Liverpool Banter Archive December 09 2015

 

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09 Dec 2015 20:43:50
Injury to studge isn't as bad as first feared. Probably out for a couple of weeks only.
More than likely down to not being match fit after so much time out.
Klopp has hinted that studge might need a separate training regime, suppose that's the best thing for him.

Believable8 Unbelievable1

09 Dec 2015 23:34:48
Did anybody see the interview he did with Tubes the other week? Said he doesn't train specifically 'on finishing'. He definitely has a lot of mental quirks!


09 Dec 2015 20:43:28
Alberto Moreno is the most improved player under Klopp according to Sky
Sports power rankings.

Coutihno would be most improved if not injured.


Can is a close call for me as well.

Believable12 Unbelievable0

09 Dec 2015 21:03:53
More interestingly, have any players gone backwards under klopp?


09 Dec 2015 22:00:47
Very good point mikey. Having thought about it, I'd say none have gone back which is a good thing.


09 Dec 2015 22:11:42
What about Lucas? Had a bad game at St James but has been consistently one of the top 3 performers having been close to leaving and sidelined pre-Klopp.


09 Dec 2015 22:53:57
Let's not forget Sakho. He was already good, but he too got better. Before the injury.


09 Dec 2015 23:09:02
It's probably done on statistics.


09 Dec 2015 23:26:32
Milners been awful and probably getting worse if that's possible.


09 Dec 2015 23:29:55
He's always been good though Ron it's just that Brendan and other football geniuses couldn't see it.
Yeah I can't think of a player going backwards either, everyone seems to want to play for and impress Klopp.


09 Dec 2015 23:54:37
Milner is getting worse by the game. Just saying.


10 Dec 2015 00:52:07
Do you not think milners performances are steadily getting worse with each game.

He looks slower, disinrerest and a poor footballer more and more. Is it just because we're swing him up close more now?


10 Dec 2015 04:02:43
He looks anything but disinterested. He's been poor but don't make stuff up.


10 Dec 2015 07:49:18
Milner has moved to a new team and city. Just because he's English and played in the prem doesn't mean he's finding it easy to adjust. I like Milner I always have I think he will prove himself to every fan give him time.


10 Dec 2015 07:50:02
Going backwards
Benteke comes into thought.


10 Dec 2015 08:29:27
Give him time? He's an experienced professional, the clubs highest earner and 29 years old - how much time can we afford to give him?


10 Dec 2015 09:07:37
Hjkile yes he's 29 what does age have to do with anything? Look at morientez for example lambert, Mcallister Lucas leiva they all didn't perform straight away it takes time to adjust to new tactics. New city putting your kids in new schools ect people seem to think that just because your a professional footballer you can perform straight away. Personal life does affect these people as they are human beings my profession ATM is struggling because my fiancé is pregnant were moving house to a new part of liverpool and I'm struggling to adapt. And I'm not even in the public eye if he is still this bad second half of the season which I doubt he will be I'll hold my hands up but I think slating the man after half a season is ludacris.


{Ed001's Note - Lucas was a kid who was asked to play completely out of position, no idea why he is included. McAllister was excellent from the start. Lambert never got a chance, and Morientes was done. You picked odd choices, none of them made any sense. As for Milner, he has never been good enough and he is not going to be good enough no matter how long we wait.}

10 Dec 2015 09:21:26
My point was ed was how many liverpool fans were saying when Mcallister joined were like a 35 year old is going to be a great sighning. Very few also again as you put Lucas was a kid but slated because of his performances. Morientez had been at Real Madrid banging them in for fun and was expected to do the same. My point was about age ed age is a number it doesn't matter how old you are realistically.


{Ed001's Note - sorry but how is any of that relevant? This is not about what Milner was expected to produce now, this is about what he is actually producing, which is woeful performance after woeful performance. Your point is absolutely unrelated to anything to do with Milner's ineptitude on the pitch on a weekly basis. He should never have been brought in, much less as the highest paid player in the squad and even less so the vice captaincy. It has become a major thorn in Klopp's side.}

10 Dec 2015 09:33:21
I totally agree with you Ed001. Liverpool wanted Milner several seasons ago and I felt than that he would be a poor buy - luckily at that time he chose elsewhere. What I can't understand is that the vast majority of fans don't rate him so why is he still in the side? Surely the manager and coaching staff can see that he is not performing to the standard that we expect. If he was replaced by one of the youngsters the team would not be weakened - in fact it may be even stronger. We keep hearing about the promising reserves but the only promising at the moment is that they will at some time be given an opportunity. The problem is that the team is still a good candidate for next season's Champions' League and I don't think that there will be too many risks taken while we still have a chance.


{Ed001's Note - it is difficult to drop the highest paid player, who is also the vice captain, especially when he is showing a real willingness to do what it takes to play in the side. He is trying to fit in, doing extra work etc, it is purely a performance issue, so Klopp is right to give him time to prove if he can adapt or not. It is good for the rest of the squad to see that he will work with them and give them a chance.}

10 Dec 2015 09:33:58
I disagree ed I really do I like Milner as a player all be it his performances have been shocking to say the least my point was about people pointing out his age ed that's all. I don't think he is poor Bruno Cheyrou was poor I think he will come good if I am wrong I will hold my hands up and say you were right and I was wrong.


{Ed001's Note - sorry but Milner has been worse than Cheyrou in most matches. I like Milner as a bloke, but as a player he is simply not good enough or even close to it.}

10 Dec 2015 09:45:04
I like these debates rs breaks up my day on another issue tho my fiancé is having a boy. And her parents have bought him everton ( hate saying that word ) bibs and kits and I'm fuming I need a way to make him a red but his family are adamant he's blue help haha.


{Ed001's Note - it doesn't matter now, the key is to watch footie with him and make it a daddy/son bonding thing. Never pressure him into it, he will make the right choice.}

10 Dec 2015 09:53:07
Definitely thanks ed just curious tho with your knowledge and your analysis of things it would be intriguing to see your view on the Milner embargo. Maybe a write up of how you perceive things and your opinion in full it would be a nice read and appreciated.


