34:06
I would prefer Lovren personally. At least Lovren tries, Matip just wanders around and avoids getting involved. Lovren, regardless of performance, always plays with his heart and gives his all. Can you say the same for Matip.

Plus, as ED001 eluded too, Matip and Lovren have a similar style, both like to bring the ball out and are classed by many as ball playing center-backs. In my opinion, Klopp brought in Van Dijk to replace Matip. Matip will now be rotational, Van Dijk a starter.

Van Dijk is an improvement on Matip, definitely, but I still have reservations about whether he is good enough to help solidify this defence. Regardless, I think Van Dijk will not be enough and, to make it fair on him, will require more reinforcements in defence, including a goalkeeper. Unfortunately, that will not be forthcoming, so Van Dijk will need to help ease our defensive problems as quickly as possible.

Best of luck to the man.


27 Dec 2017 19:37:33
One player can head it.
One player can run.
One player can speak.
The other player is getting sold in the summer.


27 Dec 2017 19:42:58
Van dijk and Gomez excites me that's the future right there rotating with matip lovren an klavan for cup games, wonder if klopp goes after a new right back to accommodate Gomez going in centre or rely on Trent a Arnold with clyne coming back, even if clyne dad would take him till next season to get properly going.


27 Dec 2017 19:54:47
I would prefer Lovren myself, Ed. VVD is just as lazy tracking back as Matip is and also, Lo ren can play RCB now as VVD played on the left (if Im not mistaken) at Saints. I have my doubts about VVD like many others BUT he's our guy now and will have my full backing.


27 Dec 2017 20:05:51
Matip is too slow.


27 Dec 2017 19:15:32
Want to stress that this isn't a dig at the eds cause i know it might be seen that way! Just genuinely curious.

ED001, you've said a few times since the summer that we've moved on from VVD, so am just wondering whether why you didn't know about it? Has the club just played this one that close to their chests and shut down any leaks that much since the summer? Appreciate it.

Cheers, Kyle.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - because it was a case of us looking elsewhere until Saints gave the green light. It was all up to the Saints, Van Dijk spent all summer begging them to allow him to join us, as I said at the time. As soon as they decided that they would sell to us, there was only a fee to be agreed, which took no time as we were happy to meet the asking price in order to appease them following the messing around in the summer.}

27 Dec 2017 19:40:50
That makes perfect sense. I know he would not be your choice Ed001 but I have high hopes for him. I think the signing is a game changer.


{Ed001's Note - I hope so mate.}

27 Dec 2017 19:56:46
Spot on, Ed. The ball was always in the Saints court cos for Klopp, it was VVD or bust so all the Saints had to do was give us the signal to come to the table and if we were going to pay the 75m in the summer, there was nothing stopping us from paying it now esp. since Klopp wanted VVD at ALL costs.


27 Dec 2017 20:00:23
It was a clean end to a long messy affair, think of it as a axeman having a few goes with a blunt axe and not even making a cut, but on his 5th try he sweeps the head clean off in one go. Does that sound right?

Sorry for the repost, I replied to the wrong thread.


{Ed001's Note - yep, it is what we should have done in the summer imo.}

27 Dec 2017 20:13:46
Gotcha, cheers for the reply!


27 Dec 2017 19:14:50
Now we have vvd which I am ecstatic about! can people stop moaning about the price we have paid or that he is just a good player he is an excellent player and has potential to become world class, a lot better than what we have now also is he eligible to play in the champions league this season?

Believable3 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - Of course - LFC would need to remove someone from the squad but he can be added.}

27 Dec 2017 19:29:09
We could remove Markovic, couldn't we?

He was added to the squad but has never even had a chance to play in any competition, not even the League cup. Plus he will be on his way out in January, regardless of whether it is for a fee or he leaves for nothing.


{Ed002's Note - I did not know he was in the squad - but the club are pushing to sell him in January to stop him walking away for nothing two weeks after the season end.}

27 Dec 2017 19:35:50
It was a clean end to a long messy affair, think of it as a axeman having a few goes with a blunt axe and not even making a cut, but on his 5th try he sweeps the head clean off in one go. Does that sound right?


27 Dec 2017 19:38:00
I assume we're probably going to remove Bogdan. I don't really see a point in a fourth choice keeper considering Klopp sticks to one keeper no matter what anyway. Or Ward might leave since he gets no game time here.

The only other option is if one of the CBs (Klavan? ) leaves because of this signing.


27 Dec 2017 21:11:39
Cheers Ed002 made my Xmas this all the best to you pal.


27 Dec 2017 19:10:32
I am so so so happy I’ve just seen news now I honestly have wanted this beast for last 2 Years even at Celtic I thought he looked a prospect. We needed this reds yes fee is huge it is over top but market is like this and is he better than what we have it’s a no brainier don’t worry prices we clearly had money too do it and we haven’t perisnaly spent on him so don’t worry price let’s just get behind this but really am happy we have got VVD and Keita too come summer do believe our team is looking stronger than has been long long time within this.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 19:06:58
Hi All posted this back in September, so glad we have got a real defender, in Klopp we Trust YNWA

16 Sep 2017 12:11:47
Hi fellow Reds

Regretfully I'm old enough to remember the glory days so am in a decent position to make comparisons to the good and the bad over the years.
This season, at times the playing style has really impressed and on times I've seen some of the best we have played for many years maybe since the late 80s. The way we can move the ball from back to front with so much speed is fantastic to watch. Interplay between the front 3 and the midfield is seamless. Of all our games we should have blown the opposition away. With Couts and Lallana coming back it can only get better. Klopp for me has been a revelation he is so positive and honest and for some pundits and fans to have a go at him I think is a little unjustified, and here's why.
Over the past 15 years every manager we have had has spent vast amount of our money on dross, we could all list 30 players and more who were second rate players we bought (Kroncamp, el zar, joe cole, etc wow) . Every year we have bought 6, 7, 8 or more players to appease the fans. No thought has been given to the future, only trying to band aid the present, then we were left with players we can't sell.
Now we have a manger who is trying to buy players that he believes will strengthen the first 11 and who can really make an impact and if he can't get the right man then he is prepared to wait (remember the Balotelli saga omg) . People are on his back about VDD, however that's who he wanted and I'm sure his second in line wasn't available. So, he has put his money in his pocket and is prepared to wait. I'm sure he knows we will get VDD in January and if not he has given himself time to look around. He knows if we had spent the extra in the Summer he would not have been match fit until at least mid-October (as Southampton are finding out) . So why not leave him get fit with his club then go for him in January ready to play.
If we get VDD, then our transfers would have been Kieta, Sala, Robertson, Ox and VDD - I'm happy with that!
Klopp I'm sure knows where our problems lie as do all the fans, but I think we should trust him and I'm sure in a very short time he will get it right.
The only thing that's letting us down is individual mistakes made by the same old faces, slowly but surely these will be moving on, just give him a little time.
We are in the Champions league for the first time in 8 years, and on times look world beaters - have patience and Klopp will get it right, I am sure

Evered.
Evered.

