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20 Oct 2023 10:03:31
Hi eds,

You've mentioned Sane as Klopps potential choice as heir to Salah - does he have a CB in mind to replace VVD in the long-term? Or has he had one in the past?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Perr Schuurs (CB) Only signed from Ajax last summer and an enquiry from Spurs was met with a not for sale - but a €40m offer would make them listen - a subsequent Spurs offer was well short of that. I doubt any club would value him at half that but Manchester United, and ten Hag knows him well, and Liverpool have sent scouts.

Napoli offer an option as they have him on their lengthy Kim replacement list. Informal offers from Napoli and Liverpool have been turned away and they have been told the asking price, but may well return. West Ham are keen but want to include a player to reduce the costs. Crystal Palace are concerned that they will lose Marc Guehi and have asked for talks with the club - but the price is seen as high.

Piero Hincapie (CB) Interest of Nottingham Forest will go nowhere. Scouted and rejected by Spurs as not being ready for the Premier League. Open to a move to Liverpool as they look for cover but his expectation is to be a starter and their interest is not as advanced as supporters think with an agreement reached for January. If they sell in January there will be a significantly high expectation in terms of a fee. Club will look to hang on to the core of Tapsoba, Hincapie and Tah until at least the summer. I cannot see any wanting to leave right now.

Antonio Silva (CB) Benfica say that "many scouts" have been to watch the player - perhaps they are looking for someone to pay his €100M buy out clause - a move at that price seems unlikely but PSG are keen. Juventus and Napoli would want a reduction in the asking price to make any move viable. Looked at by Spurs and Manchester United. For Liverpool perhaps a Konate replacement rather than a Matip replacement - so unlikely.

Cheick Doucoure (CB/DM) Has major language issues that need resolving in the coming months. Crystal Palace have told Monaco, who want him to replace Fofana, that he is not for sale but will discuss offers over £70M. Clearly a deterent and beyond what anyone would pay. Liverpool may see him as an option, but not at that price.

Goncalo Inacio (CB) Watched by scouts from a number of PL sides, including Liverpool and Manchester United, with the latter declaring an interest. Sporting will not be keen to do business with Liverpool although the club could potentially pay his Release Clause and force the situation if the player is interested. The other sides to declare an interest are Newcastle and PSG, but PSG have a plan over another player.

Real Madrid offer a wildcard option. Sporting would rather not sell and are looking to a new contract and an increased release clause. Newcastle have begun talks with Sporting in order to be able to speak directly to the player and to understand if there is flexibility in the payment schedule. Arsenal interest would have departed with the signing of Timber. The player has also been offered to Chelsea but they have preferred options for a long-term Silva replacement. The player is open to a move to Manchester United.}


1.) 20 Oct 2023 10:42:19
Any player who is willing to join Man Utd should be totally avoided it shows a clear lack of brain cells and lack of ambition. Old Trafford is a graveyard of terrible footballers you would have to be a brain dead moron to want to go there.


2.) 20 Oct 2023 14:26:03
We could raid Bayern again for Kim Min Jae.


3.) 20 Oct 2023 13:57:35
I think Ignacio signed a new contract with Sporting so I assume his release clause of around 40M euros will have increased. I guess Quansah might be VVD's long term replacement.


4.) 21 Oct 2023 01:27:47
@Barak, apparently Inacio’s buyout clause went from €45m to €60m and the contract runs until 2027.


5.) 24 Oct 2023 13:38:43
Per Schuurs has done his ACL I believe so that's him off the list Ed.


 

 

24 Aug 2021 11:25:54
Ed,

Is Coutinho back to LFC the surprise you mentioned awhile back?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - It will depend on the deal and perhaps a loan may be discussed - but Klopp is apparently keen.}


1.) 24 Aug 2021 12:21:56
Couts as impact sub gets my vote. Something different and back up to Elliott. Can cover a wing also. A few match winning performances and I’ll forgive his dream of forcing a move to Barca. We all make mistakes and he didn’t kill anyone.


2.) 24 Aug 2021 12:22:10
If Couthino was to reaturn, how do think he will do Ed002?

{Ed002's Note - I think it would be difficult given the circumstances under which he left. I think it would all end in tears.}


3.) 24 Aug 2021 12:54:45
For Coutinho to return I'd wonder what his current condition is. assuming he won't be up to diving straight onto the pitch, then how long will it take him to get up to match fitness?

In general I don't actually mind the idea of him coming back. make the money work etc At the moment I think the only real area you could consider we have a gap is in the attacking third and someone like him, if we get a good deal, could be an exciting piece of business as the upside would be massive if he is motivated and Klopp can get the best out of him.


4.) 24 Aug 2021 13:03:56
If it is a loan with an option to buy instead of an obligation and low wages then it might be worth trying. But I don't understand why we want him after the way he acted to press his way out of the club. And he is not getting any younger either.


5.) 24 Aug 2021 13:17:26
WOW I think it would be good for him and maybe he can rediscover the little magic he left here.


6.) 24 Aug 2021 13:34:30
Yet some on here would, even now, have Suarez back. Conveniently forgetting he would have gladly joined Arsenal.


7.) 24 Aug 2021 14:03:06
I have mixed feelings about this, but leaning towards positive.

If we get him on a loan with reasonable wages, then I'm all for it.

There are definitely things he could have done better to leave the club, but I don't think he meant it with any spite and I think he was very poorly advised by people around him who had something to profit from his move to Barcelona. That doesn't absolve Coutinho of any responsibility, but it doesn't mean he's a bad character unfit for the dressing room either, he was well-liked in the squad and wouldn't create any disharmony.

I think he'd be a great option off the bench, he brings something completely different to the midfield and he's already created a chemistry with Salah and Mane before. He is a big confidence player and he needs to be in a supportive and comfortable environment to thrive.