{Ed001's Note - embargo? Not sure what you mean.}

10 Dec 2015 10:57:05
Predictive text ed hate it I meant to say just a write up on millers performances this season it was suppose to say mate sorry.


{Ed001's Note - ok mate I will do something on this as soon as I get a chance.}

10 Dec 2015 11:22:17
Thanks ed much appreciated.


{Ed001's Note - it is good to have an idea for something else to put together an article on. That is the hardest part of writing them, trying to come up with things to write about.}

10 Dec 2015 11:40:23
I expect you to be honest ed like you always are and accurate I've heard some podcasts ect and seen your opinions on other players. Which I find to be very interesting I might not always agree but I vLue your opinion as a fellow supporter.


{Ed001's Note - thanks mate. I am hoping we will get a chance to do more podcasts, though my skype is not working at the moment which makes it difficult.}

10 Dec 2015 11:54:19
Ye that would be good mate this site is my little escape from reality. And also I like to read some of the regular posters opinions I was also an editor on a Facebook liverpool page. A well known one too I just couldn't handle the grammar police and abuse so hats off to you all ed001 ed002 ect and all the other eds apart from ed0025 because he's a blue. No joking aside tho mate really appreciate all your hard work and dedication to the site and merry Christmas time for me to go till later ed thanks.


{Ed001's Note - the abuse is an issue here too, which is why we have editors to keep it off the pages themselves.}

10 Dec 2015 13:54:18
I find it so funny johndoe mentioned how Milner has moved to a new city and needs to adapt. You know Manchester is like a 20 minute drive away from Liverpool right? Milner should be sold asap, i wanted him here but never in a million years could i imagined he would be this bad.

Against newcaslte he couldn't control a ball to save his life and half his tackles were failed and many of his passes were given straight to the opposition for no reason at all. He tried to dribble 5 times and didn't succeed once. I keep on hearing how he can cross but since coming here he has had 1 good cross out of 50 crosses so that is a myth that he can cross a ball!


09 Dec 2015 18:45:27
Does anyone follow the Arsenal rumours page? Do they want wilshere sold as much as people say we should sell Sturridge?

Believable2 Unbelievable0

09 Dec 2015 19:36:21
They are used to half their team missing all season through injury though mate. But i don't think they want him sold or anything.


09 Dec 2015 21:58:44
I have seen a few posts about selling the more injured players on other sites, but the volume that I have seen against Sturridge is a new one to me.


09 Dec 2015 14:33:46
Hi eds,

Will liverpool buy a winger in january. no youth players are promoted yet and ibe has only shown some sparks.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - The club has looked at a couple but I cannot guarantee they will buy one in January.}

09 Dec 2015 21:25:10
Would so much rather recall markovic.

Give him 6 months under klopp and if its not looking like working then look at Kent/Ojo or the transfer market in the summer.


09 Dec 2015 23:29:14
Agree with paulo. Markovic to be recalled and played in the position that we brought him for (not wingback)
I think he could be amazing with time and a klop cuddle.


10 Dec 2015 09:00:01
Everything's there for him now. A manager who will use him right and coach who speaks his language.

I think he could do a great job for us!

We at least owe him 20 starts to see what he can do before we do anything in the transfer market.


09 Dec 2015 12:49:46
Hi, I would like to ask Ed2's personal thoughts and also experienced views on a couple of FIFA and UEFA issues if I may (Ed1, feel free to join in too as I value your opinions and enjoy reading them too) .

Firstly, with nearly half of the FIFA Exec Committee under investigation now do you think it is possible to actually reform this organisation, and likewise UEFA, from within? I don't know much about their structures to be honest but am assuming their are a lot of good people doing work within behind the scenes but just see how anyone at the top can be trusted now or what on earth can be done to start afresh.

Secondly, what's your personal thoughts on the corruption that appears to have been going on and do you have any knowledge of how people within the industry feel across the continents (players, managers, agents etc) .

Personally, I think anyone found guilty of such high level corruption should serve time and have to pay back huge amounts of the money stolen or assets taken and that money out back into setting something better and sustainable in place for the future of the game.

Thanks in advance as always and apologies if this is too big a subject to cover.

Bryan.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - Dealing first with the UEFA situation, there were (historic) issues that came to light about 18 months ago regarding Platini and it is just one of those issues that is coming to the fore at the moment and dragging Blatter along with it. It is to do with the late invoicing of some SFr2M for work undertaken beginning in 2002 - but not invoiced until 2011. Aside from the lack of an adequate paper trail there is some aspect of Swiss law that says invoices for work carried out more than 5 years before should not be paid - and it is this the Swiss have pulled them over, regardless of the monies having been repaid. The US DoJ is somewhat surprised over the Swiss actions and have yet to convince themselves that this is necessary illegal rather than just misguided - and the Swiss authorities playing on the nuances of Swiss law, the lack of a paper trail and some hideously weird excuse from Platini make them think that this might not even be charge worthy. There is then some additional fluff which has not yet been publicized fully that could take it one of three ways for Platini - charge him separately, drop all charges, or ask Platini to switch to being a witness for part of any other relevant case - cutting him a deal we call it. As for Angel Maria Villar-Llon, he will be offered as a sacrifice regardless. In terms of the UEFA staff, 500 plus folks are simply decent people getting on with their jobs. For now they can continue. Other related issues, the FA should, regardless of all of this, withdraw their support of Platini for FIFA completely and get right behind a decent candidate who will do the right thing - sadly the one who really stood out in my view - Chung Mong-Joon - will not be getting elected.

The remaining major European issue is that a number of clubs (effectively two with the support of one other for certain and I think now two more) are looking to accelerate a pan-European breakaway league – I have explained this before. Then there is finally the issue of the Euros in 2016 (Platini's baby) - how will they be impacted? There is a meeting of clubs in Monaco tomorrow and I expect the issue to at least be touched on. Whilst some clubs are trying to accelerate a breakaway only one is using the situation with FIFA as a primary driver. So at some point UEFA will be crippled by the breakaway regardless - and that would be the time to restructure.

