Use our rumours form to send us liverpool transfer rumours.
09 Jun 2014 22:14:33
Eds confirm?
One of my sources informed me that Rafa Benitez is very interested in Suso and is monitoring the situation very closely. Since part player part cash deal that included Suso is no longer relevant the boy has been told that he's not going to get too many chances in the coming season. As far as she knows he hasn't been directly told to look for another club.
09 Jun 2014 22:12:13
I wouldn't mind a transfer window like this;
Lambert, Can, Moreno, Ayew, Vorm, Markovic & Reid
For me it would be:
Lambert, Can, Moreno, Lallana, Clyne, Lovren and Townsend.
Although I doubt we would be able to prise 4 players from Southampton.
Red Rum
{Ed030's Note - Townsend? No thank you. }
I think he means Andy Townsend.
Townsend would be an excellent squad player Ed. He has pace, skill and has a decent shot in him.
I know most fans are crying out for a winger like Sanchez, however, I doubt players of his quality would be feasible without selling Suarez.
At least with Townsend you have a cheaper alternative who has shown he can be a very good player and has the potential to be a star. If he had remained fit he would have been a certainty for the world cup.
Red Rum
Lambert and Can obviously.
Then Lovren, Lallana, A left back and Kono for me.
If Suarez leaves - replace with Sanchez and Morato (real madrid).
With oxlade chamberlain, walcott, sterling, rodriguez and even milner ahead of him if fit, why on earth would townsend have made it into the england squad?
Haych if you swap Markovic for Lallana and Reid for Lovren, I reckon you're spot on. If Suarez stays of course.
Anonymous Woolback,
Roy Hodgson on Townsend's World Cup blow:
“I am very disappointed, ” Hodgson said. “He had a fantastic debut, bursting on to the scene and he did really well. To see him ruled out like this with a serious ankle injury that is a cruel blow.
“My thoughts are very much with him. He is young. There will be lots of other opportunities but I am sure that won’t make him feel better at the moment because his chance to get into the squad has been taken away from him.”
In the games he played for England he was excellent, and stood out from the rest. He is only 22 and will be a top player in a few years.
Red Rum
Townsend is Lennon Mk II Red Rum. He is ridiculously over rated and lacks end product. To be only just becoming a squad player at 22 is pretty average for a winger. Wingers are in their prime during their early 20's in general. Some keep getting better (Robben, Ronaldo, Robery) but most lose their pace and fade into nothing (Young, A.Johnson, Downing, Pennant, Lennon, Bentley etc). Townsend is 100% reliant on being blisteringly quick. He probably has 2/3 seasons left at his peak before he joins the long list of failed wingers.
Adam,
So basically what you are saying is, because he is English he won't make it. If he was Brazilian with a fancy name I guarantee people would think differently. The likes of Ribery, Ronaldo and Bale are like gold dust and I am not saying he will reach their level, but he certainly has the attributes to do well. He was never going to get in the Spurs team ahead of Bale and it is no coincidence that when Bale left he burst onto the scene at both club and international level.
My point is, Townsend would be an excellent squad player. Sterling is the main man, and Townsend would provide adequate cover. If in years to come he turns into "Lennon MK II" then we will still have a reliable squad player. However he has all the qualities to suggest he could excel and become a top player.
In this window I would rather we concentrate more on strengthening our defence and then bring in a few squad players. Townsend would be a cheap alternative.
Can I just make one point Adam and I don't mean to come across as if I am having a go at you, but you do tend to forecast the future quite a lot in your posts and then try to back it up whatever way you can. I do like reading your posts, but a lot of what you say is speculative and aimless.
Red Rum
10 Jun 2014 10:14:57
Adam
I agree with you on this, Those who want townsend, should check a player called IBE.
10 Jun 2014 10:34:47
Townsend lololol. Roy Hodgson rates him, but to be fair he also rates Welbeck and Cleverly.
Isn't the whole sport based on speculation? You speculate how players wills perform, how tactics will work, at what rate players improve. I'm not doing anything that anybody else isn't doing. For example you are speculating that Townsend would even be our second choice winger, whereas I would speculate Rodgers would rather put Teixeira out wide.
I don't mean to come across as a "Mystic Meg" wannabe, but football is 100% based on opinion, and it helps if you can back it up with facts. Not every winger to succeed was foreign. John Barnes, David Beckham etc. I only used the players I did because they are those current and relevant. Most wingers go off the boil after 25 and fade into mediocrity. Quaresma, Riera, Babel and Capel are sone foreign players if you want more evidence that what I'm saying is true. Wingers look great when they're young, unpredictable and energetic. Most lose their way whilst sone will go on to be world class. I personally think Townsend will lose his way which makes me no more speculative than you for thinking he will consistently improve.
Fair play to you for putting together a decent argument though rather than just going crazy.
I agree with Harry. Ibe will be much better than Townsend.
09 Jun 2014 20:28:21
Please people, forget Markovic. Like Ed002 said, Chelsea are happy to see him stay at Benfica for now. Whoever want this player will go through loads of pain to get him.
{Ed002's Note - You need to use the entire quote and not just part of it.}
Not sure ayew would add anything.
09 Jun 2014 19:50:00
Summer signings have looked promising upto now and glad the club are completing deals before the world cup. Already we have
R. Lambert.
E. Can.
A. Moreno (almost done).
I just hope we top it off with
A. Sanchez.
X. Shaqiri.
D. Lovren or S. De Vrij.
That would do for me as we can still expect to see the below all leave regardless of new arrivals. Possibly a 2nd keeper and were done.
J. Reina.
B. Jones (depending on keeper signing)
J. Robinson.
S. Coates.
D. Agger.
O. Assiaidi.
C. Coady.
I. Aspas.
Other players may leave but dependant on new players arriving such as.
B. Jones.
A. Wisdom.
G. Johnson.
K. Toure.
M. Skrtle.
Lucas.
F. Borini.
If that means shaqiri and Sanchez it's not going to happen!
The issue I have is lambert can an moreno will cost 30m
and two of them are gunna be squad players and moreno will need to play extreamly well to be better than flano at LB.
i like the signings but rodgers got my hopes up with his silly talking again saying were gunna sign quality not quantity.
i fail to see us being linked with quality apart from lallana.
anyone half decent we ask eds about pedro, sanchez ect.
are no chance unless suarez leaves.
so I hope i'm proven wrong but with who were being linked with bar lallana, there squad players.
{Ed002's Note - Quality does not always come with the "super star" status.}
Moreno will need to play extreamly well to be better than flano at LB.
to be honest it would not surprise me if Flano gets to be seen playing more at RB next season but that is just my opinion
09 Jun 2014 21:39:29
Ed002. That's a superb answer, But then Lallana?
{Ed002's Note - He sounds like a typo to me Harry.}
I doubt we will be paying 20m for Moreno for him to sit on the bench on the bench playing second fiddle?! The lad is a top talent who can get even better.
On the bench on the bench, frickin bench!
09 Jun 2014 19:15:12
And it starts Moreno is flying to Liverpool I hope he uses a different airline than MK did.
09 Jun 2014 19:24:23
Babelcopter Airlines?
Where is Ken Aguero?
Or Willian, that pesky plane diverted him to London!
I think Ryan air do Seville to Liverpool.
Also Seville is a lovely city he's in for a shock when he lands at john Lennon and has to listen to all them cabbies outside.
09 Jun 2014 22:29:52
When he discovers that he has to pay an extra £1.50 on top of the cab fare he will turn around and go home. Seville is a very beautiful city but when I got there I couldn't understand the cabbies either. At least in Liverpool they are driven by horsepower and not horse power!
Here I am
09 Jun 2014 19:14:26
hi eds first time poster, have followed the site for about a year now and you guys seem to always know what's happening well before the rest.
if I dare suppose that Suarez leaves this summer, what alternatives are there for BR to buy as a replacement?
i think we would need a top quality centre forward for our return to the Champions League but no names really spring to mind.
thanks, keep up the good work :)
{Ed002's Note - I am not so sure it will be possible to buy a like-for-like player. In the past Liverpool looked at Costa who is a more traditional striker.}
09 Jun 2014 20:29:35
I think the closest thing to like-for-like would be Sanchez, but even he is a very different player.
That being said if Luis did leave for some reason (I personally really hope he doesn't) then I would be happy with Sanchez and a CB (Lovren please) and using the rest of the money to pay off debt. I know we don't talk about money so i'll leave that bit there.
But we saw what Spurs did with the Bale money they went spending crazy and only really got it right in one case (Ericksen).
The best example of what to do with a large sum of cash is when United sold Ronaldo. Don't splurge it all at once, use it wisely. Other clubs will know you have lots of money and it will be harder to get a good deal *cough*Lamela*cough*.
They bought Valencia that year and that was about it, and over the next few years they had the money to buy Hernandez/Van Persie et al.
I know Ed002 is likely to disagree with where the money went but I think the jist of the story is good.
Don't spend all your money just because you have it, spend wisely, exactly like BR/FSG are doing this window.
09 Jun 2014 18:41:42
Okay I'm going to start a good debate here and would love to know the eds opinions too.
But I think I'm the only Liverpool fan who thinks Suarez is a bit over-rated!
I went to most the home games last season and there was countless games where Suarez was so quiet, he didn't really do much at all other than walk round moaning at the ref & the other LFC players, then all of a sudden he'll score a goal and get 9/10 ratings in the papers & have pundits rave on about him.
Don't get me wrong he had an amazing season & I think he's one of the best if not the best striker in the world!
My point is there was many games he was outshone by Sturridge and/or sterling, we would be fine without him I'm sure of it!
I can see where you're coming from but can't agree. That hot streak in December was unlike anything I've ever seen in the Premier League however he did seem to drop off a little nearer the end of the season. Form is temporary, Class is permanent.
Look mate, there is not knowing whether we would be ok without Suarez or not. You have to take into account many other things like his 24 assists last season on top of the 31 goals he scored for us. There are many variables.
LFC did not fight tooth and nail to keep him last summer just for the fun of it.
09 Jun 2014 19:12:23
I think as good as Suarez is for us we are good for him. We are his perfect club and I believe he will still be a red come September 1st.
Suarez was absolutely shattered towards the end of the season that's why his form dropped. Just look at these stats for minutes played last season for strikers.
Alvaro Negredo: 1702
Edin Dzeko: 2116
Olivier Giroud: 2782
Wayne Rooney: 2881
Luis Suarez: 3386 ??
The man missed the first 6 games of the season and has clocked up nearly 6 games more time than Wayne Rooney.
He made 30 appearances, only being subbed off 3 times.
The guy is pure class and unfortunately we wore him out. we had no option.
That is what BR is doing now, giving himself options. If we want Luis to play in the CL as well and hope for a better cup run we are looking at maybe another 900 minutes for him to play. He would be dead by Easter!