He wouldn't be a starting player, so the limitations in his game don't bother me that much, he still has enough calibre to make a meaningful contribution.


8.) 24 Aug 2021 14:21:51
Regarding Coutinho.

Is he an upgrade on Shaq?

Will Barcelona pay a chunk of his wages?

Can he offer something?

If all three are a yes, and two of them are, it’s a no brainer.


9.) 24 Aug 2021 14:54:08
PC would be a backward step for LFC. If he came then I think it'd be more about appeasing fans than a way to keep us moving forward. SN would have been ideal but it's almost certain he's going to Man Utd now.


10.) 24 Aug 2021 15:08:01
I doubt that Klopp would sign-off on it just to appease twitter fans.

He's not a backwards step, he's a talented player to add to the midfield depth. If we were looking to him as a solution to a midfield problem then it'd be different.


11.) 24 Aug 2021 16:57:03
I loathe him. Don’t want him back, not to mention that he’s past it now, too weak and lightweight to play midfield and too slow to play on the wing, and we don’t play with a number 10. Waste of a salary. Let him rot at Barca. Their collective mistake not ours.


12.) 24 Aug 2021 17:32:07
Coutinho will fail his medical anyway when we try to sign him. Due to his recurring back injury.


13.) 24 Aug 2021 17:40:58
Suarez is one of the best players I’ve seen in a Liverpool shirt that’s why I’d have him back. Unlike El Sulk Torres, Suarez always gave a 100%. Coutinho? Why not… he scores goals from midfield which none of our midfielders do.


 

 

25 May 2021 00:55:19
Ed02,

Early in April you provided me with a rundown of replacements you'd make in the squad during the summer, but I didn't see a Jota replacement (assuming he replaces Mane) . Do you see the need for a winger? If so, who? I ask because I assume Elliott is the Shaqiri replacement, and Minamino will either be off or play centrally.

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool have looked at a number of wingers but right now there is no signs of Mane leaving.}


1.) 25 May 2021 12:30:48
Hi Ed. what do you think about james balagizi? I think he has potential for bobby backup.

{Ed002's Note - I know little of him although people speak well of him. He is a long way from being part of the first team squad so I would think Firmino would be gone before he is considered.}


 

 

07 Apr 2021 16:52:36
Hi eds,

You've mentioned that Jones is a decent Wijnaldum replacement - is there any other changes (ins and outs) that you'd make to the midfield come the summer? Surely Keita out?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Personally I would let Keita leave but, as I have already explained, finding a buyer will be tough. A decision needs to be made over Grujic and Minamino, and I expect Shaqiri to go. Space in the squad will be an issue and Liverpool still have an imbalance but adding Harvey Elliott to the first team squad makes a lot of sense and addresses one of the errors of squad management.}


1.) 07 Apr 2021 17:31:01
Cheers for the response Ed.

And what changes would you make to defence and attack?

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool will need to add a GK and it makes sense to make a decision over Kamil Grabara first. I would let Tsimikas leave and keep Larouci but that won't happen. Kabak has done enough to replace Matip. As the starter to edge out Gomez Konate has been of interest and would be a great buy but Liverpool are on very, very thin ice. I woulddn't, but fear the club could move for Kalidou Koulibaly. Ricky-Jade Jones or Matthew Hoppe would be excellent replacements for Origi.}


2.) 07 Apr 2021 17:33:40
Where has it gone wrong w Keita? Clearly Klopp was disappointed w him too yesterday but any reasons why he's failed to deliver so spectacularly? I remember the euphoria when we signed him a year early. And to think he's wearing number 8 to boot.

{Ed002's Note - I think it was a huge mistake buying him - whilst his form had been great he had caused significant issues for his club and in the final year - many further issues. He has had language issues in England although he now has a full Work Permit. He is doing nothing to justify his move since joining Liverpool. I am sure the club have done what they can but it doesn't look like there is going to be a step change and I would say time has come.}


3.) 07 Apr 2021 17:43:37
Cheers for your detailed response Ed.


4.) 07 Apr 2021 19:19:28
Have Liverpool been naughty again, in regards to RBL?

{Ed002's Note - We are not going to go there.}


5.) 07 Apr 2021 19:55:20
I thought we had a good relationship with RBL?

{Ed002's Note - Why? They were over the moon with the illegal approaches and the tapping up of Werner by Klopp last year no doubt. Typically clubs do not like cheats.}


6.) 07 Apr 2021 20:25:50
Is there the potential for Ben Davies to cover left back if Tsimikas were to leave? Although mainly a CB, he has on occasion played LB as well.
It seems a better alternative to me as the player has reasonable experience albeit at Championship level.

{Ed002's Note - Larouci would be the obvious choice for me - and Gomez is capable, and the club must have other youngsters.}


7.) 07 Apr 2021 20:34:07
Reports Leicester are looking at Keita? Any insights there Ed002? Thanks as always.

{Ed002's Note - They are after a CM player and there are two they have a declared interest in. I am not aware of any approach to Liverpool at this time.}


8.) 07 Apr 2021 20:55:41
Good summary Ed002.
I like the idea that the new CB can also cover LB also, then we’d have two potentially with Gomez.
Given that Robertson is very durable, it’s an argument that it’s wasteful to have a specialist LB sitting on the bench most of the season doing nothing anyway?


9.) 07 Apr 2021 21:05:48
Just the deal with Keita being done etc. It sounds like we will not be moving for konate in any case. Who knows. happens all the time in football, I'm not losing any sleep over it personally. It's rife with bad behaviour id imagine.

{Ed002's Note - It does not happen all of the time. This is the usual excuse rolled out by Liverpool supporters. It is embarrassing.}


10.) 08 Apr 2021 00:20:27
Well hopefully we can move him on. Sometimes in life it's better to take what you can get when you can get it instead of it becoming worthless ie Gini Can. Cash in and move on. With valuations being down ala C.V. surely that works both ways. Or send him out on loan and get his wages paid.