As for FIFA, the Ethics Committee are going down the “too much and get something wrong” is better than “too little and miss something” route. Like the big picture of FIFA, their reputation is all but shot. Next up is the election itself. The first effort will be to deflect the efforts by some folk to move the FIFA election forward or back. Then there are going to be sponsorship issues for FIFA. Then the 2022 world cup issue will be back to the fore. And whilst all of this is going on, the assets of CONCACAF have been frozen - this is where the US started with their investigation and a number of accounts are frozen (certainly any in US Jurisdiction). The United States Justice Department does not work quickly and such it could take a long time (years) to come to court in the United States. The Swiss Feds have acted as a result of information provided by the US which is, I understand, compelling enough for them to begin a separate investigation.

Overlaying all of this now is the need for the clarification of charges against a number of people - this will likely come from the US but in itself will likely require various folks be extradited to America, probably Florida - and that could take many years (perhaps even 10 or more). If Jack Warner is still around by the time that happens then he will turn to give evidence for the DoJ and they get to look in his basement.

FIFA will survive for the time being and again the majority of the 400 plus staff are doing a good job. The only thing to change this would be all FIFA assets being frozen and perhaps the Pan-European breakaway – which will likely cause at least the complete reorganisation of UEFA.

As for how clubs and players perceive all of this, in most cases it will be of little significance to the players themselves. Payments on the playing side have been cleansed from the tax avoiding days of old - no payments being made in tax free oil paintings and cars, no more image rights payments going to off-shore companies. The workings of FIFA are well removed from most players in the European and other major leagues. FIFA are involved a lot more in the developing and poorer nations but it will be a matter of little consequence to the players.

As for the clubs, there are as we know a number (in the teens) of clubs looking to break away from UEFA, and effectively FIFA, at some to be determined time. It will be a crippling blow to UEFA and will mean radical changes throughout Europe. As for FIFA the time is ideal to now look to completely restructure the organisation over the coming years. They will attempt to do this themselves but they may well struggle with on-going court cases.

And the agents? Most agents are entirely unaffected by all of this. I can think of a handful of agents and "representatives" who will be treading carefully because of past relationships and the way they have done some business in the past.}

09 Dec 2015 18:13:48
If eds 002 isn't tired after that informative reply (grovel grovel follower of appreciation page) does the US action originate from the DA FIFA appointed to clear themselves of all blame for everything ever.


{Ed002's Note - It is a federal matter being dealt with by the FBA and DoJ. The indictments have come from the US but the charges are from several other countries.}

09 Dec 2015 20:13:49
There was a panorama documentary about this several days ago on BBC2.


09 Dec 2015 19:15:31
I know it is a business really, but can't help but feel they need more ex players or managers at the top (and I know platini is and more. ) seems the only way to restore reputation is through time and logical reasoning. Anyone with half a football brain can see a quatar World Cup is stupid, not least the fact that quatar have never even qualified for one.


09 Dec 2015 19:23:50
Ed002 a great read (I'd expect nothing less) can I ask do you think that along the way individual FAs will be looked at including the English FA?
That'll be another can of worms and I can confidently say many members of FAs worldwide again including the English will be hoping nobody looks too closely.


{Ed002's Note - Not unless something happens to force it Chris. When the breakaway eventually happens the FA will need to change. Other organisations such as the PFA will need to refocus - a change at the top there is due in any case.}

09 Dec 2015 20:13:49
There was a panorama documentary about this several days ago on BBC2.


09 Dec 2015 22:27:28
Thank you, Ed. Hugely appreciated. Sorry for the late reply too, I was looking after my poorly wife and also putting kids to bed etc. Must say their stories of princesses and fairies is a lot easier to explain away that football governing bodies!

It's a shame the judicial processes take so long as it would be very refreshing and fascinating to see all of the true facts of these matters, both convicting people for criminal activities and clearing the reputations of the innocent ones.

Too many questions come to mind from your great responses so I won't trouble you with them today but it will be interesting to hear of any 'fly on the wall' talk you hear post tomorrow's meeting.

Thanks again.


09 Dec 2015 14:40:01
Sturridge's latest injury has provoked a lot of comment about the striker himself but less about how Klopp manages in the immediate future. Klopp currently has Benteke, Origi and Firmino as fit players who can play as strikers but there are questions around all of them; Benteke may be unsuitable for how Klopp wants to play, Origi is a better fit but is young and yet to prove himself, Firmino's form is mixed and he's not a natural striker.

What should Klopp do until Sturridge returns from injury? He's still shaping the team and trying to implement his style and methods. Should he continue down this route utilising the more mobile and harder working Origi and Firmino and sideline Benteke? Attempt to mold Benteke into a more Klopp-like player, a plan which may prove fruitless, buy another established striker to be first choice or change the direction of the team to suit Benteke's style better?

For me buying another striker in January is a waste and Benteke is too good to sideline so if I was Klopp I'd be dragging him up and down the training pitch working on his movement and work rate. If Benteke can't be molded that presents a problem and I wouldn't be surprised if Klopp looks to sacrifice his ideals a little to accommodate the big man.

Believable4 Unbelievable2

09 Dec 2015 16:19:27
For me Firmino in a False 9 role would be preferable. Thought our best form was against Man C. Could see Klopp utilizing a 4-1-3-2 with Benteke and Origi up front to try and get the most out of the big guy.


09 Dec 2015 16:28:24
No way should we buy another. When Ings is back too that's plenty strikers. I'd like to see firmino off benteke though rather than out wide.


09 Dec 2015 17:04:17
I'd like to see Firmino start and Benteke to come off the bench for a bit.

For sides looking to park the bus though, I'd be tempted to play Benteke and Origi in a twin striker role and see how they get on together.


