Liverpool Banter Archive July 28 2014

28 Jul 2014 22:22:54
Last night I described Fabio Borini in unfavourable terms. I suggested he was a leech for not moving to Sunderland and allowing us to get in a decent striker. I apologise profusely for disrespecting a decent young Liverpool player who wants to fight for his place. Truth is, I'd been at a pub all afternoon/evening watching my nephew play pool and then went on to an evening barbie with copious amounts of the amber nectar. I sort of lost it and let my frustrations take over. Sorry lads. Some of the replies I got were from posters I have a lot of time for and I take back anything which may have given the impression I'm anything but a true supporter. Truth is, I'm really happy with the direction we're going in and can't wait for the new season.
ANFIELDPETE

28 Jul 2014 22:49:15
Kudos on admitting it. we're at an important stage in our rebuilding process and I hope every single fan gets behind the team and the manager to make it an easier ship to ride, if we screw this season it could set us back a long way and right now instead of dissing the people the manager wants at the club it's time to trust the Brendan & FSG, it is in their interest to make the club a success & as last season proved they're the right men for the job.

YNWA

You my friend, are a gentleman and u have my utmost respect.

We all talk s***e sometimes mate good on you for admitting it.

Thanks Fornax, I've always tried to support the manager but, now and again, I just can't.
My apology still stands but I think Fabio Borini is a bit of a problem to us at the moment.
Remember what it is we're trying to replace?
I like the direction we're going in as far as the signings we've made but I would like us to capitalize on fringe players like Borini, Suso and Assaidi who we could recoup money from. None of these are going to set Merseyside alight but might make it elsewhere.
My apology re Borini applies to my choice of words and not the sentiment behind it.
You say we're at an important rebuilding stage yet refute suggestions on who to replace/bring in lest it goes against what Brendan Rodgers might want.
Sorry, but managers at all levels get it wrong and forums like this allow fans to air their opinions. For what it's worth I have loads of opinions but I feel I'm on probation right now and I'll hold my tongue. So, no mention of Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel or Lucas Leiva from me. Lord no!
Come on you reds!

29 Jul 2014 09:14:59
Anfield Pete. It takes balls to admit you were wrong. Respect where respect is due.

Not the type of post you see very often. Hats off.

Good lad Pete

28 Jul 2014 22:03:08
Why would we get vermalen?
Would that mean sakho is on the bench?

We are not getting vermaelen

28 Jul 2014 20:40:45
How you doing Eds? Bit quite today on here. Is that because there mostly repeat posts?

28 Jul 2014 20:05:39
Hi eds a few things to ask . is there genuine interest in Jay Rodriguez? . secondly how much would lacazette (looks good from videos I've seen) be available for? . and finally any news on a left back? cheers :)

{Ed002's Note - We don't discuss money.}

28 Jul 2014 18:21:58
Hi there Eds, ahm, there were a few posts that I replied to earlier today which I assume they've been deleted due the usual reason, my apologies if mine were inappropriate or potentially escalating, that wasn't my intention.

And, I hope you all make it through this crazy period without compromising much of your brain cells.

Peace.

28 Jul 2014 20:07:24
Ed002 is spot on. There is no reason for any true Liverpool supporter to abuse our players.

There is no problem with constructive criticism.For example see how Ed001 can point out Glen Johnsons deficiencies without being abusive.

Lets get some dignity back so that Ed002 does not lose all hope with us

On a happier note great news that Louvren has signed. He looks like he could be a new Alan Hansen.

Refreshing post mate . completely agree about the constructive criticism.

I agree; it's fine to have an opinion (i.e. I do not think he will suit our style of play) but by the same token abusing them is pretty poor.

I remember when Spearing was still here - he used to get loads of stick but you could never fault his effort nor the fact he would've done anything for the shirt.

A lot of players are mercenaries - and to be fair as a club we support this; low bids player has to submit transfer request to get move.

The Media coverage nowadays is ridiculous and players not even joining us get abused.

I must read this site (when not in meetings about 6 times a day and I've missed the positive or thought provoking posts as it appears the number of posts making it through is lower.

It will never stop. Websites are a faceless medium for cowards to post things they would be too afraid or embarrassed to say to someone in person.

28 Jul 2014 19:43:59
Wilfred Bony for me would be a good signing. Bony and Studge up front, solid defence and our existing wings would threaten ant side. I know this is unlikely but I believe Borini has shown his comfort level at Sunderland and I have maintained virtually from the day he signed that he is not the answer.

I have read posts on here arguing that he had a good season last year but he was not playing for us. He feels more confident with the boys at Sunderland and for me, that is his level.

Bony on the other hand would in my opinion hit the ground running. This boy is made to open defences and that is what we need especially as we have so many players that are willing to run into the box.

I think also we should leave flanno doing what he is doing so well on the left, get Kelly accustomed to the right and playing regularly and pair MS and DL in the centre of defence.

Our mid field engine is as good as any team out there so leave well alone. Hendo is my favourite player I think he is totally awesome and will continue to get better. I also think he is a little more versatile than we may think. For me he will be driving force next season.