We need Suarez, but moreover we need players to support him as well, he can't do it all by himself.
09 Jun 2014 19:39:12
I don't see the problem with doing little then scoring? Although I disagree he did that. he creates so many chances, harasses defenders and much more! The whole point of looking disinterested is to make defenders switch off even of for a second
"But I think I'm the only Liverpool fan who thinks Suarez is a bit over-rated!"
Then.
"Don't get me wrong he had an amazing season & I think he's one of the best if not the best striker in the world!"
Make your mind up lad.
I've never read as much shabite in my life.
09 Jun 2014 19:42:19
Redawn
Magnificent. Top review.
Hmmm, i've got Harry agreeing with me.
Does that mean I am not long for this site Eds?
09 Jun 2014 20:10:08
Reddawn
h lols. You are very close. I am on a secret mission.
Cragan You have got to be kiddin me. they guy is pure class he scores for fun and works his ears off. runs constantly (almost) and creatin so many goal chances for us. I would agree to disagree. Best player Liverpool had ever?
I though he looked tired towards the end of the season, but after that 10 game ban he came he came back chomping at the bit so to speak.
09 Jun 2014 21:30:14
I think Suarez is over-rated, I think Suarez is the best striker in the world. LMFAO
Craggan, one word, oh no two, contradictory b*ll*cks.
Lol.
Possibly the most embarrassing post I have yet read. lol.
Overrated. lol.
I'm still shaking my head in disbelief.
Did the OP ever think of a career as a scout?
10 Jun 2014 12:11:36
What a load of nonsense.
09 Jun 2014 18:26:22
Just back from the England training session here in Rio. Unfortunately the players didn't come and talk to the crowd. Was a v. light training session. Gerrard mainly doing sprints - no ball work at all. Lambert has one hell of a shot on him. Hendo and Studge were all smiles to see my LFC shirt. Also, Woy came to talk to us and was (unfortunately) very pleasant. It's stinking hot here and my colleagues who just came back from Manaus said it's even worse up there! Roll on Saturday to see Brendan's tricky Reds in action.
See Lallana at all? You're our secret weapon, tell him Transfer request repeatedly until he can no longer bear it
Stopped reading at over rated.
09 Jun 2014 17:30:24
Hi Eds
It looks like Moreno is moving towards a done deal. Its probably not important but is he on his way to us today for his medical etc or more likely later in week?
Also does this perhaps spell the end for Enrique?
{Ed002's Note - I can't see him on PepeCam so I don't know where he is at this moment in time.}
I would like to keep Enrique.
He will compete with Moreno for that left back position and will also provide experience.
Going into a champions league season with only only one left back would be very risky. Moreno is only 21 and if Enrique is to leave then the only back up to Moreno would be Flanagan who is naturally a right back and he is also only 21 years old.
Keeping Enrique would ensure that we have an able back up to Moreno who provides experience and excellent competition. Moreno could also learn a lot defensively from Enrique.
Red Rum
Enrique's injuries has got the better of him. IMO LFC will look to sell while they still can get a decent fee for him.
10 Jun 2014 09:39:00
That would almost certainly leave us looking for 2 left backs then mind? With Cissokho going back,
Also, I doubt Enrique really has much value right now, given his injury.
I see Enrique battling with Moreno if that happens, and I see Flanagan fighting with Johnson.
09 Jun 2014 16:21:43
Hello eds barkley rumours again not believing any but now saying he told flanno he would love to play for Liverpool and under Rogers just wondering have we even thought about it even though everton would ask a lot for him thank you keep up the good work great site jft96
{Ed002's Note - Perhaps someone is teasing you on Twitter?}
09 Jun 2014 17:14:28
Ed002, Latest rumour is that Porto hold an interest in Suso. Can you confirm whether there is interest?
{Ed002's Note - Try the search engine.}
09 Jun 2014 11:48:50
Hello if any ed's are around. I was wondering if any of you could clear up the lazar markovic situation. no sites mention anything about chelsea owning all or part of him?. much appreciated.
{Ed002's Note - Half of his rights are owned by a third party company - it is unimportant which one.}
09 Jun 2014 18:29:35
thanks ed. I wasnt going to get into details anyway. just curious because I tried searching to see his situation all to no avail. I am a long time no reader but hardly ever post. just want to say I appreciate all of your input to this site, you get a lot of unneccesary and completely out of order comments which doesn't reflect the majority of good Liverpool fans. so thanks again.
I think I remember the company being owned by either Chelsea or Abromovich. Maybe that's what people are talking about
09 Jun 2014 11:32:46
Hi ed's. Can we assume that both moses and cissokho have returned to their parent clubs and are not being kept on. Also, I heard sama has been released. Do you have any information on other reserves being released or offered new deals. Really hope brannagan, suso and teixera kick on into first team this season.
{Ed002's Note - Baio, Bijev, Mersin, Ngoo, Roddan, Sama, Sokolik have left as well as the loan players.}
Alberto loaned to Malaga and Yesil about to be loans to Trabanspor.
09 Jun 2014 17:05:27
Does anyone see any of our players expected to leave this summer being used in a transfer? Doesn't even have to be a major target i.e Moreno or Shaqiri some could be used for deals for promising youngsters.
Players I would put in this bracket would be.
Reina.
Coates.
Robinson.
Coady.
Assiaidi.
Enrique.
Wisdom.
Aspas.
Just a thought with Bayern looking for a new centre back would Agger be of interest? We want Shaqiri and if they wanted Agger the deal would be ideal for all parties.
I also thought Reina would have been a good makeweight in the Moreno deal.
To add to your list
Borini
Suso
Alberto(loan)
Kelly(loan)
Ilori(loan)
Lucas
Happy to keep Glen then.
If you read the mail I said expected to leave. At this present time I don't see Johnson moving at all. I think he will run down his contract and leave next summer.
09 Jun 2014 16:50:18
RIP Rick Mayall. Thoughts go out to family and friends.
09 Jun 2014 17:15:27
56 is no age to go.
YNWA
{Ed002's Note - I just got past it.}
R.I.P Rik a true comedy great, lord Flasheart my personal favourite.
09 Jun 2014 17:58:20
I went to the same uni as him ; Scumbag College.
Brilliant.
09 Jun 2014 18:19:21
Bottom was a great show RIP Rick.
09 Jun 2014 18:44:16
RIP Rik
I love him as Lord Flashheart "Woof" a true comic genius has gone too soon.
RIP Rick.
Pure genius!
"She's got a tongue like an electric eel and she likes the taste of a man's tonsils"
RIP Rik
09 Jun 2014 19:30:27
Lmao, flasheart had no time for toadie Baldrick.
Did he also play dastardly loudmouth Scottish schemer Macadder?
Mcadder was played by Rowan Atkinson
Bottom was great. As was the Young Ones.
He made life a little funnier, fair play to him. I appreciate the laughs.
RIP.
09 Jun 2014 16:36:49
Its funny how these footballers who are not getting game time at their clubs say things like, I am flattered for a great club like Liverpool to be interested in me or I have to leave because i'm not getting game time and playing for a great club like Liverpool would be my dream come true, but as soon as their club put a new contract on the table, they sign and say I ham happy to be staying here and always wanted to stay and yet we seem to be chasing these players for weeks just to be told sorry. Seems to happen to us lots. On a another note Arda Turan was just a 6m pound player when Liverpool fans were crying out to managers to buy him and now I hear he's worth £33m.
09 Jun 2014 17:18:02
It's football man. Money talks, normally they oversell their interest in a move to make the club 'buck their ideas up' and offer a competitive contract. If you look at Shaqiri's comments in the media you'll see they are about as consistent as Arsenal throughout the season.
09 Jun 2014 16:19:48
Hai Eds, Great Sunday.
If we could buy 4 players and keep Suarez. Then its an excellent window. I am not into the finances this time, But looking back to the season, And the massive contribution by each and every player in our team. Suarez stands out by a mile. Without him, Neither Gerrard nor us would have been such hungry.
Everyone in the world thought, We would struggle against Spurs at WHL, We were just electric. The guy sets the stage and he keeps coming and coming.
As someone said below, We could buy 3 players to replace Suarez, But could only play 1 at a moment.
We had exactly the same situation back in 2009, And everyone knows what happened.
I agree harry, I think people just like the idea of spending moneyon new players, the forget you can only have 11 on the pitch at once and suarez is the most effective individual on the pitch for us when he plays.
09 Jun 2014 16:15:41
I know those are rare in football, but any chance instead of the big fee, we can get some of real's young players back? We saw what hapened to spurs millions and real has a big stable of young, mostly proven talent wasting on the bench. Haul of Jese, Isco, Illameridi, Varane would give us a great, young spine of a team for years to come. Think those 4 players valuation equals to what we would want for Suarez and we do have champs league to offer to those players. Any chance of it being pulled off?
09 Jun 2014 16:48:24
Varane isn't wasted on Bench, He is a starter in a star flooded Madrid team. Isco too has got games, Illermandi isn't a great talent, they overpaid for him.
People look to the past as though it's always a guide to the future. 2009 was about Hicks & Gilette falling out and the financial crisis biting. In the past we have also replaced Keegan with Dalglish, Rush with Aldridge, Barnes & Beardsley and Torres with Suarez. So historically we have done pretty well still replacing top strikers. And if it was a straight decision on Suarez of course we would all want to keep him. But it's more complicated and there are lots of factors to consider. We stood firm last season and it worked for us. His pay rise paid for itself and his value has shot up. Villa played hard ball with Benteke. He sulked, lost his form and got injured. His value has plummeted.
All this talk of replacing suarez with multiple players sounds like spurs fans last year, and look where it got them, its the same logic
09 Jun 2014 15:41:05
I wonder if Reina would have any interest in returning to us? Him and Mignolet would offer good competition for each other. Personally I think Reina is a great keeper and would love it if he stayed.
Would I want to pay a goalkeeper 100k plus and keep him on the bench? Nope. We should get another GK with less weekly wages but who has enough ability to keep him at his best. Vincent Enyeama (Lille) could be a good option.
Yeah such a great keeper nobody wants to buy him off us
I think Ed2 said we were asking for an inflated figure for him ;) correct me if I'm wrong
{Ed002's Note - The major issue is the wage he wants so they want the price reduced. They have moved on now.}
09 Jun 2014 15:36:50
Wonder which club will go in for Morata now that Ancelotti has confirmed the CF will leave the club?
{Ed001's Note - if I was a betting man, I would back Arsenal.}
I would have thought that Morata could be used by Real as a partial make weight in a Suarez bid.?
{Ed001's Note - he could be, but I still think he will end up at Arsenal.}
09 Jun 2014 17:19:20
Arsenal have been interested for a while. I agree with ed001, it'd be a great signing for them.