Believable3 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 19:06:23
Well we can't say the owners aren't backing Klopp.

Believable7 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 19:46:41
Complete agree mate just went on John Henry’s twitter and seen amount crap he gets fsg out all this and nasty remarks saying sign VVD so much all his posts well they all should thank him for tbis news now and amount crap he’s had off a lot red supporters, welcome anfield Van Dijk really happy your in board and red now we’ll all red haha.


27 Dec 2017 20:00:54
Drogie, the owners have always backed the managers they have hired. The prob is that some of our own fans delude themselves into thinking that they are NOT backing the manager cos the owners are not putting money forth for the manager to sign players for crazy money like City or Chelsea or Utd do, as if the owners sign players.


27 Dec 2017 19:00:31
Made up with the signing. It's a lot of money but it's not my money and we need a big commanding centre back. Of course it's a gamble but so were Firmino, Salah and Mane and they turned out OK. Let's get behind him and with Gomez, TTA and Moreno finding some form suddenly the future of our defence looks promising now. Just need to sort out the goalkeeper now.

Believable4 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:56:09
Welcome to the best team in the world VVD.
So excited to see what you can bring,

Believable7 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:42:01
ED001 penny for your thoughts on the VVD news? Personally cannot believe the figure, seems outrageously over the top - also not convinced he is even close to the best we could of found for the position. Time will tell, Oxlaide-Chamberlain has proven me very wrong, but this doesn't seem like smart business to me.

P. s. this isn't negativity, merely an opinion.

Believable3 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - I don't care about the money, nor do I like VVD as a player, but I will withhold judgement on him. Klopp must have in mind what he wants his centre back to do and feels he can cover the weaknesses in his game by the way we play. Fingers crossed Klopp is right, but he is a step up over our current centre backs so that is moving forward.}

27 Dec 2017 19:04:26
A sensible approach Ed, think I will do the same.


27 Dec 2017 19:05:32
Agreed Ed1. Good to see you around more often again mate hope you and your family had a great Christmas together.


{Ed001's Note - they are still here mate, so I will withhold judgement on that too. At least until after me ma is out of sight so she can't give us a belt for saying anything else ;-)

27 Dec 2017 19:15:46
Good assumption Ed001.


27 Dec 2017 18:35:18
Ed1 mate. If you have time amidst the madness do you think us signing VVD would mean Coutinho is leaving this window (in your opinion) .

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - not related at all. Klopp would have bought VVD in the summer if he could have.}

27 Dec 2017 18:56:09
Welcome to the best team in the world VVD.
So excited to see what you can bring,

Believable2 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:55:34
I was against this transfer before it happened, but he's now a red so welcome to Liverpool VVD! I wish him the best of luck at our club.

Just a side note, somebody having a dig or trying to have one at Ed2, what's the point in that? get over yourself mate.

Believable7 Unbelievable2

27 Dec 2017 18:50:39
Questions for Ed1 if you're about? Paying 75 mil for a centre half would suggest he's a definitely starter, but who would you want to see alongside him out the current group? Do you think it's a bit too early for Joe Gomez to move across? I'd like to see them play together. With TAA and Moreno as full backs. Everyone excited on here tonight (me included! ) thanks for all the work and have a great new year (to all the Ed's) 👍.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - never too early for Gomez, but I would have worries about him being hung out to dry by van Dijk when he goes a-wandering as he has a tendency to do. It is a difficult one as Lovren can be rash and get caught out but van Dijk did not look at all comfortable playing on the right side of defence, so it rules out Klavan and puts it between Gomez, Lovren and Matip. VVD is just a better Matip, so it would be pointless putting the pair together. I would like it to be Gomez, but it is likely it will be Lovren or Matip until the summer. I expect Klopp to go with Matip but out of the two I would probably choose Lovren if his head is right.}

27 Dec 2017 19:00:50
Cheers Ed1.


27 Dec 2017 19:14:35
I would go with Lovren and VVD for now. Then maybe sign De Vrij in the summer to partner VVD coz I don't fancy a VVD-Matip partnership at all. Or play 3 at the back of Gomez, VVD and Lovren for now.


27 Dec 2017 18:50:21
Reds calm down like the eds say for
Many years don't get caught up on the money Side of things . All we need to think is every fan has said we need a centre half and the club/ klopp have went and got their 1st choice let's get behind the lad the club and let's see if we can improve as a team and club from this whole saga .

Cmon the redmen.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:47:51
The Ed's never ruled the vvd deal out just said it would be hard if Southampton didn't want to play ball.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 18:45:03
75 million.

Jesus christ, that is a lot of money for a player who has yet to prove his quality outside of the Premier League.

I hope, screw it, I pray, that Van Dijk proves me wrong and I am forever labelled a clueless Liverpool fan, lacking in intelligence and class. But this signing, record signing in fact, strikes me as very desperate and ill thought out move by the transfer committee.

Van Dijk will be under pressure immediately to play a part in fixing out numerous defensive issues. And if, or perhaps even when, we start conceding goals with him in the side, both Klopp and Liverpool will be hammered in the press and by the fans too. There will be no respite, the attention will be laser focus and unrelenting.

A dangerous, dangerous move in my opinion. I only hope Van Dijk makes me look like a fool. I really, really hope he makes me eat my words because I do not believe he is the answer. In fact, I believe he might even make the situation worse.

So, I beg you Van Dijk, make me look like an idiot in the years to come. Please, show the world what you are capable of.

Believable2 Unbelievable5

27 Dec 2017 18:44:32
The new CEO Peter Moore came in in June. Too late to have a real impact on the Summer Transfer window. If sorting out the mess with Southampton and securing the manager's top target before the transfer window even opens is how he does his business then signs are good for him. Well done to him and his team.

Believable17 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 19:31:08
Excellent post.


27 Dec 2017 21:49:11
Not trying to be a Debbie Downer or anything here, but Peter Moore does not deal with our transfers. May be, he was responsible for healing a broken relationship with Southampton (honestly not even sure if that kind of PR work is handled by a CEO), but in his own admission a few months ago, he clearly stated that he is not responsible for Transfers and that's purely down to Michael Edwards and Jurgen Klopp (and the Scouting teams) .


28 Dec 2017 01:21:38
The CEO of any business manages the heads of each department. He/ she is involved in everything.


27 Dec 2017 18:43:04
Hi Ed2, Merry Christmas.

I didn’t see the part where FSG withdrew their apology for allegedly ‘tapping up’ VVD. I understood from you that this would need to happen prior to any deal being done?

I have been away for a while so maybe I missed it? - I’ve also used search engine but nada.

