Liverpool Banter Archive July 08 2017

08 Jul 2017 23:15:29
Mirror reporting that VVD is unhappy and wants his "dream" move to LFC and as a result is refusing to talk to the media.

08 Jul 2017 23:49:08
He should have refused to talk to opposition managers and he might have a chance of his move 😎.

09 Jul 2017 04:17:57
Think this will drag out well into August. No pre-season for VVD if he does join, but a deal of around 60 million seems plausible imo.

08 Jul 2017 21:11:30
Eds, bit of a long winded question relating to football in general as opposed to just Liverpool.

The question first.

Where or what direction do you see football going?

The context of the question. there is now so much money in football, sponsorship deals, tv deals etc, football clubs in the higher tier no longer regular supporters, in fact they'd rather tourists coming on match days spending money in club shop.

The cost of transfers is going up and up. the bigger teams have so much money they have the power to let a player sit out the final year of his contract rather than selling for 10,20,30 million.

Lionel messi just signed a €550,000 weekly contract.

I guess what I'm trying to get st is where will all this end? Is the bubble going to burst? Will fans eventually get so marginalised that they'll just turn their back?

Will the tv companies reduce the deals as they aren't making a profit.

Sorry for long winded question, I possibly haven't articulated exactly what I'm trying to say.

Regards

Niall.

{Ed002's Note - I understand the question Niall. This has been discussed before but perhaps a refresh would be helpful and get everybody to think about something else for a while.

It remains very much an on-going issue with regular discussions on the matter between around 16 “elite” European clubs Including three from England) who meet to discuss a variety of issues a couple of times a year. Without going in to too much detail:
(a) A number of clubs take the opportunity to meet and discuss various issues including changes in rules, club versus country issues, television and other media rights, the power of UEFA, exploitation issues for new technology streams, etc.. The meetings were annually but now they happen two and sometimes three times a year. There was a meeting in December – where there was a discussion about the state of FIFA, the situation with UEFA and a so far unpublished claim from a retired referee that the result of a Champions League game was influenced by a third party. These discussions also always turn to the possibility and structure of a breakaway pan European league. Several are ex-G14 clubs, several are not, and some clubs decline involvement in such discussions.
(b) The plan is that at some point a number of clubs would break away from their national leagues and UEFA. They accept that they would be banned from all existing club competition and the players would initially be banned from all FIFA competitions as well, but know that FIFA would be looking to negotiate in any case. It would be the end of UEFA in all probability and UEFA are very aware of this. It would also result in a restructuring of many of the national leagues.
(c) The clubs would renegotiate their television and media rights, rights of distribution via other streams etc..
(d) It remains the greatest fear of UEFA and all major national authorities that one day this will happen – which has resulted in a counter-proposal being drafted by UEFA.
(e) Timing wise, two very prominent clubs want it to happen as soon as possible (2018 – not a chance) and they have the support of a third club - but most are looking at 2022 to 2015 being a good option. A few clubs are looking at 2025 to 2028 and I suspect that could end up as the reality.

There are two counter-proposals to the pan-European breakaway that have partially been backed by UEFA to try and save their own skin. The first proposal is to rename and change the format of the UEFA Champions League to make it an elite closed-shop pan-European league with a fixed number of teams – and these would be the same teams every year and be based on past winners of the Champions League and European Cup and a few (not specified) more. It would then require the restructuring of the Europa League and the possible introduction of a lower-tier European competition again. Although they have yet to flesh out the detail and there is now a major concern that the impetus for this is not coming from Europe, although one major Football Association has given their support and discussions have also been held with the leading clubs from England (Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal). The American backer, Stephen Ross of the Miami Dolphins, has on several occasions requested a meeting with an extant group of sides considering the pan-European breakaway to discuss his proposals. They have yet to respond but having identified the source of much of the funding (and that raising a concern) will wish to discuss it between themselves first. This has dragged on for a year and nothing has happened. However, UEFA are now considering yet another proposal that would see some places in the CL fixed (probably to previous winners) and then see it supplemented by Champions and second place sides each season. This complicates matters again as it means the re-introduction of a third competition or the significant restructuring of the EL. The plan being put to clubs is a summer/preseason tournament that will evolve in to a parallel league, and of course eventually in to a complete breakaway for these clubs. As a first step to all of this, UEFA have negotiated minor changes that will see the four entrants from England, Germany, Spain and Italy enter the existing Champions League group stages without any qualification beyond their National League position (so no entry to qualifying rounds). This has been agreed by the European Club Association but UEFA did not want to discuss it with the separate group of “elite” sides discussing the Pan European League (and that “elite” group includes three English sides) as they are aware they will get no more than a shrug and no long-term support. The second major counter proposal is a Chinese proposal from the Dalian Wanda Group proposes to open up the lucrative Chinese and Far Eastern media markets by extending the league to include Chinese and South American clubs. This has yet to be discussed by the "elite" sides as a group although the proposals have been presented to a number of them already on an individual basis. The proposals are very broad-based and lack detail - their selling point is significant additional income for the "elite".