09 Jun 2014 15:08:15
I think out of all our potential summer business Moreno will be key. I love this guy thought he looked good first few times I've seen him but as I saw more he is exactly what we need I remember a game against Granada (I think) he was magnificent like jordi alba when at his peak with potential to be better. has all the quality in the world going forward and has the pace to make up for the odd positioning failure but I think by next season he will be looking at making the prem xi easy! Well that's my opinion obviously I hope I'm right as well as it would be beneficial!
Now Suarez to me this guy is a striker winger and creative player in one. so to replace him we would have to buy 3 players all top quality but not only that we would effectively be losing a space on the team sheet as Suarez easily does what 2 top players do in a game so if we bring in two or three players for him we can only play one unless we drop two more players.
Point of the second part which was explained badly is that if we buy Sanchez lalanna and bony (just an example) they would need to be better than Suarez coutinho and sterling to improve our starting 11 and I don't see any three players that can improve what those three offer cumulatively. improving the squad is another matter of course.
Thoughts?
I saw Moreno pull out of a 50-50 challenge in the final against Benfica and that troubles me about any player, particularly a defender. If he signs, I will fully support him and hope that I need see a repeat of that cowardice.
As for Suarez, I agree that he has been superb and he wants to stay so hopefully that should be the end of it. But everyone is replaceable so a big offer might be too good to turn down.
Sanchez & Son - not a firm of Spanish plumbers!
Sanchez is a huge talent who has the power to intimidate opponents with his pace and quality. He's approaching his peak and is star quality. Son has been extensively scouted and looks to have a big future. Scores, creates and works hard.
09 Jun 2014 14:40:46
Greetings good people, just a question regarding to players I think might benefit us Raymond Mavuba and Marvin Martin, I remember a while there was such high expectation from them.Mavuba I think can still do the job not to sure about Martin but last a checked he was qyt a player. Last but not least do we scout in Africa. Thank you in advance and keep up the good work
He is THE best manager in the league
09 Jun 2014 14:24:16
I like Brendan Rodgers but, let's face it, without Suarez's input the season would have been average. We probably wouldn't have made top 4 and some peoples would have been calling for his head. That's why I can't understand some on here who see Suarez as a means to get shedloads of money. Doesn't Spurs and Bale register with them at all?
We have Suarez under a long contract and the state subsidised team from Spain should be told where to go, as City did with Aguero. Incidentally, we should also do likewise to any player we are negotiating with to sign who asks for a get-out clause. If they are thinking about their next move away from Anfield before they have even signed, tell them where to go too nand move on to the next target.
I think the way we play football under rodgers guarantees we'll do well with the right players. granted suarez is a genius but replace him with another quality forward and I believe rodgers way of playing will always put other teams under the kosh
I whole-heartedly disagree. From our first 6 games in all competitions without Suarez we won 4 drew 1 lost 1, then take into account his not scoring in games like Arsenal home and we definitely weren' a one-man team. Okay, he was creatively genius in that match, but didn't outshine Sterling or Suarez. Don't think e would have mounted a title challenge without Luis, but believe we would have still made top 4 (provided we'd bought in a back-uo striker for when DS was injured)
09 Jun 2014 16:09:55
You're looking at stats. Sure 40 or so goals that Suarez is involved in wouldn't go in. 10-15 from his replacement may have. Sturridge may have scored more. There's no way of knowing. No player is bigger than the club. So, can we just stop the Suarez talk?
09 Jun 2014 16:13:15
Its a fact Suarez is BR's Trump card.
09 Jun 2014 16:51:49
Toddy
How many convincing wins in the first 6 games? And We didn't face any top 4 teams.
09 Jun 2014 14:24:04
Hello Ed001, I saw the post regarding advertisement on the website and how the auto-playing video's are quite frustrating.
Have you possibly thought about having a sponsor for the site? I'm sure you could get some lower end brand to sponsor the site. I remember when I was an admin on a gaming league site, we were in constant contact with major gaming brands such as ATI, Roccat and even some top game developers such as Riot. They would donate prizes to the competitions we had and in return they'd be given advertisement space on our site.
Granted we were having over 10,000 unique hits a month but I'm sure the Football Rumours franchise of sites gets close to that?
{Ed001's Note - we get over 400k page views a day mate and still no one will sponsor the sites. We are trying to get a sponsor for the Poll of the Day feature across all the sites, one betting company agreed, in the end, for a lot less than we think it is worth, but we are still waiting for them to actually pay even that amount! It is hard work getting sponsors for sites like this, as we don't hit whore or allow pop ups and unders etc.}
Wow, 400k page views is pretty impressive, I was expecting it to be more like 50k at the most, haha.
How broad has your search for a sponsor been? I would imagine that the market for sponsors would be much larger in Sports than it would be in gaming.
{Ed001's Note - we have an agent who is trying to find us a sponsor on a commission basis. I simply don't have the time to do the search myself.}
I must confess, I think I contribute to a good 50,000 of them views daily!
09 Jun 2014 15:49:34
I should hope you don't hit Ed002! She's brilliant, regardless of her questionable profession.
09 Jun 2014 17:23:33
400k hits per day? Is that Unique users? That's an impressive figure regardless, but if they are all unique visitors that's awesome.
{Ed001's Note - not uniques no, just page views mate. This time last year, before most of the sites moved over to registered users only, we were averaging over 500k a day.}
09 Jun 2014 13:45:26
Hello Ed's!
So, Lambert, Can and Moreno (seems likely atm)
i realise it depends on what players are available but are we looking at some strengthening any other positions? except the offensive winger which we ser rumours about every day.
thanks in advance!
{Ed001's Note - yes, goalkeeper. I seem to have to repeat this answer every day!}
Any interest in Rui Patricio of Lisbon Ed?
{Ed001's Note - I don't know mate, I will ask.}
09 Jun 2014 16:14:22
Strengthening GK means Mignolet position would be under serious threat.
Vorm once Reina's future is sorted.
Cheers Ed. He reminds me of Reina in the good old days. Only 26 as well.
09 Jun 2014 18:52:19
That's what I'm thinking Pete
Anfieldboy, I agree
Reina out, Vorm in. Similar value.
Great competition for Mignolet which will improve our team.
09 Jun 2014 13:00:48
hi ed what do you think of adam johnson for us
{Ed001's Note - if he would spend more time training and less time legless in Newcastle's bars, then maybe. I doubt he will ever bother putting in the effort required though. Shame, because he is a nice enough lad with plenty of talent, just lacks work ethic to go with it.}
09 Jun 2014 13:19:50
Ed01
Spot on, He with the right attitude would have been a very good player.
{Ed001's Note - I remember watching him at Boro's training ground as a kid. This was in the days when Bryan Robson and Viv Anderson were in charge and they had some good players then. He stood out a mile, he had more ability in his little finger than most of them and really did look a special talent. Shame he has put getting bevvied above his career.}
Hi all not a bad player at all johnson and ed1 that little legless problem and work ethic are well fixable, if he got a bit of coaching in the game of life and football.he be a decent signing.
{Ed001's Note - he has had both and refused to listen. Sometimes you have to accept that a player just doesn't want it enough.}
I always said he could be as good as he wanted to be shame he's taken the wrong path. Do you think if we took him Ed Brendan could get him back on track? Because if he could he'd be a hell of a player
{Ed001's Note - I really don't think anyone can do anything with him any more. He would need some kind of revelation similar to the one Bellers had in Sierra Leone. Unfortunately, I just think he is too selfish to even make the effort to visit somewhere like there to have a life changing experience.}
'He would need some kind of revelation similar to the one Bellers had in Sierra Leone'.
Are you referring to Craig Bellamy? If so, I must have missed that. What happened? Sounds interesting and potentially an uplifting story?
Just Googled it. It was Craig Bellamy and it was uplifting. Good for him.
09 Jun 2014 12:43:47
What does everyone think will happen with Reina? If there is difficulty in finding someone to buy him at an acceptable price is there an opportunity for a second chance under Rodgers? The Eds have mentioned the club maybe looking around and not being entirely convinced by Mignolet. Rodgers and his system cries out for a goalie who has accurate and quick distribution and is comfortable on the ball. At his peak here these are the main reasons Reina was adored and lauded by fans. So is it plausible that he will come back at pre season and even maybe work with Dr.Peters sort his head out, as maybe this led to the dip in form seen before his loan, and have Reina playing like he surely still can. Could add a whole new dimension to us especially our counter attacking as he offers a reliable, accurate and exceptionally quick pass everytime he gathers the ball. Thoughts everyone?
{Ed001's Note - if he had wanted to stay, he would never have been replaced. Shame, as he is excellent at distributing the ball when on form.}
09 Jun 2014 13:03:10
He would be on his way out.
If we can strengthen our defence then Reina would fit in perfectly. His distribution and organisation are second to none.
However, with the poor defence we currently have we are always going to concede too many shots, therefore, Mignolet's shot stopping ability is essential in that aspect.
It really does depend on the defence as to which keeper is best suited. For example last season Reina would have been great at Chelsea as their defence was top notch. However, he would have struggled at Liverpool with the constant bombardment of shots.
Red Rum
In terms of ability, Reina is not the same Reina of years ago who won so many golden gloves awards.
He won these awards partly because of our strong defence at the time, but Pepe was a great 'keeper then too. Commanding, sharp reactions, vocal, great on crosses and decision making.
I must say though, Reina's 'wonderful' distribution has always been a myth. Under Rafa he constantly lumped the ball forward, under Hodgson, Kenny and BR he disintegrated into a panicked mess.
He is now a very poor keeper with poor distribution, poor shot-stopping and is indecisive on crosses and decision making.
Overpaid, unprofessional. He doesn't deserve to part of the success we have enjoyed.
A traffic cone might have saved as many shots as Pepe over the last few years at LFC.
I disagree that he would have stayed if he wanted either.
BR knew that Pepe was a liability and I'm sure he make no great effort to fight to keep him as we did with Suarez. If he had stayed, I'd be questioning the judgement of the management tbh.
Thankfully BR knows the score too.
Mignolet has been a great improvement on the Reina of the last few years. His distribution has improved as the season has progressed too. Some recognition of that would be nice also. I hope he is better again next year.
09 Jun 2014 10:56:49
if suarez was to go to another club for 70+, which I don't want to happen. who would you guys like to see replace him. i'd like cavani or reus if possible
The pharaoh
Stephen El Sharaawy
Jackson Martinez probably, and then use most of the rest to get a high calibre centre back, like Benatia or Kjaer for someone younger. Let the owners balance the books with the rest of the money. Obviously won't happen though.
09 Jun 2014 12:47:49
Hello eds and reds
Firstly, thank you eds for your work and patience with us, I know some of you are paid for it but anyway, thank you.