If we bought Bony, I believe we can go one better next year.

Agree that he would do a job for us but not sure he has the pace, artistry or technique to get through the better defences.

We need Coutinho to hit the target and convert more of his shots.

I would prefer either Firmino or Shaqiri personally.

Closed season and you're still lost word?

28 Jul 2014 20:38:14
We have no interest in Bony

Just a question fellow reds. Would you be happy if we tried to sign Tevez or re-sign Torres?

No and no. sorry mate.

Sign tevez

28 Jul 2014 18:55:22
Did anyone see Harry Redknapp on ssn? was he trying to say Liverpool lied about Remy just saw the end of the interview.

He knows better than to spout crap about Liverpool.

Anyway, he's always praised the club over the way both the club and City supported his son, Jamie.

It's just a little frustration.

Anyway, I posted on here regarding Harry's thoughts on Remy, and for some reason or another, I always felt he knew more than he made out as there never seemed to be any issues regarding Remy's loan moves.

The entire situation seemed a little strange to me.

28 Jul 2014 19:49:35
he said underhand tactics by liverhampton prob because borini deal fell through

I think that is the way most people will interpret what he said. He is trying to make trouble.

28 Jul 2014 20:38:11
if harry is right,and the truth (makes trouble ) for scousehampton then so be it,

28 Jul 2014 20:43:46
I don't think he was trying to make trouble, 'Arry just has a way of calling it how he sees it, doesn't really have a filter which I applaud him for in a way.

I can see where he's coming from actually, but I doubt the club would say there are medical concerns when there aren't. One reason, but certainly not the only, is that it would be detrimental to the players career to leak false claims about a players fitness & it will seriously effect interest in the player from other clubs so there is a duty of care, perhaps why we haven't heard anything official from Liverpool as of yet.

At the end of the day we should have two sets of xrays / medical reports to prove we was correct!

Maybe the results came back saying their could be issues within the next four years - whilst the other reports (QPR, Newcastle France reports) said no issues currently - like the stats I'm sure there are different ways to perceive things.

29 Jul 2014 06:19:59
Harry Redknapp is just a confused senior citizen. That is all.

Just where did LFC leak information about Remy's medical condition? Redknapp also said Remy had never failed a medical before when in fact, he has failed a total of 4.

It is the Journalists who have spread information on LFC rejecting Remy on medical grounds, not LFC.

"the words", you do realize you will soon have 3 people who worked with Southampton last year just like LFC?

I guess you are just a profound potato.

28 Jul 2014 18:46:24
While I am neither optimistic nor pessimistic for next season, the emergence of ibe, peterson, can, kelly and markovic has got me excited. Just a fullback or two, and perhaps another forward, and we have a great looking squad for next season!

Howeverr I am trying not to think too much about the football as the loss of suarez has really upset me, just want to see the lads bring home the bacon in the first few games of the season, and i'll be over it.

Hopefully Coates can also become more integral to the squad, he's more comfortable on the ball than Skrtel. Lovren, Sakho, Skrtel, Coates + (Toure if he doesn't leave) would be more than decent options throughout the season.

28 Jul 2014 17:14:37
Ed with lovren confirmed to be wearing number 6, this surely ends Daniel Sturridges career at Liverpool. Where will he be moving.
Thanks for the help.

28 Jul 2014 17:28:33
What are you on about? Do you mean Agger as he is number 5 and Sturridge is 15. Why would a centre back result in our forward leaving?

{Ed002's Note - Sorry Benny, there's a bunch of these type of posts from the knuckle draggers.}

What was I saying the other day Ed about virtual tutorials on sarcasm? Haha, poor Benny. It's not even worth trying anymore lad!

28 Jul 2014 17:52:17
My sympathies for the eds.

It's ok ed, I just thought it was obvious that it'd effect Enriques availability.

I've just had to go outside and count to ten

28 Jul 2014 19:19:15
How can anyone actually be that incapable of noticing sarcasm.

It beggars belief!

Hang on. Sturridge is leaving?

Some posts are amazing. TBF though Over the years reading this sites still can't sometimes tell a sarcastic post to a blatantly stupid one.
On the other hand,
Ed,,, how do I become a Jedi?

28 Jul 2014 15:49:17
I was watching the team yesterday and I have to say I am really impressed by what I saw. Our newest signings, Markovic and Emre Can, seemed to slot in almost perfectly. I was a little worried at first, mostly with Markovic because from first signs I didn't think he was as physically fit as the rest of the team but as time went on he certainly impressed. He has tremendous speed, good vision and all he really needs to work on is how to track his man. Defensively he needs some work but offensively, we might have something special on our hands.

I also think Emre Can will prove to be a shrewd piece of business. He's looked good since his debut, most people won't notice his contribution because most of it is off the ball. The way the man tracks back, closes people down and never stops running is impressive. It is like having another Jordan Henderson, who also impressed I might add. I hope people recognise Can's contribution because I was very impressed by him; great dribbler of the ball, defensively astute and he has unbelievable strength. Great buy, in my eyes.