Believable2 Unbelievable5

{Ed002's Note - So you don't think that was discussed? You don't think there was a loss of face for the owners here - knowing that unprofessionalism and cheating win out? So you think it is worthwhile having a go at me? You seems to only be interested in taking a shot at others on this site - last time it was Macca, this time me, and I see you next post it is many of the posters.. Don't come back.}

27 Dec 2017 19:02:29
Why even give morons like this a reply or even post it? don't waste your time, he obviously isn't worth anyones effort.


27 Dec 2017 18:41:06
I love football, at 39 I still play every week. Love liverpool and hate that I can not stop watching England. But the money is getting to my nerves. £75m for a decent defender is too much. And this is the tip of the iceberg.

I am going to take my son to watch semi pro football and hope he just loves playing as much as me.

I feel totally disconnected.

Believable5 Unbelievable2

27 Dec 2017 19:04:44
Its the way of the football world Mikey. Hard to stomach, i agree but what can you do? I can't stop supporting Liverpool or following football in general. So i guess i just suck it up!


27 Dec 2017 19:09:46
It is what it is fella, we all have to move on a realise the money that is being produced in modern day football.


27 Dec 2017 19:22:57
True, and for the record it is not VVD'S fault he plays the game at a time of silly money. I love the game and the tribal banter. The hope and fear but not the largesse.


27 Dec 2017 18:35:10
Let me get this straight. VVD was being considered as one of the missing pieces for our team. Now we've signed him, fans are questioning the merits of signing hinand questioning his quality? For gods sake let's get behind the lad! He's not even kicked a ball for us yet and we are trying to decide if he's worth it? Let's trust the club, let's trust Klopp and let's support the team whatever happens. Welcome to LFC VVD!

Believable5 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 18:33:09
Ed I don't get this at all. I was resigned to getting De Vrij or Howedes in as CB this Jan and all VVD posts were knocked back. Now everyone and everywere including the club website is confirming its done. Was you not aware at this stage? Also surely means Couts is off in January to help offset the fee?

Believable1 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - The trouble is that you can't see the bigger picture about clubs having a number of targets in the same position. In the Sharkopod I mentioned Van Dijk, De Vrij and Howedes and the youngster Schuurs who decided a move elsewhere was better for him. You decide in your own mind what is happening and then seem shocked. As for Coutinho, I have explained over and over the difficulty of being precise about timings. I am well aware he wants to leave as soon as he can but he may need to be resigned it may not be as soon as he would like. Liverpool would I am sure be reluctant to sell in January but circumstances may be such they do agree a transfer for January or the summer.}

27 Dec 2017 18:52:50
ED02, really appreciate all the info you have given us, I have to agree not once did you say this move was not possible, you indicated it would reflect badly on Liverpool which in fairness it clearly does, tapping up with little consequence? Can’t be good for football.

I just hope VVD becomes a player worthy of this risk and investment.

Happy holidays Ed and thanks.


{Ed002's Note - He certainly has the capability to be a very good player. And enjoy your holiday.}

27 Dec 2017 19:31:03
And don’t worry about the Neanderthal’s on here Ed 2.


27 Dec 2017 19:41:03
Cheers for your reply ed. I do use your info to create the picture of what is happening, I have always only listened on here so with what has been said over and over that's the reason I assumed we had moved on.

Thanks again. let's hope he performs.


27 Dec 2017 18:24:12
Just need to get his mate from Lazio now. and a keeper.

Believable5 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:44:57
We get Stefan Dec vrij in Jan and we will be in dreamland. Have a feeling we are about to lose coutinho tho.


27 Dec 2017 18:20:55
Gutted with this news. Too much for any player and after the way it was done. Out of order by the club.

Believable2 Unbelievable14

27 Dec 2017 18:25:10
We've just bought the best centre back the premier league has seen since vidic retired and terry lost his legs. Who cares about price? Are you paying for it?
The mans a beast and will apply himself fully at his new club. Buzzing.


27 Dec 2017 18:35:22
Yes in a way us fans are paying for it. Working man can't afford to go any more and just cancelled sky. So I strongly disagree.


27 Dec 2017 18:35:50
Come on Denzil! Look in the mirror and give yourself a slap. 🤗.


27 Dec 2017 18:39:43
Benny, the best CB in the league?
Does Alderweireld play rugby by any chance? Or Christensen play table tennis?


27 Dec 2017 18:40:56
Sure 75 is too much. 50 mil is too much, so is 25. Most of the money will in some way or another come out of the fans' pockets.

But it's a silly market with silly money flying around and if we want our beloved club to succeed players able to improve on what we got will cost these amounts and we'll have to accept the cost for tickets, shirts and tv.


27 Dec 2017 18:47:30
Spot on benny all these know it all don't listen to twitter folk eat your words that includes Mr Dennis who said it will never happen he's nailed on for city best start eating the humble pie left over from Christmas.
Vvd is a lot of money agreed but who else of proven quality is out there?
People say his attitude is rotten that's only because he doesn't want to play at Southampton simple as that so get over it an support the bloke, I'm absolutely over the moon well done LFC.


{Ed001's Note - his attitude was rotten even before he wanted to leave Saints, so fail to see that it is related to that.}

27 Dec 2017 18:48:53
Thrilled with the VVD transfer, and I am of the opinion that the club did right by all parties, after the summer.
Truly excited to see VVD in our shirt!


27 Dec 2017 18:59:45
Forget the money, and enjoy what he will bring.
I don't understand some fans never happy.
Thank you to fsg.


27 Dec 2017 19:25:03
I assume you are referring to my post creesejack so I will respond. I am for most part very happy and was very happy watching the 5.0 victory this weekend. especially happy when a certain local young full back rocketed a screamer in off the bar.


27 Dec 2017 18:10:54
What?!?! We've just signed Van Dijk!

Believable7 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:12:51
Hahahahaha when the twitter people are right. no comments.


27 Dec 2017 18:23:01
Can he play in goal?


27 Dec 2017 18:24:03
its been announced on the bbc. i know its not the most credible but seems legit. like mané before him who came in with a negative reputation I'm going to wait until vvd has actually played for liverpool before judging. YNWA.


27 Dec 2017 18:09:30
About time too haha brilliant signing will give everyone a lift . Will have to work for his place tho hasn’t played a lot this year looks like he needs to get in shape before he goes right in the team .

Believable3 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:07:26
Absolutely made up.
Yes we haven't behaved in the best way but he is a massive upgrade on what we've got.
Welcome to LFC!

Believable5 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 18:24:57
fingers crossed.


27 Dec 2017 18:17:45
If Klopp wanted him that bad, the well done to FSG for backing their manager.
But 75 million pounds? That's ridiculous imo.
Thoughts Ed001.


{Ed001's Note - stupid move, the lad was desperate to join us but he is not the player we need. Still it will at least hopefully put a sock in the idiotic comments about Klopp not trying to buy a defender that we have to read repeatedly over and over since the summer.}

27 Dec 2017 18:06:06
Get in, showing that we are serious in moving forward now! We've just beat City to one of the best centre halves in the world. He will help improve Lovren and Matip. Most gutted man on earth award goes to . ed 2.