Last couple of days I read o lot of posts about Luis Suarez leaving and his exchange with some random names and various amount of money. He is our key player and if we really have ambitions to win the league, play important role in Europe then I believe we should keep our best players. We have some example from Spurs when you sell their key player and try to substitute him with other names. Some of you want to see Sanchez instead of him. Well, each new player is a risk whether he suits into your system and strategy. Many players were defined as top world class players in the past and their transfers were flops. Sheva or Torres to Chelsea, Kaka to Real. There are not too many players of Suarez rank on the market and if there are some, they won't be cheap. So its very risky and I doubt also about the financial benefit of this transfer. If we sell our key players we will take the the business model of Borussia or Atletico. Also one or two really good seasons and then back to work to find and sell another players. Its like affiliated club to PSG, Real, Chelsea. I prefer Barca or Bayern model also build on their youth system and buy of some quality players around them. I believe that our management is smart enough to keep Luis in our team and so in the end of season they can say it was Win-Win situation for all parties. The situation on the market is sick now, when top rich clubs can do what they can. FFP doesn't work. I believe a salary cap like in NHL would help.
Many of you want to sell Dagger or Lucas. Uff. We should remember Dagger declined Barca when we were not in best form. And now some of you write about his weaknesses and that he is not good enough. There are good days and bad days, this is life. You should also look at his attitude, mentality and this type of player can give younger players a lot. Emre Can looks promising but Sahin looked as well. I believe Cans arrival doesn't mean Lucas departure. Emre is not ready, he needs time to adapt and I believe we will play o lot of games and competitions so both will play enough games. We had problems last season with our squad depth so One in - One out is not the rule of this transfer market for us.
We should support our players and show them a little respect they deserve. Especially when they don't have best games and times. I know many of you know what RTP or RTFP means, but I am not sure whether they know what YNWA means.
Again, sorry for my English.
YNWA
{Ed001's Note - only myself and Ed033 are paid mate, the rest are all volunteers, though I am hoping to change that asap. The sites would benefit a lot from having more people full time to chase up info. By the way, excellent post.}
Sanchez, Di Maria, Lavezzi, Reus. For me they are the best options.
Reus and Lavezzi are probably unrealistic so it comes to the other two.
My favourite is Sanchez.
09 Jun 2014 13:04:36
Alexis Sanchez from Barca, the closest I believe + Lallana
Hijack chelseas proposed marquee signing haha
I'd buy Lukaku
EOMER
Nothing against you, but the attitude, of we must keep Agger because he rejected Barca and Lucas because of how well he's played inr ecent years and stuck to it, is what is completely wrong with Liverpool fans. If we had a manager with that attitude we'd have sunk into the championship long ago.
I get loyalty should be repaid, but let it be with fan songs, banners, statues, writeups etc. Football is a business. You simply CAN NOT succeed and grow by holding onto deadwood.
09 Jun 2014 15:01:34
Good post eomer, some very good points. Not noticed you before, will keep my eye out for you. Cheers. By the way, what's the problem with your English? none as far as I can see.
Thank you ed001 and bobatron for reply. Football today is really about business. More than I would like to see. That’s why I mentioned the salary cap which works in US – NBA, NHL, baseball… It is still business but much more controlled and gap between rich and poor teams is not so significant and the teams are very equal and leagues are very attractive. Players today are taken much more like some kind of product and not people. Hendo was considered as deadwood, Sturridge was deadwood in Chelsea, Coutinho was deadwood in Inter… I don’t think Lucas and Agger are deadwoods, its much more about the way how to manage them and use them. It is not always only about money… Gerrard could leave for money, Torres left for money and where are they now? One is god in Liverpool and another one only remember on old good times… Anyway, I do not think we resolve this puzzle which attitude is better, because it is about the way of thinking and I will not persuade you. We both already made decision
Thanks Alan. English is not my native language so sometimes I make some stupid mistakes in posts.
Agreed, some players you can turn from rough gems into cut diamonds. But at the age of 29 playing average poorly for 2 years in set pieces and against big men and a long tanding injury background, I think if a bid comes in for Agger, we should consider it.
Lucas i'm happy to wait out a little while, due to his injuries. But if he gets another, I think he has to go, as he's simply a cost to our wagebill without any gain.
I don't see the point of holding onto players simply to remember the good old days. it's a shame that football has become so money orientated, but that's the world we live in
I wouldn't sell him for £100m, but for the sake of the debate.
I'd like to sign Lukaku and Sanchez if possible.
If not these two, for a plan B, I think Abel Hernandez will be amazing next season, and if Sanchez is unrealistic then I'd like Konoplyanka.
Agree with bobatron about Agger btw.
His strength and pace has declined badly of late, likely due to his back not being up to upper-body work in the gym.
I'll always have great time for Agger, but he has no divine right to play for us at all. His 'I'm no-one's third choice' comment was ridiculous and a bit arrogant tbh, he's hardly Franco Baresi!
That is not the type of entitled attitude I would praise tbh.
I do agree with eomer about Lucas though, I hope he can get back to his best, what a player he is when fit! Though a part of me feels that BR doesn't rate him as he always plays him out of position, Lucas should be playing where Gerrard is (I have discussed this elsewhere).
And I don't expect comments like 'I'm no-one's third choice' from Lucas either.
Places must be earned. No one is entitled to them.
09 Jun 2014 10:33:51
That video that automatically starts at the top of the page is really really REALLY ANNOYING, I have been subjected to Capello and Van Persie to often this morning. Please make it stop lol
{Ed001's Note - if you switch the sound off, it should stay off each time you load the page up. We have had to agree to the autorunning to have the ad I am afraid. Though having the sound off will also mean we don't get paid, at least it won't annoy you so much then.}
Turn off the sound n your pc/laptop, that way your don't hear the annoying adverts and the site gets its payments!
09 Jun 2014 12:53:22
This I a very interesting post. I think it may be Fergie trying to drive us all insane. I think he may own the ad company.
Either way, I believe this is how the site stays free however, the ad providers should look a little more diligently at the code scripting. One of these scripts is coded badly:
id='taboola-above-article-thumbs-mix'.
Everyone here should browse the ads, loads of money generally make less grumpy eds!
{Ed001's Note - the video ads are meant to be Liverpool-related only, but the advertisers seem to have different ideas on what is Liverpool-related than I do! It is correct that the ads are how we keep the sites free, but I would rather people just enjoyed the sites and not made specific attempts to view ads. Lots of page views are just as beneficial to us, so I would rather you just had a wander round other sites for a bit of banter, if you have spare time to browse things, than looked at ads. Sod the money, I would rather just have the sites be more entertaining.}
Good post
I personally would not sell even for £100. Not now anyway
We need the quality that only a few in the world possess. He is one of these players that really is world class at the moment
09 Jun 2014 10:30:24
Good morning Eds and fellow Reds!
First time poster, long time reader of the site. Would like to say thanks to the Eds and posters for all the knowledge and information I have gathered over the years. Looking forward to next season with all the opinions, ups, downs and banter!
Brilliant site, addicted to it!
Thanks!
{Ed001's Note - thank you.}
09 Jun 2014 09:00:08
Ed002, hypotheticaly if Liverpool tried to sign Marksovic, could Chelsea refuse to sell their % of the player to Liverpool? Or do Chelsea have to sell if Benfica agree a fee? If anybody could clear this up itd be great. Thanks
{Ed002's Note - No, Chelsea would not block a move for the player.}
Why would you want to spend 25-30 million on a player who would be third choice? He got 6 goals and 0 assists last season and he'd be competing with Sterling and Coutinho. Sterling got 10 goals and 6 assists whilst Coutinho got 5 goals and 7 assists. Markovic is a year older than Sterling and a year younger than Coutinho. He couldn't even match their stats despite playing in a lesser league for one of the strongest teams in it where the gulf in class between the top and bottom half of the table is bigger than it is in La Liga.
But yeah, all aboard the hype train to, world class-ville ;)
Trust me mate, he's over rated.
Wel said Adam. 25-30 million for a 20 year old with 6 goals and 0 assists in a pretty poor league is ridiculous. Why not just keep Suso who has 3 goals and 9 assists in a more competitive league? It seems like people on this site only want those players who have ridiculously stupid price tag put on them by the media and their greedy agents.
Completely agree, EMS. Same with Barkley (who some are suggesting we get for 40mil should suarez leave). He got the same amount of assists as and goals last season (0a and 6g) as markovic. Both are 20 and neither is worth that much. He has potential but you don't pay over 25M only for potential. We've already got young players in that position who are equally capable (Coutinho, Sterling, Suso). We need quality players who are in, or about to hit, their prime.
09 Jun 2014 17:07:19
Ramish96 I do agree with your post about Markovic but to say Barkley is not worth big money is daft. Quite a few games he was played out of position for Everton but in terms of young players in England he is up there with anyone. In my opinion he is as close to Gerrard as I have seen for a long time however I doubt he could replace Suarez, no one player could. It is easy to say £X amount is a lot of money but take Spurs and Bale you never know if players will settle no matter who is signed for however much
09 Jun 2014 07:47:17
Have we stepped up the interest in PIERRE-MICHEL LASOGGA?
Entering his final year of his contract and would be a good signing IMO.
Looks like a player that could easily fit into our style of play.
If Borini were to leave would be a fascinating buy.
vrcomp
Y.N.W.A.
{Ed002's Note - "Stepped up interest"?}
I thought we had been scouting him over the past season?
vrcomp
Y.N.W.A.
08 Jun 2014 22:18:58
Hi eds, I recall you stating that Aspas' next destination is likely to be back at Celta Vigo. Is this still the case?
Also, what other first team players are the club actively looking to move on? Would I be correct to say Lucas, Enrique, Reina, Johnson?
Thanks a lot as always.
{Ed002's Note - Read the posts please.}
08 Jun 2014 21:39:59
Hi eds any news on what's happening with pepe, Napoli are looking for replacements have any other club showed an interest? I know he burnt his bridges with Rodgers
{Ed002's Note - RTP.}
09 Jun 2014 09:39:46
hi edsc and reds
I just don't get that some fans on here are saying if we sell suarez we can cope, we might be able to get better defenderrs with the money or we can still win games, this is all true, but any team with suarez in is a better team its not just his goals or assists its that when he is on the field he has to be watched and any runs he makes has to be covered so he can open spaces for other players, can anyone on here tell me the last time he had takes an holiday, I can't remember him having one, plus I also think he will break the 30 goals barrier again next season no matter where he is,
we can cope without suarez if we sell him, but my queation is why would you want to sell him, if its because of the formation, then let BR drop sturridge unless you think he will score more goals than suarez, and get better defenders with the 30 mill we are being asked for lallana, plus get a better def - midfielder stevie is not a defensive midfielder
I don't want him sold. I'd be devastated. However I won't write off the rest of the team and claim nobody on earth is good enough to come in a take his place in the team. Nobody can do what he does but if we signed a faster attacker like Sanchez or Lavezzi we might be even more devastating on the counter and score more as a team. Who knows? I just don't think people are thinking rationally because they are panicking. Miss him yes, mourn him yes. Doubt the rest of our team? No way.