If the proposal for a breakaway goes ahead, there is every likelihood that the big money from television, sponsorship etc. would go with a breakaway league. It would completely rupture the operations of UEFA and I would expect it would require national associations like the FA to restructure their leagues. Nobody wants this but it is the eventual consequence I would expect. Initially it could be that there is a single 16 team league with 2 or 3 EPL teams making the initial plunge. If I had to speculate, I would think (1) you might eventually see something like five or six EPL teams leave for two-tier pan European league - but it won't be based on the UEFA rankings; (2) the Premier League would be disbanded as an organisation; (3) the FA would restructure in to two 20 team divisions with lower leagues regionalised as they were many years ago; (4) FIFA would ban all players from the breakaway teams from International football - perhaps rescinding that position to stop FIFA breaking up as well - they don't want further issues but the troubles are not going to go away. I could also see many teams lose their professional status. I would think we are probably 10 years away from any significant move at this time.

I hold a reasonably strong view in terms of the need to restructure football in Europe in any case. For me an eventual a breakaway pan-European league would force the restructuring of many of the national leagues, possibly resulting in a British league with perhaps only a couple of professional tiers and then regionalised amateur leagues below that. Financially I do not see that so many pro sides can be sustained within the sport which, like it or not, will see more and more money going in to the highest levels of the game. Governments will ensure that grassroots sport get funding but everything in the middle (Southern, Northern, Conference, Division 2, Scottish Divisions 1-3, League of Wales will not get the funding needed to continue on any sort of professional basis. For me, clubs should already recognise this and put their efforts in to getting there finances in order to see if they can make it to a British professional league that will need to flourish without perhaps six sides that have gone down the pan-European route - and have gone for good. Clubs like Accrington Stanley will need to carry on as amateurs or face extinction (yet again).

The game has changed significantly and will continue to do so. Football at the highest level is big business and attracts the sponsorship it does because the sponsors wish to tap in to the disposable income of the fans and ride the back of the advertising that flows naturally from the success some clubs achieve. Long gone are the days of the cloth-capped, hobnailed-booted, chimney sweep making his way, rattle in hand, to cheer on his team at Anfield on a Saturday afternoon. I have explained that there will be changes, probably within the next 10 to 12 years, which will force the restructuring of all of the leagues in Europe and likely do away with the likes of UEFA. You will have the opportunity to see the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus and the other major European sides play in week-on-week regular competition at The Emirates, Stamford Bridge etc.. You will have the opportunity to visit Milan, Barcelona, Monaco, etc. every couple of weeks to watch your team play - if they make the cut. If you want to don your cloth cap, have a pint of wallop with your chums before going off to the local match, perhaps one of the sides from the suburbs will have survived so you can go and watch them?

It was thought that a possible option might have resulted from a potential landmark decision that UEFA were to make in June or July - and that could facilitate the ownership of lower-tier sides by the more senior sides and then work as a feeder club. However – the need to make that decision was avoided.}

08 Jul 2017 22:04:28
No worries if you chose not to/ don't want to/ already have but I haven't seen, but are Liverpool part of the 3 English clubs you mentioned?

{Ed002's Note - Not they are not.}

08 Jul 2017 22:04:37
Guaranga ed,

Wasn't expecting such a detailed answer, but appreciate the effort you made to answer my question.

Brilliant answer, very informative. I personally feel the fan/ supporter is being marginalised year in year out. you see the prices for everything football related and just stand back and say wow.

I remember back to the 1990 World Cup in Italy where here in Ireland it truly was a fan based occasion, I just feel football has completely lost its soul and at some stage, along time away fans will turn their back.

Anyhows ed, rant over, thank you for your time.

Regards.

{Ed002's Note - To some extent the fans started to become marginalised when corporate boxes first became available, and then corporate hospitality, and ten medeia taking control of the scheduling that see fewer and fewer Saturday at three kick offs for the successful or leading clubs, and the sponsorship and the regular changes of kit and the new money etc.. I think it needs a reshape but the divide will see "elite" sides eventually move away and then the restructuring which will see, perhaps with less money, a return to a more stable basis for many. But it is hard to see how 92 professional leagues clubs can be sustained in England.}

08 Jul 2017 22:07:20
Good post Niall.

Great reply ED2 thanks for your incredible knowledge mate.

08 Jul 2017 22:07:48
That would be a very interesting scenario Ed02. One question I did have if such a breakaway league were to happen is the effect on the teams and associations in other continents ( South America, Africa, Asia etc. ) and national teams as well?

Appreciate the insight you give as always.

{Ed002's Note - I don't think that it would initially Prav but eventually all leagues need to ensure that they, and the teams, can sustain themselves.}

08 Jul 2017 22:11:50
Cheers ed! Good read.

08 Jul 2017 22:17:37
Thanks Ed.

Brilliant answer and its probably going to happen. but whether its for the best is another thing.

Will Brexit and all the rules and rights that go with it effect the way our teams will conduct transfers and contracts?

Eg. Would the Bosman ruling still apply here since we would not be have to abide by the Euro laws and courts?