09 Dec 2015 17:11:55
Surely Firmino, Coutinho and Lallana interchanging is the best set up we have available.

Another striker, as said above, is a waste of money. Sturridge's lay off isn't too long, Ings will be back before the end of the season too. There's plenty of 'options' too.


09 Dec 2015 17:56:20
This season is all about who fits into klopps plans. That's it.
Any decent cup run or league finish is a bonus but let's make it clear, the likes of Benteke are playing for their future because top players all over the world WANT to play for Klopp.


09 Dec 2015 17:57:59
I have to say i have no clue whatsoever as to what klopp will do or how he should organise the team. Happy days eh.


09 Dec 2015 14:51:32
Well, Klopp being intelligent would have learned a good lesson at New castle. And how to use Benteke.
Our next game is at home and expect West Brom to sit deep and counter. I would use benteke and put in crosses after crosses.


09 Dec 2015 20:22:33
^^^^^YAWN.


09 Dec 2015 20:26:01
Is he injured again?


10 Dec 2015 08:35:02
When we say Frimino has had mixed form, he's actually not. He's played well when up front (vs Chelsea and City) . He's not played well when he was in other places.


09 Dec 2015 14:00:33
{Ed's Note - We have posted a new article entitled, Arsenal Off To Oz, Scottish Prem Off To America

Believable0 Unbelievable0

09 Dec 2015 13:18:15
In for a week out for a month is Daniel Sturridge a tampon.

Believable16 Unbelievable1

09 Dec 2015 13:32:07
He gets cramps too ;)


09 Dec 2015 13:46:17
REDMICK

may need a towel instead, have just nearly wet myself.


09 Dec 2015 13:51:57
Hahaha absolute classic.


09 Dec 2015 14:07:29
Duncan had a better ring to it.


09 Dec 2015 14:27:28
Well they are treated and taxed as luxury products too.


09 Dec 2015 14:56:47
Duncan Ferguson song, Nothing wrong with recycling.


09 Dec 2015 11:54:54
Eds, one of my favourite players from the youth set up was Ojo, and he seems to have had plenty of playing time on loan this season.
Do you see Klopp bringing him back to assess and make a decision on him?
Also, and you don't have to answer this, but I would appreciate an opinion, if you had the option of securing just one player in January, who would you select from the players who might be available?

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - I expect Ojo to stay out on loan and be given the chance to impress over the summer. I have no idea who I would sign to be honest.}

09 Dec 2015 13:29:40
One thing we do not need to do is buy. We have more than enough players of sufficient quality - far far to many truth be known. In fact if anything we need to reduce so that we can utilise the remaining players more often so that they get more game time, more experience and play with each other (in a professional way) more often.


09 Dec 2015 16:20:23
Red Lenin we don't have anywhere near enough players of sufficient quality.


09 Dec 2015 17:19:51
Couldn't agree more. Unfortunately the modern football fan, much like the modern consumer, likes 'instant everything'.

I'd much rather continue with the current squad and reflect at the end of the season. As an example, a lot of fans were convinced Lovren wasn't good enough and look at him now. Still has a way to go, but as confidence continues to build within the squad, individuals start to show their best.

We need to trim the fat and at most, look to invest in one world class player in a key position at the end of the season.


09 Dec 2015 20:19:01
Our squad has been in diseconomies of scale for a while - so large and expansive that all the players get in eachothers way, and never show their full potential, so we sack them all of and start again.

In every position apart from potentially fullback we have players waiting for a go, just need to give them a chance, except from our current striker dilemma that will only be solved with time -two injured, one isn't ready and one is out of form.


09 Dec 2015 19:26:12
you will be waiting long for that, klopp doesn't sign world class players, he makes them so it means we will sign many players you have never heard of before.


10 Dec 2015 11:41:51
Only thing i'd do in January is bring Markovic back and give him some games. He's thr right type of player for the system and, as a team, I think he would help us look more balanced. Not saying he will definitely be great but Klopp won't be deploying him as a right back so i'd like to see how he does in a role befitting his abilities.


09 Dec 2015 09:07:15
Do you know what I don't get?
This rose tinted view from a lot of our fans that we can always be using these youth players we always seem to have hidden away with reputations that have grown from nowhere, its not very often you get one come through like Sterling who ends up being worth x amount of money and surely more than anything these 'professional' managers have an eye on whether these lads are actually good enough to get a run out in the first place,
we've had the Suso thing, now Tex, Rossiter, Brad Smith, Sinclair etc etc, Now I'm not doubting that some of these lads COULD be good enough if given chances but how many year in year out Champions league qualifying teams do you see blooding youth players constantly? not many, now I agree it is a problem in football and in an ideal world we would all be giving these lads a chance for the good of the game, but I'm afraid in reality we don't live in that world anymore nor is it likely to go back anytime soon, money, pressure and transfer funds rule whether we like it or not and managers are constantly finding it harder to risk a result by giving an unproven player a go out of pre-season,
Onto my second point, goalkeepers, I played at lower league standard over 20 years ago and I saw a comment or two on how Ward playing in Scotland is no different to him playing for LFC if he's good enough to do the job, which some on here think he is, but anyone who thinks the standard in goal is no different as saving shots is saving shots has clearly never stood in between the posts at anything like a level, when you start going up in class even slightly the timing becomes sharper from a strikers point of view, the ball starts coming at you faster, harder, more accurate, the will to win the ball before you becomes more intense, the bigger the crowd the more noise and pressure and the more you become conscious of any tiny mistakes you might be making, I can guarantee that there is a world of difference between the standard he's playing now and what he would be playing in the PL, and we should be happy for now that his progress up there is going well, but anyone who thinks right now he is a better option than what we have is wrong, he will be I've no doubt as he looks a real talent to me, but we'd ruin him if he came into the side now, besides that, Goalkeepers get better with age and experience and he's got it all to come,
As for Mignolet and Bogdan, I actually don't really see what Bogdan has done wrong in the small amount of game time he's had and he does seem to come out for a ball more positive than Mignolet which for me has got to be a bonus, i'd personally like to see more of him but whether that happens is another thing,
Anyway its a world of opinions fellas and their only mine, feel free to disagree as I'm sure some will and let's hope we get back to winning ways this week! YNWA.