We might sign a more out and out wide midfielder like Shaquiri or Di Maria though and score less goals. However with the more balanced team and extra support for the full backs we could concede 25 less. Its just ridiculous to suggest that we wouldn't cope.
For the money we would get we could buy a few truly world class players. sure he's a total gem and a nightmare for defenses because he's unpredictable but
1) refs hate him because he has an awful rep
2) players tend to leave a bit in on him quite often imo so its only a matter of time before he gets injured
3) everyones convinced he only performs against lower teams
still not convinced he really wants to be here either but other than the fact he is tricky and inventive there's better all round strikers out there for half the price (which incidentally has to be astronomical considering the money real pissed up the wall for bale - who had half a good season as opposed to suarez whose had 1 and a half excellent seasons)
just think we would be better off buying ourselves a world class bench rather than resting our entire season on the the shoulders of a player who would rather be in spain (which like I said i'm still not convinced he's completely happy here)
the only downside of selling is that partnership like suarez and sturridge have are rare and somewhat irreplaceable
Soladado was supposed to be anall round striker, look at what he has done, matta was supposed to one of the best midfielders look at what he has done, don't get me wrong we will survive without suarez but he is settles in the team, already this season he has said he is staying I know talk is cheap, but i'm sure we can sort out our defence, buy better players and stiull keep suarez, when everyone was going on about lalllana I said get fabregas, with the players we have got the players ready to sign and fabregas then we would have a team to be feared,
Mikey b
'plus get a better def - midfielder stevie is not a defensive midfielder'
Who is better than Gerrard?
How long has syevie been a def-mid, actally the position he is playingbin is the quarter back role
Lol. Quarterback role. Very good.
Brendan's a top man. He talks some rubbish though!
09 Jun 2014 09:05:34
I'm getting a bit worried with the names being linked with Liverpool and the transfer fee that goes with them. If we get a new left back 20m Lallana 25m and Lambert 4m that's close to 25m already. With a cb also on the radar and possible 1 other player we could be close to the 75m mark.
My question to everyone is this? Are we spending the Suarez money before we get it? Like spurs last year with bale! If not are we in danger with spending like this to break the ffp rules
09 Jun 2014 10:12:43
Forget the maths of it. It's not Suarez money, league performance & Champions league qualification increased the budget for next season.
Random numbers that don't add up. random comments that have no basis. all it's missing is 'a source close to. ' and you've got a job for the Daily Mirror!
As I see it we have 40-50m transfer kitty plus around 20-30m from sales!
09 Jun 2014 05:49:20
Hey Eds n Reds. I was having a chat about henderson with my mate whos an Arsenal fan. Personally I love henderson and especially how much passion he shows when scoring for us. But my mate thinks henderson reminds him of bale. this friend also was telling his tottenham fan mate years ago (who use to say bale is lazy and no good lol) that bale was going to become a star. I don't think he necasarily means hendo will become another bale but probably his strength and power running is a good comparison. In my opinion he really only has to add 3 or 4 goals/assists to his game to become one of the top midfielders going round. Easier said then done I know but I think he's got it in him. Just thought I would share.
I think hendo can and will become a top midfielder. He has everything to do so and the attitude to push himself there I feel. His vision of passing and exicution has improved 10 fold and he's got a amazing engine the lad never stops. As u say just his finishing that needs improving vastly.
Tbh I think people still underestimate his quality. some of his tackles show his age but his offensive decision making is top notch imo and he's not fast but he's not slow either plus he's pretty strong. basically the only weakness he has in my eyes is his tackles sometimes but even that is scraping the barrel
worth every penny we played for him
You can see how much playing around SG has improved his game
I hope he will shine in the World Cup next to Gerrard
09 Jun 2014 04:32:57
Some more questions
hope these prove to be tougher
1-Who missed the penalty for stoke in the first game of the season?
2-Who won the second penalty against Manchester United?
3-How many goals did we score in December (our month high for the season)?
1. John Walters
2. Joe Allen
I don't know the last one i'm afraid :/ sorry
Had to look it up, but 20 for the last one.
Well all the answers have been given
I really need to find tougher questions
09 Jun 2014 15:38:30
We scored 20 suarez got 10
09 Jun 2014 01:20:24
Hi fellow reds.
Just reading a few posts discussing why we lost the league. Some blaming (1) the 'slip' against Chelsea, some blaming (2) BRs supposed naivety in the game against Chelsea, and some (3) blaming our defensive performances throughout the season.
I just wanted to join the conversation, and add some ideas that I don't hear debated too often.
I seem to read a lot of excuses that seem to me as convenient, that whitewash the truth of matters when it comes to assessing why we fell short in pursuit of the title.
First. Regarding 'the slip'.
It was a lapse of concentration and the subsequent mis-control from Gerrard that cost us the Chelsea match. Not just 'a slip'.
The slip came after the lapse. It was simply poor technique and a lack of concentration in a key area that cost us.
If Skrtel, Toure, Agger or Glen Johnson had done the same (and they have made similar errors throughout the season) I doubt many would be so forgiving and call it simply 'a slip', It was a lapse, he took his eye of the ball and made a mistake.
I'm sure Stevie G would say the same, he knows he messed up. He did the same with a poor misplaced pass last night when playing for England, luckily, it just didn't cost them.
Which brings me to the second point. that BR was 'naive' in approaching the Chelsea match.
Arguing that BRs overall tactics cost us is a little daft and revisionist.
The only mistake BR can reasonably be accused of tbh, is playing Gerrard in that position, as his lapse in concentration cost us defensively, and not for the first time this season.
But seeing as how Stevie has been a regular there, why would BR have changed the side when on such a good run? Such a decision would likely be seen by revisionists as the reason we lost. Easy to say after the event.
I can't fault BRs attacking approach for costing us the match. We were unlucky tbh, and they were there for the taking. We played our normal game, but it wasn't to be.
It happens.
My main point is this.
It's not as if BR did anything differently to what got us in such a good league position in the first place. He chose a team that had been winning, but clearly had defensive weaknesses.
We simply had an off day in front of goal and naturally, with a defence like ours, it cost us.
This brings us to the actual reason that we didn't win the league. throw out the excuses and it's obvious.
Our defence is poor. Hardly a revelation, I know.
We had a great run playing an attacking game, but as with the rest of the season, many of our players have made errors and are prone to lapses in concentration, whilst others lack motivation and/or are suspect tactically.
These defensive problems cost us as they have on so many other occasions. They will continue to cost us until we address the reasons why.
This brings me to the topic of Gerrard, who as the key defensive midfielder is an integral part of these defensive problems.
Imo the 'Gerrard slipped' mentality demonstrates the reluctance of many to overlook that many our defensive players lack the concentration demanded of players in their positions.
In Gerrard's case, his role demands not panicking, maintaining possession and exerting a calming, organisational influence on the side when under pressure. I have not seen any evidence that he can do so and our defensive record has been poor since he has played in the role.
By all means he has had some good games, and he looks great when given space against poorer sides. But when pressed, Gerrard is prone to panic, and errors.
At times when we are struggling to gain possession, I have seen us finally regain the ball only for Gerrard to lose it again through naively attempting foolish rushed long passes which seldom connect.
The best defensive midfielders are solid, understand the pivotal importance of maintaining possession, and above all, such players are consistent, such as Keane, Makelele, Veira or Petit.
The lack of concentration and tactical intelligence shown by the likes of Agger, Skrtel, Toure and Johnson at times this season has often been discussed to death on this site, and true, they have all contributed to our poor defensive record.
But I feel that there are many who are totally blinkered to the deficiencies of Gerrard, who as our key DM is charged with playing a key defensive role.
Perhaps many are reluctant to criticise local lads, as the defects in Flanagan's game are also seldom mentioned.
A quick note on Flanno.
Flanno has a lot of improving left to do and is still positionally poor and lacking consistency, accordingly he has been targeted by sides at times and his form suffered towards the end of the season. That some here suggest he should be first choice is worrying, he has not yet merited such praise (maybe it is a statement of how poor Glen Johnson has been).
But in Flanagan's defence, he is young and has done admirably in an unfamiliar position at LB and is a good squad option to have at fullback. Perhaps given time and integrated into the team he may emerge as first-choice RB, but the idea that he has shown enough to be first choice in a side aspiring for the top is rather ludicrous.
But Flanno is young and I would not be harsh on him as he is only developing. But exaggerating his abilities does not help. Being chosen for an England squad where Glen Johnson is the first choice does not exactly mean you are suddenly a very good player. It is an embarrassment which displays the poor selection available to England at RB imo. I don't think many would argue against that.
Back to Gerrard though, who unlike Flanno is experienced and is also seemingly is our first choice DM. I truly hope BR is aware of his weaknesses.
BR publicly lauds Gerrard's performances, but then, he also lauds Glen Johnson as being world-class. I respect that he would not publicly criticise the players, so I hope that secretly he knows that it is not just the back four and the goalkeeper who are prone to shoddy defensive work, and that their protection could do with an upgrade also.
I worry that the media campaign which has exaggerated the England captain's performances this season, (using nice opta stats based on scoring lots of penalties and taking set-pieces) obscures the reality that he's not a great defensive midfielder and that understanding this is key to explaining why our defence is so prone to panic and error when put under pressure.
Hopefully BR will identify and correct the weak links in the side. It remains to be seen if he can, but we shall see. But I hope that he can see the deficiencies in Gerrard's game, as I feel we will need to in order for us to improve and find consistency.
Note btw that I am not slagging Gerrard. He is/was a great player. I just think he lacks the technical and tactical attributes to play the DM role and have seen no consistent evidence to the contrary.
Finally, I have some thoughts on Lucas and our ideal midfield setup.
In my view a fully-fit Lucas is an amazing DM player.
I hope he can get back to his best after the injuries which have left him looking off the pace in recent games. I have hope that a full pre-season can get Lucas back to his best. He was one of the best DMs in the world when fit.
Many with short memories have forgotten that the 5-0 v Spurs (around December wasn't it?) was followed by widespread debate about whether Gerrard should even be in the team, such was the excellent and complete midfield display that day!
I also hope that if Lucas does regain his full fitness, that BR will stop using him in the more advanced role that he is seemingly shoeing him into, all to let Gerrard sit deeper.
It simply does not work and their roles should be reversed.
I still think Gerrard could do a great job in a more advanced position working alongside Hendo.
