Liverpool Banter Archive January 12 2014

 

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12 Jan 2014 22:41:13
Great win today Gents, you boys really scare me to be honest.

One thing though, Penalty? My ar5e lol.

Well done, top performance.

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Heres hoping Villa proper scare you tomorrow :)

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Thanks! nice to see a positive comment!
I too think it was a great result as we were not playing at our best and yet scored 5! ok we conceded 3 but that's not important if u score more which we did! i'm glad we are finally bringing fear to other clubs once again!
pleasure to read your posts DG I enjoy your friendly yet unbiased views

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DG, no not a pen for me, but will gladly take it after having a decision or two go against us lately. Thanks for popping by and, as always, being so polite - best of luck tomorrow, but I am sure you expect us to hope you don't pick up anything from villa park.

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Lol Chief,

As long as we win I don't mind lol

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Penalty all day! Haha nah was soft but we did deserve a bit of luck! In all seriousness did you see man c get another ridiculous decision? Arsenal, us and now Newcastle disgraceful decisions! I'm thinking something's going on behind the scenes. It's not like it's bloody hard decisions!

Id rather anyone else but man c win it. They have robbed so many teams! I would say good luck dg but I wanna catch up!

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Let's hope Benteke finds his form tomorrow!

DG, I know you have a soft spot for Liverpool and it won't be too shameful if you decide to come and join us on a permanent basis ;)

You know you want to :-P

Red Rum

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"Penalty all day! Haha nah was soft but we did deserve a bit of luck" and on your refereeing decisions about man city what about skrtel who pulls and tugs shirts every week you would've lost to Cardiff and stoke if those counted. Don't think refereeing decisions go against you and not to mention them sterling dive and what suarez does on a weekly basis.

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Lol thanks gents,

Red Rum, thanks for the invite mate but i'm not ready to join the dark side just yet, lol.

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Wow the bitters are on one today! Can't handle the fact were ahead again. I'm pretty sure a lot of shirt pulling goes on if it was a penalty every time then we would have about 10 penalties a game! And suarez diving every game? What are you on?! When you played us Barkley dived like a massive fairy and got a card. Do you say anything about that?

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12 Jan 2014 22:37:25
I read today that Suarez is the first Liverpool striker to score 20 goals in consecutive seasons since Fowler in '94-'95 and '95-'96. I was amazed by that statistic. Am hoping Sturridge stays fit and gets his 20+ this season too - fantastic finish from him today.

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12 Jan 2014 22:37:16
some posters on here suggest we will be fighting for minor honours but I got to tell everyone this we are the best team in the league bar none. we won a game today we would have never won in past years, we have a strike force second to none and I be;eive we will come good at the back now stevie g is there. don't look for anything bar champions they are playing like it. we didn't play our best today but we ground out a good result something we haven't done for years. chins up and aim high because we are going to be looking down on everyone come what may

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Would love to think so, but we don't defend like the best in the league.in fact not one of the best ten in the league.

Luckily we have an awesome level of firepower only matched by Citeh. We do need to do better at cancelling the opposition threat out if we are to challenge successfully for top 4

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Im loving the positive attitude!
however I do think man city are the best very very closely followed by arsenal with us nipping at both there heels! which sounds as good as it reads BR has done a top job in getting us there

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13 Jan 2014 03:58:38
Top job or top, top job?

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What's really scary about this I feel is Chelsea are clearly nowhere near their best, but are 4 points ahead of us :-/

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12 Jan 2014 22:22:45
Fantastic speech by J Henry, giving an insight into the business strengths of our owners, careful planning and hard work. Might just dispel a few worries and show a little more confidence.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdwODgFBkhQ#t=259

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12 Jan 2014 22:24:57
Yes yes, a win is a win. But when is BR going yo address the defending situation. Week after week any ball into the box is hacked and slashed at. No one in the defensive unit walked into the dressing room and shook hands and said well done.
the team can score but sure can't defend. For me this is the most urgent part of the team that needs addressing. Sort this out and who knows.
Also on another note, sad to say it but the legend as lost his leg's and should not be picked for every game.

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They didn't need to say well done in the dressing room, they ALL done it on the pitch. Did you switch over as soon as the whistle went?

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12 Jan 2014 22:23:35
Ive got a bit of advice for evryone:

When we score 5 away from home against in a game that can be really difficult (up there with southampton and newcastle away) just be happy. It's 3 points and it means we r still 5 points ahead of united.

Relax - you don't always need to win pretty.

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Of course every Liverpool fan is happy with the result but not the performance.
Yes Stoke is a hard game but today they scored because of our defensive mistakes. As we scored from theirs, before the SAS showed their class and scored their regular goals.
Crouch's goal came from the defensive line being too deep. Thanks to Skrtel if you watch the highlights. Because of that his presence was hard to defend. However he did well to break away from Toure to give him space and it was well taken. Very nice of him not to celebrate.
Charlie Adam showed determination to win back the ball which caused us to panic, a bad ball by Henderson and a slip by Gerrard gave Charlie Adam a chance. Skrtel backed off like he always does and it was a good finish.
Jonathan Walters goal was a mistake by Simon Mignolet, he saved harder shots that match and if Walters hit it first time he'd have had a better chance than he did when he scored.
The problem is that Liverpool fans are complaining about Simon Mignolet making mistakes at Chelsea, Man City and Stoke. Two games against teams we shouldn't be winning against, their home forms remain amazing, and conceding a goal when we were winning by two.
The problem is Martin Skrtel, there was a reason Jamie Carragher started games after January and we played better. Because Carragher can hold and defend a line and Martin Skrtel cannot.
Kolo Toure was Carragher's replacement, Mamadou Sakho is Agger's competition and now we need to find Skrtel's replacement and Toure's competition.
If Brendan Rodgers is unwilling to give the opportunity to Sebastian Coates or Martin Kelly then I suggest they should go too.

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Kelly isn't quite ready to be thrown into a 90 minute match yet I don't think, looked very tired vs Oldham, give it time

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12 Jan 2014 22:14:22
From what I saw today tacticaly it seems to me that BR is trying to accomodate an attacking midfielder on his plans
Moving gerard to a defensive midfield position and lucas to an attacking one seems like a move where rodgers plans to accomodate gerard in this new position with a "new" attacking mid coming soon and perhaps dropping lucas
I might be wrong ofcourse but from gerards comments it seems he will play in that position more and more. and I don't see lucas as a special attacking threat or creativity that BR looks for in his players in this position. I guess we will see soon but I have a gut feeling the first player coming in will be an attacking midfielder. wijnaldum perhaps!

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You are wrong. Its to accomodate Henderson, not a new signing. Wijnaldum would an option out wide if Salah doesn't come off. Not that i'm convinced we are after Wijnaldum.

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I don't see the need to "accomodate" Henderson. he has been a main stay in the team this season. and what's that got to do with moving gerrard to a defensive mid position and moving Lucas to an attacking one! Obviously Henderson is more suited to an attacking mid position than Lucas!

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12 Jan 2014 22:08:49
Right you Liverpool supporters, time to tell it like it is:

(1) We are the greatest football team in the world, - only with the worst defense.

(2) Amazing thing is that with the same defenders, a couple of year ago, with Kenny and Steve clark, we were the best defense in the world who could not score. We kept hitting the post.

(3) Stirling, is THE most exciting prospect in football. If we keep playing him in two more seasons he will be John Barnes playing for Liverpool 5 seasons earlier.

(4) The only thing I will accept this transfer window is that we sell ALL of our players and every Liverpool supporter in the world can retire with a million pound in the bank. Feck Salar, we don't need anyone.

(5) Penalty? Never was. Great take by Gerrard. Did anyone ever see Jan Molbys after Dinner speach about taking penalties?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXvHApppG78

Where he talks about Gerrard's penaltys? This Penalty was a classic Molby penalty taken by Gerrard.

(6) This was a great win against Stoke who are tough to score against at home and who beat Chelsea if you remember. Great win.

(7) I love Liverpool football club.

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Very good post.

Number 3 is probably a little over the top, though. A very good little player but let's not get carried away.

You need to watch the likes of Januzaj or Ross Barkley. United would be midtable right now without Januzaj.

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12 Jan 2014 22:08:27
For Christmas 2012-13 I was bought the latest Liverpool shirt at the time. I wore the shirt almost every time I watched us play and as you may remember our results picked up dramatically from january last year. To this date we have never lost whilst I wear this shirt and watch a match of ours. Given its lucky charm, I didn't want the run to end and became reluctant to wear it in case we lost. Today, I felt it was time for it to come back out - and it didn't let me down.

On the game: I see a lot of negativity towards the performance, but I feel we should focus on the positives. We are the only team to have put 5 goals past stoke at the britannia in premier league history. As long as we keep out scoring our opponents, who cares how many we concede? Onwards and upwards, let's hope for a big three points next week!

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12 Jan 2014 22:07:16
Wow, gerrard has a couple bad games and everyone's calling for his head, top loyalty lads! he's just back from injury, and you know what he's like, he's trying to lift the team, and feels his his duty to do so! Maybe at times he overplays, but it's probably just a form thing, once he gets back into form, you won't be saying he's had it! Admittedly he's not the player he was, but ims not claiming he is, just his time isn't yet up!

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12 Jan 2014 23:05:04
Its not been a couple of bad games is been a slow decline over the past two seasons mate i'm not going let past gerrard performances cloud my judgement on the previous gerrard.

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His form was poor before his injury - Rodgers is accommodating him within the team due to his reputation, the brutal truth is that we have looked better with Gerrard out of the team. How this translates over to manager selection who knows but as has been mooted by a number of posters as well as ed001 a role from the bench might be more practical - certainly playing a full 90 minutes does not bring out Gerrard's best anymore: this is no comment on ability, this is just what happens to ageing players.

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The thing with Gerrard(Ed001 has also said this I believe) is that he is defensively lazy. He doesn't track back often enough and his age isn't helping the situation.

As Ed001 said, I think he'd be best playing the odd full 90 minutes and being used more as a sub to charge around for 25 minutes like he used to for 90.

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Hsf, can't quite believe I'm reading your post. Gerrard was immense yesterday, tracking back, tackling and generally sweeping up. Did you actually watch the game because I don't recognise your comments in relation to his performance? The 'let's moan about Gerrard' bandwagon has no wheels and definately no driver.

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It's blind loyalty ND and nothing more. Gerrard's best days are behind him and whilst he still has a prominent role to play within the squad the first team should not be built around him, he fades out of games badly and struggles to dominate midfield like days of yonder. To say otherwise ignores basic facts - I love Gerrard and it is uncomfortable to see a legend and probably the best player the club has ever had decline but it happens to everyone, pretending like it isn't happening will only be detrimental to the club. His value to the squad is huge but this is the first season were I don't think he has really deserved an automatic starting berth.