11.) 08 Apr 2021 06:18:16
Surely if Tsimikas was to leave we’d have to bring in a left back. Tsimikas starts for his country has won league titles and played plenty in Europe. Larouci/ Davies can’t be the answer for any serious club especially when half our game is relying on full backs. We’re very lucky Robertson hasn’t been injured with Klopp running him into the ground he’s not been good at all since Christmas, It’s poor management. Tsimikas needs to be kept and used.


12.) 08 Apr 2021 02:50:49
Not an excuse eds, I don't know what you are referring to as you said you aren't going there, so how can I have an excuse for something I don't know about? I'm simply saying that it's not for me to worry about or know about alleged behaviour of the club in these situations. It would be great if you could elaborate a little and then there may be solid grounds for me to have an actual opinion. Genuinely curious as what these acts are you refer to a lot but then refuse to be drawn on them. ? Thanks.

{Ed002's Note - It has been explained over and over and I very much doubt the rest of the site want the issue opened up all again. It leads to the same embarrassing excuse as you have used.}


13.) 08 Apr 2021 07:57:44
Thanks for the reply No2 regarding Ben Davies. Can I ask what the future holds for Davies? Thanks in advance.

{Ed002's Note - It is difficult to say with a decent number of CBs at the club. Right now it is hard to see him as a starter with the plan going forward likely to be:
van Dyke, new player, Gomez, maybe Kabak as the primary four supplemented by:
Phillips, Williams, Davies and not forgetting:
van den Berg, Koumetio.
There will also be other CBs in the U23s etc. that I am afraid I know nothing about.}


14.) 08 Apr 2021 10:40:40
Any update on Konate Ed002?
I think that what the club does this summer wrt the CB situation will be extremely crucial in the long run. Also, another midfielder is definitely needed with Gini out of contract and Keita and Ox just not cutting it.
Also hope there is some sort of freshening done in the forward line. Things have gone a bit stale now and maybe the club can look to move either Mane or Firmino on and replace them with younger players. Heard Inter may look to Bobby as a potential option if they can move Erikson and Sanchez on in the summer.

{Ed002's Note - RBL have made their position clear regarding any further illegal approaches for their players and whilst Konate may yet move this summer, Liverpool may step back and look elsewhere. His agent has now upset a couple of sides and it is clear that clubs will need to act within the rules. There was discussion on Keita yesterday so you can find it.}


15.) 08 Apr 2021 12:31:00
Mate ed02 I thought the plan was for Kelleher to be number 2?so we don't need to add a gk right? u23s can take the 3rd?

{Ed002's Note - Kelleher is the U23 goalkeeper - hence the comment about Grabara and that being the driver as to whether they will add one or not.}


16.) 08 Apr 2021 13:52:47
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ed.

{Ed002's Note - You are welcome.}


17.) 08 Apr 2021 14:21:23
Ed when you say that Liv may look elsewhere n not going for konate, is there any new starter cb that Liv have look at? reading past post the only other name is ben white n he is pricey as you said.

{Ed002's Note - I have mentioned a couple before who may still be of interest. Kalidou Koulibaly, Sven Botman and David Carmo.}


18.) 08 Apr 2021 14:30:15
OK eds, you didn't really answer my question and once again I was not excusing the behaviour, how could I be when I don't know what it is you are referring to regarding konate. I was just curious but I'll take the hint that you don't want to go into it and it makes you prickly lol. Thanks anyway.

{Ed002's Note - You are trying to offset the repeated cheating by saying it happens all of the time in football. This is, as I have often explained, the usual lame excuse rolled out by Liverpool supporters and it is very embarrassing.}


19.) 08 Apr 2021 20:48:29
OK eds. if you say so. That was not what I was doing but if that's what you want to think that's all good. Peace. Just an unanswered question but I'll survive. Have a good evening eds. 🙏.

{Ed077's Note - unprofessional conducts that are against the rules don't happen all the time J6, even though you said they do.


20.) 08 Apr 2021 22:04:17
OK eds. I'm quite confident that it is not just us but that wasn't my question. thanks.


21.) 09 Apr 2021 11:00:14
Its not just Liverpool, correct but I believe Liverpool are the worst or at least one of the worst. Even if other clubs do it, still doesn't make it right tho.


22.) 09 Apr 2021 18:46:21
I agree irish. the funny thing is that wasn't what I asked but some people are a little obsessed with it and liverpool. I agree it's not the way to do things at all but it's does get a little tedious.


23.) 09 Apr 2021 20:55:35
Ed 02 Did you really just say that typically clubs do not like cheats, when they have a squad full of them? All professional footballers are cheats, and so are a lot of the managers.

{Ed002's Note - I have no idea what you are talking about. This constant attempt by Liverpool supporters to bring up the subject and then say everyone is doing it is really, really embarassing.}


24.) 10 Apr 2021 17:29:12
J6 please stop. Ed is right noone of us or maybe almost noone of the website wants to see repeated post again and again. As Ed said it has been done to death. You annoyed me here and prooly some other posts and Ed as well.


25.) 10 Apr 2021 18:34:00
J6, I would guess that it could be the usual talking to the player (Konate) without the clubs consent which is against the rules and a form of cheating in football.
It is something that club has done before under Klopp a few times and indeed did it last season to Werner, then proceeded to not even attempt to buy the player. Another RBL player, they must be ecstatic.


 

 

22 May 2020 13:36:32
Hi eds,

I hope you're well and keeping safe.

We've seen LFC linked to loads of strikers (Werner, Osimhen etc) to potentially replace Origi. However, I believe that this doesn't make sense, given the fact that I doubt these players would move to sit ln the bench.

In your opinion, who do you think would be a good replacement, sensible for Origi? I would have said Brewster but I think that another loan to Swansea makes sense.