Believable8 Unbelievable7

{Ed002's Note - Will you explain your dig at me please? Why would I be upset by this?}

27 Dec 2017 18:13:01
They are going over the moon with the news Ed. In a day they will come to their senses :)


27 Dec 2017 18:38:57
Ignore the idiots Ed, they just don't get it.


{Ed002's Note - It is an excellent opportunity for a cleansing - lots of accounts are getting deleted Seano.}

27 Dec 2017 18:42:35
Ed 2 I think that was tongue in cheek. But if not, he's a muppet. Most of us appreciate all the hard work and valuable insight you provide.


{Ed002's Note - It turned out that he was the wanker his father should have been.}

27 Dec 2017 17:51:09
Ed is it possible that Southampton came to Liverpool now and offered them VVD for £75mill.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - I think it very unlikely.}

27 Dec 2017 18:03:43
Top class signing.


27 Dec 2017 15:48:48
How good ed001 do you think rob Jones could have been but for injuries?

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - he was the best right back I have ever seen. Was a superlative defender but also excellent at getting forward and providing width. Dani Alves, Cafu etc were better attackers but Jones was light years ahead of them defensively.}

27 Dec 2017 16:22:17
Don't really remember Rob Jones ed01, but i know how much you love Zanetti, like me, from a previous chat we had. Was Jones even better than Zanetti? If so, i am struggling to comprehend in my head how good he was! Hope you've had a great Crimbo mate and have an even better new year :)


{Ed001's Note - he was that good he was better than Zanetti at right back, but Zanetti was better in every other position on the pitch. Jones was also a very good wing back but I would have taken Zanetti over him in that position. As a right back though, in my lifetime watching football, I have not seen better than Jones. His debut was against Giggs and he completely shut him out of the game after joining from Crewe. It was a brilliant performance. I am not a fan of the saying world class, but he was world class.}

27 Dec 2017 16:45:52
Zanetti's story about his mother brings tears every time I read it.


27 Dec 2017 16:49:12
Greatest right back of his era but not the brightest hence his dressing room nickname of "double trigger" after the character in "only Fools and Horses" that was also he name of a top notch race gorse at the time.


27 Dec 2017 16:30:29
Cheers mate, he must of been special as Zanetti was special and pretty much world class in whatever position you asked him to play. Take it easy bud.


{Ed001's Note - Zanetti is a big fave of mine but Jones truly was special. Mind, so was Zanetti.}

27 Dec 2017 17:32:53
He was a great right back, probably the best I've ever seen too (although I'm not really old enough to remember Nicol) . I remember he was shifted to the left for a season or so. Why was this? Was it to accommodate McAteer (who I also rated quite highly), or am I getting my dates mixed up?


27 Dec 2017 17:36:18
If memory serves correctly I think Jones’ first game after arriving from crew was against Utd and was excellent. Certainly grabbed a hell of a player from lower leagues (how many times does that happen these days? ) . Shame injury effected his career so badly.


27 Dec 2017 17:57:59
If It hadn't been for Jones's injuries Gary Neville would never have won as many caps for England as he did.


27 Dec 2017 17:53:28
Like you said Ed. He was the only one to keep Giggs quiet in those days. Such a shame his career was so short.


27 Dec 2017 18:19:39
Hi edd01 do you think there's much comparison between Nicol and Zanetti?


{Ed001's Note - yes, a lot of comparison, though Zanetti was better, there are a lot of similarities in their ability to play in any position and look like it was their natural one.}

27 Dec 2017 18:43:03
4th division on Friday.1st division on Sunday v giggs. Think it was nil nil and he hit the post if memory is not awry! Although he seemed to hit the post most games because he couldn't score. Great player and unstoppable relationship with mcmanaman. What would he be worth now.


27 Dec 2017 14:32:23
Ed's, hope you've all had a great Christmas.
I've tried the search engine but haven't found much, just wondering if you think Klopp will try to sign a new 'keeper in the summer (assuming we don't get one in Jan as you've said this isn't a great time to buy 'keepers)?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - In the summer perhaps. Right now Liverpool has four first team goalkeepers and with Bogdan likely to be let go and Ward likely wanting to leave they will either need to promote or buy one in.}

27 Dec 2017 14:48:38
I hope for Ward's sake he does go to be honest. He isn't going to get a chance here which is unfortunate, he needs to think of his career and move on. Feel for the lad really.


27 Dec 2017 16:08:49
Still can’t believe ward has not had a look in with us this season. the once I seen him in a cup game he looked much better than migs (. I know that’s not saying much) I’m a welsh red and see a lot of ward in goal for wales and he’s much better than what we have been witnessing from the other 2.


{Ed002's Note - He will no doubt be talking with his agent about his future and come the summer will need to look for a new employer.}

28 Dec 2017 10:23:12
Thanks for the reply!
Happy New Year Ed’s!


27 Dec 2017 14:28:16
Just wanted to pop in quickly to apologise to Mcgoveb (i think it was your request) .

I was supposed to be doing a mid-season review on Christmas Eve but my holidays have gone completely toots up.

I was involved in a car accident in my first day off work and the other driver is being a bit difficult. All of my free time in between family, friends and the football has been spent on hold with insurance and leasing companies.

I am sorry to have let you down on that, but as soon as i get the chance, I'll get writing.

What a win last night though for the reds! Swansea might not score many, but they don't concede many either. We cut them to pieces. Special mention to Trent and Ox on scoring their first Anfield goal in the Premier League! Both brilliant volleys as well!

Believable8 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 15:13:16
Stick a dash cam on next years list to Santa mate.
Hope it works out positively for you soon.


27 Dec 2017 15:19:39
If you need any help let me know. i work in the industry mate 👌.


27 Dec 2017 16:31:34
Are you a Bangor racer redhead?


27 Dec 2017 17:43:35
Get well soon Adam :)


27 Dec 2017 22:35:07
Family priorities always come first MK so. mo worries mate. Hope you get a successful outcome and your Christmas wasn't completely ruined.


27 Dec 2017 13:55:25
Because you are probably not busy enough as it is but ed1- I was wondering if you'd be able to do an article on the young lads currently looking to make the breakthrough into the first team over the next two or so seasons. Namely any young defenders. I ask, because the insane numbers bandied around the media of transfers is staggering and maybe a lot of posters could get excited at the prospect of youth coming through the ranks. And perhaps even an update on the starlets who's glimmer have faded somewhat. Anything to educate us further really. No bother if it's not the right time at all. Cheers.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - I have added it to the to do list mate cheers.}

27 Dec 2017 12:23:49
Ed1 was wondering what your thoughts are about the ox on how he's started his Liverpool career.

Believable7 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - I have been really impressed with his attitude, the maturity he has shown in interviews and approached games has been excellent. His performances are improving too. Not yet done enough to nail down a place, but he is getting there.}

27 Dec 2017 15:55:40
Couldn’t of said it any better eds I think he’s been good so far.


27 Dec 2017 13:45:48
Ed002.

Quick question if I may.