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12 Jan 2014 22:04:32
Hi all,

Finally registered, used to post until it got all official, but felt the need to sign up as I am sick of reading all the misery and drivel on here. Things will never be perfect, and there will always be some performance flaws for the likes of Harry and all the other sad sacks to dwell on, but on the whole what a turn around in our performances and progression since Rodgers began to shape the club and the team the way that he wants it.

Five goals away at Stoke, one of the hardest places to go, under the floodlights, with the fans tanked up, what a result. Not even Barcelona would be able to fully control the game and comfortably play out time in that atmosphere, Stoke were relentless and never gave up. Check out Stoke's home record before you come on here bitching, that was a great three points, i'd have bit your hand off for a scrappy one nil win before kick off, we got a scrappy five - three win, happy days. Some people will never be happy, but me and most of my mates, all locals, all match goers, appreciate what a fantastic job Brendan is doing.

We've finally won at Stoke, hammered them, yet people still come on and bitch over this that and the other, you are an embaressment to yourselves and all Reds fans.

The Reds are back, enjoy it FFS.

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Nice one lad, **** the haters.

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12 Jan 2014 21:45:41
jesus some people the way some people post on this site you would think we d lost today as opposed to getting a victory at a place we d never won before, didn't rogers say it would take a few transfer windows before he could get things as he wished, give the team a break and get behind them instead of slagging them off even when they win, listen to what stevie said after the match, its a position he will have to mould into, he's played the same role for England and had no issues there, its a lot better league position wise from last year or have a lot of people forgot that

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12 Jan 2014 21:42:27
any chance of wes houlihan?

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12 Jan 2014 22:15:35
I like the guy, but Coutinho's better. And so probably is Suso.

No point.

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I think he's a decent player but at 31 and the players we have in his position I don't think it would be a good investment

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12 Jan 2014 21:26:22
The commentator from 5 live mentioned something about motd2 not being able to show any more than 10 minutes of highlights for each game. Anybody know if this is the case and If so why?
Thanks.

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I heard that too but am unaware as to why - suspect TV deals struck with Sky/BT Sport impact on the length of highlights able to be shown: probably explains why roughly ten minutes of highlights were followed by 15 minutes of Lawrenson's awful analysis.

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Because its the BBC. that's all they pay for.

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12 Jan 2014 21:24:45
IMO well done to everybody except Johnson. Sorry for being negative after a hard win. But just so unhappy with johnson's attitude.

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A testament to our attacking play that we we remain in the top four despite Johnson as our FB.

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12 Jan 2014 21:07:52
Wow, went to the pub to watch the game and probably had to many pints for a school night but I'm pretty sure we still won today, didn't we? You would think not reading some of the posts on here. At the end of the day, 3 points is 3 points no matter how poor we defended, played, gave the ball away, Tom, dick and Harry had a shocker blah blah blah. Look at how utd won so many games playing rank football but still went on to win the league. Sometimes the result is better than the performance. Win our next 3 and we're right in there for the league. Cheer up for fek sake and believe in our team.

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12 Jan 2014 21:05:00
Still 19 days to in the window and we are now in the top four. Clubs looking really healthy at the minute and we are playing some good attacking football.

Defence needs some work but hopefully that will come with time or a new addition.

Out of all the players rumoured/linked with us in the last month, I can only see the below as geniune possibilities for us to either sign or be interested in signing for us in this window.

Bertrand.
Salah.
Yarmalenko.
Anastasio.
Konoplyanka.
Jorginho.

Personally I'd prefer Banega of Valencia if available for reported 8 million he'd be a bargain, second choice would be loan to buy or permanent deal for Fabio Controea of Madrid. Available for a reported 12 million would be a steal. Final choice would be Yarmalenko (apparently available for 15-25, but may be more). If fee was above Konoplyanka would be as good for a simar fee if possible.

Just an opinion obviously.

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12 Jan 2014 20:40:13
So it wasn't the perfect performance, but it was a good win and 3 points.

Whilst I admit that a Skrtel, Cissokho and Johnson were poor, I think the major problem with our defending is that we defend way too deep. That was all the more baffling as Stoke have no real pace in attack. Defending that deep creates a lot if space in midfield, hence why the game was so open. Great for the neutral, but not when you're trying to control possession and see a game out.

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12 Jan 2014 20:31:03
When is flanno back

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Enrique would be the one i'd like to see back although flanno is definitley better than cissiko . anyway 3pts again is all I happy with, great to see sturridge back too

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12 Jan 2014 20:25:33
Well Eds and reds, bottom line today is 3 points. SAS great to see back, Sterling has really upped his game and great to see as of late for such a young lad. i'm not one for slating but as many has said Johnsen for me is very sloppy, undecisive on the ball and its very frustrating to watch. I still think that even because we are lacking in depth in fullbacks switch him to leftback or when Flanno is back there.
My question for the Eds and reds is who and how do you feel we will line up going forward as Sturridge and Stevie are back, Sterling on his form shouldn't be dropped, Hendo and Lucus are a given, Coutinho to the bench even though I think he has to play, gives us that guile and hope bit more composure in front of goal will help. Maybe back to 3 at the back?
keep pushing on and roll on Anfield next week.

YNWA

Mikey LFC
.

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Have just said a similar thing to ed01 on a previous post; think on current form our starting line up is extremely hard to balance and pick.
Think given their form/performance this season sturridge, sterling and suarez have to play
Hendo and lucas have been our best midfielders and hendo has improved hugely
At the back I would liekt o see toure and sakho or agger and sakho, no reason why two left footers shouldn't work many teams play with two right footers
and the rest of the positions are up for grabs
in midfield allen would give best balance and help hendo and lucas, however he isn't as good as coutinho or gerrard so can he keep them out of the side?
and full backs we just need kelly, flanno and enrique as currently we are poor

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Drop Mignolet for a few games (he dropped Reina last season for playing poor so he should do the same again). Drop Coutinho to give him some rest and put him on extra shooting practice - Front 3 of Sturridge, Suarez & Sterling with the midfield 3 of Lucas, Gerrard & Henderson with Henderson furthest forward of the 3.

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Think a midfield three of gerrard henderson and lucas lacks creativity and firepower, henderson won't get forward with gerrard in the team, lucas works too hard covering everyone and gerrard doesn't have the legs to link attack and midfield think that is the problem, we need a coutinho type player linking the two, but he ins off form and extremely lightwight for midfield

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Henderson is always getting forward and I think both Gerrard and Henderson create chances, remember as well with a front 3 of Suarez, Sturridge and Sterling it would b more about getting the ball up there. Henderson has been linking up midfield and attack too, imo

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12 Jan 2014 20:19:47
It was Andrew Parkinson he works for the club in hr

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12 Jan 2014 20:15:37
Rodgers is clearly treating Gerrard like royalty in the team. It seems no matter how well and fluid and mobile we may play without Gerrard it seems like BR is reluctant to leave Gerrard out if available to play. We are clearly not the same fluid flowing possession hogging attacking team with Gerrard playing. Anyone can see that.
The reason Gerrard was put into the holding roll was on the one hand BR can see Gerrard doesn't have the legs to play the flowing game in BR wants to play so is putting him in a position that's easier on Gerrards stamina. But Gerrard is clearly not a defensive midfielder and Lucas will always be better than Gerrard in that position. So just to accommodate Royalty. BR is making a decision that undermines the strength of our team.
Gerrard should be benched and come on in the last 20 minutes of a game to settle things down with experience and see out the 90 minutes and wins.
Lucas is inefective in a more advanced roll.
Play our best team. Stop trying to accomodate Gerrard. Yes the one or two hollywood passes are pretty to watch. But what about the rest of them when they go astray. Especially when our fullbacks have pushed up the wings and possession is given away. Its nerve wrecking. Lucas plays simple short passes from the holding position. that's how you control possession. Gerrard punts it away pointlessly. what's the point of punting a 60 meter pass to sterling on the wing when there's no chance for anyone getting into the middle for the cross as they still catching up with play.
Glad we won today. but we were very lucky. very very lucky.
BR must stop treating Gerrard as royalty who's guaranteed a game.(he can still win a title from the substitutes bench)

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Its less stressful when he gives the ball away from a more advanced position. At least we know Lucas is behind him. But if Gerrard is in the holding roll. He can't be thinking he can play the same game. Lucas is best in that position, and if BR feels that Gerrard can only play in that position from now on then he would clearly have to be backup for lucus and therefore sit on the bench.

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{Ed001's Note - yes, but sometimes that long ball can work to our advantage from a deeper position. It means the opposition can't press as high, or they risk being caught out badly by one pass. Short passing allows them to just push onto you safely.}

Beats me how a few wins against fairly ordinary opposition makes fans think we don't need gerrard. ok watch the city and chelsea games and if you don't know why gerrard was in the side today your missing the game. yaya was the difference in the city game and to be fair to henderson he was never going to stop that but if gerrard was there it certainly wouldn't have been as evident. I think sometimes people need to take their heads out of their ass and actually watch what is going on in a game.complete garbage what you just posted and gerrard only coming back from injury I just don't understand how u can say rodgers treats him like royalty when really its a case of rodgers knowing he is the best player at his disposal

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What do you expect from a player who is just back from injury? Gerrard might not be on top form but he gave everything tonight. That is full back's fault to loss possession so easily today and you are blaming a man who is trying hard to cover their ground.

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Not the best player at his disposal in the holding midfield position. Lucas is the best in that position.
Gerrard is not good at pressing the ball. His positioning as a defensive midfielder is very weak. He doesn't know when to press and when to cover. He's found ball watching on numerous occasions as he's used to always having someone backing him up in midfield. Defensive midfielder is a very responsible position and what you fail to realise is that everything good about gerrard as a player stems from a bit of irresponsibility. He could take risks as he has backup. But if he is the backup. that's a responsibility sadly he doesn't have the ability to carry.

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Gerrard has still being playing well. I don't know why you keep comparing him to Lucas for DM and saying Lucas is better - there isn't one position between them it's Lucas DM and Gerrard DM as well but slightly further forward. My point being they are both playing together all the time whereas you are making it sound like Gerrard is DM and Lucas is on the bench but he is a better DM.2 positions not 1 and I'm damn glad to still have him in there

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12 Jan 2014 22:15:12
Totally agree about Gerrard. He slows us down and gives the ball away too much. Let Hendo lead our midfield now. young, fit, determined and future Captain.
Bring Gerrard on as a sub if needed. don't ruin the fluency that's been great to watch lately .
Look to the future.