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - There has been no suggestion that Origi is to be sold. I would think Brewster will be able to go on loan and Swansea would be a good destination.}


1.) 22 May 2020 20:47:57
Ive kept track of Swansea games this season and actually watched Brewster live v derby for a works function and I think another season on loan there would be a good move. For me the key being Steve Cooper. It’s evidently clear he believes in him from their history and that would mean if he did go back there then he would get lots of game time again which can only be good for the lad.


2.) 23 May 2020 09:55:53
I would much rather buy a winger/ wide forward as both Mane and Salah can play up front but not many can play in their positions in the current squad.
Not saying Sancho but someone of that ilk.


3.) 23 May 2020 19:56:47
Werner can play LW too The Natural.


 

 

 

AJF's banter posts with other poster's replies to AJF's banter posts

 

20 Jan 2022 00:58:18
Ed0666

Had any thought about squad padders for next season, if you were in charge?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed0666's Note - No mate I haven’t I’ve been so busy recently.. Its gonna be a tricky summer as we have a number of players who will clearly need to leave for our and their benefit. Obviously we need to replace them with quality and they also need to be inexpensive to fit into our spendthrift policy. Conversely will there be many takers who will pay good money for the likes of Keita, Ox, Origi, Bobby, Mane, Williams, et al. This is a seismic summer for Liverpool because if we don’t refresh in a major way than I think we lose ground to the others for sure and if we do refresh it’s needs to be nigh on perfect because we can’t literally can’t afford many mistakes on the transfer window. I’ve not seen much of Diaz but I like the look of him a lot but he didn’t impress at all against us but that doesent mean he’s no good. But then again Kessie did t impress against us. Im not advocating buying Kessie tho because im not sure he’d be a stand out in the prem. Anyway id go for Diaz because he looks direct, pacy, is second highest goal scorer in Portugal from the wing and obviously has a goal in him. For me Mane is on a downward trajectory and we need to bed in a successor which I hope isn’t Jota. I’ve gone on record many moons ago and endorsed the signing of Jonathon David I’m not saying he’s gonna be the next big thing but I think he’ll give us a new dimension again direct, pacy, plays through the middle and has played on the wing. I see that there’s some rumours we’ve been linked to Florian Wirtz who I really do believe could be the next big thing. Kai Havertz but better. A trio of Diaz, David & Salah would be quite interesting?
The midfield is anyones guess it really depends on who we can shift? If milly, Ox, Keita leave they’ll need replacing but I believe only Milly & Ox will leave I just don’t think someone will pay a good enough fee for keita and pay his wages. Who knows I could be wrong. I think we’ll bring in at least 3 players in the summer and maybe as many as 5. I look forward with intrigue to the summer transfer window.


1.) 20 Jan 2022 03:43:16
Only wish most of the posters shares your sentiments Ed0666. The club needs major rebuild in the summer. Not just one or two, 4-5 new signings.

{Ed0666's Note - I think this is the first time we’ve agreed on something Harry. Should I be worried? I actually think you are right we need 4 or 5 players with as many if not more leaving. I know this may mess us up for a season but if the strategy is to compete in the future then sacrificing next season to do it is the only way then I’m all in. There’s too many players at the club that are not at the desired level for winning premierships and champions leagues anymore.


2.) 20 Jan 2022 08:31:14
I said on here quite a while ago that this summer transfer window is probably one of the lost important in the clubs recent history. I really feel we have to get it spot on. One glimmer of hope, if Keita has a decent AFCON, we could potentially get a decent fee for him.


3.) 20 Jan 2022 10:00:11
This is the way I see it.

Phillips, Origi, Ben Davies and Rhys Williams have no meaningful future role in the senior team and should be sold.

I'd personally like to keep Neco Williams and Gomez as squad players as I think they're good enough to be of use, but it's been suggested that Neco isn't happy with his role and I cannot imagine Gomez is happy playing about 4 times all season so far. He's also had injury problems. So they can both be sold. We will then need to buy a defender though, unless the club consider van den Berg good enough to step up.

We should sell Keita as imo he isn't good enough. We should also consider selling one out of Ox or Thiago as I don't trust either of their injury records. Add Milner leaving on a free and we need a first team midfielder.

I tried to put prices on those guys, but it's really guesswork. They could bring in £100m between them, or they could bring £60 - 70m. Maybe even less. And from that we have to buy a midfielder and a defender. Although the defender just needs to be squad player level. Doesn't need to be a £50m signing. We can save that for the midfielder.

Could have to make a decision on Kelleher. Any time he's played in the last 18 months he's looked like first team level and if he has any ambition he's surely going to have a discussion with the club about his future soon. idk, maybe he's happy enough, but if I was him watching Gavin Bazunu, who is not as good and younger than me, get established as #1 for Ireland because he's playing regularly when it should be me, I wouldn't be happy enough.

Onto the forwards, I'm in favour of keeping Salah. Even if he has been touted around Europe since we signed him and his rep. is a git, he's here, he does the job with no issues and we cannot replace him for the same as it will cost to keep him here longer. Mane and Bobby either need to be sold and replaced in the summer or offered new deals. In terms of quality I'd keep Mane. Downward trajectory or not, guys who bag 15-20 from the wing a season are not easy to find. But with my sensible hat on, I'd sell Mane first as I think he'll get us a greater fee than Bobby. We could sell and replace both, but then we'd need to buy two new first team forwards. And getting quality in that area of pitch is not cheap, it might be beyond us unless we did really well on the sales of Origi, Phillips, Williams etc.

I'd consider extending Bobby for a year, depending on how he plays between now and the end of the season. But he might want longer than a year and also he might want £350k a week or something if we've gone and doubled Salah's salary. In that case he would have to be sold and replaced. A lot will depend on what sort of fee we can get for both him and Mane.