I've heard the likes of Amazon are looking to try and tap into the game, is this true? If so, what impact do you think it will have if any?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - Amazon are potential bidders when television rights come up for various sports - they already have some sports such as tennis in their growing portfolio. Again Google and Netflix are potential bidders as well. The Premier League rights will be too expensive for them to be bidding the whole thing but if small packages were to be sold they are potential buyers. They would each be looking to be using their streaming capabilities but would need to abide by the PL/FL rules for streaming within the UK - in the same way as clubs who sell live streaming of their games do now. In the longer term things will change significantly, but not before 2022.}

27 Dec 2017 14:01:47
Ok thanks, Netflix, that was the other one is heard. . In what way will things significant change come 2022? Would this have anything to do with the break away European League?


{Ed002's Note - It is when there is the next bidding for PL television rights after the 2019 bidding. It will change again with the breakaway and sides expected to leave the PL - but that looks likely to be later than that after the recent discussions.}

27 Dec 2017 14:12:39
Ok. Thanks Ed.


27 Dec 2017 16:06:18
What's the opinions of everyone on here (eds included) on this breakaway league?


{Ed002's Note - In terms of what in particular?}

27 Dec 2017 16:49:56
Hi Ed002 this is about the only topic I don't agree with you on. I just can't see any of the top premier league clubs leaving to join a European league. The interest after a couple of seasons would fade, I wouldn't enjoy watching Liverpool long term in a new league.

I think the premier league when the time comes will have to let the bigger clubs sell some of their own TV rights. Also what happens to the Champions League? It would just lose all it's appeal, the same teams would be just playing over and over. Also I can see many court cases if teams try to break away.


{Ed002's Note - There are three PL clubs already involved in the discussions. What Court Cases do you see?}

27 Dec 2017 08:37:19
Ed 001, can't understand your criticism of Robertson. He's head and shoulders above Moreno. Shouldn't even be a debating point. Agreed he's not world class but neither are any of our other defenders. At the moment he's doing a job and doing it far better than Moreno.

Believable5 Unbelievable10

{Ed001's Note - is he? In what way do you think he is doing better? He is struggling defensively, can't stop crosses, can't put crosses in and looked half the player TAA was on the other side. I think you are seeing something that is not there in your desperation to be a boo boy and get on Moreno's back. Moreno has been much better than Robertson this season. You have been verbally masturbating over every Robertson performance, you must be related to him or something because you are seeing something that isn't there yet.}

27 Dec 2017 10:56:20
I'm with you there Ed1. Moreno ahead of Robertson anyday of the week for me.


27 Dec 2017 11:06:19
I think Robertson has done ok since he's filled in. He's hardly a top class left back but for 8 mill he's not really put a foot wrong for me. Moreno has improved considerably this year and recovered well from his Sevilla nightmare which shows how strong his character is. Roberston has been receiving a little bit of stick whilst the Ox has been getting the praises. However I think If Klopp fielded his strongest team neither would be in the starting 11.


27 Dec 2017 11:07:33
Not much to split them in my opinion. Moreno offers more going forward because of his pace but defensively they are both on a similar level, moreno is just more rash in tackles at times. Moreno just edges it for me. Robbo is certainly challenging for that position when Moreno is fit again. Either way that position is being played better than Milner played it last season imo.


27 Dec 2017 11:09:05
I think they are of a similar level to be honest. But have to admit iam far less nervous when Robertson is defending around or in the box. Compared to moreno who is very rash at times. Just my opinion. Anyway great performance 2nd half last night after a slow start. So glad Firmino is getting the goals and acknowledgement he deserves fantastic player.


27 Dec 2017 11:10:43
I think Moreno has been pretty good this season. I don't understand the acquisition of Robertson myself as he is not at Moreno level at the moment maybe he will surpass him maybe not. But he's not the level or calibre yet of what was needed.


27 Dec 2017 11:52:35
How many points/ goals has Moreno cost us? And how many has Robertson? On that basis alone Moreno should never go on that team sheet ahead of Robbo.

I'm not saying he's the answer to our left back issue but at the moment he's the best we've got and hasn't cost us any points so let's get behind him instead of getting on his back.


27 Dec 2017 12:02:10
Robbo over Moreno all day long for me. Neither are brilliant but Moreno, as much as he’s improved is an accident waiting to happen and we already have CBs and a keeper that make enough mistakes.


27 Dec 2017 12:03:45
Difficult one this, moreno has improved yes but still has it in him to have a complete disaster of a game, a dangerously rash tackle, a defencive brain fart or being caught upfield, he’s improved in these areas but it’s still in him and that makes the team and defence nervous in my opinion, he is however quite good this season going forward, much more effective than he has been previously.
Robbo I find is more consistent than moreno in that each performance is roughly the same, that being said his performances have all been below par, I do find him better defensively and the rest of the defence seems to be more organised with him in it, he’s been quite poor going forward though.
Robbo needs to do much more in this run of games to get the place in my opinion, he needs to better understand our forwards runs so his crossing is much more effective, I would like to think he has it in him to take morenos place but I don’t think he will.
Long term I don’t think either are the answer and both are expendable in my eyes as soon as someone better is found, would love to be proven wrong though, both players being at a similar level should spur them both on to fight for the place and I don’t see replacing them as a matter of urgency like I did last year, we need a new goalie and centre back first.


27 Dec 2017 12:19:13
the reason why Robertson become first choice LB is because Moreno is injured. if not Robertson will back to his normal position, bench.


27 Dec 2017 12:29:56
Everyone has their own opinion but the fact is Robertson is finding his feet as a Liverpool player. His deliveries are much better than Moreno’s and he doesn’t self destruct like Moreno. Defensively we have been solid since he has come in, Arsenal game aside for which 2 of the goals were down to the clown in goal. Robertson will be a steady 7 out of 10 week in week out. Hard to judge him against TAA who is really developing into an excellent player. For him to be performing like that at 19 years old is an excellent sign for the future . Him and Gomez have saved us a fortune!


27 Dec 2017 12:55:42
The lad is a good signing and will get better has been a massive step up, but he's doing fairly well I watched him all season at hull and he is solid and works hard for the team, don't think he has done an awful lot wrong in his games this season, in the games Trent has played he has also been caught out but both have great potential and pleased getting games, I have no problem with Moreno his attitude has been fantastic and deserves his place up until he got injured . Although we won 5-0 I thought the team in general where all average so I feel the criticism of Robertson is a bit harsh except for firminho who was fantastic the team was a bit slow and passing was poor all over the place at times and against better operation would come unstuck.