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I actually reckon with game time that isn't the case as gerrards long pass completion rate will overturn your judgement and also how many needless free kicks does lucas give away in detramental positions. I saw many tackles from gerrard today but very few fowls

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Lucas's fouls are strategic and very rarely needless. To say that shows a lack of understanding of what Lucas does, the sheer volume of attacks he nips in the bud is mind boggling and it is something our other midfielders are unable to do.

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12 Jan 2014 20:08:25
Anyone else enjoy the sheer brass of that final Sturridge goal as much as I did? The confidence bodes well.

;0)

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12 Jan 2014 20:07:24
I don't Know, why people slate me, when actually we play poor, But win with some outstanding individual goals.

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The problem is Harry, you like a lot of other posters come on here after a win and still tear players to shreds, which in my opinion is stupid. You can't carry passengers in this league. Yet it feels that we are carrying 3 maybe 4 a game. Gerrard, Skertle, Johnson, Cissoko etc etc. Everyone has to do their bit. I agree some maybe more than others but you win as a team. let's try and be a bit more optimistic after a win. You can all slag the players off when we get beat.

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Playing poor and scoring 5, yeah we let 3 in but your not giving stoke any credit they played really well closed us down and didn't give us a minute .

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Very well said Irish Rover

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We won!
we scored 5 away from home, again!
did ya not see the rain hammering down!
It was a mad game, with errors and mistakes everywhere including the ref and we won. they`ll all learn from it.
it was a really great away win against the toughest hardest team in league.
brazil have always had suspect defences so do spain. man city at mo are being criticised too. as long as you score more then other team why moan so much.
support all the players always, they might be having a bad day like we all do sometimes.
you get slated so much cause you literally ask for it on every post you send in. brace yaself though harry you could be bombarded with replies and opinions with said question. haha
come on Liverpool.
dbadger.

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12 Jan 2014 19:49:20
Edd001, whats.opinion on gerrard and defense? Ino he's just back from injury but imo he offers little to us as a team, ( he.can't get around as much, slows our play and hendo.and lucas go into their shells again)i think he would be a great impact sub, does BR have t he bottle, i'm not sure. The main concern atm is the defense, skittles should.not be starting when Agger and sakos back in and I think kelly should be given a chance now for a run in the team as either full back position, johnson and sissoko are very poor.

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{Ed001's Note - so long as we keep possession, then his lack of mobility is not an issue. So long as he remembers that positioning is all important in this role, then he can be good. He is tall, strong, excellent in the air, great range of passing and the vision to see the pass, plus he has pace when required. The problem is that he has always been suspect defensively, not just at putting in the effort required to chase back (which, to his credit, you really can't fault him for at all today), but in his positioning and concentration. Gerrard's first thought is attacking, which means he tends to position himself to pick up a loose ball and break, rather than looking to block off passes and runs made by the opposition. If Rodgers and the staff can coach that mentality change, then he will be great there.}

Problem with gerrard is that his first instinct is to look 60 meters ahead when there are plenty short passes available for us. He rather punt than play the simple pass. But in our current system its the simple short pass that gives us fluidity and mobility. All the interchanging and movement gets undermined with long balls.

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"Problem with gerrard is that his first instinct is to look 60 meters ahead"

I have absolutely no problems with that.

There are maybe two or three players in world football who could hit a fifty yard pass to feet with one look. Gerrard is one of them. It turns defence into attack in the blink of an eye.

To not use this ability would be incredibly stupid.

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Agree with Tiger having an accurate passer over that distance drastically changes the game in aninstant and pegs defenses deeper.
Posession football with short passing is nice, but have we all forgotten the Arsenal over the last 9 years or so that have insisted on this short passing possession and not won a trophy?

If the counter is there, you need to take it, Lucas and allen Won't see that for me it's not in their game, Gerrard does see it, hendo is learning it as well.

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12 Jan 2014 19:42:24
Evening eds.

What we have learned today:

1. Our defence is really poor.
2. Cissokho isn't good enough.
3. We need to work on protecting a lead - keep the ball ffs.
4. SaS don't seem to have lost it.
5. Mignolet needs to command his area a lot better.

That aside, I only really care about the 3 points today. The conditions weren't great and our record there is poor.

It was a massive win, not only so that we keep up with the pack but for our confidence as well.

Onwards and upwards

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{Ed001's Note - does anyone else wonder if Cissokho might just be trying too hard to impress? I know he has yet to play well, but this is a big chance for him to play for the club he supports, maybe he just needs to relax a little and stop trying to force things? Hard to say, without knowing the lad, but he does seem to be taking everything far too much to heart. When he makes a mistake, he spends the next 5 minutes castigating himself for it. That can't help his concentration.}

12 Jan 2014 19:56:45
He's been alright defensively the last couple of games, but he's limited going forward. Seems to have nothing but a good engine to get up and down the line in that respect.

I suppose we could do worse than have him in the team, but with everyone fit I'd play Enrique.

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He needs game time. Whilst he is undoubtedly not world class, I think he can do a job for us. I think he will get better as the year goes on and may not need to be replaced in the summer. Let's hope so as we need players to want to play for us.

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I don't think cissokho played badly today it was johnson that was poor. Gave the ball away far to often, didn't get back in to position quick enough when he did and loses concentration at crucial moments. I feel sorry for cissokho at times, needs to be a little less harsh on himself when he makes a mistake and needs a little more support from us fans!

Ian the red

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I agree ed001 I put myself in his shoes and I'd be trying to hard to impress also, because it's the club you love, the same as when Morgan played for us, I feel for him but I'm not sure he's good enough.

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I really hope Cissokho starts performing well. I remember when he did great for Lyon against us and I also remember the years since then when almost everyone using this site would say "we could really do with a world class left back, like that Cissokho." This man has represented his country and played well at Champions League level, even against the likes of Ronaldo, so therefore there must be something particularly holding him back and hopefully he will overcome this and produce the form he must be capable of.

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Maybe 01, but I fear he just isn't good enough.

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Honestly, he was better than Johnson today.

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He drives a black Evoque with a lime green roof and wing mirrors. what's that all about?

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12 Jan 2014 19:38:18
Ed01
I see you have written you would like Lucas and medel as a pair playing together, if we could get him what kind of tea would you like to see around those two? Just put of interest as I think they would be a wonderful combo
Cheers

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{Ed001's Note - sorry, not sure what you mean by 'kind of team' mate?}

Earl Grey

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12 Jan 2014 19:50:06
Gary Medal is Lucas + Gerrard. he can tackle, hold, have some good run and he is a powerhouse in the middle. He doesn't get bullied bu opposition.
He is the closest to Yaya toure.

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{Ed001's Note - he is nothing like Yaya Toure. Medel is always looking to pick a pass, Toure is always looking to break forward with the ball and play one twos. They are nothing like the same in their play at all.}

I think he means what other players would you like to see playing along those two.

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As in formation and players around those two
Cheers

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{Ed001's Note - I really don't know. It would vary, not just on form and fitness, but it would need altering throughout the game to take advantage of opponent's weaknesses and to protect out own. Right now Sterling, Sturridge and Suarez have to start. Coutinho's place would be the one to make way right now, as he is not at his best.}

So would you prefer a countinho, Henderson, Allen or gerrard alongside them.
Would be difficult as don't think Allen would make us mobile enough, don't feel gerrard gives Lucas the best chance to play his game, countinho possibly a little to attacking with that front three and not really sure if Henderson has the end product and attacking ability to drive that three forward and link

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{Ed001's Note - right now, it would have to be Henderson on current form.}

Yeah I agree henderson is the best on current form, difficult to find a team that suits our form players at the moment to be fair I think. Sterling, Henderson, Suarez, Sturridge (great formn throughout until injury and back with a goal), lucas (first name on team sheet) and although coutinho isn't playing well at the moment I think we should give him time to mature and keep playing but really hard to fit all four of thos attacking players into one team, especially with henderson and lucas as neither are naturally defensive or particulalry quick or powerful so team would be lightweight, hopefully we can find a way to fit them all in

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12 Jan 2014 19:36:50
well. what can I say except i'm surprised Liverpool dug deep to win that, as I had a very sure home win!. I can admit I was wrong so it was a good performance from an away side at a tough ground.
so well done and try to savour it when you look at it, not many teams at the top play barcelona-esq football there or have perfect pass rates. so u might wanna look into some strange Liverpool fan comments about a man who single handedly did a lot for Liverpool.

anyway. until the next time!!

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Why finish on a negative mate, just enjoy the victory :)

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He is a manc

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12 Jan 2014 19:25:57
wow, a lot of persons on this site today.

1) Gerrard was fine, yeah he plays "hollywood" passes but they help us hit teams on the counter and are generally fine. + he is coming back from injury + new position + he was closed down all the time.

2) Mignolet is not going anywhere and reina is not going to play for LFC again

3) if your not happy with a 5-3 win at a ground we nearly always lose at, then sort your life out and begin to manage your expectations

4) congratulations to all the lads for a fantastic win.

5) something needs to be done about Glen Johnson, fantastic footballer but his attitude is horrendous.

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12 Jan 2014 19:38:25
"3) if your not happy with a 5-3 win at a ground we nearly always lose at, then sort your life out and begin to manage your expectations"

Utter red herring, mate. If we play like that again, we won't win 5-3.

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Something red you are totally wrong stoke are a team that anyone will struggle with on their home turf that said I don't player bash but mignolet has not convinced me just yet that he is up to the job. hopefully i'm wrong but he makes poor decisions his starting positions today were questionable nearly every attack

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12 Jan 2014 22:19:25
Our midfield was disjointed on the ball and failed to apply enough pressure off it. What possession we had was rushed and frantic rather than controlled (I barely believed the first half stat that we had 60% of the ball - sure didn't feel that way).

Stoke handed us two goals with some awful defending and another one was a massive deflection from a position of little real threat.

We looked okay from the 60th minute when we brought on Sturridge and dropped Lucas back to help Gerrard, but I genuinely do not think we'll get away with playing like that too many more times.

Now that being said, we probably won't play like that too many more times, but if we do, we will pay for it.

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"2) Mignolet is not going anywhere and reina is not going to play for LFC again"

Sorry - nobody is guaranteed anything.

Mignolet has given up a soft goal in almost every one of the last four or five games. If this continues, BR should look for a goalkeeper in the summer.

Oh, and we were lucky to win yesterday. Don't kid yourself.

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12 Jan 2014 19:21:07
didi hamman has just said spurs r favs for the top 4 between Liverpool, everton, utd.themselves now I know they r a good team against c palace but has he not seen them against anyone half decent.r strikeforce will just shade it for us with everton 5th imo.

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12 Jan 2014 19:39:54
No problem with that. let spurs finish 4th. we would Defo finish 3rd. Bang in goals at home. or probably win the next 9 home games. and we are almost through.