{Ed002's Note - Bosman will still apply but it is not actually clear what would happen with work permits. There would certainly not be any overnight change but the eventual position would likely be a need for work permits and residence permits. In terms of existing EU citizens already working in the UK, there is no plan but I would think an amnesty would be the likely decision followed by a quota system of some type. A good question but no firm answer I am afraid.}

08 Jul 2017 23:40:30
Nobody likes a kiss Teabag.

09 Jul 2017 08:30:34
Thanks for the great post Ed02. Really detailed and interesting. My friends and I have often discussed how a pan European league just seemed like a natural evolution from the Champs League.
I'm not sure if it's what I want but I'll admit if Liverpool were involved the prospect of regular fixtures against the giants of European football is an exciting one.

09 Jul 2017 02:52:06
Thanks Ed
Its the way the world seems at the moment, in constant state of flux.

The elite few get ever more pwerful and ruthless as they are in competition with each other,
Making decisions they know are immoral and harmful to the vast majority of lessers who have to survive on the relative crumbs from the elite tables

Anyway thanks for the reply.

{Ed002's Note - The Alphas and the Epsilons are the terms we use Dermot - I refer you to Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World".}

09 Jul 2017 08:11:34
Very interesting answer.
With live streaming and IPTV readily available now, do you see the TV money start to decrease?

{Ed002's Note - Not at this time. The television money is part of a medium term PL contract that runs through the summer of 2019 and will be renegotiated within the next 9 months. In the longer term some clubs want to shut down illegal streams and control the rights themselves but they know that they will lose out on revenue. Therefore they will look to negotiate a half way house where they will get some options to stream. Both Arsenal and Liverpool have senior board members who are involved elsewhere in such a business elsewhere.}

08 Jul 2017 20:55:55
Hey editors, don't come here very often but when I do it is hard to catch. If I want editors comments on a particular subject, how do I get it? Would like to hear ed1 and ed2 comments on some of the players we have been linked.
Going to transfers, Lucas Digne is the players we are linked with recently, he was linked to us in the past but I wonder if this is true now? He is not getting regular games at Barcelona and I wonder if the player is interested in moving to England and if Barcelona ll let him go for the right offer .?
Cheers.

{Ed002's Note - Try the search function - enter the name of the player - then search the page for Ed001, Ed002 or whatever.

I am only aware of one side shoiwing an interest in Digne and it is not Liverpool. Liverpool has identified the LB they want.}

08 Jul 2017 23:25:05
Ed, are you referring to Robertson or are you hinting at some exciting new transfer rumour?

{Ed002's Note - As far as I know enquiries for Celestine Babayaro have gone nowhere and we are back to Robertson right now.}

08 Jul 2017 23:56:13
Heard it here first, Babayaro is coming out of retirement to solve all our problems :-)

Thanks for clarifying ed2.

08 Jul 2017 20:36:15
Klopp said that Salah will add speed to the team. Yes but what we desperately need is steel at the back.

08 Jul 2017 18:51:40
Just seen today that Arsenal won't sell Oxlade-Chamberlain to us and would rather let him run his final year down?

Any truth in this?

{Ed002's Note - I have no idea if it is true but Arsenal cannot keep adding players unless others leave.}

08 Jul 2017 19:13:21
I certainly hope so.

08 Jul 2017 19:53:08
Thanks for the reply Ed 2.

08 Jul 2017 19:53:48
Would be another kick in the groin for Klopp ed if we miss out on another one of the players he wants. Ed001, you still expect a deal to br done mate?

08 Jul 2017 20:04:48
You say a kick in the groin, but it would be a result if no deal happened for Oxlade as it would be throwing away good money to bad.

08 Jul 2017 20:59:04
I for one would be delighted if Ox stays at Arsenal and continue his running!

08 Jul 2017 21:36:56
What have they been smokin? 🤡.

08 Jul 2017 23:52:17
Just wondering I don't know if the downvotes mean anything, I just want to clear up, I wasn't making a statement, I was simply asking a question. I don't have any sources or anything I was asking if anyone on the site knew if there was any truth in the rumour.

08 Jul 2017 19:53:48
Would be another kick in the groin for Klopp ed if we miss out on another one of the players he wants. Ed001, you still expect a deal to br done mate?

{Ed001's Note - why would it be a kick in the groin? It is just a player he likes that may or may not have been available.}

09 Jul 2017 08:39:27
Ok. It was said he is player Klopp really likes and you said you expect a deal to be done at some point over the Summer and the player is keen to work with Klopp. So if it was not to happen now it seems to me ed that Klopp and the player would ne best pleased. I might have misunderstood things of course.

08 Jul 2017 17:19:46
To the eds. What makes fsg infallible? Is it Because they buy lfc loan and serve the club from going bankrupt? Is it because they are new to football?
If memory is right T. Werner in 2012 after acquiring lfc mentioned that 'they have resources to compete with any club in the world'
I will be ingrate to not admit that they pump monies in but it will also be a low statement to blame lfc stand still project on the previous managers and their staff whom fsg hire and fired, provided the restrictions each regime had to work under fsg. We are making noise of Klopp tapping up, but the club negotiation has seemingly been like that before Klopp, hence we mostly failed to get our first choice targets signed, because lfc under fsg never value a player the same amount the parent club is selling. Apparently we miss out on signings because of low balling negotiation tactics Texeira, Willian, Salah at first etc. Sorry to say this, i don't think any manager will succeed under fsg policies.