We all know that our defence needed strengthening and with the signing of Lovren (and hopefully a new left back) I think we are well on the way. Lovren is pure quality, he has acclimatized to the speed of the premier league wondefully well and we will be far stronger for it. He's comfortable on the ball, a leader at the back and will compliment our style greatly. Another good signing in my eyes.

There are so many positives to be had for us Liverpool fans, I know Luis Suarez has gone but look at our first eleven, look at our bench. We have quality all over the park. Sure we lost our best player last year, but one man doesn't make a team. Have a look at Germany, no offense to them, but there is not one stand out player in that side. All gifted footballers but no Messi's, Ronaldo's or Suarez's. Just a team that compliments each other's style.

Now, I'm not saying we will win the Premier league this year, but c'mon lads. This side could really challenge, all of our players compliment each other's style. Coutinho can feed in our 3 speeds attackers (Sterling, Markovic and Sturridge) while our midfield and defence can stay compact and not allow any goals to slip through.

So many positives lads, this may not be our year but if we keep to our philosophy and perform to the levels we know and expect. then who knows, maybe our next league title may not be very far away. Perhaps this is all just blind optimism but I honestly believe that with Rodgers at the helm we can challenge and maybe even one day reclaim the premier league title.

Fingers crossed this season and I will be supporting Liverpool through thick and thin. Like I have always done, and always will.

Love ya positively Mango

Thumbs up from me mate. I 100% agree, literally!

Agree 100%. I was impressed by Markovic, particularly the one time he did break through on goal where he aimed a curler for the far post. Perhaps he could have passed to one of the two running, but he has that tenacity to go for it and the instinct to see that he had a clear shot.

It looks like Can has already presented himself as a starter. His more multi-talented than Allen, so he works better in tandem with Gerrard and Henderson. Much better at breaking down opponents that are composed on the ball. Not to put Allen down, as I thought he looked very good as well. Someone on the site was slating our midfield, but I honestly saw good options there w/ Lucas, Allen. I know Lallana could play there at points as well.

I want to see Sturridge in front of Markovic, Coutinho and Sterling w/ Henderson, Gerrard. Those three in attacking midfield can be very, very dangerous working off of each other. Like to see Henderson chip in with more goals this season. In the end, Can may be a bit more versatile in the early game, sacrificing Coutinho to the bench.

I'm assuming we pulled out of Remy permanently and are looking at keeping Borini with an eye toward bringing in other players once they become available. Too much at once could be bad. Borini is probably going to stay and as we're likely to start the season in a 1-2-3-4, there wouldn't be a need for another striker.

Mango, I don't know what game you were watching but I was at the game and our new signings were nearly non existent during their time on the pitch. Given, they didn't do any harm and Markovic defended well and had a couple charging runs forward but for the most part they didn't have an impact on the game. However, I do believe that our entire midfield was poor in the first half and his may be directly related to Enrique's lack of fitness and Johnsons poor defensive abilities requiring our midfield to cover for them. We were a much better team when the likes of Kelly Coates and Robinson came on because it allowed our midfield to do their job. Also, coutinho looked brillant as always. I am curious to see what our starting lineup is. And in my opinion, lallana should never be started over coutinho or sterling. They were (as is becoming usual) our best players.

I'm not quite sure what you were expecting from Emre Can or Markovic, lfcohio?

They weren't going to amazon from the off, but from what I saw of them I was impressed. It takes time to settle into a new team, not to mention the language barrier that Markovic is facing at the moment. These are issues that I feel get overlooked. Individually I was impressed with Markovic's speed and skill but I understand that it will take time for him to gel not only to Liverpool's style but the pace of the Premier League as well.

And, I'll admit, there were moments of indecision from both old and new players yesterday (Not to mention a heavy touch or misplaced pass here and there) but this is pre-season. Pre-season is used to iron out mistakes, regain match fitness and integrate new and young players into the side. I wasn't expected us to click on our first outing but I saw positive signs which are really exciting to see.

You may also be forgetting that Olympiakos are a damn good side, having won their league 16 times out of 18. That is impressive regardless of league or level of competition. And considering the opposition, I think Emre Can and Markovic performed admirably against strong opposition.

As for our midfield, I'm honestly not that worried about it. As you correctly pointed out earlier the worry is Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique. Now I can give Enrique some leeway, considering he has just returned from a lengthy injury but Johnson is proving to be a liability at times. In the last few years he seems to have lost his concentration during matches, he looks disinterested most of the time and that for me is a real worry.

As a result of these two issues, Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique, our midfield was, at times, overrun in the first half. But that was because our full backs were out of position and the midfield was trying to compensate for the amount of space afforded to their midfielders and attackers. You are definitely right on that front but I honestly believe our midfield will cope if we get a new Left back and if Kelly or Flangan start pushing Johnson for his place. We have quality all over the park and I think it is time Johnson sorted himself out.

Lallana is a player I think will compliment our side perfectly, if he does not play then he will be an additional option when Sterling or Coutinho are struggling to perform during a match. Good signing in my opinion, not exactly a position where we were left wanting but it is a new option.

LFC to win the prem within the next 2 seasons.

CL probably a bit longer.