Believable2 Unbelievable7

{Ed001's Note - oh give it a rest mr patronising! AC Milan have a 16 year old goalkeeper, Casillas was at his best when a kid. It varies from player to player, hiding them away is never the best way to prepare them. The only way to get them used to the pressure and quality is for them to face it. I am so bored of these posts from people who clearly have no idea about youth development, like the whole of English football. It is failing because of these kind of nonsense beliefs. You have to trust them and let them make mistakes in the team.}

09 Dec 2015 09:36:22
Ed1 I totally agree with you, that's why we have the perfect manager now isn't it, who will coach and give youth a chance?


{Ed001's Note - very much so, I think he is the best we could hope for.}

09 Dec 2015 10:20:13
I'm sorry Ed I don't agree, I agree they need a chance at some point but if anyone thinks the youth angle is going to be played out here then they are wrong, If it is I'll gladly come on here and apologise as if its for the better of the side then fair does, but I just don't see it,
I'm not being patronising either i'm merely having an opinion on a subject I feel i'm pretty qualified to comment on what is wrong with that?
And seriously, I appreciate all the hard work that goes into this site and I know how difficult it is due to running two businesses of my own and constantly trying to keep up, but do we really need the aggressive responses when people merely voice an opinion, is this site not about opinions? i'd like to think it is and not just about people falling in line with whatever the Editors have to say just because they have a different belief on footballing matters and because they run the site.


{Ed001's Note - aggressive? People are so damn precious these days! As for being pretty qualified, you played the game, that doesn't make you any more qualified than anyone else. By the way, as it is obviously escaped your attention, I was giving an opinion as well, but that obviously is only allowed if it was the same as yours.}

09 Dec 2015 10:30:54
Ok, i'm not into daft tit for tat, point taken, perhaps we both have a point, I wasnt being precious, I love the site and for fans its a real good outlet, but much the same as anything opinions will differ,
Also I wasnt saying I was more qualified on a footballing front, Just offering an opinion on the goalkeeping side based on experience, I don't think anyone denies that having youth coming through regular would be a bonus, i'm just pointing out that the footballing world has become a strange and money orientated place that I don't see changing anytime soon and surely that's not an un-realistic view? Anyway, my post definitely wasnt intended as a dig at you I was just offering alternative opinion, I apologise if it came across that way it really wasnt the way it was meant to come across.


{Ed001's Note - I agree with some of your points, that wasn't what I was meaning. My issue is that these young players never get to experience the difficulty level to find out if they are capable of coping with it. When they do, some of them turn out to be good enough, others will fail miserably, but you never know until they actually get the chance. Also the only way for them to adapt is to play at that level.}

09 Dec 2015 10:54:49
I completely accept about the youth, and I do see how actually having the game time would tell us more, i'm just of the opinion when it comes to goalkeepers its better to introduce slightly later, BUT I do appreciate there are exceptions too they aren't all the same as you pointed out, Ward looks a big strong lad with good feet and reactions, I just wonder if a 6 month stint in the Championship would do him more good than the Scottish league, I dunno, I suppose in a lot of ways what your saying is why not just drop them in the deep end and see if they swim, I get that point too, I think in this day and age of managers getting shown the boot early especially ones that take over already in precarious positions then it must be difficult to take the plunge and throw someone in for fear of it not working out, although If you want my honest opinion I am a Texeira fan just going on the brief glimpses I've seen and can't fathom why he's at least not a decent option when Couthino is out injured because If he's not as good as the likes of Milner who has had countless chances at various clubs then there is no hope at all,
Anyway thanks for the banter, and apologies again for anything taken the wrong way, I have a forthright manner at the best of times, Have a good day ED001 speak again soon YNWA.


{Ed001's Note - no it's fine mate, I know I can come across as harsh too, I have no problems with disagreeing at all. Under normal circumstances I would think so with regards to Ward, but we need a keeper now, better to give him a try and see if we can save some money to put towards buying those players we desperately need.}

09 Dec 2015 10:55:18
I Kind of get what Richie is saying in that you wouldn't replace Migs immediately with Ward, but the Ed does make sense. The English game has been held back by reluctance to use youth. Even teams who win promotion do it with shoestring budgets, but the minute they settle in the Prem that goes out the window. I think a lot of it stems from the nature of the league, the pressure to win and the insistence from owners for instant success. I do think Klopp is the right man to bring stability to the club and curb the ridiculously excessive spending we have had over the years.


09 Dec 2015 11:12:47
Typing an opinion is what this site is all about. Wow wouldn't it be fantastic to have one which we all agree on, not really. Steve Nicol was a superb player for our club, but as a pundit? That's my opinion. Gary Neville in my opinion wouldn't have an England cap if Rob Jones had not of been ravaged by Injuries. Gary Neville talks a lot of common sense, a really good pundit. The subject of the next best thing is one hell of a debate. Unless you are exceptional you're not going to break through and unfortunately like the Ed I do think that giving them an opportunity makes or breaks them. Take Flanagan for instance he was way behind the likes of Coady, Wisdom, Ince, Amoo, Ngoo, Suso and Ecclestone, but he's the only one left. But in fairness he was the only one given an opportunity and that was because Rodgers had no one else to play left back. I Watch the Academy and would love to see them all come through but realistically it's not going to happen, unless you sell your fringe players every year and bring them up.


09 Dec 2015 12:25:24
I was saying the same thing last season. Ed01 loves that youth drum, LOL.


{Ed001's Note - so did German football, which is why they win things. Amazingly enough, before that the Spanish did and it led to their success, prior to them it was the French and they won things. It is only the morons in charge of English football that refuse to take chances on youth and so the country and now the clubs are falling behind.}

09 Dec 2015 13:33:18
Richie, the only way these young players will gain experience is through game time at a hogher level. If they don't get picked now and again then they not only never develop properly but they also get disenchanted and leave.