{Ed002's Note - I have no real idea what you are talking about. I have no idea what policies you are referring to. Nobody has denied that there were issues about tapping up prior to Klopp at all. In fact we have discussed at length the previous humiliating public apology that was made - and that was before Klopp arrived. FSG do not handle the transfer negotiations nor do they pick the players.}

08 Jul 2017 17:48:10
So all blame on FSG then!

08 Jul 2017 18:06:18
Ok Ed002 if there is no restrictions or policy in place since they take over the club, why lfc can't most a times get their first choice targets?
If the issues of tapping up and public apology exist before Klopp what has fsg done to stop it in their 7yrs at lfc?
They don't handle transfer or pick players, but those they hire to handle transfers and pick players do report back to them? I believe they are not happy with what they are seeing with regards to on field success at lfc during their 7yrs at the club.
Thanks Ed002.

{Ed002's Note - (a) Not being able to sign first choice players always is not a matter of policy or restriction. It is simply the business of football - sometimes they don't want to move to Liverpool (e.g. Brandt), sometimes their club don't want to do business with Liverpool (e.g. Sessegnon), sometimes they are not available for sale (e.g. Keita), sometimes Liverpool go about it all wrong (e.g van Dijk) and sometimes there are other clubs who are also interested (e.g. Mendy). It is sure as hell not the fault of the owners. (b) FSG have made significant efforts to resolve various issues it had with discipline, communications etc.. Liverpool has suffered with very poor media communication over several years. The whole Runt situation was mismanaged, Sterling made a joke of himself and the club, Balotelli was always going to be an accident waiting to happen and Rodgers has put his foot in his mouth every time he has opened it. Added to that there was the complete disaster of FSG's choice of Jen Chang. I should not say this but within factions of the press, the current incumbent, Susan Black is seen as way out her depth. (c) No, staff dealing with scouting, transfer decisions, negotiations do not report to FSG. (d) No, they are not happy with the repeated failure given the significant amounts of monies invested. They are not happy with the image of the club as portayed in the media and on public forums and this has seen the club clutching at straws and cdreating this fans forum (or whatever it is called) recently.}

08 Jul 2017 19:27:17
Thanks Ed, helps explain alot. Sobering in fact.

08 Jul 2017 19:48:54
Whilst I accept a lot of what Ed002 say I am a bit fed up with reading this constant negativity towards Liverpool.

{Ed002's Note - You don't like the truth then persuade people to stop asking the same things over and over. Or don't read the site.}

08 Jul 2017 20:38:49
Again Thank you Ed002 for the details. Bringing Rodgers era reminds me, why was Rodgers back room staff got sacked the following season leaving him then?
And can't they get more closer like Roman at cfc instead of relying on people reporting on field failure and wasting of monies on transfers to them every season?

{Ed002's Note - It is a very different situation. Liverpool football club is simply an item in FSG's investment portfolio.}

08 Jul 2017 20:42:58
Great read, Ed02. Thanks. And for the "It's all FSG's fault" brigade, please change the CD or the playlist or the record cos it's beyond broken.

08 Jul 2017 22:21:18
Fsg have been at Lfc for circa 7 years now. That 7 years has to be one of our most unsuccessful periods on the pitch for a long time. Pure coincidence? I think not.

08 Jul 2017 16:03:22
Dear Ed002,

Thank you for introducing me to the Protein 21 commercial from the sharkopod. I introduced it to my girlfriend in our "special time" playlist. Between the mood and the thought of Emre Can's set of hair I didn't make it past commandment 6! Any other golden oldies to make me squirm with delight? All joking aside, thank you to the Ed's for all the hard work.

Cheers.

{Ed002's Note - Thanks Collin.}

08 Jul 2017 15:15:07
Hi Eds,
Always coming on this site and reading the posts and information you guys provide.

Just wondering with all the under hand dealings and unprofessional ways Liverpool go about their business, cannot understand how we have not been in more trouble. I know we already have one ban in place, but why are we not plastered all over the press, surely they would have a field day with this information? I know you are constantly telling people on here that the club's actions are seriously Bad! I for one, believe we need REAL punishment, just cannot see why it has not happened yet?

{Ed002's Note - As soon as Southampton made a complaint the press were aware and I suspect they discussed it in their papers or whatever.}

08 Jul 2017 15:26:35
Cheers for the reply. Just hope we can learn to act more professional before the consequences tarnish our reputation to even greater depths. I know we are already at an all time low.

{Ed002's Note - Indeed.}

08 Jul 2017 16:57:16
Its not only us that tap players up so its not like we are the worst team in the world for doing it. Barcelona practically do it every season and nothing ever seems to be said about it.

{Ed002's Note - Barcelona have served a ban. Liverpool are worse. It is embarrassing that you right posts like this.}

08 Jul 2017 20:43:16
NE, stop deflecting with the pathetic "other clubs do it" talking point. Liverpool's ability to buy and sell players is hanging on a knife's edge right now and if all you have got as a solution is the "we are not the worst club" rhetoric then pls, step aside and allow others with more knowledge than you and I handle the issue.