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12 Jan 2014 20:06:29
. Mate.

What we have learned today:

1. Our defence is really poor.
2. Cissokho isn't good enough.
3. We need to work on protecting a lead - keep the ball ffs.
4. SaS don't seem to have lost it.
5. Mignolet needs to command his area a lot better.

If you don't agree to the above points, You don't have a clue on this game, nor our club, you just need 3 points and probably another 3. I am concerned about the next 5 years.

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12 Jan 2014 19:17:44
I think refs need help like the rugby refs some of the decisions of late in games are brutal I know that's football u win some u loose some but it's getting out of hand at this stage it's not Liverpool related but it cost us against city and possibly a point against Chelsea for example?
Like to hear other comments from fellow posters and the Ed's

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12 Jan 2014 20:28:50
Yes - tv replays with an extra ref will come eventually just as goal line technology did. So FIFA just get on and do it.

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Good call but can never see it happening to be honest. pardew made a great point to the referee going down the tunnel today at half time he said "the assistant got it right you got it wrong" and he was dead right the assistant let him know ther was a player offside but didn't flag but the referee had a word and deeemed it offside because he had the best view but to the letter of the law the ref was wrong

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It might just come too late and cost a team a title relegation etc it seems the refs and their decisions are making the headlines now more then the match it's self which is wrong I think something has to be done ASAP!

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12 Jan 2014 19:16:22
Just my analysis of the game:

Defence- well the 3 conceded speaks for itself. Poor defence and I think our left and right back is where we need to strengthen. Sissokho just isn't that good I can't really say much more, he average at attacking and defending. Unfortunately cause he's a Liverpool fan and must be playing his heart out. Johnson as people have already said his attitude is just poor along with performances.

Midfield- Gerard gave away a lot of balls today which he can do but playing as a defensive midfielder is a huge risk which we fortunately didn't get punished too much for it but as a previous poster said put Lucus back to DM and push Gerard as forward as possible! Even for 30 minutes his long ambitious balls won't put us in danger when it doesn't work. Henderson again great today slowly becoming one of my favourite players.

Strikers/wingers- continho please for the love of god practice shooting! He gets himself into amazing positions but just can't score! If he could actually score once in a while would be a top player but that part of his game is letting him down. But hey he's young! SASAS them 3 were amazing. Sturridge what an impact he made which makes me even more gutted we didn't have him when we played the big boys. Sterling so impressive he's like a new player! I wouldn't be too upset with not getting salah as it's defence we need to improve on. And suarez is just suarez.


Very very very happy! Also red lobster you going to comment now were back in the top 4 again!

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12 Jan 2014 19:25:44
Y on earth you need Countinho to learn shooting. he is a No.10. he needs to pick the passes.
I don't see Ozil scoring 30 goals a season.

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Well Harry considering he is persistent on shooting and getting himself in key positions to score that's why? Why on earth would you not want an attacking player to learn how to score?

Before critising other people's post learn to make a constructive post your self. You say our team is awful?! That's all you can do slate the team except suarez when we win at Stoke?!

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Harry, it's rather obvious really. Coutinho often finds himself in positions to score, but he's let down by his sub-standard finishing.

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12 Jan 2014 20:09:39
And sometimes he shoots from 25-30 yards out, when he would pick a beautiful pass to complete the cycle.

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Coutinho had 59 shots in the PL before today with only 2 goals - that's absolutely pathetic. He wastes so many good opportunities with extremely tame efforts so yes he does need to practice shooting. What would be wrong with him having 8 goals out of those 59 shots? He takes the shots anyway so scoring every now and again would be nice!

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12 Jan 2014 19:12:19
I think that we need to call Steve Clark about becoming our defensive coach again, as once again we were diabolical at the back. We have conceded more goals than all of the other teams around us including Man Utd, who are shocking this season. Martin Skrtel will benefit the most with the return of Clarke as under his guidence he was our player of the year a couple of years back. Some people may argue that Clarke's style is different to what we play under Rodgers but our team appears incompetent at the back when facing attackers.

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12 Jan 2014 19:11:59
My problem isn't with Gerrard, its the fact when he plays hendo and lucas are crap. They need to man up!

Also if FSG don't think they need to spend they are delusional, we need a bit more quality. Left back major problem. And someone who can actually keep hold of the ball in the middle.

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12 Jan 2014 19:27:49
They don't need to Man up. Drop, Gerrard, Buy a top class CM and play lucas/hendo/XX. and that would do it. Just watch the spurs game.
I would also drop Lucas, If we buy Medal. at 8 mill. he would be a beast.

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Left back? I think its the other side that needs sorting out! Johnson really has gone off the boil for me, he loses the ball high up the pitch then trotts back lazily to get back into position. He was also at fault for their first goal, he never got out to his man and gave him the space to whip that ball in to crouch. I think kelly should be given a run at right back for a while. However, really pleased with the result today, that is a game we would have lost a season or two ago. Great resiliance from the lads! A special mention for sterling as well, really dangerous I thought today had the beating of his man regularly!

Ian the happy red

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And yet we still keep winning one100.

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12 Jan 2014 19:10:35
Respect to Crouch and Adam. No celebrations after the match. Class.
I hope players like Adebeyor and Torres (who would never score against us) is looking at it.

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Ditto! Big shout for crouchy and Adams!

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Why would they celebrate after the match? They lost!

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12 Jan 2014 19:57:15
One would assume he meant "after they scored".

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12 Jan 2014 20:28:14
I've got to add, Adam's finish for his goal was quality

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Harry Adam celebrated he did the old flicking cash at a stripper celebration! Quality finish though! Think it would have been a tougher test had Assiadi had played! Good win though SASAS were awesome! Had me doing the sturridge dance in my living room!

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Adams celebration was aimed at his agent. He was writing a check knowing he was in for a bonus.

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RR!

I did the Sturridge dance as well and the missus told me I need to be locked up in the looney bin

Enough with the criticism of our players for god's sake! Yes Johnson wasn't the best player on the pitch but he is adapting to his new role under Brendan. Glen likes to attack and you can sense a bit of frustration as he doesn't have the freedom he used to. I'm not defending him but we are a work in progress (85% there) with just a few jinks to be ironed out.

Practice what you preach - YNWA

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12 Jan 2014 19:10:16
Today's game showed what I've been saying about Lucas all season. He's a top DM but he's not the one we want, unless he shows he can attack which I know ed001 thinks he can but can he do it as well as Joe Allen or Luis Alberto? I'd say he has till the end of the season to prove he can do it or will be gone. Also lots of people saying our bad defense but everyone knows when you go to stoke you aren't safe until you're 3 clear because they can score in any second/free kick/corner/lump up the field like no other team in the league & because of this they never give up. Next week will be interesting if we go back to a 3 or a 5.

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{Ed001's Note - sorry how does it show that? Lucas was not playing as a DM today and we were all over the shop without him, surely that shows the opposite?}

12 Jan 2014 19:25:37
Hilarious that someone with "viewer" in the screen name appears not have watched the match.

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Did they ever carv us open going straight through the middle or get at us from hoofs, set pieces & crosses? We looked as shakey as we always do against stoke only this time we won the game & I'm not saying moving Lucas changed the result I'm saying that to even move him at all whether it benefited us today or not shows that he's not the player we want in that position

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{Ed001's Note - did it really? And you have this direct from Brendan's mouth do you? Or are you just talking out of your backside? The club are not looking to replace Lucas.}

12 Jan 2014 19:28:41
Ed01. Straight question. Medal or Lucas?.

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{Ed001's Note - both as a pair, after all Rodgers is trying to shoehorn Gerrard in to play the role Medel does so well.}

12 Jan 2014 19:35:18
Ed01. I would personally drop both Lucas and Gerrard.
Play medal and Hendo in the middle. as Medal Holding.
Countinho sterling and Suarez behind Sturridge.

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We replaced lucas only today with Gerrard? Obviously I have nothing to do with Rodgers in the same way you don't so this is all just opinions on both sides. Pick the toys up

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{Ed001's Note - we did not replace Lucas, we gave him more freedom to move forward. Surely you understand that sometimes we play with two holding and one in front, today we played one holding and two in front. Rodgers wanted to try Lucas as one of the two in front, nothing to do with replacing him. You are just making nonsense comments to try and support a notion you have dreamed up.}

Okay maybe it is a dream although I don't dislike Lucas at all or even idolise Gerrard as I was one of the ones last season saying he was poor so why I dreamt it up I have no idea, I guess we'll just have at wait and see. I guess it depends whether we go to three at the back as to whether we play 2 defensive mids as Gerrard & Lucas have done hundreds of times together. Maybe it's for the small teams at home to rest Lucas or maybe it's because he wants to find a place for Joe Allen & dropping Lucas for him if we were playing the same way as today is the best way to fit him in

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12 Jan 2014 22:36:17
Ed who else other than Medel would you think would perform well beside Lucas

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{Ed001's Note - first pick would be Javi Martinez, but most good players could work with him.}

12 Jan 2014 19:08:59
Our defence is a shambles Johnson should be dropped as for cissoko* sent back to where ever! We need a solid stable back line badly! Countino couldn't score in a brothel he needs shootin practice wasted chances in games over and over if we sort these problems we will be solid! Great to see SAS back in the groove QUAILTY!
It's a tuff place to go so I am delighted with the result just those couple of points are getting to me!
YNWA

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12 Jan 2014 19:08:42
Hearing reports that the FA will try to fine Suarez for making bizarre vagina gestures at the crowd every time he gets his second goal - this is going to happen a lot more this season, he will have to be careful!

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Wat? . .

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12 Jan 2014 19:07:35
Eds, I been on the Man United pages and I've notived they have a voting poll which does not appear on the
LFC pages. For example. On the 16th of November 2013 Manchester United supporters had the right to vote on the question 'will Man-U win the league this season? Then on the 5th of January 2014, a new question appeared and Man-U fans
then had the right to vote on ' will Man-U finish in the top 4 this season? I was thinking we might do the same thing on the LFC page? What about us voting on the question ' will man-U stay up in the premiere league next season'?

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{Ed001's Note - here you go:
http://www.liverpool-rumours.co.uk/liverpool-voting-polls.php
done that poll for you.}

The next poll on man united page will be "will man united finish in top 10 this season"

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12 Jan 2014 19:05:36
". His Second Goal celebrations showed. this lad without a doubt is the most committed player in the squad. What a transformation as a player. person.
Hatss off Suarez. Your commitment is top draw. "

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12 Jan 2014 19:05:05
to start off, what an exciting game. I though we'd done well on the counter. sterling had another fantastic game, his pace and direct play was giving stoke all sorts of problems. suarez was brilliant as always, his first goal really showed his desire to fight for every ball, definitely made that goal out of nothing. the midfield was a bit off balance today as I think lucas should be the deeper player which will allow gerrard and hendo to do a bit more of the attacking. gerrard definitely gave away too many silly passes trying to thread the ball long through the congested stoke midfield. sturridge looked sharp and did extremly well to stick with the play and finish off stoke with the 5th goal. I nearly had a heart attack when he went down for a few minutes clutchin the leg. lastly I think miggy has been having a rough go of it lately, not saying brad jones could do much better but he's let in a soft goal in the last 3 games, city, chelsea and today.