Remember Alan Hansen and his 'you don't win with kids' - you're taking the same blinkered view.


09 Dec 2015 16:31:09
What about players like Owen, who were good at 17/18 but was done by the time he was in his 'prime' if we never gave him a chance.


09 Dec 2015 18:13:35
Fairly disparaging of the Scottish league to be fair richie. Some could say the same about the championship. But have you taken a look at what team is leading the prem atm. You also have players who come from top leagues in europe and fail miserably in the prem. The point is it is an individual thing and if you don't try them you will never know. So yes ward could come in and be the answer to all our prayers or bomb but i'd rather give him a chance at failing.


09 Dec 2015 18:26:27
Didnt the German national team sacrifice one of the tournaments just to blood the youngsters.

Sure I remember something like that I could be wrong.


09 Dec 2015 20:46:46
Ed is on the money. The French went back to square one after the World cup 1994 debacle where like England, they failed to qualify. they revamped their whole youth system at the national level and blooded in the youth as a policy at all the clubs and youth national teams. they won every tournament at senior level. Spain caught up and did theirs for the known results. Germany caught up in early 2000`s and did their revamp as well. The team that went to the WC in 2010 was the core of the U21`s that beat England in 2009 final with Boateng, Neuer, Kroos, Ozil, Hummels, Muller and the rest. Where is Germany now with those boys and where is England with Micah Richards and the rest? You have to play the youth to know what they have. Saying they may not make it as an excuse for notplaying them is just lazy, cowardly and counter productive. klopp isn`t having any of that tripe, thank heavens.


09 Dec 2015 19:28:53
Comparing the championship with the Scottish league is simply hilarious, the competition in the championship is absolutely fierce, that is far from the case for the scottish league. Celtic competing with themselves ever since Rangers went into administration.


09 Dec 2015 08:56:03
Question for edd1 if your there mate. Can u see the club getting to a point of feeling they have to sell sturridge with these continues injury's. Do u think he would be hard to sell if it came to that. Apreciate your opinion mate. cheers.

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{Ed001's Note - eventually yes, but I hope they realise it is too early to give up on him yet. It takes a long time to recover from injuries like the ones he suffered. You have to be patient with them.}

09 Dec 2015 09:15:21
Thanks for the reply mate. I do believe we have enough to cover this season, just concerned we could loose a class striker. be a shame. cheers.


{Ed001's Note - it would be as he is top class and just needs time.}

09 Dec 2015 09:24:15
We did that mistake when we sold Sterling for a ransom money. We just cannot let Sturridge go and roam around europe to find some one better than Sturridge without CL. I just don't see that coming. I would keep him till he GIVES UP.


09 Dec 2015 11:36:23
Didi Hamann has just been on the radio claiming Studge has always suffered frequent injuries. It sums up why two big clubs let him go.

If what Didi says is true then it's not too early to get rid, it's high time we did.

£100k a week, turned up properly for two games this season. No brainer.


09 Dec 2015 12:28:00
Still scored more goals than nearly all the players at the club.
Bro this guy is genuinely world class nd we can't afford to lose such players when we are not really blessed with many top class players (only coutinho, and sakho come to mind)


09 Dec 2015 12:06:07
Didi was jumping on his feet on the radio when Danny buried that half volley against Saints.

The first goal was pure his ability. After failing to control the first time pass he made Caulker look like a Kinder garden with that goal.

The second was pure class, one of the most difficult goal to score from half volley.

His goals gave us the momentum, Southampton we're brilliant till those goals.

I wouldn't worry much about Hamann. He would changed is opinion every week.


09 Dec 2015 13:00:29
Henderson is not top class?


09 Dec 2015 16:01:17
But Hamann was at City when Studge was starting out, quite relevant inside knowledge.

Nobody is doubting his ability but what good is ability when you ain't playing?

I thought Hamann summed it up brilliantly by saying he's a luxury we can't afford. If we were blessed with one or two quality strikers or if Benteke could be arsed we wouldn't be so reliant and there'd be an argument.

For me he'll always suffer these injuries. By the sound of things he always has and always will. So it doesn't matter if he goes elsewhere as he'll still spend more time in the treatment room.

There are going to be plenty of strikers out there who would demand a much lower wage, maybe not be as good but over a season will get more goals as they'll not be injured.

We need to be more ruthless. Having faith is one thing but blind faith just holds us back.


09 Dec 2015 20:50:37
Spot on, Topoftheklops! I have posted the very same opinion several times. Studge`s talent is useless to us if he can`t play and eventually he will get shot of of if the club`s patience with him runs out and at this rate, it will.


09 Dec 2015 08:37:36
Greetings, what's your take on our players response to JK training and pressing system, they seemed tired half way through the 1st half.

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09 Dec 2015 09:25:42
No teams could press the whole 90 mts. The most criticial point is scoring the early goal which shackles the Opposition and their early tactics to try something different. The longer it takes the harder it makes.


09 Dec 2015 16:32:54
Eg the whole point of is that they don't press for 90 minutes, just the times when they are most vulnerable.


09 Dec 2015 20:57:04
No team presses all game. It is calibrated to press when the opponent is in dificulty and if you don`t press, you stay compact while they have the ball and then pounce when the opportunity rrives. that is what we did to City.


09 Dec 2015 06:48:36
Studge out for several weeks with hamstring injury. Shame. Defo need 2 buy a forward in jan.

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09 Dec 2015 07:24:04
Some people are odd. disagree with a FACT lol. It's not an opinion, it's a FACT. eds, do you think we will sign a forward in january? Cheers.


{Ed001's Note - why would we? We have lots of them. I don't understand the obsession with buying players all the time. People need to stop playing computer games and get into reality. The club need to sell, not buy.}

09 Dec 2015 08:10:16
{Ed001's Note - The club need to sell, not buy. }


Now that mate, is a FACT.