08 Jul 2017 14:54:02
Hi Ed, what has happened to the old fashioned "make a bid and find out" it seems liverpool have a different approach of going around the club, very sneakily. Like with VVD and Keita, why haven't we actually just put in a bid and find out? Unless we have and I'm incorrect.

08 Jul 2017 14:29:53
Hi ed,

If we are not signing keita and vvd who else is our target?

Considering we sign hull left back.

{Ed002's Note - Clubs should only sign players they want and to date the club has failed with the targets they set. Many clubs don't buy just for the sake of it and Liverpool need to look at what they have and make sure whatever they do they improve and not just pad the squad out.}

08 Jul 2017 14:42:02
We do have a history of padding the squad too don't we Ed.

08 Jul 2017 12:47:41
Said weeks ago rudiger was top class and we should have been looking at him instead of VVD. If he's not signed for Chelsea we should be offering him an alternative. For those watching him recently for Germany and not rating him, then you don't know a player. Liverpool need to save some reputation now and spend big, either buy the first choice targets they have screwed up or other class, but don't let last year's momentum go.

08 Jul 2017 13:12:23
I agree with you that he is a better player than VVD, but you cannot just say anyone who doesn't rate him "don't know a player".

Opinions are what make this site and football in general. Without them we would all just be here talking about who was statistically the best.

Rudiger is decent anyways, but I wouldn't say he is the best option. I watch a lot of Roma and he is very much like Sakho. Shaky on the ball even if he mainly gets away without, rash decision maker whose speed and aggression helps him to recover, and not great direction on his headers even though he wins them mainly. Good but not without flaws.

In terms of Roma defenders, I'd actually sign Juan Jesus if possible. He will be back at Inter now, but I think Roma had an option to buy. He can play left centre back and left back. The advantage of that for us is that we play such high wing backs, that our centre backs have to regularly cover out wide. Juan Jesus would be more than comfortable doing that. No idea what is going on with him contractually though.

08 Jul 2017 13:13:05
I've watched him for Roma and not rated him, how does that affect my player-knowing mojo?
He could work under the right system, I think in a back 3 he could turn out to be a beast. In our formaton? Not so much.

08 Jul 2017 14:07:58
Hey MK, I actually haven't watched Jesus in ages. Didn't he stall in his development? I remember when he was lauded as a supreme talent in the middle, then went to Roma and played primarily as a. left back? It was weird to say the least. In all honesty, I had written him off in the "mismanaged" column, many good players end up there, sadly. I recall the times when I had high hopes for Borini and loved the lad, but then injuries and getting pushed out on the wing blunted his strengths.

08 Jul 2017 14:56:31
I've watched Rudiger plenty of times. German Titus Bramble springs to mind. He's not a better footballer than VVD, that's for sure, he looks ropey in possession and makes basic errors on a regular basis.

{Ed002's Note - A Chelsea director has returned from Germany today to look to complete the transfer of Rudiger. Roma opted to purchase him at the end of his loan with a vew to prfiteering - and that is what tehy are doing.}

08 Jul 2017 15:21:48
Ed002, personally I think Chelsea are making a big mistake which is unusual as they're normally spot on, Kalas and Christensen are both better defenders and footballers, I know the injury took a lot out of Zouma, but he's got time on his side. Rudiger has never convinced me as a defender and he always looks the weak link as he's prone to some baffling brain farts! Fair play to Roma. Smart thinking!

{Ed002's Note - Christensen has returned but is not entirely happy. Kalas will not be in the squad next season nor will Zouma. Rudiger can provide cover at right back and at centre back. Chelsea have also lost Ivanovic and Terry - and they will look to add another centre back if they can, but they do have a very good youngster coming up. So I guess we need toi wait to see how he will be used, but you might well be right.}

08 Jul 2017 15:57:00
Eds
Would Chelsea be willing to sell Christensen?

{Ed002's Note - They want to keep him.}

08 Jul 2017 19:17:47
I know it's speculation, but do you think there is a price that Chelsea would reconsider their position at? To me, Christensen is a complete modern centre back and streets ahead of the names mentioned on here.

{Ed002's Note - But Liverpool has no interest in the player at all.}

08 Jul 2017 20:36:51
I would have signed Ruddiger too as he is more experienced than VVD as VVD would not make the stands with the German team with Hummels, Boateng, Sule etc. Now is he great? No. Is he better than VVD? I think so but not by much. He is very coachable and will improve under Conte.

As for Juan Jesus, he has a regular with Inter at CB for a few years then, shifted to wingback when Mazarri was the manager. He was loaned out to Roma last season but may have lost his way as Emerson is the starter at LB and he has Ruddiger, Fazio and Manolas at CB to contend with. I would not take him right now due to recent history tho.

08 Jul 2017 12:10:24
So Kieta and VVD ain't happening at present. What are the alternatives? Hector Herrera ( sustained interest ) Ox ( Klopp likes him ) No names for the CB quota. On the other hand Andrew Roberson remains the top priority.
I am lost for words!