Overall we're looking at changing 2-3 players in the first XI with maybe another squad player or two thrown in. It looks a bit more dramatic than it actually is cos it's potentially changing 2 of the established front 3. To me it's more of a case of trimming off players who don't have much of a role in the squad and reinvesting the money wisely rather than ripping the whole lot up and starting again.


4.) 20 Jan 2022 10:07:07
Christ that was longer than I thought it was.


5.) 20 Jan 2022 07:31:23
Ed0666 few questions for you mate.

Would you say its key we get a trophy or two this season (League Cup and CL would be quality) if we are going to go through a transition period from the summer. As teams don't genuinely win things during transition.

On a separate note do you think this will effect Salah signing? let's be honest he isn't getting any younger and he will want to be competing for trophies on all fronts rather than potentially going through a transition with a club.

And lastly do you think the uncertainty around Klopp could effect new signings or even Salah? let's be honest Klopp is a huge attraction for any player to either stay or join but if he's leaving in 2 years will that have an adverse effect.

{Ed0666's Note -

1) it’s always key to win a trophy mate and I think we’ll win the League Cup and go deep in the European cup.

2) I really don’t know what is gonna happen with Salah. Part of me thinks there is no way FSG will let Salah leave at any cost and then part of me the pragmatic and cynical part tho k this is FSG they are hard nosed businessmen and would welcome the money generated from the sale to refresh the squad with the ready made excuse that they couldn’t risk the business model and break the bank for any one player no matter how good.

3) I think this may be relative when Klopp is on the last year of his contract maybe?


6.) 20 Jan 2022 10:20:03
Ed666.i think we need 3 players to be added for us to topple man city again and win league,2 x midfielders and a forward. Sell good few players if possible outside of our 1st 13/ 14. If we sell mane+firmino both would have to be replaced as well, your getting in2 signing 5 players. do u not think that to many to buy in 1 summer window? it will be revolution instead of evolution. Like we not a million miles away as we 2nd in league, quailfied easily out of champ league, semi final of league cup. granted when it comes to the very elite teams i think we will fall short hence need for 2/ 3 top quality players. Appreciate your time.

{Ed0666's Note - I hear ya mate and I know my views aren’t shared by many but wholesale changes are needed in my opinion. We are second in the league but how many points ahead are City? Maybe with different players we’d have won some of the games we drew and would be ahead in the table? I think mane & Bobby need replacing, Ox, Milly, and Thiago/Keita. That’s 5 at least. I’m not sure replacing Bobby will make that much difference ashehasjt played that much recently anyway it’s getting the replacement for Mane right that imperative as he does play regularly. The others Milly, Ox are bench players and let’s be honest haven’t set the world on fire so replacing them with players replicating what they do is t going to be difficult. Thiago I love but would take money for him as he's so injury prone and the same with Keita. So yes 5 at least if not more. (Origi comes to mind)


7.) 20 Jan 2022 10:31:26
I think we’ll look to move on Ox, Keita, Phillips, Davies, possibly Mane and/ or Firmino, with Karius, Milner, Origi and possibly Adrian moving on too. I think if Traore doesn’t move this window we’ll probably make a move for him on a free transfer for squad depth as he’s nowhere near good enough to be a starter, I’d like to hope we’d avoid the walking disaster area that is Ousmane Dembele, we’re looking at Kessie and Sanches (hopefully the scouts will have come back and said “don’t bother), contrary to the fact they’re both not very good and in Sanches case injury prone as well.

Who else we go for is anymore guess, but I’d imagine we’re looking at Raphinha, Bowen, Sarr, any of whom would be very decent as Mane replacements,

{Ed0666's Note - Raphina, Bowen, Sarr all play in Salah’s position no? I’m not sure we buy any of those if Salah stays. I hope Kessie or Sanchez don’t come either. I wouldn’t mind Traore as an understudy to Salah if I’m being honest as I think klopp could improve him.


8.) 20 Jan 2022 11:09:27
truly don't see the need for an overhaul in the summer. unless we are moving on Klopp a couple seasons early, then let's keep moudling the squad over the next couple summer windows.


9.) 20 Jan 2022 11:23:54
I'd say with the players who are out of contract we could cover Salahs new contract, i'd like Kessie on a free to maybe let us use funds for say a Bellingham/ Phillips or Rice, a couple of the better U23's can cover for OX/ Millys release, there's some really good free transfers around if we play it right so could get a couple of shrew frees in and use the little money we get from the owners to make the quality signings that are much needed and if we'd of had already i imagine we would of been level if not in front of City, i also see KLopp signing a new deal and staying for more than another season or 2, he doesn't look ready to leave us.

{Ed0666's Note - Kessie would be far from free mate. He wants a bumper contract, coupled with the signing on fee will make it an expensive deal and also would he be worth the money?


10.) 20 Jan 2022 11:43:08
Goalkeeper and defence sorted. A top central midfielder and an attacker will do.


11.) 20 Jan 2022 12:37:43
Fulham’s Carvallho would be a good summer signing. I know we need players for the now but he looks a talent at a moderate fee.


12.) 20 Jan 2022 13:27:19
Thanks for response ed666. Definitely agree with u as regards points difference between us and city, definite upgrade on quality needed to get better of them. on seperate issue do u see salah being moved more central? (if he stays) lot of forward players we have interest in play mostly from right. Maybe less slogging up and down line for him as he gets older, keep him closer to goal.

{Ed0666's Note - if he signs on the dotted line I think it’s folly to move him inside while he’s got his pace, drive and devil. He’s putting up ridiculous figures at the moment and even if they tail off in the next season or two they would still be incredible stats comparably to other attackers in the prem. I think it’s inevitable he’ll move into the centre when he’s 31-32 and with his nous, talent and savvy I wouldn’t be surprised if he was as successful from that position. What we have on our hands is a world class footballer in his prime, a world superstar and will go down in the annals of footballing history as a real legend. This reply has turned into a bit of a eulogy no? 😂


13.) 20 Jan 2022 19:37:55
Hallelujah brother.