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12 Jan 2014 19:03:52
Well i'm glad we won. Maybe a bit careless at the back but I will happily take 5-3 victories for the rest of the season. I will leave it up to the soccer experts on this site to disect Gerrards cdm role of Johnson's defensive qualities or Skrtle's set piece antics.

I would be happy for Red Lobster and Daveyboyblue to come back with their next predictions. They seem to be a bit of a lucky charm.

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Great point, Irish. Let's keep Red Lobster and Daveyblueboy as our lucky charms :-)

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12 Jan 2014 19:02:40
Eds and reds,
A terrific result for Liverpool today but does show how weak we are at the back.
Pepe Reina and Daniel Agger have had Simon Mignolet and Mamadou Sakho take and challenge their positions in the team respectively.
Could we see the same happen to Martin Skrtel, Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique in the next two transfer windows?

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12 Jan 2014 19:01:57
Actually thought we were relatively average in todays game. Gifted out first 3 goals. But still very very happy to win at Stoke. Very difficult place to go

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12 Jan 2014 18:58:45
i wouldn't slate gerrard as a dcm, I think he just needs time to get used to it, he has done it before years ago for us don't forget.

Mignolet was terrible in my eyes, regardless them 2 saves, he should have saved 2 of the goals at least, my eye bring back Reina. and have Mignolet as no.2 to keep reina on his feet and motivate the 2 to play better. Not happy with Mignolet performances recently

we finally won at stokes ground which shows we are moving upwards and the return on sturridge really shows how much we have missed him.

come on reds, champions league have missed us
YNWA

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Totally agree about miggy, he started off brilliantly but against City, Chelsea and again today he let in a very soft goal which if it wasnt for out sharp attack could have cost us the points and ultimately our current spot in the top 4. looks like his confidence is shattered

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12 Jan 2014 19:32:05
I have been pleading from weeks and I was ripped apart here. Mingolet is good at short stop and reflxez. His commanding inside the 6 yards box is awful. his distribution too is average.
Whenever we concede corners or set pieces. he just loose himself.

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Complete and utter over-reaction. Mignolet made at least one fine save, kicked out from lots of back-passes ok and was unlucky with one goal, the shot running very close to his body, which is probably the worst place for a goalie. Get a grip, he's doing fine. Why do people feel the need to nit pick so much. It happens so badly after a defeat that it is too painful to come on the site, but now it's happening after a win as well. We are doing ok so far, get over yourselves.

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Yes he's made a couple of mistakes but mignolet is quality and has probably saved us a few points this season with some remarkable saves.
pepe riena however lost us points last season and was not the same player he used to be. Don't get me wrong I love pepe but its time to move on

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Well Harry when you complain about every player your bound to be right once or twice in a game. At the end of the day mingolet is a good keeper and i'm happy we signed him. Give it time he will come good.

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12 Jan 2014 18:57:40
It was against Stoke where we failed to win and lost us our closest title chance in years under Rafa.
We should be delighted with the result - and enjoy a dodgy decision in our favour for a change.

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Massive credit to BR for his honesty in saying it wasn't a penalty and was a soft award, contrast that against Mourinho and his ramblings. Regardless of anything else, that's a massive three points in a tough place to go.

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12 Jan 2014 18:55:13
Great result though sad to see the few mix up and errors that cost us, apart from that I think Sterling was brilliant and all that was missing was a goal from him, he showed power, pace and determination that he lacked sometime back just hope he continues like this and get better at putting away his chances. Still would love if we got Salah and Wijnaldum also and I think we can wait till summer for any other signings.

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12 Jan 2014 18:46:43
Everton's new nick name should be the borrow'ers

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12 Jan 2014 18:45:00
Hey davey boy where are you. We managed to do something you lot couldn't do we beat stoke at home. Ye needed a penalty in the last minute just to draw .can't wait till ye have to give back all the players ye loaned.

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12 Jan 2014 18:38:09
Alright lads,

Am I alone in thinking that Stevie G was disappointing in his DM role today? Gave the ball away too much and tried the Hollywood passes a lot more than necessary.

Sterling was amazing though, and it's great to see Sturridge and Suarez picking up their partnership so quickly.

Cheers all.

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It is a new position for him and he did a decent job. Stop whining.

Red Rum

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12 Jan 2014 18:51:38
Agree gerrard and lucas swapped positions found that wierd

Coutinho was awful today misses too many chances and is toooo soft needs to look at sterling and be more strong and aggresive

Abbas lfc

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1) GERRARD just back from injury
2) Stoke very tough team at home
3) Lucas and Henderson had little composure on hitherto ball and placed pressure back onto GERRARD
4) coolest finisher of a penalty
5) His our CAPTAIN

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"The manager has told me moving forward I would play the holding role a lot more. I have done it many times for England - I will be more comfortable in it after a few more games."

Give him a chance he hasn't done so badly in any other positions he has played

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12 Jan 2014 19:07:39
U can't really say its a new position for him 650 appearences for us played in numerous positions but mostly in midfield and is a seasoned professional he should more than be comfortable playing there if i'm honest we lost the midfield battle need to be better if we wanna say in fourth.

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12 Jan 2014 18:36:02
I bloody hope BR isn't planning on keeping Gerrard in that cdm role.

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12 Jan 2014 18:31:49
Danny Boy is back!

Great assist for Luis and fantastic skill for his goal!

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Danny, head hunter to his friends,
head hunter to everybody,
he did'nt have any friends.

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12 Jan 2014 18:27:43
Well, a few things from that.

1) There should be no way for us to finish lower than 4th with Suarez and Sturridge in the team, as long as both are fit and available. They can conjure goals out of nearly nothing.

2) We dodged a bullet because Stoke basically handed us three goals.

3) Gerrard as the defensive midfield pivot didn't work. But at least it hasn't cost us points, and any time Rodgers has made such an obviously dodgy team selection, he hasn't made it again. I can sort of understand what was aiming for by trying to add a passing range to that position, but it just doesn't work because being a DM is all about nous and experience. Gerrard's nous and experience is all about attacking. That's what he should be doing.

4) Can we not castigate our captain personally too much? No one is hammering Lucas personally for his first half performance, and rightly so because he was out of position. So was Gerrard. I don't believe he's finished, I just think people need to stop obsessing about his age, and give him an attacking role. Before his injury he was still getting involved in the attack from a deep position, which was surely harder on his legs than starting from an attacking role. And restricting him completely to deep didn't work either. So push him forward, behind a front three of Sterling, Suarez and Sturridge, imo. If that means rotating him with Coutinho (who's not exactly been brilliant either so far this season), then so be it, I suppose.

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12 Jan 2014 18:53:05
He should be benched like Lampard or any other top players. Especially away games. we need mobility and speed in the middle.

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Are not happy winning away then Harry? that's what we did!

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12 Jan 2014 19:38:07
The Irish.

Always. Mate. Winning home or away makes everyone happy. But we should analyse, our weakness. some here just pretend their whole life. and they say we have a great future.
When Needed we need to drop players. criticize players. and appreciate players. I would have been happy with a 2-0 win than 5-3.

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12 Jan 2014 18:27:22
We were very lucky today. The peno was very soft and they should have had on for Suarez handball

How on earth do we get a peno for that and Skrtel continues to do his best impression of a WWE wrestler? This is going to cost us as refs can't continue to let this go.

But all in all a good result today and v valuable 3 points. Great to see Sturridge back

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{Ed001's Note - to be fair, Stoke are doing exactly the same to him and the rest of the team, so today he could get away with it. Skrtel really does need to cut it out now though, it will cost us.}

12 Jan 2014 18:54:41
Skrtel is like a child he jus won't stop doing something he knows is wrong the game was amazing tho

Love the way sterling is playing!
Coutinho on other hand needs to hit gym and shooting practice awful

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12 Jan 2014 18:26:58
good win today. think its time for coutinho to warm the bench for some time as sturridge is back and back with a bang.
but totally disappointed with the quality of refreeing decisions degrading every week. how did tiote's goal not stand and so many reckless tackles go unpunished? tbh honest sterling made the most of it and it wasn't a penalty either. but we've had our share of bad luck, so we deserved a bit of luck today. but FA should really be looking into this matter instead of fining managers for speaking the truth

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12 Jan 2014 18:26:15
Brendan please sort this defence out or it will derail our top 4 push.

Skrtl & Johnson out for next game and Sakho and Kelly in.

Proper defenders.

Dont know what's happened to Johnson but has gone right off the boil, and Skrtl constantly fouling and out of position.

Great to see Sturridge back and in the end a great win.

Come on the Reds!

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Is that Elderslie, as in Renfrewshire? I love the Burns Supper there, in the Bowling Club. But I hear it's cancelled this year? 😒

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12 Jan 2014 18:17:42
Good Win today. congratz to the lads. this team should go to la-liga, where teams only play, pass and move.
Once Suarez goes to Madrid. we would look the same.
We are not a good team. But a team of some individual brilliance.

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Of course we're a good team, it's a team effort, we done well when Suarez was out didn't we? your love for Suarez is just pathetic.

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We are not a bad team either harry.

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Harry I disagree. We have defensive problems for sure but actually I feel the opposite. I think we are full of world class players but play as a team with spirit

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I disagree. This is a very solid team that didn't play well today. It says a lot about a teams character when they can play as poorly as they did today and still win. I'm very encouraged with the team play overall this year and think it will only get stronger. However, we need to get stronger in the back. I hope that is addressed in the transfer window.

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12 Jan 2014 18:57:58
Hilarious. some agree. we have defensive problems. other say. we are short in the middle. some says our Full backs aren't good. Many says we need wingers. which leaves only one position, and that's striking department.
Guys. As long as we have a player like Suarez who can score even at 94th min. we are safe.
only 5 clean sheets in 21 games shows that we are good in scoring tonz. poor in most other departments.

If my love towards Suarez is Pathetic. then arguably millions are pathetic. the lad is single handle winning us games.

We are Manchester United 2012/2013. RVP/Suarez.
Sturridge is a great player, But can't say about his Injuries.