Gerrard can be the Alonso (CM) to Lucas' Mascherano (DM) with Henderson providing the legwork and willingness to support and run beyond the forwards that Gerrard himself once provided, or if playing a diamond, Hendo can play a more restrained role with Coutinho/Sterling ahead.
I feel that these midfield combinations would provide a better protection for the back 4 and with 1-2 more signings in defence, that BR can get us sorted.
If BR can improve our defensive setup and if he can get the balance right, we could be awesome.
Our competitors will be out to improve this summer though, so we must continue to build the squad in anticipation of some good cup runs.
If we come 2nd next season and have a good run in Europe (quarters or semi-final), that would be a great success imo. Maybe we could win a domestic cup for good measure! I'd be delighted with that.
If we can sort our defence though, I feel that the sky is the limit.
Thoughts anyone?
Cheers eds.
I would sooner play our new signing Emre Can as DM before Lucas. I assume that's why BR brought him in. This team has now surpassed what Lucas can offer it. I expect he will leave this window.
TL;DR
but basically all of these are weak excuses, anyone you could possibly blame it on helped to get us where we were in the first place. if we were more sound defensively we probably woulda scored less goals, gerrard created much more goals than he gave away and BR tactics were on point more than they were off etc
we came 2nd. tough rubbish. however it is pretty widely accepted that our back 4 lacks true leadership so if anything its number 3 but I still wouldn't blame that, the back 4 we had created a lot of goals too, skrtel is a prime example
We bottled it
For me, the title is won or lost over approximately 3500 miuntes, nearly 60 hours if football.
You can't look at individual incidents and blame them, it's pure folly.
City won the league because they collected more points than anyone else. We should leave it at that.
09 Jun 2014 08:13:13
Never heard anyone say because of negatively against Chelsea.
It was more the Opposite. Could of played for a draw!
I actually agree with your analysis of Gerrard. Although I think he is still adapting to the role and he also adds an attacking aspect to the position very few players can do.
Just for your own personal benefit, you did contradict yourself. You started off by saying that the reasons we cost the title were not Gerrards slip, Rodgers naivety or bad defending. You then went on to essentially blame them all to dome extent. A good read and sone good points, just watch for contradictions.
Exactly my thoughts, I argued earlier in the season that gerrard as a DM is a mistake, both for Liverpool and England.
and the term deep lying playmaker isn't exactly a DM, gerrard has lost pace so let's play him DM is what majority of fans think. gerrard is no pirlo . he has neither the composure of him not the skill of him . but he is seen as the Pirlo role. well let's say the chelsea game was an off game. but gerrard as a DM is a joke. exactly like lampard as a Dm is a joke. when the years get on you, one doesn't simply become a defensive player, he has always been a attacking mid, he even used to play RM LM second striker for LFC till 2009, and he had his best seasons that role. and ypu jsut turn defensive after 15 years of attacking football.
09 Jun 2014 09:01:57
So it was Gerrard's fault and our defence is sh**e is what your saying in your long long drawn out post, wow, your quite the visionary. Get your badges because a coaching position at L.F.C. is waiting for you.
It wasn't meant to be last season unfortunately, to blame individuals in certain games is wrong, we win as a team we lose as a team is often bandied about in football, you might want to remember that when you start your new career at Liverpool.
Suarezisagenius, we have debated this subject before and I cannot take time to discuss each and every point but just a few points.
You mention 4 other DM's and quite rightly sing their praises, but none of those can match other areas of Gerrards game, ie his distribution and passing range. So what I am saying is it is very rare probably un-attainable to have a DM to be top drawer in all aspects.
You also say it "clearly doesn't work", well something was working, just look at where we finished and recall the outstanding performances throughout the season.
Just so you know, I couldn't agree more with your Flanagan observations, spot on, so it is not a scouse bias coming through.
We have agreed to disagree in the past, as we both have said its a game of opinions and mine is that Gerrard has more than enough attributes to make up for the deficiencies you mention.
All the best, will keep reading your posts with interest.
Don't agree at all the SIAG.
When you look at some of his positioning and tackles he's been immense in that defensive role. His ability to switch defense into attack in a 40yard pass is unbelievable.
I think you've greatly underestimated his defensive qualities. There are many points we could have lost that game. Are people forgetting the toure pass vs west browm, the entirely lacklustre performnce vs Hull, BR setting out a 3 man midifeld vs Arsenal.
Suarez simply not scoring enough vs our bigger rivals. it's great he can score 4 vs nowrich in a non contest etc, but we need himscoring when we're 1-0 down to chelsea and they've parked the bus.
If I was to pick 1 point in time when we lost the title.it was when hendo got the red card.We missed him so very dearly in the next 3 games.
Oh and btw, you'll be lucky if this post sees it to mid day because the rose tints will be out in full force shooting you down for actually understanding football. Even if your post is fairly pessimistic, you still backed up and developed your point well. I can guarantee you people will throw irrelevant stats like 13 goals and assists etc in your face rather than combat the points you've made regarding Gerrards defensive deficiencies.
Hi SIAG
your post is a good read and I agree with it on some points but in your honest assesment of gerrard and how the def - mid role should be played you forget to mention this is not stevies natural role and one he is learning but as great as he is learning a new role in his golden years must be a hard thing for him or anyone his age, you mention flanno but did not mention a player who is clueless and that's GJ and he has brought that form into the workd cup friendlies, on lucas, even before he was injured his tactical nouse was lacking giving stupid free kicks away around our area and where many goals against us come from, for me lucas is limited as a def - mid, he is slow, not strong enough and is no good in the air, also you mentioned keane, viera, petit I can't think of the other one, they werefar better in these areas plus they scored goals, and had shots on goal, even when lucas was played in the last few games further up the field he found himself on the edge of the others teans box and he still did not shoot
your post and points in it are interesting and it was a good post
Very good article Suarez - I agree, almost totally
Excellent Post.
I have said many times that we could do with a strong defensive midfielder, but as you say BR is happy with Gerrard in the holding role and I think he will continue with that. Maybe Can is the man who will slowly take Gerrard's place in that role as he is not only good at defending, but can also convert defence to attack efficiently.
As you said, Gerrard's defensive weaknesses have constantly put extra pressure on our defenders. I said this the other day, most of our conceded goals came from the fact there was no protection in front of our defence. Some fans see it as playing Gerrard OR a DM. Personally, I think there is room for both. Especially in the big games where you are more likely to get punished for disrespecting the attacking qualities of the opposition.
Regarding Lucas. He hasn't been the same since his injuries and I have doubts as to whether he can become the player he was. I expect Can is his replacement.
Finally, I know most won't agree with me here, but not only do we need new fullbacks and a central defender, but a goalkeeper with the organisation/vocal skills as Pepe Reina.
Red Rum
Understandable post and interesting but for me we took the pressure off Man City when we lost a 3 goal lead to Palace. For me BR went all out attack after scoring 3 to try and reduce the goal deficit. That was a dog with two bones that ended up with none. Oh and the Stevie huddle after the city game. Instead of making us stronger, made city more resolute.
However above all of this what about the loss at Hull, If we had won that game like we should have we would have won the league.
None of this matters one jot. Most of us including me had us a possible 4th spot finish. My actual prediction was 6th and how wrong we were proved. Happy to say.
You don't win or lose a league with one slip up. We lost the league because City perfumed marginally better than we did over an entire season.
If one mistake cost the league it was Mignolet's letting in Negredo's soft goal at the Etihad.
If that game had finished 1-1 we would have won the league.
Cheers for the replies all.
I do see the points made about the good aspects of Gerrard's play, and I also agree that considering that it is not Gerrard's natural role, he has done well in the position. He always tries his best too.
To EMS on the 'contradictions' subject you noted, I reckon we did great to finish 2nd, but I don't blame not winning the league on the Chelsea game or just on Stevie's lapse. But in my long-winded style I'm sorry if I explained it poorly!
I was trying to say that the general defensive play eventually cost us when we had an off-day in front of goal, and I feel we must sort it or it will continue to cost us.
Ken Aguero explained it in two lines, yet I failed to do so in a mini-essay! Only, in my view all those individual errors do add up! More concentration is needed.
Cheers Alanhuyton too. You must think Stevie nicked my missus or something!
It's not personal and I love Stevie. He's easily in the best ever LFC XI for me. He just seems to crop up in discussions, my only issue is tactical.
Other good points made here on Can too. Looking forward to seeing what he will offer.
I love the 'wee bottled it' from DBol. A tad harsh considering we weren't expected by be in the top 4, but strangely compelling argument nonetheless. lol.
I'm not being critical of the side btw.
We did do great to finish 2nd, as Brown_Jesus said.
But we must identify weak points to aim even higher and regain our title. I stand by that we need to improve our defensive play, and I feel we can do so yet still play attacking football.
To bobatron, I agree like you say, that there were many incidents that all added up over the season.
I don't think Stevie cost us the league, or one game, sorry I didn't explain myself better, and cheers for the reply. I agree about losing Hendo too. We'll never know what might have been eh.
On the other post. Waro is talking his usual nonsense with nothing constructive to offer. So I must have said something good! :) hehe.
Cheers all.
Good post agree about flanno don't see him as a starter but I'd take anything over Johnson.
On to Gerrard as has been said if you throw Lucas in there to replace him our whole game would slow down become less fluid and we wouldn't have scored 80 goals imo. Gerrard has the ability to pick a pass and lead by example and while I agree he is no pirlo he isn't a million miles a way and would argue he is more defensively sound as he made some incredible last stitch blocks and tackles won a lot of headers in the middle of the park and I genuinely thought his positioning was quit solid and improved throughout the season
Absolutely agree with the analysis of gerrard
he is not a dm although I believe that he can be kept in the team by playing him in a deeper play making role alongside a dm
for this dm position I'd prefer can over Lucas
playing Lucas and gerrard has not worked for the entire season and I doubt it will
can playing at dm will provide defensive solidarity and also good enough passing not like gerrard but better than Lucas
Short version:
Our defence is poor.
Only messing, good post mate. I imagine Gerrard will make way for can in a few games. A back up striker (lambert) will also a lot. Attack was the best form of defence last year and when are strikers looked knackered then the whole team struggled, lambert should keep SAS fresh and deadly.
I would stick with migs but we need to replace a few defenders. I would have flanno as back up for Johnson and the new left back and hopefully he will push Johnson out the team by next summer.
09 Jun 2014 00:55:55
Just out of interest Eds and folks, how highly do you rate the England team and how far do you think they will go?
Personally think the friendlies provide me with enough insight to make a judgement that even if we win some games we will probably play fairly boring, cautious football, but maybe quarters at best
09 Jun 2014 07:00:31
You have asked for an opinion so here's mine , I think that this is the worst England squad ever taken to a major tournament , it is so shameful to see a bunch of players unable to keep the ball , pass the ball or control the ball . They don't even look like an international team and haven't for years .