09 Dec 2015 08:11:59
Fair enough eds just feel we need a proven goal scorer who isn't injured all the time? No one else seems to be cutting the mustard. Not computer games, just a thought. cheers.


{Ed001's Note - proven? We have Benteke who is a proven goal scorer. What we need is the manager to get the most out of our players, not wasting more money.}

09 Dec 2015 08:27:56
Is there an update on how ings is getting on with his recovery and when is he expected to be back.


{Ed001's Note - what is there to update, he is almost certainly out for the season.}

09 Dec 2015 08:31:32
The Ed is spot on, You can't just keep buying strikers because the ones you have are injured. Like it or not Daniel Sturridge has a contract till 2019.Why not just let's see what Origi or Sinclair can do. Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen all young players given opportunities because of injuries. I believe that Origi has all the attributes to become a top striker. He needs confidence and game time. How good did he look against Southampton, more so after Sturridge scored 2 goals. He raised his game, as if to say hey I can do that. He certainly showed enough ability to warrant a run in the team. I was disappointed he didn't start against Newcastle.


09 Dec 2015 08:44:02
I take your point ED001 but in reality he is going to be shaping the squad his own way which will involve a transfer or two, whether we see that this Jan is debatable as I don't see us moving any on with a view to making a few funds appear, I don't think Benteke will be here long term but I do think he's here for now and with Ings out for the season and porcelain boy yet again injured there is a likelihood he'll look to someone, maybe not but I do also think there is a much chance of him getting in a creative midfielder instead as, as much as we are overrun with players including those like Tex who could get a run out in midfield I also think the addition of one or two experienced creative players could help drive us on to top four, BUT everyone knows funds are low so who knows, hey maybe the welsh xavi will end up back at Swansea if golden boy goes back and give us a bob or two back in the bank balance! . I won't hold my breath lol.


09 Dec 2015 10:47:14
Everyone's obsession with new strikers is absurd. On paper, our front line is the best in the league. Benteke, Sturridge, Ings and Origi is a much better pool of options than City, United, Spurs, Everton and Chelsea have in all honesty. I know Ings is out for the season and Sturridge probably won't play until around March knowing him but it's still too many forwards to have and add to without getting rid of some. City have gotten rid of Negredo, Dzeko and Tevez in the last 3 years, only adding Bony to the squad. How can we expect the club to get in someone new again to be first choice when we still have Benteke and Sturridge as our 2 first choice strikers. It's preposterous in every way!


09 Dec 2015 12:21:27
Kaiser. fact is. brown noses ain't great. Have you got an opinion or just regurgitating eds views?! I agree we need 2 sell to buy but ings is out, benteke is good but very lazy and origi is still learning, so whilst studge is out again and again we need someone to rely on. Firminio couldn't hit a barn door on present evidence. Maybe the system needs to work towards big Bens strengths more but at the moment he looks disinterested in my opinion. Maybe a loan deal. so eds, taking into account studge is out what would be your team sheet? Cheers.


{Ed001's Note - Studger has been out months, what is wrong with the team that was being picked before he came back?}

09 Dec 2015 12:54:32
eds views? yes i do take into account what they say, bt i also take into account that

1. we have had a case under ffp which we were let go without a fine.

2. owners have been spending a lot and we haven't earned much, as we haven't had on field success so we have been making losses. go check the annual report for that.

3. we have players which we couldn't sell that's currently on loan, but are still in our books.

4. the money we have been spending isn't ours, it was loaned we are in debt.

if you think otherwise share with us then how you think we can spend more, and how we are going to get the money.


09 Dec 2015 18:18:54
Those are some pretty enlightening facts kaizer, oh damn i'm brown nosing you now. Lol.


09 Dec 2015 06:39:33
In the 2013 season Sturridge played the most games, he was hardly injured. Well as compared to his othere seasons for us. That season we played 2 upfront. Against Southampton, he played without getting injured (that's a rare thing for him thses days), so it makes me wonder if he's less prone to injuries if played with another striker? It allows him to find space, get in behind defenders, and make runs. But without over exerting himself. So maybe instead of keeping him for cameo apperances to keep him fit (I feel he gets injured because he's not playing often enough), we should rather play him more, but with a 2nd striker as well. This will give him more match time, and allow him to play within himself.

Believable1 Unbelievable7

09 Dec 2015 04:45:21
just a question, why are all ex liverpool players bashing firmino? he has had a on/off start to season but isn't this his first season in very physical league. i mean at least give him a season to settle and adapt ( mentally and physically) . he came from the bundesliga and while the bundesliga has a lot of qualities like great flowing football, pressing and all i am not quite sure it is quite as physical like epl. i understand their sentiment that firmino doesn't look like he is giving it his all and is not 100 there but i mean he is not half way through his first season yet. i am sure he will come to terms with it by febraury-march.

Believable4 Unbelievable3

09 Dec 2015 06:06:11
when you come to a club like liverpool there will be high expectations. this is normal. understand that i'm not saying its right, i'm saying this is normal when you don't produce as much especially if you come with a big price tag.

but the best players will perform on the pitch no matter what people say about them. for firmino i think there's more from him that we have yet to see, i'd give him and klopp more time to find the best in him.


{Ed001's Note - it does seem odd that he is taking the flak while Benteke offers a lot less, cost more, and is not working as hard as he should be.}

09 Dec 2015 07:16:15
I don't really read the articles ed001, but i do see it on twitter and other social media outlets. I've seen a couple about Benteke as well to be fair.

I do agree with you, Benteke at his best is a beast of a player. I can't remember how many times i got frustrated watching him just pressing half heartedly and were not offering that much. and not being in the box when we get chances to attack from the wings just pretty much tells you why he isn't getting any action on that day.

You talk about players who have very little natural ability but gave their all, and sometimes you just see players like this who are very capable but not putting the same amount of work rate. I think at this point we can agree Benteke is a great player with good technique as well, but he needs to show it. Be there. Sturridge despite being out for a longer time, has come in and showed why he's a top class striker in a short time. only thing stopping Benteke now is he himself.