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12 Jan 2014 18:15:58
Huge, huge win! This is what it means! Fighting for the cause - yes it was nerve-wrecking at times as Stoke threatened to spoil the party, but Sturridge! Thank God for him! I was rooting for Sterling as MotM, but Studge's introduction turned the game with one assist and the match-winner! He gets my vote. Sterling was outstanding, as was Suarez, with his class strikes! Up and on - bring on the bitters!

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Agreed with you on Sturridge for MotM. The assist was sublime and the work to get his own goal was outstanding. Two prime examples of a player who is neither 'selfish' nor 'lazy'.

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12 Jan 2014 18:13:42
Edge of the seat game, great to see Sturridge back and playing well! Gerrard did a good job in the DM role, was a good move by Rodgers to play him there. His passing was up and down but his tracking and tackling was excellent. He set a positive example for the rest of the team.

We didn't help ourselves but did enough to kill them off (for the third time)!

Brilliant win for the Reds at a tough tough away ground, Villa next can't wait for the next installment of SAS.

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12 Jan 2014 18:37:03
Was u watchin a dvd of instanbul 2005? Gerrard was not good and hasn't been for ages his passing is poor and his presence isn't doing jordan henderson any favours.

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No I was watching Liverpool vs Stoke 12/1/14! Gerrard had a good game breaking up play and doubling with the fullbacks, his passing I mentioned and didn't say a word about Henderson? So maybe you should re watch the game as your achillies is obviously understanding basic comments.

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12 Jan 2014 18:13:36
Im not going to go on for too long as we did win at a ground we struggle. We were awful but still managed to score 5 goals. The only player who didn't keep giving the ball away was kolo. Gerrard needs to stop playing a Hollywood pass every time he gets the ball.

Positives: Play was wofull and kept giving ball away yet still scored 5 goals.

Sturridge back with goal.

Suarez: not at his best yet got 2 goals.

Negatives: can't DEFEND, needs to be looked at asap. I believe BR needs a defensive coach.

Note: If FSG think they don't need to spend they are wrong! We need more quality badly. Gerrard is shot, and for some reason makes the other Midfield's worse when he plays.

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12 Jan 2014 18:13:21
The negativity on this site is just mind-boggling. Some of you can't be pleased; that was an amazing football game, which our side showed great resilience and character to win. I mean everyone put in their shift; and yes, even Gerrard. Glad to see the captain back on the pitch. Credit to Sturridge as well.

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I was starting to think I was the only one thinking that! Good god there's a lot of whining going on, seeing as we just put 5 past Stoke. Get a grip will you, yore starting to sound like a load of bitchy whiny girls! No game of football is perfect - but scoring 5 away from home against Stoke can't be far off it.

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Well said. I though Sturridge was great and I loved the moment after complaining that suarez should (and rightly) crossed ball to him instead of shooting, and then you could see him laugh in off!
Great moment

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12 Jan 2014 18:12:39
Is this really the Liverpool supporters page?
Gerrards first full game back since injury agreed few sloppy passes but generally good for his first game back.
We are one of only 2 teams to win at Stoke Chelsea and arsenal couldn't do it and we win a 5-3 thriller.
First time we beat them there in years, yet people still moaning.
One of the best games I've watched in a long time reminded me of the 4-3 games wiv Newcastle. End to end, mistakes sublime touches and non stop attacking by both teams.
Why don't people leave the moaning for a bit and enjoy our play?

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Agreed! Same old same old!
Gerrard did have a poor first half but second was good and tracked back often making some really good interceptions

People are just harsh

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12 Jan 2014 18:10:46
Eds fellow reds, any one on here a cardiology doctor .talk about heart in mouth .grat result though .

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12 Jan 2014 18:09:55
Well maybe not convincingly but a great result none the less.Would we have won that game last season?Now, has anyone got a Xanax?

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12 Jan 2014 18:08:06
We would have lost games like this in the past! Great resilience shown by the boys and the SAS is back!

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12 Jan 2014 19:01:43
well said matty when utd won like this the last few years we all get told good teams win even when they don't play well. i'm sure brendan will be working hard to sort out r silly mistakes.

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12 Jan 2014 18:07:37
Maybe Ilori to make his debut against Villa? They are excellent on the break, would do well with Iloris speed at the back.

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12 Jan 2014 18:05:20
Really feel that anyone. and I do mean anyone would be better than having gerrard in the side. legend. but time to move on now.

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12 Jan 2014 18:04:24
If this was Football Manager, next weeks match preparation would definitely be defensive positioning. No more attacking movement practice for a while!

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12 Jan 2014 18:03:28
So. A football match *still* lasts 90 minutes.

How do you half time whingers feel now?

Considering:

1. Stoke had only lost once in 12 months at home.

2. They were unbeaten at home in (at least) the last 5 PL games, including a win against Chelsea.

3. We've never beaten Stoke away in the PL.

4. Prior to today Stoke had only conceded 7 goals at home all season.

That is the most satisfying result of the season.

The sort of result that seasons are made on.

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12 Jan 2014 18:29:39
I've considered all of the above, and our first half performance was still poor. What else are we supposed to comment on at HT?

Maybe some people went a little too far (I'd say some choice ones didn't get past the Eds), but I think the complaints were generally justified.

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Well said mate.

Red Rum

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Something Red - I've just never seen the point of going overboard at half time mate. (winning or losing)

I would rather wait and give a balanced and considered view at the end of the game. We, of all fans, should now that a game's not over until it's over!

Have a good evening bud, I know I will :)

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12 Jan 2014 17:37:26
Gerrard sis really well with penalty. We really needed that although I could barely watch him take it through fear of a miss.
Sturridge is coming on now!
Good luck to him. I have a good feeling he will net one today!

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I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT!
For once I get something right! :)

So pleased for Sturridge!

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I may be wrong about Sturridge scoring (who knows) but what a lay off for Suarez!

Great to have him back. With Sturridge in the team I think chelsea and Man city would not have walked away with all the points.
Great partnership!

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12 Jan 2014 17:31:09
Please BR take gerrard off. each time he gets the ball I'm praying our full backs haven't pushed too far upfield as his pass is more likely to be a wayward one.

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Completely agree, it's always the Hollywood pass and rarely has he found one of our lads, he is shocking today, again.

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He has made some mistakes but done some very good stuff second half. I think he is doing well now

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12 Jan 2014 18:07:44
He was better in the second half, but that's down to a combination of the fact that a player of his raw ability couldn't possibly have turned in another half as bad as the first, and from the 60th minute on, he had Lucas sitting in with him.

I don't want to hammer Gerrard too much though, because he's played 650 times for the club and more than 100 times for England. So people, including Rodgers who's been working with him for a year and a half, should really know what he can and can't do. And defensive midfield falls into the latter category.

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12 Jan 2014 17:30:40
How many times does gerrard need to try the Hollywood and lose possession when all we need is a cool head to keep possession

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12 Jan 2014 17:24:45
Penelty?

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12 Jan 2014 17:23:54
I see BR has left Gerrard in the holding roll for the 2nd half. Gerrard is leaving a huge gap as he just can't seem to cover the ground when the play changes cross field.
I just hope we can somehow score before stoke score another and Gerrard is leaving us vulnerable. And Gerrards match rating may be boosted by his penalty, but hes' done nothing else to help us.
I think BR is treating Gerrard as royalty and does not want to disrespect him. That is the only explanation as anyone can clearly see the difference in our passing, be it speed or movement or just plain possession and control when Gerrard is not playing.
I'm just toure can get in that match saving tackle next time Gerrard mucks up and let's the opposition cruise through the middle.

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I remember him helping at the back a few occasions and saved us which could of cost us

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12 Jan 2014 17:22:26
sturridge on for countinho hit them on the break.

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12 Jan 2014 17:12:09
If that first half is anything to go by we need new faces in this window first being a DM and LB and a RB cissokho I know he had something to do with the first goal bt he isn't that good and neithers glen johnson.

And since gerrard has come back in the first team hendersons performance levels have dropped gerrard playing stupid cross field balls wasting possession.

I recently read comments what rodgers said that we will only sign players that are available to us at the right price or something along them lines I just hope he has a re-think.

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Yeah a resilient comeback in the 2nd half. Better change the whole squad!

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Surely we cannot sign player's that are not available at the wrong price? I think his statement was pretty obvious.

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12 Jan 2014 17:11:18
Please someone tell Coutinho that the idea is to pass the ball towards the goal where the goalkeeper is not. Not to pass to the goalkeeper who he seems to find with unerring accuracy - reminiscent to the days when we had more shots on target than any other team but hit the goalkeeper or woodwork more often than not.

Come on Coutinho you can win this for us - pass it to the net!

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12 Jan 2014 17:11:13
This is why we are not a top side.
Can't even hold a 2 goal lead now against STOKE.
This losing leads is becoming a theme.
Our defence has a serious lack of steel.
There's just nobody taking control like a Hyypia.
We might still come back and win and all but this problem remains.
Can't understand why this has not been addressed.
Toure was shocking for the first goal.
Skrtel let Adam run unchallenged even after he'd slipped.
I mean for goodness sake, one of you attack the ball and we might have a chance.
Be lucky to get top 6 this season if that kind of hiding continues.
No disrespect to them but t his is Stoke we're playing today not Real Madrid.

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Totally agree about skrtel

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You're going to need to stay anonymous with that ignorance, although there is a good chance you're actually Ozone. You know Stoke hasn't lost at home in 7 matches.? Stoke is a very difficult team to beat, ESPECIALLY at home. The team played very well. We are a top side, take your negativity elsewhere.

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12 Jan 2014 17:10:41
Possible solution - Fine Gerrard 1 weeks wages for every two attempted passes that are over 20 yards.
Lets see how quickly that would get him to change his ways.

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Why do you want him to stop that? it scares the defences and most of the time its beautiful to see gerrard do them passes

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12 Jan 2014 17:06:07
Frustrating.

Gerrard in the holding position just don't cut it as When Lucas is there he plays simple passes at a high success rate. Gerrard seems not to want to make a pass that's less than 20 yards. Each time he gets the ball its hollywood passes. ITs completely undermining our style of play. I understand he doesn't have the legs so that position would suit his stamina. But he does have the skill of a holding midfielder. Either put him back in the middle or take him off. Lucas doesn't have what it takes to play in the central creative roll as well.
Seems like everyone is being played out of position to cater and accommodate Gerrard.
Rather leave Gerrard on the bench and bring him on for the last 20 minutes of a game to steady the ship with his experience. As legendary as he may be, Its obvious that he's holding us back.
YNWA.

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Agreed, We seem to do this regular and the players feel like they have to give him the ball too, as much as anything when he plays he restricts Henderson in my book

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Correction - Gerrard does NOT have the skill of a holding midfielder. He lacks the temperament and position and the tackling ability. and he does not look for the quick short pass. His first instinct is to look 50 meters upfield and punt.