I don't blame Hodgson for this , it's not his fault that the supply of players has dried up . At least the ones at his disposal will be able to run further , jump higher and kick it longer than the others .
The one saving grace is that he has picked a lot of young players for the future , let's hope they survive the press backlash when England fail to make it out of the group .
The Honduras game was horrendous, they came out kicking and I think we backed off for fear of injuries. I think Uruguay will do the do the same aswell, seems to be how a lot of teams from around there play.
Regards how we'll do, if we can make it out of the group I can see us reaching the semis, but it's a big if. I can see a repeat of 2010 where we seem happy to play out a draw with any opposition rather than chase a win.
Will be interesting to see whether Hodgson has the ability to get the best out of our attacking players, and if he has the balls to drop Rooney as he isn't anywhere near on form. Just a lot running around looking lost for me at the minute.
Anyway, I'll be happier once the wc is out of the way and the leaugue season is back underway, can't wait for champions league nights again, going to be one hell of a ride next year.
Y.N.W.A
I have never been a "Roy" fan and I am afraid while he is in charge slow boring football is what we will get.
We will be lucky to get out of the group stage and then plod on to the Euro's hoping for the best.
We need a younger dynamic guy in charge. Some one who can get this YOUNG group of players to play well together. Playing fast, passing, counter football much the way we do.
If the next England manager can do that then we could have a team that has excellent prospect's in the future!
vrcomp
Y.N.W.A.
I have a similar feeling about England to the one I had about Liverpool 12 months ago. Of course the managers philosophies are different but Roy has picked the right squad, seems to be giving talent it's head and his natural caution will make us solid. He's coached in a WC which is a positive and so while I agree it won't be free-wheeling footy I think keeping it tight is a policy that has more chance of being successful because with our limited possession we are now more equipped to nick a game with the goals of Sturridge, pace of Sterling, Wellbeck & Ox and ball-playing ability of Rooney, Lallana & Barkley. We can nick the group on goal difference, beat Japan in round of 16 and then it's just one tight QF going our way before the semis! QF would be good and slightly above par given FIFA ranking and semis would be the best performance away from our shores in a WC. There seems to be more belief and togetherness about the group and less scars from previous tournaments.
Think we should trade hodgson for moyes. srs
*runs away*
You have good players but the manager you chose well let's just say he's a little behind the times, q finals at best for me but a country like yours should be doing better
08 Jun 2014 23:09:32
Before I start, this post may be fairly speculative, but I'm sick of people over reacting.
Suarez; undoubtedly (in my mind) the best striker on the planet, and arguably the best player. He is the only player in recent history to score more than 30 goals in a season without needing penalties to do it. He is the definition of world class and the personification of passion. There is no like for like replacement on the planet because quite simply, he is unique.
However, to fit him and Sturridge into our team at the same time we have had to adjust the much maligned 4-4-2 formation in order to make it work. that's fine if you have a good defence (Chelsea did fine with Bosingwa, Terry, Alex and Cole when Ancelotti deployed the diamond formation). There is no doubt though that playing with 2 out and out strikers is not always the best thing to do in big games. Sturridge and Suarez are undroppable though and that makes it difficult to change the team tactically. So whilst Suarez is absolutely incredible, it's a hassle having to fit him and Sturridge into the same team. I don't personally mind, but it's no secret our gung ho attacking play has put the defence under a lot of pressure. Sadly the right hand side of our defence persistently buckled under this pressure.
If Suarez left, there is literally no striker in the world who could replace his 30 goals a season without penalties. that's without even considering his 12 assists. However, would we really score less goals? Not necessarily. Just look at how young our team is; Sterling 19, Coutinho 21, Hendo 23, Sturridge 24. To suggest that these players are not going to improve is ridiculous. Sterling's 10 goals could comfortably become 15, Hendo's 4 could comfortably double to 8, Coutinho could at least double his 5 to 10 and Sturridge is actually better when Suarez isn't playing. It really wouldn't suprise me if he hit 30+ goals next season without taking a single penalty. I count at least 20-25 goals extra there just from our young squad improving. Even if we just shove Rickie Lambert in Suarez's place who is capable of at least 10 goals, we are breaking even. People are seriously underestimating how young our sqaud is and ignoring the fact they WILL improve.
I would personally like to see a replacement come in for Suarez who could play a bit more as a wide forward though. As previously mentioned, Sturridge is better when he is up top alone. Sterling is a top wide attacker. He is very versatile and suits the fluent front 3. Suarez could comfortably be swapped (not replaced) for a quality attacking forward in the mould of Sanchez, Lavezzi, Reus, Di Maria, Pedro etc. I'm not going to suggest who it might be. I don't have a clue who it would be. However if this player came in and added 10-15 goals and 10 assists, that is Suarez's 30 goals replaced with a more balanced 4-3-3 to the 4-4-2 we are currently playing. Just from one signing and the improvement that is to be expected of players in their late teens and early 20's.
I just don't buy into this 'we are finished if Suarez is sold'. You don't come second because of one player. Are we forgetting that Suarez missed 5 games last season; 5 games we did well enough to top the table in might I add. We then carried him for the last 5-10 games of the season anyway. He was pretty average for the last stretch of the season. In fact, I think Sterling and Gerrard outscored him in that time period. We are Liverpool fc, not Suarez FC and we have proved we can win when he is not playing or playing badly. So all this paranoid scaremongering is just getting annoying.
Yes, we might not score as many, and as I said this post is based a lot on prediction/speculation. I just don't think it's any more specualtive than expecting Suarez to score 30 again next year. He could get injured, or just not score 10 goals in one month. Let's not ignore the fact either that Suarez tends to go missing in the big games far too often. Even if we don't score as many though, the money from Suarez would help cover the costs of some new defenders and perhaps reduce the amount we concede by 20+. It's just a complete over reaction. We do this every time a top player leaves the club and the simple fact is, strikers are easily replaced. Owen, Rush, Keegan, Fowler, Torres etc. It happens every season across every league in the world. Suarez might be the best in the world right now, but we can and will cope without him.
I'd be gutted if we sold him. He is a joy to watch. However, I would take a step back, put it into perspective and calm down before I claimed we'll be relegated though. He is 27 years old and has just suffered a knee injury. If Real Madrid bid anything close to the amount of money they paid for Ronaldo or Bale, I think we'd be silly to turn it down. He is truly world class, but he is not the only world class player on earth. He cannot be replaced like for like, but we don't have to persist with the same formation that was only adopted to accomodate him in the first place.
Can we just stop banging on about how much we need him. If 'the word', 'Disney' or 'DaveyBoyBlue' came on here tomorrow saying we are a one man team you'd all be going mental defending the rest of the team! You know damn well that is true, so don't even try and lie to yourself. So for the love of god, put it into perspective and calm down. We won the Champions League the year after we sold Owen. We were far more reliant on Owen then than we were Suarez now, but the team coped. So let's just chill out, and go have a pint or something. I really can't be bothered to read through 10,000 words a day telling us that next season will be a train wreck when quite simply it's not true.
If you disagree, I'm all ears. Just try reply with a balanced mature argument, rather than hurling abuse at me for having an opinion. Nobody wants Suarez sold. It's probably going to happen though, so let's just enjoy watching the world cup and wait to see who Rodgers signes after the tournament.
Much love,
Brilliant post! Have to agree with what your saying and how the diamond leaves our defence open. Which wide attacking player would you want to throw in there? i'd love Insigne
EMS, hats off to you mate for commitment to this page, but there is a lot of ifs and buts there, I think it's a bit nearer very speculative than fairly speculative to be honest.
I think sterlings ten goals are actually about his level, he is more of a creator than scorer for me and I doubt both Henderson and Coutinho will double there tallies, sturridge hitting thirty is also going to be difficult.
Another thing to consider is without opposition defenders concentrating on the oh so dangerous Suarez our other offensive players may not get as much room. That said I agree with you on how we can get over his departure as opposed to directly replacing him, as you say in today's football he is unique. I also agree we would have to accept a WR fee the, the problem is I don't see that being offered, I reckon £70m tops will be offered due to the reasons you stated.
So as I say hats off to you, take it easy.
A nice post and a good read.
I do agree with some of it, but I also disagree with some of it too.
Suarez is amazing, and you explain this well. But I reckon we must not sell him. We need to show ambition and build around him.
I agree we should not play the 442 diamond in all games, and that it is not ideal. I also think that doing so towards the end of the season cost us tbh, I also agree with your rationale that we lack the defence to do so.
However, against the lesser sides where we have been afforded time and space, I feel the diamond has done well for us and it is useful in such games, but I must disagree with you when you say the front players were better in a 442, maybe against poorer opposition, but not against teams that set out sit deep, to pack the midfield and press us seeking to break.
Brendan largely stuck with the 442 after the Utd (Gerrard penalties) game, and the form of the 'SAS' fell off somewhat afterwards imo.
Suarez and Sturridge can play in a front 3 and showed excellent form there.
I agree with you that Sturridge played his best football at the centre of the front 3 and reckon that this should be our preferred formation against higher quality sides.
I would have Suarez on the left or right of any front-3 and leave Sturridge up top, as Sturridge is simply not a versatile as Luis, who can raise hell with his work-rate, invention and goal threat in the wider areas as he often does for for us and for Uruguay.
If Sturridge is injured we can also play Suarez more centrally if required.
For me, we will not challenge for the league without Suarez. Whilst Suarez was tired by the end of the season, he was still great, and was average only by his standards. Pointing to Gerrard's penalties means little, Suarez could have taken those too, would that affect your view? He also created a few for Raheem and scored as many as him too.
Suarez does not go missing in big games, I refute that totally, but I agree that too often in a 442 he will not be at his best against top sides. Nor will anyone else imo.
Luis does not rely on pace and is one of those rare players who I feel can be even better at 35 than he is now.
We are not a one man team, I don't know that anyone said that, but we would be a poorer side without Luis.
But by the same token, after selling Owen we won the CL yes, but we were hardly a great side.
I don't buy that we were more reliant on Owen either, he never scored 30+ goals, allied with double-figures in assists, or had the creativity, work-rate and team ethic of Luis. He was also very injury- prone and never ever took us close to a title.
If we want to be a great side, we must hold onto Luis.
I feel it is a question of ambition. Whereas you seem to define the team will be 'fine' as accepting being a team of nearly-men, I want us to win the league and to dominate Europe.
I strongly feel that Luis can be the new Kenny, the catalyst that sees us return to the top.
If we can support him with quality and improve defensively then I feel we can develop a great side. Without Luis we will not challenge for the League, the likes of Alexis Sanchez etc. are good players, but again, nothing to the genius of Suarez. I have never seen a player as good as Suarez at LFC. Selling him would be tantamount to selling our ambition imo.