27 Dec 2017 13:05:10
Aimlessly crossing the ball into the box doesn't count as good delivery. I can imagine that he has been talked to about this by Klopp. As in the recent weeks the number of crosses put by him has gone down.

I don't understand how people say that he is defensively solid is beyond me. The only outlet Swansea had in the entire match is from his side and at one point he was beaten by Wayne Routledge by an old 'kick the ball past and run' trick. To be honest Milner did more offensively and defensively in that match than Robbo. That is not me saying Milner should be playing there. Cause I am not.

I don't hate Robertson, he is okay from what I have seen till now and nothing more. Moreno has done more and imo has the tools to be even better. So I don't get this obession with having Robbo in our starting XI? The only logical explanation is the last time we were league champions we had a few Scotsmen in our starting XI :P.


27 Dec 2017 13:14:44
I think that Robertson needs a good run in the team before he becomes first choice,
pity Robertson didn't play agianst Seville, having said that, we really need to invest some money in our goalie and back four, when we do that we will be top four every season,
cant be buying attacking players all the time, when you watch MOTD, some of the defensive errors are just not good enough,
but who do we bring in, this window, its got to be a centre back .


27 Dec 2017 13:17:33
I don't think Robertson has done badly but also he's not don't that well, he's been nothing more than ok. My main issue with him is the same issue I had with Milner playing there, for some reason he keeps coming inside when he gets the ball and closes down other peoples space. After watching him the couple of times he has played I would say the only attribute he has over Moreno is that he doesn't make rash/ ridiculously stupid challenges in dangerous areas. Being as we've dominated the ball in our last several games I think we've missed Moreno personally.


27 Dec 2017 13:32:43
He’s got quite a distance to go yet. Maybe a few more matches where he’s put under pressure might be the making of the lad. As it is, he hasn’t been tested yet still has been beaten far too easily on occasion but while I’m not at all ready to say he’ll dislodge Moreno, I certainly think there has been a slight improvement in his game. This can only be a good thing for the lad, the club, and for Moreno as competition. I still think the first thing he needs to do is improve his decision making. Any lad can whip in a decent cross from the wing, but there’s no point if there’s no player waiting for it. I like his energy which can always be mistaken for ability but hopefully like the great Steve finan, he can surprise us all. For now, if Moreno was fit, he has to play.


27 Dec 2017 13:46:38
don't get all this robbo bashing we all know he's not first choice left back and Moreno has been playing well but still prone to mistakes robbo is part of the Liverpool squad and we all have different opinions on players but just get behind the lad while he's in the team.


27 Dec 2017 14:13:28
What I like about Robertson is his short range passing. Seems to be developing some chemistry with Coutinho in that department. Some smart runs to go along with that too.

He does have some adjusting to do at the other end. Seems to forget some of the basics from time to time, much like our other defenders. Klopp needs to take some time on the training field to adress this, like he has done with Moreno. Get the balance right between pressing/ dropping, starting a move forward/ circulating the ball and so on.

Seems a bit over eager the last couple of games.


27 Dec 2017 14:14:33
also we look so much more fluid without hendo, really hope he leaves this summer maybe to stoke with his sideways twin allen.


27 Dec 2017 14:12:30
i guess you're related to henderson then ed? robbo has improved every game now couts trusts him motm for me.


{Ed001's Note - I can't even be bothered with moronic comments like this. Couts trusts him? What kind of nonsense is that? The lad couldn't stop a single cross from the worst attacking side in the Premier League yet somehow he has become the messiah because he wasn't playing. Embarrassing. Moreno was far better this season, apart from one game. Robertson has a long way to go yet.

As for steve, it is not bashing him to pick out his many faults, it is stupidity to verbally masturbate over a player who is so far away from the level we need if we are to win things. He needs to be looking at his performances and learning from them, not be told he is great by the clueless lot that just want to use him to attack Moreno because they have decided he is their latest target for abuse.}

27 Dec 2017 14:28:31
Lerchy, What does Hendo have to do with the Moreno/ Robbo discussion or are you just desperate for some Hendo bashing?


27 Dec 2017 14:38:38
Redmist, if you are dwelling on the past perfs. of Moreno then you will always have something to moan about every LFC player BUT that is not the issue, is it? Robbo is not on Moreno's level just yet. People say they had seen a lot of him already in an LFC shirt. Well, the guy has only played 5 or 6 games so don't know how much one can conclude from so little games. Moreno is the better player and has improved both defensively and was already way better than Robbo offensively.

People say Robbo puts in good crosses. Sorry, his crosses are to no one in particular and just putting in inaccurate crosses is not a quality. Look at the crosses TAA puts in. They are quality. Also, Moreno is a bit more unpredictable in his crosses as you don't know if he will ping one in front of goal, the back post or cut it back. This makes him very difficult to defend against hence, way better than Robbo in this regard.

As I mentioned earlier, Robbo is still learning the way we play so needs to show more in more games and those bigging him up are doing him a disservice cos right now, he is just a work in progress. How a "work in progress" can be better than Moreno defies logic, IMO.


27 Dec 2017 15:06:11
i was at the match lads and wij or couts didn't provide any cover but trent had emre and salah covering. i find it quite funny my comments to be moronic when the whole kop was buzzing off robbo. what i find moronic is thinking we can progress with moreno and hendo when they have offered nothing in the years they've been here. like the end of last season everyone's buzzing off migs improvement then he goes back to showing people exactly what he is, crap. as are the other two they're major liabilities. never been good enough and never will be so let's blindly support them, that's not moronic then? hendo is joe allens level and moreno ain't even junior level.


27 Dec 2017 18:02:34
Final post on this topic.

The number of points Moreno has cost us he wouldn't get into any other Premiership team. I see Ed001 constantly slagging off Migs for costing us games and points but how is Moreno any different. Even when he has a decent game he is liable to making a rash challenge and giving away free kicks in dangerous areas and even penalties. He is also constantly being caught out of position bombing forward when we should be consolidating our lead with a few mins of the match remaining. If you're going to criticise Migs then by the same logic you should be criticising Moreno.

He is the weakest link in our defence and given what we have in the centre that's saying something. When Robbo starts costing us points I will readily begin laying into him. Until then I'm prepared to give back the lad and give him the chance he's waited for.


{Ed001's Note - I give up, people just want to see stuff that isn't there. I criticise Moreno when he makes mistakes as well but you are so busy talking crap you fail to read that. This whole thread is pointless. You are just all wasting my time with your inability to read. I will just ignore you in future, as it is pointless talking to someone who is unable to read the replies.}

27 Dec 2017 22:32:06
Is this the same Moreno who was mercifully slagged off on here for the last 2 years. Comments like, " he should never put on a Liverpool shirt again ". " Not good enough, and never will be to play for Liverpool ". " Must be Klopp's favourite to be picked every game ". " Can't defend to save his life, and is nothing but a liability "
Oh, THAT Moreno.