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12 Jan 2014 17:14:19
Well I was annoyed with the performance at 2-1, and now I'm really annoyed.

Gerrard is having a non-game, I cannot think of any occasion that he's played this badly in his entire career. All he's done right is double up on Cameron's overlap a couple of times. Fair enough, good play there. Everything else though, he's been poor. His distribution's been bad, his positioning's is the most limited interpretation of the DM role I've ever seen and he's not pressed any of the Stoke midfielders at any stage in the game.

Steven Gerrard cannot play as a Defensive Midfielder, he never has been able to, and he sure as hell can't now. It boggles my mind that the out of at least 10 professional football managers Gerrard's had between Liverpool and England, a grand total of one (Rafa) realised that Gerrard has to be played as far forward as your midfield system allows in order for him to be world class (and I don't accept that this doesn't still apply because he's 33). And he got castigated for 'playing him out of position' all the time, by both the press and fans. Maddening. Absolutely maddening.

To compound the problem, Lucas looks totally lost upfield. He's barely had a kick. I don't know how someone with Brendan Rodgers' football knowledge concocted that midfield, and hasn't realised that it's not working and changed it.

And do you know what else? If we start the second half with the same system, I bet you any amount of money that Gerrard will get bored around the 60th minute and start committing himself forward too early in the build up and leaving gaps - just watch.

He and Lucas need to swap places immediately after half time.

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12 Jan 2014 17:14:34
I agree mate I also think gerrard playing is affecting hendersons freedom to roam about in midfield and make them darting runs behind there back four because lately u don't hear or see henderson much on the ball.

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12 Jan 2014 17:06:06
Wow, what a turn around. We have three obvious problems:

1. Our wingbacks are weak. Cissohko offers nothing (barring random deflection for opening goal) and Johnson has continued his season-long form of giving ball away at will.

2. We are weaker with Gerrard in midfield. He is too slow, and having him in there makes us use two DMs since Lucas has to be there and Gerrard too slow for link up play and tracking back.

3. Skrtel is always out of position and always struggles against physically strong players. His shirt pulling is getting ridiculous. If it is discussed by commentators every game, surely the ref is looking for it. Only a matter of time before he commits penalty.

Since Salah et al not nailed on for transfer, maybe we could enquire about Crouch and Adam ;/)

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12 Jan 2014 17:04:54
Absolutely fuming. 2-0 up away from home and br sends a clear message to the players to play keep ball and slow the game down. We should have gone for the jugular. We look a beaten team now. Just thought I'd add. cissokho is awful. He looks like a new born bambi.

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12 Jan 2014 17:04:48
I know it's only half time, but does anyone think we look a better team without Stevie g

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Deffo. Stevie has to be dropped when he plays like this. And Henderson is awful when Gerrard plays, he's nervous, Jordan needs to fix this quick and grow a pair

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I realise we scored 5 and won, but it was Suarez, sterling ans Sturridge that pulled us through, the city and Chelsea performances were much better, daft as it seems.i realise its more important to get the points tho.but I do think hendo goes into his shell when Gerrard plays, and surely we don't need Lucas and Gerrard both holding,

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12 Jan 2014 17:02:29
Brendan's security is high profile today.
Is there a reason for this?

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I noticed that the guy who walked him off the pitch looked pretty handy?

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12 Jan 2014 17:02:26
Well somethings got to change. That is the 19th goal we've conceded away from home in just 11 games. Not good enough, Skrtel is a liability.

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12 Jan 2014 17:02:06
And that's why we will NOT finish in the top 4.it's like watching slow motion, and I am sick to death of us standing there like lamp posts watching players putting crosses in and our defenders giving the opposition as much room as they want.

Get Gerrard and Lucas off

alan50

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12 Jan 2014 17:01:44
Terrible defending again. Can't keep a lead away from home it's shocking. How hard isit to sit deep keep the ball and hit them on the break. Awful half but the back 4 Again!

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12 Jan 2014 16:57:46
First half analysis.

We have been awful.

Hope for a better 2nd half.

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12 Jan 2014 16:57:39
Still can't defend an got to question keeper again

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12 Jan 2014 16:55:21
It looks like Gerrard and Lucas have swapped roles in the team this game, Gerrard holding and Lucas getting forward a little, interesting .

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12 Jan 2014 16:53:19
All the speculation about wingers, CM's and strikers but how about buying a useful centre half or two who can defend crosses and set pieces. Shocking defending again for Crouch goal and it's becoming every game now.
Would really love a couple of dominant centre halves.

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12 Jan 2014 16:45:41
Lucas has been given more freedom to go forward today.

I'm impressed with him so far - maybe a holding midfielder could play BEHIND lucas instead of as well as or instead of?

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12 Jan 2014 16:44:19
Gerrard playing as a Third Defender. While Lucas Plzying further Forward. But, there has been a lot of Confusion in Middle of the Park. Liverpool Need to Control the Midfield

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12 Jan 2014 16:32:55
Ed001, your days of Lucas needing to play more forward is over! He's playing a lot more attacking than normal today.

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{Ed001's Note - I did think that when I saw it. Bit worried about Gerrard defensively though!}

Gerrard certainly put in a decent performance for a player who was allowed to play a 'free-role' for most of his time. Some of his tackles we're really good and we all know he's amazing at those. But I did find Lucas getting worried at times regarding defence so he had to fall back. Main problem is two of the goals we conceded were due to so called 'long' shots and the defenders need to rush to the ball rather than just stay back and wait for it to come. But you'd always hope to win if you could score 5 goals. Anywhere. But certainly Stoke were the less fortunate.

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12 Jan 2014 16:29:41
Ed 001 You seem to be the one to talk to about the mood of the camp ad such things. Could you tell me what the opinion throughout the club is of Ilori.

Obviously they think he's good or they wouldn't have bought him, but do you think he's been impressing in training? What do the staff think about him?

Cheers

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{Ed001's Note - he was bought for the future mate, they like what he has, but it is felt he is still a bit raw.}

Cheers Ed. Hope he will work out a little better than Coates.

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12 Jan 2014 15:52:57
Hey, a bit short notice but anyone know how to stream the match for free on an iPad?

Cheers

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You need to install an app called Photon (not sure if this is free, if not, under 2 quid) so you can play flash videos.

Then you can watch on wiziwig.tv

Hope this helps fella.

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Down load abode flash player or something of that equivalence and then find a normal stream site. should work then :)

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Download puffin browser and go to your regular streaming sites.

Red Rum

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12 Jan 2014 15:44:55
We have about 6 points more this season that we got from the corresponding fixtures last season. I think we will need to do better than that for the second half to make Champions League. But it is great to still be in the race, and with all our top competitors for CL still to play at home we have a decent chance. Starting with the next 5 games where we only got one point last year!

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Well I we did six points in each half of the fixtures that would be twelve and that would have equalled arsenal in fourth last year and even though it is very competitive this year don't think it will be a much higher points total as main reason it is close is because of everyone being inconsistent so don't think we would need to do much better, maybe one or two draws into wins

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12 Jan 2014 15:32:26
anyone else think its sods law the c adam will score today

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Wrong, sods law would be Adam and Crouch scoring.

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12 Jan 2014 15:27:29
Wife got me the away kit for Santa's birthday and while some people hate it, my nostalegia for the 80s and space invaders has me in love.

If you are a hater, see it in red. Consult your local pub for their most red chicken wing dressing

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I bought my wife the Red kit for Christmas, with number 7 on the back. I told her it was pyjamas. Now she dives in the bed and scores every week.

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12 Jan 2014 15:26:06
Glad to see ibe on the bench today

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12 Jan 2014 15:13:42
Today will be a day where we see how far we have came this season in what is historically a fixture we get bullied in and struggle.

Need the defensive boys to earn their wages and do the ugly stuff without worrying too much about the nice pretty passing.

Got enough creative players to worry about that.

Clean sheet we win today and we can then bring Sturridge and hopefully a new signing or 2 into the fold over the next fortnight.

Come on the Reds and another vital 3 points!

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We'll never progress till we get proper defenders who are willing to block crosses and pick up in the box.

First goal Johnson should take responsibility and stop the cross then the biggest guy on the park is free in middle of box to score.

2nd goal no one closes down Adam who has one of the best left foots in the league and scores.

So poor.

Compare to Man city today who worked like dogs not to concede then get their reward at the end, that's why they are the team they are.

Defences win leagues strikers decide by how much.

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12 Jan 2014 15:12:40
Feeling a bit nervous about the game, them Stokies are a bit of a bogey side for us and I can't help thinking they'll be booting us all ove the park. I hope the refs strong and I hope we can get the ball down, press, get a high tempo going and get the early goal and push on for a comfortable win.
I got me crusty lucky boxers on, the dog is going ape s. p, sent the missus out for more ale and just had big fry up!
I'm ready, come on you Redmen.!
JFT96

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12 Jan 2014 14:53:07
Ed fellow reds, not trying to be negiative but all these pundits saying how really well we are doing and how poor spur, Manchester United are doing yet spuds a point in front and mancs 2 points behind .that shows just how far away we really are, our first 11 might just about be ok but we don't have good enough bench or back up .and if I recall BR said at start of season we had a great squad .missing a trick I think . This is the biggest month of BR managerial life at our club make or break I think .cheers

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{Ed002's Note - You need to register.}

It's kingluis74

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12 Jan 2014 14:48:19
Not Liverpool related but got to feel bad for Newcastle there poor descion yet again by the refs #shocking

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12 Jan 2014 14:26:07
I think if moses gets a run out today he just might have a good game for us after all the talk of him been so poor.It might be the kick up the hole he needed.I think cissoko could be a good player for us yet too he just needs time to settle in and get used to the premiership. This is the best chance we have had in years to be in the mix for the title and at least be in the top 4 so if the owners have faith in BR the should trust his judgement and let him bring in the players he wants.I think this commity we have is holding up transfers .I've never trusted that ian ayre we could do with geting rid of him.On a lighter note barkley is out for a few weeks with a broken bone in his foot for the blue nose's let's see how they cope haha.ps Come on fsg get the finger out give BR the money and get the players we need in

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12 Jan 2014 14:14:03
Hi eds. Seems to be another window of on/off moves for Thomas Ince. Have we shown any interest again in him?

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12 Jan 2014 13:58:11
Great to Back from a Vacation.

Good Luck to the lads. A win today and we go back to top-4.
As Usual. Suarez. one more time.

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Welcome back harry, lkets break our stke hoodoo today

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12 Jan 2014 13:57:36
Anyone know who Stoke are going to play at scrum-half today?