To think Arsenal offered £40m for him. Luis made us £40m+ by performing on the pitch and getting us back into Europe and getting 2nd in the league.
Owen was a fine striker, and I will defend him against any that say otherwise, but he was not a patch on Luis.
I also don't buy that Luis will leave. I have seen nothing written to suggest he will leave. Just media hyperbole and interest from Real Madrid.
I said he would stay last year. Even when he threw a strop I said he will stay, and I was right. I hope I am right again.
Now he has said he will stay. He is in the CL, has signed a new contract and I believe he will stay.
I want more great seasons and whilst the club of course will survive without Luis, our team will not be as good without him.
These are just my views btw. I do reckon we need him, and sorry that some people seem to have gotten on your nerves on the topic! I'm sure they mean well, and if we do sell him it's not the apocalypse! lol.
But if we adopt the strategy of selling our best players, rather than trying to build a great team, we will always be nearly-men.
Whilst we have one of the greatest players in the world at our club, I prefer to strive for greatness. let's build a side for the ages, not rip apart the best team we've had in decades.
We are Liverpool.
Lets meet Real Madrid in Europe next season and remind them!
ps - again, enjoyed the read EMS. I hope I swayed your thoughts a little!
Jesus Christ EMS, the rest of the team carried Suarez for our last 10 games did they? Is 8 goals and 4 assists in his last 10 games not good enough for you? Neither Steven Gerrard or Raheem Sterling or Daniel Sturridge outscored Luis. If anyone got carried in the last 10 games it was Sturridge. Maybe you should get your facts straight before you start sprouting crap.
Every player is replaceable, and I agree that we are not a one man team, but having a player like Suarez in the team makes a massive difference to our chances of success. Of course if we lose him we will cope, but it could go one way or the other. We may carry on where we left off last season or we may need a year or two for the new players to settle in. There is no way of knowing how it will pan out. Look at Soldado of Spurs, he had a great goal scoring record in spain, but looked lost in the PL last season.
The most imortantant thing is holding on to our best players and improving the squad for next season.
I understand that if we are to bring in a world class player we will most likely need to sell Suarez to raise the money to do so. We would all like to see the likes of Sanchez, Pedro, Reus etc at Liverpool, however, I wouldn't go as far as convincing myself that we don't need Suarez just so we can bring in one of those players.
As for the formation, I have no problem going woth 4-3-3 with an attacking 3 of Suarez, Sturridge, and Sterling and then 3 in the middle. Maybe, Gerrard, Henderson and Lallana.
Good post though Adam.
Red Rum
I think you're right EMS. Sometimes you have too much faith in young players (more so the Academy) but your central point about the team and individual players improvement is correct. A Sanchez level player would help bridge the gap and someone like Lukaku is young and proven in the PL. He's also capable of playing across a front 3 - he was great from the right against Arsenal last season.
09 Jun 2014 09:00:37
Western Red: Lavezzi, Sanchez or Reus would all be exceptional goal scoring wise.
Di Maria and Pedro would probably be more about the assists.
Sanchez for me is the best fit, but we might not get any of them and pluck an under rated talent from the Dutch league of something. Who knows! Ed002 says Reus is goimg elsewhere so that's ome down already!
Fair comments Alan. I know it is speculative and all about opinion, I just honestly think we have so many players still young and improving. Even Gerrard is still getting better whilst he acclimatises to the role. I think last season we needed Suarez. We weren't in the position to sign a world class replacement because we weren't in the CL. Now we are, we have the foundation to build on and the ability to attract top players. Suarez could leave with his head held high and we would get a healthy sum of cash.
09 Jun 2014 09:07:40
YNWAadam.
Good post. but just one contradiction.
The reason we are so much in for Lallana is Neither Hendo nor Allen gets goals.
Every player in our attacking front
Links with Suarez easily. I don't think Hendo would have influenced the game so much with any other player apart from Suarez.
You aren't taking out just goals and assists.
You are cutting a tree which is in the middle if the garden surrounded by other connected by their roots.
Its a big task.
EMS, not having a pop at you but parts of your post seem to conflict with each other with regards Suarez as a player and team member, you seem to give him back handed compliments but the under current of your post seems to suggest that you would prefer to sell him.
The players who chipped in with goals that you mentioned above are a fair point, but do you not think that without Suarez's movement and his ability to drag defenders out of position created the space for those players to score the amount of goals that they did? He occupies two or three defenders at a time during games because of the fear of what he can do to the opposition thus creating space for others IMO.
You use the first five games as proof of us not needing him is spurious reasoning IMO, it's the start of the season when everyone is up for it, they are itching to get out there and play, there fresh and even when he wasn't playing Suarez's presence was probably a motivating factor as certain players were probably wanting to prove the fans and the media wrong who were saying how much we would miss Suarez in the team.
For me we don't sell for any amount of money because he is central to everything BR is trying to achieve at the club, but if he does move on then so do we and I would hope that the money would be spent on two players Berkley ( that lad will be a superstar ) and Falcao would do for me if that was the case and if any was left over Modric.
I can see what you saying I parts of your post but ultimately disagree EMS, but as I stated at the start of my reply, I'm not having a pop at you fella.
A well constructed reply SuarezIsaGenius. I see your point, but I'm of the opinion we could still kick on without Suarez. If the money is there to strengthen and keep Suarez, of course that is my preference. He is our best player.
You certainly did more to sway my point of view than Brisbane did. I'm not prepared to debate with Children anymore. All I will say Brisbane is that stats can be misleading and whilst Suarez was still good by normal standards, he wasted a lot of chances and possession and was clearly off form. He is worls class and still capable of a magical momemt even when playing poorly, but in general play he was awful and put the team under a lot of pressure by losing possesion cheaply.
I welcome feedback though guys and I'm always open to discussion. I would say though that I will be impressed if Suarez matches his 30 goal tally next year. He had an incredible spell of form last season that I doubt he'll ever repeat. I honestly think he'll bag 20-25 tops playing alongside Sturridge. I think Sturridgr will get around the same though so no issues there. I would like to see one of Suarez or Sturridge dropped against bigger sides though. You need to control the midfield against the likes of City and Chelsea.
Its not that I think we don't need Suarez Red Rum. He is the star in our otherwise just great team. But other players in our side are capable of stepping up to become that star. I don't think for one second that Sanchez could do what Suarez does, but it might chance the dynamic of the side, or allow us to go forward with that little bit of extra pace that Suarez lacks. We can literally only speculate what will happen. I just have faith in the current squad and Rodgers to cope without Suarez. He's a world class talent. But he is not our only talent.
It's not people wanting to keep Suarez that I disagree with. Its people making out that we are buggered if we don't keep him that I disagree with.
I agree with you regarding we´re not Suarez FC. But I think you underestimate his work. First of, you suggest that he can swapped with an attacking forward. You might be right, but the matter of fact that we know that Suarez can cope with the epl, and that we can´t be sure that the replacement can, is a gamble.
Furthermore: Suarez is rarely injured, his work (dragging defenders, his neverending chasing the ball) and his mentality and passion. Some of these qualities are not something you can get in training, but something you were raised and born with. I think his winning mentality affects the rest of the teams, and letting our best player leave would be a setback.
Nevertheless, in the light of his knee injury, we don´t know if he will be the same Suarez as in the last season. Maybe he will turn out like Torres, so if RM were to come with an offer similar to the bale money, it would be hard to refuse.
All that just to make sense of selling the best player on the planet, I will ask you this what player would you rather have with a one on one with a keeper suarez or sturridge, another question if you had to choose one player for your team suarez or sturridge
but I do disagree with you, why would you not want the best player on the planet in your team, you talk about the formation with playing struridge as well, if you don't like the formation that's down to BR and him wanting to play the 2 of them and with scoring over a hundred goals it worked,
but I think your saying to change the formation to be more defensive we have to sell suarez plus the money he would bring,
i really does baffle me that some reds fans won't mind us losing suarez, and the make the excuses of it won't be the end of the world, we won the champs league with owen you say, tell me where we finished in the prem that season,
there is no better sight in football than suarez turning a player on the half way line and running in on goal nuttmegging a defender and scoring, yes you forgot to mention the hard work he puts in to score some of his goals because he has had to make the chance for himself, plus there's just some goals that suarez scores that you think how did he do that, because no other player would score it
but in the end great managers who find themselves with players like suarez build the team around the players because they know its players like these that win you things, is it any coincedence that suarez scored that many goals and we finished 2nd, I wonder how many of his goals got us the points to finish 2nd and nearly win it
Enjoyed the discussion EMS. Lots of good posts to read on the thread. :)
"I'd be gutted if we sold him."
I think I made it clear I'd rather keep him. This post is not a post to try and convince you all we should sell Suarez. Its a post to convince you all we could cope. I'd rather we kept him, but if we don't, put it into perspective.
Suarez's movement to create space for othersIis a good point. Aside from Messi he is the best at it in the world. Say we signed Walcott (we won't and there are better options, but humour me) though and his pace made us twice as quick on the break. We could find ourselves in situations where it's Sterling, Sturridge and this other player with incredible pace (which let's not kid ourselves, Suarez does not have) against 2 or 3 defenders. We might become more effective in other areas of our game or we might unearth an absolute gem.
Suarez is the best in the world at what he does. He is not the only player who could wlot into our team and be effective.
I'll miss Suarez if he leaves but I don't think the team necessarily will. If we concede 20 less due to strengthening other areas, it might not ecen matter if we can't replace his goals. I don't know who we will get but just say we got Varane and Di Maria/Isco? That would improve us overall in my opinion. Yes it didn't work for Spurs, but that because they signed XI good players to replace one world class player. We cpuld sign two world class players as we have CL football to attract them. It might not mean we score as many, but we might be a better team.
In an ideal world, we keep Suarez, strengthen the team and win the treble. We can't hold Suarez against his will again though. He'll start to get fed up of us blocking his ambitions and do we really want him getting a pay rise every summer to make up fir us holding him hostage?
If he wants out, let's just thank him and say goodbye. If he wants to stay, brilliant.
A great read emc
Suarez is replaceable and I suspect we might be better placed to replace him this season with cl
plus the most encouraging sign for me that Sturridge plays better as a loan striker
although to replace suarez unlike popular opinion asking for sanchez and di Maria me thinks we should go for a younger ss/wing ala draxler, el sharaawy etc
and regarding the 4-4 - 2 it robs width from the team we must look to play with a 4-3-3 next season
Waro, your reply to EMS post was very similar to mine in particular re Suarez taking defenders out of the game to create space for us in other area's and ultimately that we should do all we can to keep truly one of the best players in the world, (as I said, on form for 2/3's of season THE best player in the world)
Your reply to SIAG was similar but let's just say I was a little more diplomatic! Lol