27 Dec 2017 22:33:55
Robbo has been steady since Moreno's injury. his better than Milner. like Spurs, we have adequate cover in the fullback areas. not world class, but adequate.


27 Dec 2017 09:53:28
I think this January is going to be key in determining how our season unfurls - this post is merely a vague discussion/ opinion of the challenges to come in the next month or so.

We have Leicester on saturday at home - a potential banana skin vs a manager who eeked out numerous results against us whilst Southampton boss, hopefully we have enough going forward (as well as no brain farts at the back - Vardy is a worry) to take the 3 points.

This game is followed by a very tricky match at Burnley who have been very tough to beat under Dyche - I think given the way we play, our record at Turf Moor and their form this season makes that game very much on a knife edge - I think we'll need some luck, and a lot of fight, to claim all three points.

It's then FA cup derby day - the very definition of a coin flip and one I feel useless to speculate about as anything can happen - IF we play to our potential and finish our chances we are more than capable of progressing however, as we saw last time, things don't always work out as planned.

We then have City at home - now they are playing some scintillating football but I do feel that the fear factor surrounding them is causing many teams to restrict their own attacking ambitions against what is, in my opinion, a fairly average defence. I think our willingness to attack will be crucial and I think we are well capable of ending their excellent run (provided it hasn't already been ended by that date) - I'm unconvinced by their defenders and think they can be gotten at, the question is what sort of defending will we see from ourselves - Jekyll or Hyde?

What then follows are two away games against two of the Premier Leagues relegation candidates. First is Swansea - we played well last night but, let's be honest, they were equally awful. Unless they manage to pull off some transfer wizardry (which seems unlikely with Jenkins seemingly OK with asset-stripping the club), or hire a new manager who is able to reel off a few good results, I would fancy us to do very well - 3 points and nothing less is the only acceptable outcome if we aim to be maintaining top 4 aspirations.

The second team we travel to are newboys Huddersfield. Now, though we dispatched them fairly comfortably at Anfield, they have shown the ability to get results and, in comparison to a number of other teams, have done decently. Make no mistake it is a tough away game - the hopes again rest on our attacks lethality: if they are in the mood, and are not too wasteful, then 3 points is entirely possible.

January 2017 was the start of our capitulation after a fairly promising first half of the season - we suffered both injuries, the loss of key players to the AFCON and, most worryingly, a complete loss of the free-scoring side we had been up until that point. This season, particularly since November, it has been noticeable how much rotation Klopp has been willing to do (with the bizarre exception of the goalkeeper) in order to maintain fitness levels - I hope this is enough to avoid injury problems and to maintain what has been fairly reasonable form. We have blundered in a few games, and dropped points, but overall we're playing well - this needs to continue - a strong January sets us up for a really exciting second half of the season, if we're as weak as we were last season it'll be a struggle to make top 4, and be another season of ifs, buts, and maybes.

Believable6 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 10:24:45
It's clear to see what our strengths are (for me only city can match us attacking wise) and it's clear to see where our weakness's lie. Those weakness's unless sorted in the jan window will be with us for the remainder of the season. For as bad as we say Arsenal are and Spurs being a 1 man team the truth is they are breathing down our knecks. We also say Utd are terrible but they remain ahead of us in the league. I think it's fairly obvious Utd and Chelsea will spend money in Jan and Spurs have regained their form. For every goal our top class front line score there is always that certainty our Keeper or defence will gift the opposition 1 back on their first attack.


27 Dec 2017 11:12:52
I think we will have a far better January than we had last season, when quite frankly the wheels came off. Keep our players fit and rested and i think we will do fine.


27 Dec 2017 05:23:20
Ed002 if you’re around. Recently you said something like LFC should pull out of theNew Balance kit deal. I was wondering if you could elaborate on that one, if you don’t mind. As far as I can tell as an outsider, they look like a massive company and made lots of progress in the football world. Other teams like Porto, Sevilla, Celtic also having them as a kit supplier. Thank you in advance, appreciate all your input!

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - What I would have said is that they should look for a kit deal with a leading manufacturer that would give them higher income from it. Porto, Sevilla and Celtic are a long way from the deals that Adidas has with Real Madrid, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Juventus or Nike with Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester City and PSG.}

27 Dec 2017 11:17:06
Ed how does sponsorship work, specially for deals on that scale. Does the club approach a company or do big players like Nike, Adidas etc have their own shortlists of ‘elite’ clubs only? Thanks in advance.


{Ed002's Note - Adidas and Nike look to maintain deals with the leading sides and fight tit-for-tat for the clubs. Last season Chelsea were persuaded to switch and bought Adidas out of their deal to move to Nike for an improved deal.}

27 Dec 2017 11:22:35
Ok got it. Thank you, as always!


27 Dec 2017 12:03:03
So do you think Nike or Adidas would see Liverpool as a club in the category they would like to sponsor or are we considered a level below? (I know you don’t work for them but what would your guess be)


{Ed002's Note - Liverpool are attractive for different reasons to such companies - the size of their fan base being the most relevant. But they are not attractive in terms of being successful in recent years.}

26 Dec 2017 22:49:46
A quick question to Ed 02 if he is about, and willing to respond to my question. In a different thread to do with Coutinho leaving, you were explaining that he wants to go to a club where silverware is a given, and that only Man City would fall into this category. I had assumed that Man United - mainly due to the size of the club as opposed to their recent on field performance (since Fergie left really) - were still in this group. Is that not still the case?

And a follow up question if I may - would the fact that there will be at least 3 or 4 contenders for the title each year (although maybe not this season) competing for the title, would this somehow limit the worlds top players from choosing to play in any team in the PL and make the more ‘top heavy’ leagues, ie France with PSG and Spain with Barcelona and Real always more attractive?

Have to say quite pleased though that Uniteds stock has fallen slightly.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - I don't recall exactly what I said Nick but MU have not been challenging at the highest level for some years. It is 10 years since they won the Champions League, they are behind the likes of Schalke and Porto in the club rankings and currently sit in 15th place. It is the on field performances that matter - not what happened in the long ago past. You need to get away from just thinking about the Premier League - players are looking to win in Europe. Clubs like Real Madris and Barcelona are far more attractive than the English sides and are seen as being at the pinnacle of the game.}

27 Dec 2017 10:53:32
What about Bayern munich?


{Ed002's Note - What?}

27 Dec 2017 11:23:32
In terms of prestige I think the top tier of clubs at the moment are Real, Barca, Bayern, PSG and maybe Juve. City look like they're on the verge of joining that group. Utd and Chelsea are on the tier below that with teams like Dortmund, Athletico and Milan. We're another tier below with Spurs and Arsenal but if we keep going the way we have been we should step up.