Arsenal's record 14 game winning streak to be equalled this coming season.

28 Jul 2014 15:06:47
With many praising Coates form in pre-season, our many central defenders, our left back troubles, a smallish team without much height, and our problems defending last year how about this for a wild notion. Play 3 3 3 1 (didn't Ajax play this system once upon a time?) with the one being Coutinho given a free role. The likes of Can, Henderson and Allen are all excellent runners and will fill in gaps Gerrard could drop into central defense to make a back four when we don't have the ball. You could also accommodate a slower central defender (Coates, Agger, Skrtel, Lovren) as you'd have other quick central defenders (Ilori, Kelly, Sakho) running cover.

Also from memory didn't Ed1 say that when Gerrard slipped against Chelsea that part of the problem was the two central defenders being ahead of Gerrard thus meaning that they couldn't cover his slip? If so it would be imperative for the slower central defender to play higher than his partners to offset his lack of pace.

What does everyone think? and Ed1 if you are around do you think it's possible to both play a high pressing game and slower central defender if he were playing in a 3 with two quicker central defenders as partners?

I just posted a similar idea on the teams page mate with Lovren in a back three with Kelly and Sakho just slightly deeper than him.

Sorry for treading on your toes ems. Maybe great minds think alike eh.

Haha, no worries mate. Glad I'm not the only one who thought it. I think I'd still rather a 4-3-3 but I like the fact the option is there to make 3-5-2 / 3-4-3 etc effective formations. I'm really excited to see what Rodgers has planned for this squad

28 Jul 2014 18:16:36
Or maybe it's a case of 2 fools, 1 thought?

I am kidding by the way.

There is a saying in the town were I live:

Great minds think alike. . persons never differ!

LOL.

vrcomp
Y.N.W.A.

28 Jul 2014 12:52:37
Eds, what do you think will be the most likely centre back pairing against Southampton? I know there's no way of you knowing but would just like to hear what people think.

{Ed030's Note - Sakho And Lovren I think. }

28 Jul 2014 13:20:44
Neither have played a pre-season game yet. I think Skrtel will start.

I would hope kelly starts ahead of sketel

I agree with AG. Better to start with as little changes as possible. Hopefully trying not to do a Spurs and cock it up. A new player in for Suarez obviously and new players on the bench and use as required.

Skrtel does not have the concentration levels required to play as part of a back 4. He would be okay on the right side of a 3 with a right wing back ahead of him offering protection but if he starts in centre alongside Sakho or Lovren, he'll just continue to get caught ball watching or out of position. He just isn't focused enough despite being on paper a very complete defender. His lack of pace just prevents him from atoning for his errors because he is too slow to get back and make up for them. Not for me, not unless Flanno, Skrtel, Lovren, Sakho and Bertrand(?) Are the defence. I cannot deal with another season of own goals and lapses in concentration from the defence and Johnson and Skrtel were the biggest culprits. At least Skrtel tried and showed some passion though.

28 Jul 2014 14:36:24
Thanks ed, I'm hoping for Lovren and Sakho but just can't be sure

28 Jul 2014 15:54:31
EMS, I wasn't saying Skrtel should start, but saying that he might well start.

I know AG mate. Not a pop at you, just an analysis of Skrtel.

28 Jul 2014 12:35:18
hi eds and reds

how do you all think the new boys did, I can't wait to see lovren play for us, I think the new boys aquitted themselve very well, but when they come on lucas did his usual mistakes as did johnson, do any of you think its time to move lucas on, he has been great for the club and is a very nice man, with henderson and now can who look better I do think we should move him on with our thanks

Hi All, I do think some people have forgotten last season, Skrtel was our best central defender last season by far. He should partner Lovren, Agger won't be at the club, so a rotation of Coates and Llori would seem most likely. I can't see Kelly sticking around he has moments of greatness but also moments of awfulness. Thanks

28 Jul 2014 12:24:15
ive heard a rumour that when our new ground is finished its going to be called st mary's of the north

28 Jul 2014 13:39:57
Considering we're the bigger buying club, it makes more sense to name St Mary's 'Anfield's Supermarket'

God I tell a joke and people disagree, oh well no more jokes good or bad the haters are out beware of expressing any honest opinions or worries you have, well done to the trolls,

28 Jul 2014 12:09:38
hi sll

heres a question, if reina was hungry enough and changed his mind about wanting to leave could he be a very good keeper again or do you think he has lost his abilities forever, I never watched him at napo;i maybe some who did could fill us in on how he performed, i'm not in the reina corner wanting him to play instead of mingolet, i'm not mingolets biggest fan but he is better than reina, when reina left he was costing us game with only one shot at our goal, its a conudarum, I wonder if we would go in for ocha he a free agent I think, a good shot stopper and like spiderman with his reflexes, and he seems to br in the right position all the time because ball hit him when he does not make the save lol

28 Jul 2014 11:48:46
I for one would be more than glad to throw Peterson in the deep end and see what he's got, he impressed me a lot in the first two friendlies, his positioning, good with his feet, quick but powerful to hold off defenders,
I say keep borini and let these two fight it out with Lambert .
P.s am I the only one who would be so happy if sturridge passed the ball every now and then? . he had so many chances to let others through last night but keeps hogging the ball. but it's just pre season so all is fine for now

Sturridge defo needs to work on his link up play in the final third. Little one-twos and quick passes. Be more of a team player. Good player though.