{Ed025's Note - well thats a first.. :)

08 Jul 2017 12:31:02
never thought I'd see the day when Harry is lost for words!

08 Jul 2017 12:46:40
Hector Herrera and Ox are nowhere near good enough.

08 Jul 2017 13:12:03
Too right Hansens, same with the likes of Raul Jimenez who people seem to think are decent just because they play in Europe and have a cool name. I'd honestly rather we signed no one in these positions than the likes of Herrera just because we can't get our main targets.

08 Jul 2017 20:33:09
Sorry, my post was incomplete. I'll start again. Don't see why you are surprised or lost for words, Harry regarding NK and VVD? If you were hoping that the club would drop stupid money on both these players then, that's your own fault as many of on here did not believe it. RBL have said they won't sell Keita even for 100m. That is code for, "Take a hike, LFC cos he's not for sale".

As for VVD, the owners had to come out and publicly apologise for the tapping up nonsense and pulled the plug on VVD so again, why are you lost for words?

08 Jul 2017 11:14:15
Hi everyone, first time poster so please be gentle. Read West Ham are trying to sign Hernandez for £13m have we shown any interest in him at all. I think he'd be a great squad player for that amount and would surely be an upgrade on origi. Would love Eds views on the player and any chance of us going for him. Thanks.

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool has no interest in the player.}

08 Jul 2017 12:06:49
Ok, thanks the the fast reply Ed. Have a great wknd.

{Ed002's Note - And you.}

08 Jul 2017 10:17:05
Question to ed1, are you and benny still going to do the part2 of the pod cast? Miss the benny joke of the week haha.

{Ed001's Note - hopefully mate. After all the trouble we had to make the first one working, be a shame not to get the second part done!}

08 Jul 2017 10:38:58
Ed001
If you do get the time could you do a season preview podcast? Around August ofc.
Would love to hear your views on the coming season once the teams shape out a bit more. With Benny or anyone else.

{Ed001's Note - if we can we will.}

08 Jul 2017 10:50:47
Am I the te special guest here Ed01. I am all ready 😄😎.

{Ed001's Note - at least it would allow us time to do other things, as we can just wind you up and leave you to rant.....}

08 Jul 2017 11:10:57
Ed001
If we're talking about special guests I'll put my hat in. Although Eddard will probably spend the whole podcast drooling.

08 Jul 2017 11:51:27
Let's do It 😎.

08 Jul 2017 12:35:25
Please get Harry on there.

08 Jul 2017 13:13:25
I would be very happy for a Harry to be in the podcast. Edd Benny Harry reet get your fingers out let's get it done asap.

08 Jul 2017 13:13:53
Sorry I forgot to say please.

08 Jul 2017 13:33:55
Negative Red Walter
Now that will be some podcast with four people. Ed001's fantasy too.

08 Jul 2017 13:47:13
I would love Negative in the podcast ( My true loyal soul mate ) ha ha! 😎.

08 Jul 2017 09:46:20
Ed001, I saw you mention below about vile bosses etc. Just got me thinking really.

So i wanted to take this opportunity to thank Ed033, Ed025, Ed007 and especially the unpaid Ed002. It can't be easy working for/ with Ed001 😉

You work long hours, get abused by your customers, paid a pittance, and it is clearly all Ed001's fault 😂

(all meant in jest of course 001)

{Ed001's Note - you do have a point. I have no idea how they put up with it. Still, at least putting up with me makes dealing with you lot seem easier.....}

08 Jul 2017 10:14:11
Haha, in all seriousness, massive respect to all of you. Good luck for the next 8 weeks! I'm sure you'll be driven mad with repeat questions. Oh, any news on the VVD deal? 😂.

{Ed001's Note - hahahaha. Git! I have grown to dread the transfer windows to be honest. I miss the days when transfers could just take place any time and there was none of this hysteria.}

08 Jul 2017 10:37:33
Tbf these days are much better than 3-4 years back when no one had an account and people could just whatever tripe they wanted.
And you know you love putting up with us Ed001. Don't pretend.

{Ed001's Note - something like that Reet. Though you are right, it is much better with the accounts.}

08 Jul 2017 10:43:17
Hysteria? What hysteria?

#KeitaAnnounced.

{Ed001's Note - arrrrggggghhhhhhhhh.}

08 Jul 2017 10:52:35
The only Ed, Ed01 fears is Ed025 ( true legend ) 😄😄.

{Ed025's Note - he will be running scared next season IYKM, when the blue boys go marching on and once again claim their birthright of being the one and only true force on merseyside mate.. :)

08 Jul 2017 11:43:16
ED 25.
I know they have signed Jack Dunn but I think your expecting a bit too much of Tranmere.

Get A grip! 🤤.

{Ed025's Note - now now dermot you know we are the "peoples club" mate and i know you are scared...but you had your day in the 80,s and i know it will probably be 2080 before you challenge again but you should be applauding us for carrying the flag for merseyside..

08 Jul 2017 13:18:41
I have to say, i don't know how the Ed's do it! I know i couldnt, well not without a bottle of brandy in my hand and an unbreakable laptop.

08 Jul 2017 14:50:16
Everton certainly did reflect British life in the 80 ED.

The Tuffees then striker and present day coach thought Saturday night started at 3pm. Out and about tearing around and if he didn't get his way he'd finish off with a tear up, break the od jaw and be done for assault.