27 Dec 2017 12:04:38
PutneyRed. Milan? Are you sure?


27 Dec 2017 12:46:04
Hmmm, you may be right, I hadn't paid attention to how poor they'd been over the last five years.


27 Dec 2017 15:13:10
Milan are still an institution in European and World football despite their woeful seasons in the past 5 seasons. They have NINE CL trophies and 19 Serie A titles to their name. They are and will always remain a big club and City will NEVER match them. PSG were a dire midtable club (almost got relegated 10 years ago) until the Qatar govt. took them over so they to me, are not even bigger than OM who have MORE (10 to 6) league titles and has a CL to it's name, PSG do not yet.

City have to do a WHOLE lot more just to emulate Nottingham Forest or even Aston Villa who have CL trophies to their name. I won't even mention LFC or even Utd here as City won't be able to match these clubs esp. in this modern era where there is money everywhere and at every club.


27 Dec 2017 09:02:02
If we signed Van Dijk which I'm not saying is definite, can anyone see us also agreeing a deal for De Vrij on a free for the summer?

To that far fetched we need CBs and if Van Dijk is the top target he may very well come in January, but to be able to also sign De Vrij on a free for the summer must be seen as good business too.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

27 Dec 2017 09:17:21
Meant to read not too far fetched.


27 Dec 2017 09:20:23
I think its more likely De Vrij in Jan mate and VVD will go to City. We will only see one CB arrive.


27 Dec 2017 09:25:35
2 extremely unlikely scenarios I’m afraid mate.
I wouldn’t be expecting VVD to sign for us at all.


27 Dec 2017 09:50:42
Ditto Ron.

I think everyone should forget VVD.


27 Dec 2017 09:59:24
I'm kind of hoping we don't sign VVD because the cost being bandied around is extraodinary in my opinion and definitely not worth it. Would £70m make him the most expensive defender ever? Does anyone rate him that highly? obviously I'll support him f he does but there'll be some pressure to perform as he'll be seen as the messiah at that price.

If we have that much cash to spare it should be spent on a goalkeeper!


27 Dec 2017 10:18:48
Why should we forget vvd? Until he’s sold there’s always a chance especially when the player himself wants to come.


27 Dec 2017 11:39:44
I do expect him to sign in all honesty. I’ve read all that’s been said but I do feel he will sign. Given that the De Vrij situation is interesting as well. To sign him on a free for the summer of 2018 isn’t that far fetched. That’s all I was saying anyway, not everyone will agree, but I can see it happening.


27 Dec 2017 13:26:19
I am with you on this one Jonesy, maybe with 3 clubs chasing VVD, the price could rise to 75 mill, and we might just be stupid enough to pay that much, also bringing in De Vrij would be brilliant, either next week on the cheap or a free in the summer .


27 Dec 2017 13:46:23
Jonesred and adam83. I’m not trying to be smart in any way but you guys might want to read up on ed1s opinion on the player. It might ease the disappointment when he doesn’t sign. You may even be thankful. Personally I laugh every time sly sports “pundits” discuss the merits of a player who behaved so dreadfully and whose performance has dropped so badly this season. He’s got great hair so he’d fit in at the club for that reason alone but overrated doesn’t even begin to tell the story of vvd. As for De Vrij- I’m not convinced myself. He’s better than what we have at the moment but simply better may not be what we need. Good is probably what we need.


27 Dec 2017 14:46:00
Spot on, AOE. Those wishing upon such a player whose flaws are numerous and whose attitude stinks, is a recipe for disaster. Ed01 has been saying consistently since last season that VVD is not the answer due to his well documented flaws of laziness, lacking in desire to be better, poor positioning, laziness in tracking back, goes walkabout during games. All these "qualities" were on display when we played them this season as he was directly at fault for Salah's 2nd goal and was dire the whole game, going walkabout and hanging his defenders out to dry.

People fawning over him really need to watch him closely as I and many others have done and frankly, he is not good enough for what we wanna be. We need a CB who can be of huge upgrade to us for 70m and VVD is NOT that guy. We prolly won't sign him like Ron has said and franly, I'll be fine with that.


27 Dec 2017 05:23:22
Think Bobby Firmino is my favorite Liverpool player. Bags of quality, tireless work ethic, intelligent player and seems to genuinely enjoy his football, it's great watching him play.

Have to hold my hands up and admit I was wrong (again) with regards to a transfer - Oxlaide-Chamberlain is proving to be better than I expected, seems to have a really good attitude and a desire to improve - I hope the lad proves to be a valuable asset to us.

TAA - this lad has so much potential, he was tireless last night, full of running and energy, broke up their attacks down his side very well, seems to be a little more aware defensively than he was a few months ago (though this was a poor Swansea team to probably best to reserve judgement) . He seems to have so much going for him though - great energy, excellent technique and vision (see that 60 yard pass to Firmino anyone? ), excellent crossing and set-piece delivery - think the lad could go very, very far.

Believable14 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 06:44:07
I think his main attribute is his pin point crosses.


27 Dec 2017 07:26:55
Thought Robertson played well last nght too, another one who seems to have benefitted from not being dumped straight into the team on day 1. Decent performance all round the team to be fair, albeit against a very poor side!


{Ed001's Note - in what way did he play well? Every attack they made was down his side and he stopped no crosses.}

27 Dec 2017 08:14:02
There was one cross Swansea put in the first half where Robertson just ambled over and was 10 yards from the player when he crossed it. He reminds me of Moreno's defending when he first arrived. His confidence also looks on the dip to me, he is trying to come to terms with playing for a big club and wondering if he is good enough.

I would consider playing Gomez left back (sitting mostly) and Trent right back in some of the games until Moreno is fit.


27 Dec 2017 08:32:29
I don't think Robbo had a bad game BUT Ed01 is correct. Most of their attacks esp. in the first half, came from his side. People should stop bigging Robbo up cos frankly, he's still a work in progress and has a long way to go to dislodge Moreno who is STILL ahead of him.


27 Dec 2017 08:54:08
STill not convinced by Robbo. U can tell an attack will break down the moment he gets the ball in the final third. Crossing is poor and he certainly is no Azpilicueta when it comes to defending. The number of times the Swansea RW got behind Robertson is embarrassing considering how poor Swansea were throughout the game.


27 Dec 2017 10:08:40
Jeez, hard to please you lot - defence allowed Swansea about 5 shots on target all night and I'm sure Robertson was involved in Alexander-Arnold's goal (sort of) .

I know he's not the greatest player in the world but I'm still not convinced that Moreno is any better. .


27 Dec 2017 10:10:40
He's new to the system give him time.


27 Dec 2017 10:54:11
Robertson just doesn't quite have the quality to play for us. He's no more than a back up.


27 Dec 2017 17:32:20
great pass from Robbo over the top to Salah, let's give the lad a chance, we did win didn't we, 5 nil, so ease off lads, some of the comments are very harsh, and you might be better off talking about the highlights of the game, there were plenty to choose from .


27 Dec 2017 02:22:56
The ox is a beast by the way 🐂.

Believable10 Unbelievable0

27 Dec 2017 08:34:06
His attitude more like the beast, SG.


 
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