I also like Peterson was very impressed with him in friendlies and offers far more than Borini. I'm sorry but I'm really not sold on him at all. If Sunderland want him let him go he is no better than our youth players.

28 Jul 2014 13:44:23
Sturridge is in the team to score. Where there is an obvious ball to play that is far superior to taking it on yourself that's fine you should play it, but otherwise the hunger of a striker to get in there with the ball and score is what makes the difference between talented and great. Let Sturridge focus on scoring and forget all this 'selfish' foolishness. We have enough Heskey's in the team - he's the Owen of the partnership

28 Jul 2014 11:47:19
I read today that aubameyang(spell?!?!) might be available. Does anyone know if he might be of interest to lfc as an alternative to remy? Seems to be very similar- fast, versatile striker(left, right, central) and if I remember correctly, reading on here some time ago, lfc had an interest in.
Anyways just thought I'd put it out there.
In Buck we trust!

{Ed002's Note - No interest from Liverpool.}

28 Jul 2014 11:15:55
Evening Eds.

1. What is the latest with Luis Muriel? . generally speaking. And have we ever been interested?

2. And could you shed some light onto the possible reasons for his omissions from Udinese and Colombia?

Cheers guys.

{Ed002's Note - This has been done to death - UTSF.}

28 Jul 2014 10:49:23
I have seen a lot of posters saying that they would prefer Borini to stay.

Personally, I don't mind having youngsters in midfield and on the flanks. Their energy and stamina is crucial for our attacking game, but when it comes to putting the ball in the back of the net you need someone who you know will do that.

I'm not saying let's go out and buy Benzema etc, but I won't feel too confident if we have to rely on Borini at any point this season.

Another loan move would be ideal to see how he develops, but if he can be persuaded to move to Sunderland for £12/14m then I would be happy that we could use the funds to put towards a proven goalscorer.

Red Rum

Benzema does not want to come.

Sorry Chris, but Benzema is irrelevant. He was used as an example mate.

Red Rum

Don't know how anyone can disagree with you RR. We need a proven striker and have some youth hangin around and pushing for a game. Jack Dunn for me all day long. 10 minutes here and there as a sub and I guarentee he will bang them in.

That's how it should be Alfie. I mean, If Borini is willing to play a similar role to the one you describe for Jack Dunn then he is welcome to stay and fight for his place, but as it stands, he is not good enough to compete at the same level as Sturridge.

No disrespect to Borini or Lambert, but I wouldn't fancy our chances in the latter stages of the champions league if Sturridge was injured.

Red Rum

28 Jul 2014 10:08:04
Hi Eds,

Any truth to reported interest in Jay Rodriguez?

I know he's out injured at the moment but are saying we've enquiried about his availability?

Thanks

JK

{Ed002's Note - RTFP.}

28 Jul 2014 13:02:47
Think there may be a lot of dyslexic interest in Cork from Liverpool following his performance in Southampton yesterday! LOL

I think we might be in for Bell today!

I think once Spurs have picked the Saints bones, The Saints board should have enough money just from transfer fees to go an buy Aston Villa.

28 Jul 2014 09:38:50
I think on the whole we have made some excellent signings this window. but why oh why is there talk of Agger being sold to Barcelona for £12 million?

We were shaky at the back last season, but with Lovren arriving, I think Daniel could play off him. There is nobody better at reading the game at the back, and Barcelona are trying to steal him. He lives and breathes Liverpool. Come on Brendan, great job so far, but close the door for all offers for Daniel. He must be in the starting lineup!!!

28 Jul 2014 09:51:40
Like it or not, BR favors Skrtel over Agger and Sakho and Lovren will be ahead of Agger too.

28 Jul 2014 10:17:20
To be fair Agger as been poor and gets bullied by a strong striker.

Its hard to say because he is such a nice guy, a loyal man to Liverpool and so comfortable on the ball, but Agger has not developed the way we all hoped he would from when he was 24-25.

Maybe he doesn't suit English football, and would thrive in Spain where it is less physical, but he gets bullied in the air and he isn't the quickest.

Injuries have played a part but we can't play someone who is costing us points, sentiment doesn't come into it.

£12 million seems low admittedly, and I would keep him in the squad rather than sell him for such a low fee, but I don't think he will be first choice next season, and will have to fight to win back a place.

Well said ag.I don't know why everyone thinks its sakho who would play alongside lovren

28 Jul 2014 11:53:34
Because it will be Pinkman. we signed Lovren partially because he is more comfortable on the right side of the centre back partnership. Skrtel will go if there is a suitable bid.

Why do you think skrtel is ahead of sakho jessie? I really do see a sakho lovren cb partnershop happening.

12m seems incredibly high given his age, injury record and salary. The latter being something people consistently forget.