 

 

25 Nov 2020 17:34:41
Hi eds,

I was reading on the Southampton page (I think? ) and came across a post about Harrison Reed from a couple years back, and how he was touted to potentially be England captain in the future (in some circles) . Not too sure how he is doing now, but in the Fulham team makes me think not too great.

Anyway, was curious to know of any other English once-upon-a-time talents who were expected for stardom, but unfortunately never made ir for one reason.

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Like Robin Friday, John Bostock, Freddy Adu....?


1.) 25 Nov 2020 18:30:36
Ah, Josh Bostock. Classic.


2.) 25 Nov 2020 20:45:50
Article on john bostock


3.) 25 Nov 2020 21:14:33
Cheers.


4.) 25 Nov 2020 22:18:17
The Championship Manager legend that was Cherno Samba is one of the biggest stars that never made it I remember hearing about.
From an Irish point of view I remember the hype and hope that surrounded Terry Dixon.


5.) 26 Nov 2020 15:01:54
On the subject of Championship Manager/ Football Manager, a player I always signed and he always scored goals, Carlos Fierro. I think I had him scoring 50+ goals every season haha.


 

 

11 Sep 2020 01:09:25
Hi eds,

A bit of a change up from everything transfer-related - who do you think is the best sporting director in football?

Monchi is of course best-known, but of course there is also Ralf Rangnick and Luis Campos.

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed0666's Note - Zorc, Edwards and Marotta in no particular order.


1.) 11 Sep 2020 06:16:22
Apparently Victor Orta of Leeds is very well-regarded too. I think he actually worked under Monchi at Sevilla. And of course, enticing Bielsa to Leeds is a major coup.

{Ed001's Note - Orta? He was regarded as a flop at Boro. He never enticed Bielsa to Leeds at all either, Bielsa went after the job as he wanted to work in English football. I like his clear desire for the team to do well, but I have yet to see he actually knows what he is doing. Leeds have had a massive turnover of players under him, bringing in huge numbers of players and very few of them work out. Not sure why he would be highly regarded by anyone.}


2.) 11 Sep 2020 07:21:33
Ah didn't know that ed. I don't really follow Leeds, so it's just from articles here and there I've come across that waxed lyrical about him that I got the impression he'd developed a good reputation.

{Ed001's Note - people often get confused when trying to decide who to give credit to for a team doing well. In Leeds' case it is all about Bielsa. He has taken a team that was probably, at best, a mid-table Championship team and moulded them into a Championship-winning team.}


3.) 11 Sep 2020 07:33:29
Thanks for clearing that up, ed. You guys are the reason why this site's the best. Also, out of interest, who do you think are the best DoFs or sporting directors?

{Ed001's Note - I don't think it is that simple to be honest. They need to fit with the club they are at. For instance Monchi is best at working long term with a limited budget to build a team. Give him a big budget and he doesn't know what to do and ends up like a child in a sweet shop. The RB pair, Leipzig's Rangnick and Salzburg's Freund have worked brilliantly with the structure they have in place, but could they build a structure elsewhere? What you need is to fit the right director to the right team and coaching staff. We have that right now with Edwards, but would he be as good elsewhere, without Klopp's input or the expensively assembled stats analysis team?}


4.) 11 Sep 2020 08:02:41
Txiki" Begiristain Mujika - The absolute best in mainland Europe today.
Brands - Another solid candidate who will do wonders given the freedom to do.

{Ed001's Note - how can you pick Txiki? When has he done anything but spend huge sums of money for little return? Nothing he did helped Barcelona, it was the academy that their success was built on, not a sporting director's input. At City he has spent huge sums mostly on dross. Again how is he any good? It just shows the problem with discussing this, most people haven't a clue what a sporting director does or what makes a good one.}


5.) 11 Sep 2020 08:21:58
I don't think it's a problem discussing it Ed's, just because some people aren't as knowledgeable as yourself doesn't make it a problem. Peoples differing opinions create discussion around the subject. I have no idea what a sporting director does or is supposed to do personally! I know it sounds like a job for a jobs sake kinda title! Lol perhaps you could explain exactly what the job involves? That would be really useful. Thanks.

{Ed001's Note - that's the problem, every club has a different remit, as I have been explaining. Some of them will be like old school managers, some of them will also have responsibility for academies, others can be marginalised and be little more than chief scouts. Then there are others where they are more of a head of state for a cohesive identity of teams from a number of different sports that the club has and will have a director of football below them. This is why it is impossible to discuss, people are just picking out ones who are working for successful teams, because they won't have a clue what their remit is or how their work affected the team's success.}


6.) 11 Sep 2020 08:28:34
You have a point Ed01. But Monchi was a disaster at Roma something they are still struggling to come in terms with. he also bought some absolute dross and they are struggling to offload all of them.
Brands did a brilliant job at Leicester but he hasn't got a free hand at Everton yet and these recent deals of signing James for a free, Docoure for very less is the beginning.

{Ed001's Note - which was my point about Monchi. I just said that. When was Brands at Leicester? He has never worked for them. He came from Dutch football, where he worked with a limited budget and did ok. As for signing James, what is that to do with Brands? Nothing. Again you are proving my point, you are making comments about things you know nothing about. You don't know who Brands even is, yet you claim he will do wonders. How can you make such ludicrous claims without even knowing who you are on about?}


7.) 11 Sep 2020 08:46:50
On another note Ed01, what do you think of Bayern's Sporting Director Hasan Salihamidzic? I know Bayern already has a good system in place for years now so could Bayern's success under him, just be a case of him stepping in and keeping things moving or rather that him having a lot input on the club's transfer structure?