Definitely the peoples club.

Not to be outdone but later in time we bought a cannibal/ pitball,

Now that's a tear up to rival Mcgregor v Mayweather.

08 Jul 2017 20:35:05
Carrying the flag of perennial failure and mediocrity, more like it. There, fixed it for ya, Ed025.

08 Jul 2017 09:15:19
Morning eds and reds
This might seem like a strange one, but what happened to the good ol' 4-4-2 formation?

I am referring to the use of wide midfielders more so than the classic winger. I am aware we now have mane and now salah who are likely to make the wide offensive positions their own, however I wonder how our team would do if we lined up with somewhat more defensive minded players out wide.
A central midfield consisting of coutinho on the left, Can and wijnaldum centrally and Henderson on the right hand side seems to me to be a very comfortable outing in the middle of the park.

I know the eds repeatedly have said formations don't really matter, so I guess it's rather a thought on why the wide players on the field (more often than not) will be focusing on their offensive duties.

I am currently waiting on my flight from Napoli (which have been delayed) so I thought I'd just rant on for a while.

Cheers.

08 Jul 2017 09:41:16
There are no secrets here, Klopp does not play a defensive game irrespective of formations.

You might not have made mention about it but majority have been crying out for a defensive midfielder when Klopp made it clear on the pitch as well as in voice that it ain't the way he is going to set up Liverpool.

08 Jul 2017 20:32:49
Opposition and succesful teams tend to dictate the formation people play.

Look ho2 352 is the go to now after chelsea.

Also you have to play and certain way abd have certain players to play 442 especially against 433 when they're going to dominate possession.

You wouldn't want to watch liverpool just sitting and counter attacking.

08 Jul 2017 20:36:16
Max, he did change that mindset in the final weeks of the season with Lucas coming in to partner Can in CM after Mane and Hendo got injured and that helped keep us solid and we kept clean sheets in 4 of our lat 8 games that got us CL footie. I like that he is adapting cos sometimes, we have to just make sure we keep it tight at the back and not concede, knowing that we will have our chances up top.

08 Jul 2017 08:48:43
Former BBC journalist Ben Smith has said that Liverpools transfers should start too gather momentum next week.

Cheers!

08 Jul 2017 09:28:12
Vague.

"Gather momentum" - what does that mean? Journo guesswork.

08 Jul 2017 09:28:13
Like a locomotive 🚂.

08 Jul 2017 11:16:36
Carefully worded so he can't be wrong, if nothing happens he simply says "well it is gathering momentum behind the scenes". He may as well just say our transfers will 'gather momentum' in the coming days up until August 31.

08 Jul 2017 11:17:49
Like a cheese rolling at Cooper's hill in Gloucestershire? I. e. gathering momentum whilst going downhill rapidly!?
Most journo's will say what they will to sell papers.

08 Jul 2017 14:01:58
Dont get so excited, guys. Its only STARTING to gather momentum next week. I think Mr Smith is alluding to the fact that we may have bought someone by the end of the transfer window. Possibly.

08 Jul 2017 06:06:45
Anyone knows when we will activate panic buy button?

08 Jul 2017 07:17:10
Odds on Balotelli?

08 Jul 2017 07:36:31
I'd say on 31st august but a lot of people on here hit it on 31st May 😂.

08 Jul 2017 07:42:04
When ". It's only 8 days into the window. " reaches climax!

08 Jul 2017 11:19:29
Would rathe we hit the Pjanic buy button.

08 Jul 2017 01:50:29
Hi guys, I have been a reader and a follower of this site for nearly ten years now! However this is my first post.

I would like to give a shout out to the many eds who have given up their time to create and manage this page, as well as deal with us fans. Ed001 and ed002 you guys have the patience of a saint and trust me it has been appreciated.

I have been a fan since the age of 3, but unfortunately that started just a couple of years after our last league success! I have seen some very good sides over the years, but I feel this current side has the the best balance in the forward areas I can remember. Unfortunately our keeper and back four do not match that of previous eras.

If you guys could choose three realistic players to sign by August 31, who would they be and why?

For me, I'd go for VVD, Pereira and Leno from Leverkusen. I think although we aren't perfect, we have plenty of tools going forward. What we do lack is solidity at the back and people who will stand up and be counted when called upon.

I look forward to your views.

{Ed001's Note - thank you for the kind words. I would go with Mendy, Christensen and Pereira.}

08 Jul 2017 06:50:00
3out 4 at the back ed01? Wow. Agree totally though.

{Ed001's Note - unfortunately, that is our main need right now. The fullback areas, in particular, are a major weakness of the team.}

08 Jul 2017 07:18:17
I agree with Christensen as he has the qualities needed.

08 Jul 2017 07:20:14
Why we have not gone in for Perreira, is a mystery. Any reasons why, Ed?

{Ed001's Note - no idea.}

08 Jul 2017 07:44:03
Coz Klopp has no plans to sell Clyne hence that area is sorted out while he prefers Robertson at LB ( Cheap at £8 mill ) . He want to spend the big money on CM andCB.