28 Jul 2014 09:29:49
I read somewhere that Liverpool pulled out of the Remy deal when they discovered he is not a Southhampton player. Lol

Haha good one

28 Jul 2014 07:34:01
Eds and reds,

In preseason games so far, Martin Skrtel has worn the captains armband when Gerrard has not played.
Could Skrtel be our first choice defender with Sakho and Lovren rotating as his partner?

28 Jul 2014 07:56:10
Skrtel, Sakho and Lovren are all capable of playing with each other.

Now, if there is an injury to any of those 3, another can slot in effortlessly.

28 Jul 2014 08:01:58
Bear in mind that Lovren hasn't been around, and Sakho hasn't played a part due to his WC involvement yet. Don't read too much into it - aside from Henderson, there wasn't really that much choice for the armband anyway

The likes of Johnson, Skrtel, Toure, Agger, Coates and Enrique are only playing to drum up interest.

Lol. No chap.

28 Jul 2014 09:17:22
One of our first choice CB is Lovern. That's assured by BR yesterday

Brendan likes skrtel ems, don't be surprised when he and lovren start together next season

Tbf Jessie, Skrtel was left horribly exposed by Johnson and Gerrard at stages last season. I think if he played every season for the next 10 years here he'd never be directly involved with 14 goals against us again. If Rodgers wants to employ a deeper back line next season and use the pace of our midfielders and front 3 to just annihilate teams on the break, perhaps we may see Lovren and Skrtel. If Rodgers maintains his high pressing philosophy though, Sakho will start alongside Lovren without a doubt. Skrtel is too slow and doesn't read the game well enough to make up for it. Top centre backs are graceful. Skrtel is a warrior.

Have to disagree with you there EMS, Skrtel is our No1 CD and Lovren will partner him.

28 Jul 2014 06:32:23
I'm really quite surprised by the amount of people not wanting to keep borini. Fans are always moaning that players have no desire or respect for the club and glorify players like suarez who (though supremely gifted) did nothing but mock the club, it's management team, his teammates and the fans with his behaviour his constant flirtations with literally any team that showed interest (arsenal, juventus, barca, Madrid)

Yet we have a young hungry striker who had a decent season on loan who actually WANTS to fight for his place and who played with a broken foot for a full month at the start of his first season with us because we were short on strikers. That to me is someone that deserves a chance, I'll respect any player who conducts themselves in this manner and I think it's shameful that some fans are criticising him for wanting to prove he belongs here. Give him a full season in red at least before deciding of he belongs here.

Amen Nevada

In that case do you regret we let jay spearing go. Loves the club and works 110%

Just becouse the player had the desire and will dosnt mean they are good enough. While i'm at it don't see why we should keep kelly either.

If Borini stays I don't mind. I thought he should be sold when we were in for Remy (Who I rate as a better player) as he was surplus to requirements.

Fans can be fickle and overly reactive to such things. Borini is stopping the club getting £14 million pound and that money is going to be used on one of Reus/Vidal/Pogba/DiMaria/insert fan-boy player here. Didn't you know?! :)

With a club as big and well supported as Liverpool and the internet being so freely used by an estimated 2 billion+ people, it's just one of those things. We have some great opinions, thoughts and ideas among us and we have some not so great opinions, thoughts and ideas.

Some though, are complete self serving, hypocritical, nonsensical toerags. They are the most annoying. But, I think Lincoln said that a society should be judged on how compassionate they treat their criminals, I consider this type of fan, a criminal of sorts to the ethics of our club and our famed song ''You'll Never Walk Alone.''

Some of our fans dump on that creed far too often in my opinion and only to suit their own desires, it's the age of selfish, it seems. Maybe we should call them lobsters or prawns as a code word. :) (Too early for terrible seafood jokes?)

That explains Red Lobsters user name!

28 Jul 2014 02:00:26
I think personally we should have ibe in the first team set up this season . I think he is going to be a class act and I would rather he got some game time in our first team to play and develop under Rodgers and be comfortable with our style of play. If he hasn't had enough games we can loan him out in January to a team playing a similar style of play to us maybe a championship team pushing for promotion or something. I am not saying don't by an extra front man but if we don't and borini stays and Ibe is involved more then I would be happy with that me we can always tweek in January of necessary . Plus saves us money for the time being to maybe invest in the lb position . Just my thoughts anyway

28 Jul 2014 07:35:59
He will not be involved if he stays at LFC.

Borini, Markovic, Lallana, Lambert, Sturridge, Coutinho, Sterling and the new striker LFC are looking at, will all be ahead of Ibe.

He needs a loan.

Agree with both posts - I for one would love to see Ibe coming off the bench in games - with his strength and pace he would be a real impact

28 Jul 2014 09:53:54
Ibe wouldn't even make the bench if he stays.

Maybe ibe could be on bench with lallana out for the first 4 weeks . Give him the opportunity to impress as sometimes that's what's needed to create a star they step up when a senior player can't play and stake a claim for the shirt. Plus with likely injuries he may be a surprise package . Then if it doesn't work so well he can be loaned in January . I don't disagree that he needs a loan I would just like to see a way to include him early doors with a chance to fight for first team action . Healthy competition so to speak

28 Jul 2014 01:28:47
Firstly a big Welcome to Lovren. A good signing which will definitely improve the squad.
Now my main question: we have now Agger, Sakho, Skrtel, Toure, Illori, Coates and Lovren. That's 7 central defenders. Surely that's too many. As they say too many cooks spoil the broth! We surely need to sell minimum 2 or maybe even 3 CB's. Any idea who are most likely to leave? And where?