{Ed001's Note - yeah he seems to be just not rocking the boat so far. The real problem is with judging these directors is that you really only know how good they are doing ten years down the line to be honest.}


8.) 11 Sep 2020 08:51:28
Out of everyone, you picked the DoFs of our rivals Man City and Everton as the best in the business. Must've been a coincidence, right, Harry?


9.) 11 Sep 2020 09:13:48
Sorry my bad, it was Steve Walsh. though Brands is doing a good job at everton.

{Ed001's Note - he has not been able to do his job yet, so there is no way you can say he is doing a good job. He has not been the one making the signings. Why don't you spend some time actually doing some research before opening your mouth for once? Walsh was at Everton, then left them with a load of dross. Brands was brought in but has been barely able to do anything because Moshiri had advisors telling him different things and he overruled Brands a lot. Now Ancelotti is picking the signings, so what is Brands doing so well? Other than not being at Liverpool, as you clearly only love anyone not connected with Liverpool. Everton have been poor since Brands arrived, so what on earth can suggest he is doing well? You really do live in a complete fantasy world.}


10.) 11 Sep 2020 10:09:16
hahaha. I have read a fair bit of history about Everton's transfer dealings and advisors to Moshri from Ed02 on their page. This has nothing to do with Liverpool. Ed02 rates both Brands and Txiki and that is enough for me. He also called Txiki the absolute best in Europe. We don't have a DOF as in. Not sure what your point is. If it was about the top 2 managers in the league I would have picked Klopp as one of the two.
Thanks.

{Ed001's Note - so in other words all you have done is taken the word of Ed002 and not actually bothered to find out for yourself and make your own mind up. Txiki is far from the best, he gives Pep far too much leeway and has wasted hundreds of millions at City and they still can't win in Europe. How is that the best? Why don't you show us how much you know and explain why you think they are good rather than just telling us someone else does and that will do?

Not sure why you are bringing Klopp into it, not even Man Utd fans would leave him out of the top 2 managers in the league, so it hardly shows anything does it? You can't even bring yourself to say he is the best, which says a lot.}


11.) 11 Sep 2020 12:44:18
Harry, you say we don't have a DOF. What role does Michael Edwards (very well respected in Europe, btw) fill/ occupy at LFC, then?

Let it go, bro. It's embarrassing to watch you get your clock cleaned by the Ed01 on an issue you are clearly out of your depth on, I'm afraid. Quite gruesome, really.


12.) 11 Sep 2020 13:07:14
If you think Johan Cryuff and Michel Edwards had a similar role then you are dead right, I need to change the sport.


13.) 11 Sep 2020 13:09:26
Brands want to install a philosophy at Everton, the way they play from the academy to the first team. Edwards is a telephone operator who speaks to clients to finalize a signing.


14.) 11 Sep 2020 13:57:40
Harry. Tyrion Lannister is actually one of my favourite characters from game of thrones but I am starting to hate him now because of your association with him. You are either a troll or completely delusional. I read your comments on this site and want to gorge my eyes out. The things you say are ridiculous, one example being your comments on Origi above. You think that brewster is currently better than him. Whilst brewster has more potential he has only played half a season in the championship compared to origis 4 or 5 seasons in the prem where he has scored goals and also done well in Europe. You compare him to N'gog which is mental. Honestly give it a rest.


15.) 11 Sep 2020 22:29:57
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.

Interesting debate but unfortunately the points Ed01 highlighted presents the issues discussing such subjects.
All sporting/ football directors have different remits and roles.

However, texi has far from been the resounding success. Signings are hit and miss, especially the vast sums of money on defenders and until he brings them the Champions league he can't be a success. Brands is another matter - is the credit being given for the ancellotti former players? Or what about all those number 10s or lack of Rw? Perspective is needed.

For me the best directors are almost unseen, allowing the manager to do their job as best as possible. And they are ones who traditionally received credit for success, along with the players of course.


16.) 12 Sep 2020 02:56:56
I don't have enough knowledge regarding those types of characters dealings within clubs to build a strong argument but if I was just looking at clubs who have had joy from working with a specific plan and recruiting well while also selling at the right moments I would not include Barcelona and cities success being built on teams that were largely put together by guardiolas BFF. Everton have wasted so much on bad investment also. The likes of Porto and benfica I see as regularly having joy in that sense. Juventus and bayern have the power to attract top players on free transfers which makes them look good. They still make big errors with the likes of renato sanches or gonzalo higuain being examples of bad judgement.
In England I think Liverpool are obvious examples of currently seeing the most rewards and also I think Southampton have done well considering they spend less than other clubs and since joining the league have rarely had seasons fighting near relegation despite limited spending while also making large profits on players who come and go. Bournemouth are proof that eventually a club pays for too many mistakes in squad building process. West ham and Everton have spent the type of money that should demand a club to fight higher than they do. Sevilla Roma napoli for example have enjoyed better despite building with no added advantage that the likes of Everton have tried with. Ac Milan, Valencia, man Utd and arsenal I think are currently the bigger clubs who have been let down over recent years in this department.

Again I know nothing really in terms of personnel or how each club is structured etc so I'm happy to accept if I'm way off the mark regarding those individuals being important in their clubs fate or not.


 

 

10 Aug 2020 10:55:54
Hi ed,

Yesterday you mentioned that Azpilicueta is one of your favorite players. I've seen you mention players in other positions being some of your favorites, but my question is who is your favorite goalkeeper (past and/ or present)?

AJF

{Ed001's Note - favourite is Brucie. Loved him. Such a nice guy and was brilliant with me and the family as a kid in difficult circumstances (it was just after Heysel). Who could fail to love a player who was such a brilliant character? Though we are lucky to have him at all as Paisley walked out in disgust after seeing his warm up when he went to scout him! Thankfully the scouts persuaded him to take a chance on Brucie anyway.}


1.) 10 Aug 2020 12:51:36
What about a favourite 11 Ed? I’d love to read that.