{Ed001's Note - totally agree, Benteke is quality but his attitude stinks right now and is holding him back. Still, he is young and there is time for him to improve it, but it is all up to him.}

09 Dec 2015 08:06:47
Echoes of balotelli ed01?


{Ed001's Note - except with ability, rather than potential ability.}

09 Dec 2015 07:52:24
We bought Benteke and paid huge money to get him. It would be a bigger joke if he is put up for sale immediately after 12 months. The club will loose millions in this sale.

I would rather play to his strength or buy players that compliment his style.

Lets first cross ball and see where it goes from there. If I remember 2 of his 5 goals came from crosses.

Laughable, Moreno had a cross and Benteke wasnt inside the Box. Seriously? . That was the only cross we managed whole game.
Milner had 3 corners inside 10 mts against New castle and how many were good enough?


09 Dec 2015 11:02:58
why would they cross the ball into the box if no one is in the box? this is taking stats to suit your arguement EG.


09 Dec 2015 15:25:19
Buy a £30million+ striker, alter your entire teams style to suit his laziness. which in itselg won't guarantee goals, yet playing false 9's and a youth player led to smacking Chelsea City and Southampton, then starting a striker with whome you try to supply his style of play and you get smacked by Newcastle, including that striker missing from 2 yards out. I;d rather play the 3 rotating Attacking mids.

Moreno managed 6 cross firmino 3,Ibe 4,clyne 2 before it was evident Benteke would not move for them. Milner had 1 bad corner, the rest were fine.


09 Dec 2015 16:54:48
Bang on, Bobatron.

Sick and tired of hearing Aldo and other commentators bash Firmino and then lament that Benteke hasn't "gotten the service" he needed to succeed.

Our best attacks, and best games, have been with Benteke on the bench. Absolutely pointless to transform our approach and style to accommodate a lazy lamp post, who misses as many sitters as he buries.


08 Dec 2015 23:23:13
Hello ED's

Hope all is well.

Just wondering what the latest is with Sinclair? Not expecting him to start next game but with Sturridge out and Benteke not looking like he suits the pressing system ATM is he going to be given a chance albeit by the bench?

I know his contract is up soon, but he was due to come on against Spurs.

Cheers.

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{Ed001's Note - Klopp wants to have a look at him in first team football, so he is likely to get chances.}

08 Dec 2015 22:35:56
Hey ed001 any chance of an article about top players liverpool nearly signed as in deals just fell through. Would be very interesting read and popular too.

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{Ed001's Note - ok mate, will start on that one next.}

09 Dec 2015 04:29:15
Tot eds mention Silva was the one that got away.


09 Dec 2015 11:01:25
Can you make it after Xmas ed I want to enjoy the festive season.


{Ed001's Note - hahaha it will probably take me that long to write.}

09 Dec 2015 00:24:33
Don't panic gents.

Few positives:
Origi and maybe some youth players will get a chance.
Benteke will have to step up his game.
Coutinho will be back to fill the void.
It's safe to say sturridge will not be viewed as a reliable starting striker anymore so we can begin to move on.

I really like Daniel, I have liked him from the day he joined us. He has been incredibly unlucky with injuries and doesn't deserve the trend time he has had to endure with it. He has been a credit to the club and seems a genuine loveable guy.

That being said we have been in dire need of somebody to put goals away since Suarez left. Maybe this new spell will be the last straw because it's starting to halt the progression of this club, and I think we are on the verge of something big.

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09 Dec 2015 05:18:21
Not a panic but
1) our no.1 Sturridge is proving his availability is a rare gift and can't be relied on
2) our no.2 Benteke hasn't yet shown he can work in Klopp's system (5 goals with him upfront, 13 without and we are also weaker in defence with him in the side)
3) Origi is unproven despite his talent, and struggled to lead the line before his recent hatrick
4) Firmino has only really shined in one game upfront and not led the line much before or since

While I do think we'll make it through the month OK playing Benteke/Origi and Firmino upfront, Klopp has a dilemma on his hands as to the long term plan for the team and your last paragraph sums it up in that we can't let a perpetually injured striker derail the teams development.

If Benteke can't prove himself as as the no.1 and fit in with Klopp's style of play in the coming month or so, either he and/or Sturridge will need to move on come the summer.

We can't go into next season with 2 expensive strikers, one permanently crook and the other a misfit for our system.


09 Dec 2015 07:59:44
Why not fine tune a bit and get the best out Benteke?
If its all about just one system, what's the difference between Brendan and Klopp?
Brendan had passing and Klopp has pressing. Benteke was never fit for neither system anyways.


08 Dec 2015 23:34:49
Am I right in thinking if all of Man U, Chelsea, and Arsenal all end up in third in CL. We will have Chelsea, Liverpool, Everton, Arsenal, Man U and Tottenham in the Europa league?

Think it would make it interesting. Also hearing Sturridge is out for a month with hamstring. Killer.

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09 Dec 2015 04:21:41
Everton aren't in Europe.


09 Dec 2015 04:30:19
i fear that too be true. united are already there and will be most probably be joined by arsenal. to me honestly it makes things very interesting both in the league for top 4 and europa.
winner in either situation gets CL football, so the prize is also the same. i think that would add another dimension to premier league this season and we could see Leicester city, westHam, crystal palace pushing vehemently for top 4 because of added games on Thursdays for all other contender.
lets hope this is our season. and we can crack both europa and top 4 and shatter dreams of other clubs while doing so :P.


09 Dec 2015 00:13:07
I have to admit I've been in the camp of hanging in for Sturridge but I just don't see us getting anywhere with this constant disruption. Do we set up the team for lots of movement and a high press yet end up playing Benteke 90% of the time due to injuries, or do we accept reality and bring in more wide players that suit big ben?

I personally think we could do worse than going all out with Firmino up top and seeing how he gets on.

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