Kelly as well!

Have you been hiding under a rock or just not read anything!?

Toure will leave on a free once an agreement is reached over his signing on fee probably to Turkey.

Agger is of interest to Barcelona plus others. He had the chance to go the last 2 years but refused as he loves the club but now looks distinctly out of favour with BR so is most likely to leave after Toure.

Skrtl is of interest to Napoli plus others.

Coates although looking promising once again will leave if an offer comes in. Maybe south America or possibly Italy.

Sakho and Lovren will be the 1st choice staring CB partnership with illori Kelly and whoever else is left providing cover or alternatives.

I suspect Toure, Coates and one; or both, of Agger and Skrtel will leave.

Red Rum

Coates and Skrtel to go for me and the first choice pairing will obviously be Lovren - Sakho and the second strong should be Illori - Agger. Toure can then be backup when someone eventually gets injured.

Imo lovren sakho ilori and kelly are the only ones that are not going to be sold. not sure about loan though.

the others might or might not leave

Coates will definitely go.
Agger to Napoli?
Toure to Trabzonspor?
Skrtel to Galatasaray?

Leaving Lovren/Sakho, Ilori/Kelly, Jones/Paez.

One of Agger, Toure and Skrtel might stay. My money would be on Agger as he loves the club and has a history of turning down moves.

28 Jul 2014 07:37:53
Ilori will go on loan and Coates and 1 of Agger or Toure will leave.

Not sure what everyone thinks - I like sakho but he does make me very nervous when he has the ball at his feet although I think that can be worked with - How about Lovren and Agger at the back next year? Vice Captain so very loud & demanding and you have Lovren who is also very much the same - Think that would be solid - Just need to get rid of johnson and enrique as don't think they listen to well - Just a thought

It should be, in alphabetical order.

Ilori, Lovren, Sakho, Skrtel

Agger leaving for a fee (£10m tops), Toure on a free and Coates a loan with a view to a permanent deal.

28 Jul 2014 01:27:20
Eds and reds,

Could Liverpool turn to Southampton one last time to buy Jay Rodriguez?
Very similar player to Loic Remy, striker/winger with pace and Premier League experience.
Currently injured so could come cheaper but young and English carries it's own premium.

What do you guys think, smart idea? Cruel idea? Let me know.

{Ed002's Note - I imagine the medical would be a blast.}

You lost me at "very similar player to Loic Remy" haha

What happened in Andy Carroll's medical then?

See my earlier reply. Liverpool will move for Jay Rodriguez in January if he's regained his fitness. Rodgers is a big fan.

{Ed002's Note - There is interest from elsewhere. Perhaps it would have been easier for Rodgers to become Southampton manager?}

28 Jul 2014 11:31:26
Maybe, by January, the grass will not look so green at certain other clubs for Jay Rod, and perhaps he may even see Koeman has been astute, and maybe he might see his way to becoming an England regular is not by sitting on a bench on a Saturday, and maybe the interest elsewhere is held back by a change of management.

If Jay Rod leaves (after returning to full fitness) it will only be on a similar basis to Luke Shaw ie. holding onto him until someone pays very silly money reflecting Saints valuation of his potential. Yes, we have been selling players but only for prices which reflect the clubs valuation and IMO that will be significantly higher for Jay Rod than you have coughed up for other Saints players, so may be out of your reach in view of FFP.

28 Jul 2014 20:08:49
Ed002,

I know he is currently injured but Liverpool look at long term affects to players in medicals, don't they?
So a player could pass a medical if his current injury will not have severe long term repercussions.

{Ed002's Note - They may well have become that inane and flaky. You keep hoping they have man.}

28 Jul 2014 20:10:16
Ed002. Presumably Jose should just become manager of Atletico Madrid then? And didn't he also try and take more than Ferreira and Carvalho from Porto when he arrived at the Bridge? A summer when he bought far, far more players than naive and dumb old Brendan! And it's not about Chelsea. When you have banter you automatically tailor it to the team the other person supports!

{Ed002's Note - I agree that Chelsea have bought two players from Atletico Madrid. I am not so sure why you see this as anything relevant beyond the weird Chelsea obsession. It is like some sort of sick joke reading these rubbish posts - I don't really understand beyond the reality is that you are simply not very bright.}

28 Jul 2014 01:24:07
Watched the game some impressive football some players played well some didn't (johnson) lol good see sterling, sturridge and gerrard back and been impressed with coates surprisingly lookin good. Markovic looked good very quick counter attacks will probably devastate defences more than what they did last season but I miss having suarez up top won't lie we will come stuck in certain games this season without that glimmer of brilliance.