{Ed001's Note - that would change every time I did it!}


2.) 10 Aug 2020 13:03:37
Ed01 you know what they say, that to be good/ great leader, you have to surround yourself with people who are not afraid to tell you that you are wrong.

{Ed001's Note - yep, great leaders need to be strong enough to admit they were wrong.}


3.) 10 Aug 2020 14:33:48
Hi ed. Not trying to open up a can of worms here, so appreciate if you can't answer. When I used to go to the matches Brucie was still in goal and was always great value every time I went to see the red men.

Then out of the blue all the stuff came out in the press about the match fixing. There seemed to be a video shown on the news as well. It dragged on for what seemed ages. I didn't know what to beleive at the time I was only 18 or so. Where did it all come from, was it a newspaper sting as they call it? Was there any truth to it?

{Ed001's Note - it was a newspaper sting by the S*n.}


4.) 10 Aug 2020 14:48:45
Cheers ed!

Interesting stuff. although I should have known.


5.) 10 Aug 2020 15:04:00
Ed001 - I always had fond memories of Grobellar In goals. My wife bought me the Anfield experience back in November. The ex pros were Ian St John and Bruce. The stories they told were fantastic. Bruce was so funny and held the club and Klopp with such high regard. He made that day so much better than it already was.

{Ed001's Note - Bruce is a genuinely funny guy isn't he? St John is great as well, I fondly remember Saint & Greavsie being about all that there was in the way of football when I was a kid.}


6.) 10 Aug 2020 15:24:58
The Saint&Gresvey Show Ed001.


 

 

19 Jul 2020 15:53:43
Hi eds,

I am aware that Klopp is looking for a starting centre back - do you agree with this, or do you think we should rather be looking for a Lovren replacement? If so, then who (in your opinion) would be a decent option?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed001's Note - surely a Lovren replacement should be a potential starting centre back to push Gomez and Matip on to keep improving?}


1.) 19 Jul 2020 18:53:24
I can't imagine a top club looking to sign a '4th choice' centre back! What would be the point? Surely by its nature, that role could be filled by anyone. A youngster, a defensive midfielder. If Lovren does leave and we look to sign a centre back then it should be someone who will be almost a definite starter. Otherwise just don't bother.


2.) 19 Jul 2020 19:25:01
I would sell Lovren and use Philips as 4th choice. If we are looking for a CB starter then I would also sell Matip. If we didn't have the money for a first choice CB, then I would still sell Lovren and use Philips anyway. Nat Philips wouldn't be over exposed as 4th choice.


3.) 19 Jul 2020 21:01:03
I’m not sure Irish. With Matip and Gomez Injury records our 4th choice centre half could get more game time than some of our midfielders.


4.) 19 Jul 2020 21:57:45
Fair response ed.

Regardless, who would be a good option?

Cheers.

{Ed001's Note - that depends on if we are looking for left or right side? Konate to play alongside VVD but to push him it would need to be some one like maybe Klostermann?}


5.) 20 Jul 2020 00:35:30
Cheers ed.


6.) 20 Jul 2020 09:52:56
Klostermann can actually play all across the back line and very comfortably as well.


 

 

 

AJF's rumour replies

 

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07 Apr 2021 17:43:37
Cheers for your detailed response Ed.

AJF

 

 

Click To View This Thread

07 Apr 2021 17:31:01
Cheers for the response Ed.

And what changes would you make to defence and attack?

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool will need to add a GK and it makes sense to make a decision over Kamil Grabara first. I would let Tsimikas leave and keep Larouci but that won't happen. Kabak has done enough to replace Matip. As the starter to edge out Gomez Konate has been of interest and would be a great buy but Liverpool are on very, very thin ice. I woulddn't, but fear the club could move for Kalidou Koulibaly. Ricky-Jade Jones or Matthew Hoppe would be excellent replacements for Origi.}


 

 

Click To View This Thread

09 Jan 2020 21:00:27
With a top - class player such as Carlos potentially coming in, and with Matip, Van Dijk and Gomez already at the club, do you expect all these previously - mentioned players to remain 'happy' with regards to shared playing time? Especially since given the fact that Van Dijk already maintains the one CB position, that Carlos, Gomez and Matip would be essentially vying for one position?

AJF

 

 

Click To View This Thread

01 Jan 2020 11:41:24
Eds, is the side Hertha?

AJF

{Ed002's Note - Yes. And there is interest from Sevilla as well.}


 

 

Click To View This Thread

11 May 2019 02:32:23
Thanks for the insight Ed.

AJF

 

 

 

AJF's banter replies

 

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14 Jan 2022 15:12:47
Ed066,

Interesting read would love to hear who you'd have as squad padders, once you get a moment. I can only assume they'll be midfielders?

Cheers.

AJF

 

 

Click To View This Thread

14 Jan 2022 13:38:28
Ed066,

Interesting outs. And - assuming we get said money based on values you've given to the aforementioned players - what changes would you make (youth team promotions and transfers)?

Cheers.

AJF

 

 

Click To View This Thread

14 Jan 2022 13:38:28
Ed066,

Interesting outs. And - assuming we get said money based on values you've given to the aforementioned players - what changes would you make (youth team promotions and transfers)?

Cheers.

AJF

{Ed0666's Note - Incomings: Diaz, Dennis, David, Zakaria, Noussair MazraouI. There will need to be cheap squad padders who can step up who I can’t think of at the moment as I’m about to step on the squash court. I have no knowledge about the kids so have no idea who to promote to the first team but I do like the look of Ian Rush’ great nephew.


 

 

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25 Nov 2020 21:14:33
Cheers.

AJF

 

 

Click To View This Thread

25 Nov 2020 18:30:36
Ah, Josh Bostock. Classic.

AJF

 

 





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