08 Jul 2017 08:47:52
3 out 4 back 4 changes seems at lot to make in 1 window to. I'd be happy with just 2 competent full backs. And maybe Kieta if I can push my luck :)

08 Jul 2017 08:49:45
Do we not think Milner would be thr correct choice for right back this season? The one flaw at left back was coming back onto his right foot for crosses slowing play down. Right back would be perfect.

08 Jul 2017 11:22:49
I think Klopp's plan is to have TAA to push Clyne and hope the competition spurs him to improve, otherwise he will be displaced.

08 Jul 2017 20:37:14
Harry if by Klopp wanting to spend big on a CB and CM, you mean spending big on VVD and Keita, I suggest you don't hold your breath cos it ain't going to happen.

07 Jul 2017 23:18:06
Hey Ed01 if you are about

I just wanted to get your opinion on Jamie Carragher? I always loved the fact he wasn't the best in ability or speed but made up with it in character which in my opinion goes a long way.

What is your view of him both off and on the field?

Thanks in advance

Jon.

{Ed001's Note - on the field I think he was better technically than given credit for, it was just that he didn't really play in teams that allowed him to take the ball down and pick out a pass. Positionally solid but had a tendency to get bullied by the strongest of attackers. Though, even when he was getting knocked around the park by the likes of Drogba, he would still keep going and trying to get his body in the way of shots etc. When he knew he was outmatched in the air, he would just concentrate on making it as difficult for his opponent as possible to get a clean header.

Off the pitch he was always a nice lad, very likeable. It must be said though, his decision to take Sky's money is something that disappoints me. Carra has more money than he needs anyway, so why take dirty money like that? Also, I never liked the way he and Gerrard ran the club when they were both playing. I don't blame either player, it was just another symptom of the amateurish nature of the club in recent times. They had far too much power and involvement in things, such as player recruitment, that they should have had absolutely no say in. However that is the club's fault not theirs.}

08 Jul 2017 06:17:51
Not Liverpool related, but what was your assessment of Drogba as a player, Ed?
Personally, I thought he was absolutely world class.

{Ed001's Note - at his peak and up until his late 30s, he was outstanding, up until then though he was a very average forward. It was only the season or two before he joined Chelsea that he was able to show what he could do. Agree though, fantastic player. Strong, powerful, quick, skilful and awesome in the air. He gave most defenders nightmares.}

08 Jul 2017 06:35:39
What I don't get is when carragher was playing it was always talked about him going into management or coaching. Do you think he will ever do that ed or do you think he will stay in tv?

{Ed001's Note - he took the easy way out in the end. All his talk and hours spent watching and learning, then he was offered an easier route than actually managing. Personally I do not blame him for not going into management. You only have to look at Mourinho's mug these days to see it is a job that takes a toll on you and those around you. The stresses and strains are too much. Plus he would have had to move his family, probably regularly move them as well, which was never going to be something they would be happy with.

For him, he took the right choice, imo.}

08 Jul 2017 06:58:55
Fair enough, family comes 1st always. Like you said it's a shame he went to sky, he should of known better.

{Ed001's Note - he would probably say there were no other options to get into TV punditry available. Which I can understand to a degree. I just think sometimes you have to choose a different career path, if the one you want has distasteful parts like that involved. Especially when you don't need to work. The whole point of earning the big money is so you don't have to suffer the pressure of doing a job you hate or working for vile bosses, unlike most of us.}

08 Jul 2017 07:21:58
I remember watching him scoring two own goals in one match against Man Utd and being utterly convinced he should have been moved on early on in his career! Time as always made a fool of me, and was made up to see the player he became.

08 Jul 2017 07:34:57
Spot on, Ed regarding Drogba. I was studying in France at the time when DD got noticed. He is your prototypical late-bloomer. DD had to go through hell and high water to get to where he got to in football as no academy would take him due to the several flaws in his game. It was not until he got a trial at Le Mans (French Ligue 2) that he got signed. Then, he got signed at Guimgamp (playing alongside a certain Florent Malouda) where he gave the whole league L'OM a torrid time and had a very good season. Season after, he signed with L'OM, rejecting Lyon (Malouda went to Lyon) as he was (and still is) a huge L'OM fan. He scored 27 goals and led 'OM to the Euefa Cup final where they would lose to Rafa's Valencia. After one season, he was off to Chelsea.

Regardless of this improbable rise, DD was very raw, cumbersome, clumsy on the ball, lacked ball skills and technique. However, he was a supreme hardworker. He knew his limits but most of all, he knew his strengths (supreme aerial ability, shooting ability, mental strength, bravery, and brute strength) . And with time, he improved massively and became the DD we would come to know and (at least some of us) love.

08 Jul 2017 07:46:42
Carry was like Puyol. Not the greatest defender but made up everything by hard work and commitment.
Drogba was a beast but I don't think there is any striker who would come anywhere near 10 km's of Henry ( vest PL striker hands down )

08 Jul 2017 08:53:49
We should have tried to get him in the academy to help out some of the youngsters. I feel he could really offer them some good advise. Real defenders seem hard to come by these days.

08 Jul 2017 14:00:01
Thanks ed01.

{Ed001's Note - welcome.}