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12 Jan 2014 13:18:00
Lads relax on the transfer negativity weekend is for football matches no distractions you will get more information next week it always works on weekdays

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12 Jan 2014 13:14:46
Massive next three league games, three wins and top four looks a little easier anything less and it could end up being yet another season. Stoke will be no push overs today some of our players (mainly Suarez) are in for a kicking, a good ref and Stoke will run out of ideas but if the officials poor form continues its going to be a long day. Its time to get that fourth spot back and keep it.

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Not still complaining about the officials? This game's not even kicked off yet!

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Davieboyboyblue, not much happening on the blue site today then? Thought you would be getting a stiffy about your new "star" player, Aiden (got to beat my man 4 times before I pass)Mcgready.

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Daveyboyboy blue we missed you on here, what happened to you?

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12 Jan 2014 12:54:05
Hearing a lot about yarmolenko because we can't agree a fee with Basel? What you think? I'd go for it myself like

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I think he's fee would be bigger than Salah can't see it happening.

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12 Jan 2014 12:30:59
Transfer summary

Torres £15m - nailed on to return on Jan 30th,, re-discover his Liverpool form guaranteeing us the title, and apologising to the fans,,, for being a bit of a nob

Mata £25m - sadly this deal is dead in the water. As confirmed by a ITK taxi driver last week who stated "Mourinho won't sell us Mata now mate, because he sees us as proper contenders now laa". Pretty much confirms that one

Kyriakos Papadopoulos £16m - reports by fans on this site last window where completely 100% accurate. He IS on the plane and expected for a medical,, although Ian Ayre saved money on the flight and booked him an EasyJet,,, he's not landed at John Lennon but Papa has been dropped of slightly outside Liverpool,,, in Bratislava. This one could take a while

Fabio Coentrao £20m - Ed02 has said this is very much doubtful. At first I agreed, But If you sell Glen Jonhson to Galatasaray and offer him a 4 year deal with clean sheet bonus' every match he signs on FIFA in a heartbeat. Shows how much you know eds

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12 Jan 2014 12:25:50
Yann M'vila and Mo Salah may be the 2 signings this month?

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Salah is indeed good, M'vila seems to me as an good player but distracted from football, so I hope not :)

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12 Jan 2014 12:04:35
I'm just starting to get warmed up for todays game, already cracked open the first beer of the day,
the tension is starting to build up in the house,
missus and I starting to get on each other's nerves
Trying to remember which where the lucky undies,
the ones I wore for Man city when we played great and lost, or the ones I wore for the Spurs game?
And panick, does washing them wash out the luck?
Hate playing Stoke, especially away,
going to be heart in mouth time on every set play agaist us. Just Hope we just keep that ball moving on the deck. Jeeze its tough being an armchair supporter!

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Dude u better find those panties from spurs game, heh :)

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12 Jan 2014 11:59:14
Does anyone else think Ki of Sunderland is massively underrated? Whenever I watch him he's always comfortable on the ball and intelligent in possession. He always looks to go forward and make something happen.

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Check out his stats on one of the many stats sites, he's the real deal!

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I think he s a very good player

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12 Jan 2014 11:45:24
We are sixth in the league City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Spurs with stronger squads than us.Everton, Utd and Newcastle will probably add this month, I don't think we will.i really hope we don't miss out on champions league football because we won't pay asking prices, I agree that we have been turned over in the past with transfers but last week proved we have little strength after our first teamers.Might have to dig deep and pay a bit extra a gamble I know but a bit a extra quality might be just what we need to clinch a top 4 slot.

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12 Jan 2014 10:47:10
We are clearly looking for a LB.

Fabio Coentrao is clearly available.

Why are we not looking at him?

Man Utd getting a free fun at him atm.

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I agree.

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Totally agree quality player available in a position that's a problem for us. Thing is is he interested in moving to Liverpool?

The reported 12 million fee is a good price for him. International and still think he's only 25-26 years old.

If we got him on loan to buy along with Banega (for reported 10 million fee) and Yarmalenko (hopefully for 15-16 million) I'd be happy with our business.

We would have strengthened significantly in problem areas and would maintain our push for CL football.

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He is not moving until the Summer.

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I like coentrao, got some tricks in him, and good pace, he is not such a great defender, I remember him playing as a LM a lot of times in his old club, and once for madrid :) maybee in summer

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12 Jan 2014 10:11:11
Either Liverpool are keeping a tight lid on things or we are not going to get to involved in the window. I agree with us going out for a player only if he is right for us. But with that all said we will get a lot of confidence out of a really good signing!! SO let's KEEP THE FAITH. 3 points today would be nice YNWA.

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Dont see any first 11 signings which is a big worry this getting squad players is rubbish. The club can use the players they have as squad players and bring in 3 or 4 first teamers. Not all this window but 1 would be nice.

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12 Jan 2014 09:33:32
Liverpool management up to their old tricks again.
putting in bids for players way short of the clubs valuation, getting rejected and then ending up scraping the barrel for less quality players.

the funny thing is you would think they would have learned from the summer . but salah won't be coming or any decent player because the club keep offering embarassingly low bids.
so I ask you from august to december. what have they been doing? because as soon as it hits january rodgers is now giving excuses about players not been available or the right ones. yet before the window he was saying they will strengthen.

if a club value say this player is 5 mill if u wanna buy him, what's the point in offering 2, and then letting another club pay the fee. and you end up struggling to get a lesser player
and when you look at the squad. that's what has happened in the summer. all your targets ended up elsewhere because you wouldn't be simple and pay the price.

so it goes back to my question. what are the staff doing all these months? because if they knew the valuation the clubs set, what's the point in offering less when the window opens.
i understand not everyone wants to come to Liverpool. but I also strongly believe the club are allowing most players slip their grasp and weakening the club with crappy plans b's and C players

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{Ed039's Note - This is the reason the January transfer window is so difficult, I am not sure if it is a case of LFC putting in "a low bid" or not meeting valuations, because a player is only worth what someone is willing to pay for them, there is no forumla to working out what a player is worth in the market, and in January players always seem to have their value inflated. LFC will strengthen, but, and quite rightly, they will only do so if the right players are available at the right price)

Here comes lobster. As Manc fan you are correct. Your club valued Cesc and wig for the same amount.
P.S., they would have bought wig for lesser if they bought him before 1 month.
ynwa

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I think it's more the January window prices go sky high and fair play to the board if that's what they thinks a fair price why should they be bullied into making a higher offer just because it's mid season

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12 Jan 2014 11:03:00
yea I guess your right. thanks

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{Ed039's Note - As I said, the January market is a very difficult one, frustrating not only for the fans who would like to see some significant movement, but frustrating for buying clubs also, especially with FFP rules etc coming into play soon as well)

Its called the transfer 'market' for a reason mate, your supposed to haggle, you want £5m, ill give you £2m. Etc. If you went to buy a second hand car and you were told it would cost £2500, would you pay £2500 or try and get it for cheaper?

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Its easy for us fans to say give that 2 million more or in some cases 5 million. I personally don't even have £50,000 and you want the owner to just give up 5 million that easy lol 1 million is a lot of money and its ludicrous how much money it is to buy a player now'er days

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A player is only worth what the buying club is willing to pay. The same as any situation in life. If you go buy a car and the garage wants 10k but you know the car is only worth 8k would you just give him the money he wants or would you try and haggle to get the price down. If no compromise is reached then you walk away and look elsewhere. Same as footballers. Or you could be man utd, and it goes like this: Everton- you can buy fellaini now for 22mil until end of month but if you wait after that time he will cost more. Man utd- we want him but will come back to you later and pay you 28mil instead, would that be ok? Everton. No probs ye muppets that sounds great because he really is only worth about 12 but hae ho if you think he is worth 28mil then crack on. Red lobster, why don't you post on your own page? Do you just like to stir up other fans so you can get a reaction which in turn gives you a little tingle to your bobby and that's the only way you get a thrill? Jog on

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How many times have we overpaid for the likes of Carroll, Downing, Keane, Aquilani, Adam etc? If the player is overpriced now when we can get him for a lot less in the summer, why pay more? We will not be held to ransom any longer by clubs and agents

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Red Knobster, you lot over paid by £25m for Fellaini, so don't come over here shouting the odds over what we pay or don't pay.

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I don't get this opinion that FSG are trying to get players on the super cheap and losing out. All these posters with this opinion lack any examples, I often see Mkhitaryan mentioned, but it was him that chose not to come not a lack of a decent offer on the table. Other ones in the past such as dempsey have proved that re valuation was correct as he and others have hardly set the world alight at their new clubs.

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You're right Red Lobster, we should learn from your team and remember Fellani as a perfect example of how to professionally do business. Surely all teams as well as businesses would benefit from that brilliant model and logic! Doh!

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12 Jan 2014 08:53:47
Why do all our fans complain when lfc refuse to pay over the odds. We have been burnt before( more often than not). Please trust the people who run our club. Every1 is moaning about salah. Once again we are not prepared to pay given rate. We are moving in the right direction . From what didi an rushy have said to my dad he's almost signed just agents messin around.

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{Ed039's Note - 2 words back your statement up - Andy Carroll)

Off course you only pay "over the odds" when a player turns out to be not very good. You pay the "given rate" if they are actually quite good. The point being, who knows? Salah could turn out as handy as Suarez then the "given rate" will be a steal. Or he could turn out to be another Carroll in which case he would be on a long list of flops to play for Liverpool. Personally I think he could be quite useful and would be worth pushing the boat out for him. There are plenty of players we have who we could sell to cover the possible extra money that provide nothing to the cause.

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12 Jan 2014 03:41:46
Hello all, hope everyone had a great holiday season. Quick questions for ya Eds: With BR saying that we are only looking to bid if players are "available", does this mean we may only see one or two players join in Jan? Also any news on the U21 or U18 players going out on loan?

Keep up the great work!

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{Ed002's Note - I really don't know what you are referring to - how many were you expecting in January?}

12 Jan 2014 03:05:14
Eds, is there a possiblity you could provide a summary of players we have genuine interest in this window just to clear up the constant rehash of old rumours.

Lots of rumours recycling from the past few summers (I assume Costa is one, well out of our financial reach now he is performing the way he is as well as players such as Yarmolenko etc.)

As far as I can tell the only rumour with any substance to it is Salah and if reports are to be believed we may lose out on him because of our unwillingness to go above a certain price and the interest of other clubs and not because the player doesn't want to join.

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{Ed002's Note - I am travelling right now but should be back by THursday - ask then.}

11 Jan 2014 23:55:42
Players we have been linked with lately

ST - Abel Hernandez
RW - Mohamed Salah
AM.CM.RW - Wijnaldum
DM - Yann M'vila

Maybe two of these will join?

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