28 Jul 2014 01:14:32
With kelly seemingly back to full fitness who would you guys rather have at rb him or flannagan? Personally I prefer kelly I think he's better defensively and gives us extra cover defending/attacking option on set pieces with his heading ability

28 Jul 2014 01:28:35
I like kelly but since he's recovered from his injury he shys out of tackles where flannagan isn't fazed I like many other Liverpool fans like seeing players especially fullback/defenders going in with a good hard bt fair challenge plus he's good going forward so my opinion flannagan is in the 1st team for me.

I would choose Flanagan think he deserves it after last seasons performances

Before he was injured a couple of seasons ago, he was looking like a future England RB. Kelly is surprisingly quick and seems to have better positioning nous than Johnson and Flanno and is also better in the air. Flanno still tends to jump in a bit, gets beaten for pace and loses his man at set pieces. Don't abuse me, I love his passion and aggression, just pointing out what I see, rightly or wrongly. Johnson doesn't offer what he once did going forward, and has a well documented history of bad positioning.
That said, Kelly for me at RB, and Enrique LB unless we can do better. Funnily enough, Johnson had a decent spell early last season filling in at LB. While I'm at it, Lovren and Skrtel/Sakho for me at CB.

Would be Flanagan for me. He's surprisingly good on the ball, better than Kelly even I think. The only issue with Flanagan is a lack of pace, but for me he's the better of the two based on what I've seen from their recent play time.

Speaking off, anyone know why Flanagan isn't making the bench lately?

They both deserve to be played, and I suspect the opponent will depend on who is used - as I agree they are different. The pleasure of having options and a decent squad.

I would give it to Kelly, see if he can stay fit with flanno his understudy, I'd also rotate them every 10 games or so

Kelly is a far superior player to flanno.

Kelly is a far superior player to flanno.

28 Jul 2014 12:43:19
In what way is kelly far superior to flannagan?

28 Jul 2014 01:05:48
Johnson, Lucas and Allen all have been disappointing this game. I think Johnson and Lucas definitely need to go we need to give Allen a bit more time and see how it goes. What are your thoughts? :)

28 Jul 2014 01:30:11
Bit critical about lucas and allen don't you think?

In my opinion they are not good enough for a top 4 team. Maybe we can use them in cup games and leiva might get some games because we don't have many CDMs but allen won't get aa chance with all of our midfielders. Just my opinion anyway. :)

You guys must need your heads and eyes checked because clearly, I watched a diff game. Allen and Lucas along w/ Kelly all played well. Allen was good at recycling possesion and making runs into the box. GJ I would agree, was aweful.

Imo henderson, emre, coutinho, lallana, and gerrard are all ahead of allen. but I still think allen will get game time depending on tactics.

28 Jul 2014 07:44:01
They are good players but this year, Lucas and Allen will need to buck up.

Kelly impressed, Johnson was woeful and has been the last 6 months, gives up possession to much and isn't quick enough to cover. Lucas I thought is trying to get back yo the level he was at before Stevie dropped back, some good solid challenges and a good presence in front if the back four. Joe Allen? He has the talent and shows little snippets but is to inconsistent for me, and has a terrible habit of giving the ball away in really dangerous situations. I can understand why Rogers sticks with him but he really does gave to step his game up

Agree with Kaizer - I never rated Allen but last year I think he started to show some glimpses - Think he's going to be another Henderson personally who will get better as time goes on - But at least were not relying on him and have other midfielders there to use

I thought Allen was very good. Always wanted to play forward. Provided drive. Retained possession and always available. How was he poor?

28 Jul 2014 00:48:20
I personally like the look of Ibe he looks good and he makes good runs

Ibe's like-ability is infectious, the lad loves to run at his opponent, has pace to burn and still has a lot of growing and learning to do, but he's ballsy and is seemingly getting better and better.

I don't know Rodgers plans for Ibe (or anyone for that matter), hopefully he's done enough to give Rodgers thought of getting him involved with the first team for the coming season, as an option in case of injuries, also substitution for later on in matches when he is fresh and the opposition not so. He is still very young though, so maybe it's a bit early for him!? Great prospect though and doing his chances no ill favours with how he's progressing.

Great Post Ollieston - Not sure what more the kid could do to impress as personally I think he's been great

28 Jul 2014 00:12:33
Are the ones suggesting Remy didn't happen due to Borini still being here for real? Why would we as a club (already knowing borini was staying) wait for Remy to have a medical and come over to the states before deciding, oh actually sorry lad we can't bring you in now. Just not likely what so ever is it.

Give Borini a break, I think given the chances we create he can do well. He isn't rated so highly in Italy for no reason.

I agree I think borini will grow with confidence into a great striker all he needs is a run of games

Don`t pay attention to useless conspiracy theorists. Remy had a heart condition when he moved to Marseille in 2010 so I`m not surprised to see he failed his medical due to an injury or condition which we will know with time. As for the persons saying we bottled it, F***K OFF!

27 Jul 2014 23:56:50
Hi eds, would u think it would be an option to take Remy on loan for the year? This way we could assess him throughout the year.

{Ed007's Note - No.}

28 Jul 2014 01:47:21
Can we please move on from this one.