Liverpool Banter Archive August 13 2017

 

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13 Aug 2017 23:28:30
What a difference a week makes.

A week ago we'd had a great preseason, Salah was looking an inspired signing, Coutinho was staying and was happy to do so, VVD handed in a transfer request, Keita was buying a flat above the Kebab shop on Breck Road and there was even talk of Klopp being in contact with Mbappe!

Now Coutinho wants out, VVD is going to Chelsea, Keita has been gazumped, Salah's right peg is for standing on, Mbappe looks as far away from Liverpool as can be (not that I ever believed the rumour anyway) and we have just drawn away at Watford conceding 3 of the cheapest goals I've ever seen.

Truth is though nothing has really changed we are all just fickle football fans and like dogs we live in the moment. A win against Hoffeneim and we'll all be waxing lyrical about the fluency and Mane, Firmino and Salah.

But isn't that football these days? Nobody's got time. Everything has to be now and you're only as good as your last performance. We are still in good shape guys I'm still expecting a good season and one performance away from home on the opening day hasn't changed that.

Coutinho might go. He might stay. VVD might sign. He might not. Keita might sign. He might not. None of these factors will dictate our success or failure this season it's more how we settle and adapt to the changes good or bad and whatever happens we have a very competitive squad anyway. With luck on injuries we could be right in the mix. Don't let one game cloud your view on the whole season.

Believable13 Unbelievable4

13 Aug 2017 23:37:31
I enjoyed reading that mate.


13 Aug 2017 23:56:15
Cheers Irish 👍.


14 Aug 2017 00:13:30
Sense at last.


14 Aug 2017 06:55:36
Absolutely spot on Ings n things!


14 Aug 2017 10:05:15
A good read.


13 Aug 2017 23:20:11
Chelsea supposedly putting a £50 million bid in for vvd this week I hope this is countered by us and the saga comes to a happy end for us.

Believable5 Unbelievable1

14 Aug 2017 00:10:10
He'll go to Chelsea.


14 Aug 2017 00:52:09
Have you heard something Ron?

By the looks of it we need 2 centre halfs, and A Makelele type midfielder in front of them.

Migs, even now doesn't seem to believe in himself.


14 Aug 2017 03:03:16
Ron. Booo!


14 Aug 2017 04:31:19
I would sign VVD and a CDM now. Painfully obvious that our fullbacks bombing forward leaves our Cbs with a lot of ground to cover and they are not exactly top drawer, making our defense hopeless. VVD and maybe Krychowiak or Nzonzi will do for me, plus a Coutinho replacement.


13 Aug 2017 23:04:33
Hello Eds,
do you think if Coutinho goes this will affect Firminho? They are close together and with Lucas also gone, now Firminho might end up suddenly being the only Brazilian left in the team. I know Brazil national team have replicated the way the two play for us also for their national team. Not that I care how Brazil set up but their great work together for LFC guarantees them a pairing for the national team too.
Im dreading Couts move will have a knock on effect on Bobby F. He might also seek to move if we budge on Couts
Just my two pence
Thanks.

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - Why does everyone see this in such a weird light? Players come and go.}

14 Aug 2017 00:00:37
If firmino has a good year you can bet Barcelona will be after him next summer.


14 Aug 2017 00:07:36
Am I the only one having visions of firmino doing a sad version of the samba by himself because coutinho and Lucas have gone and left him?


14 Aug 2017 09:32:27
Did you see bobbys face when he set up and then celebrated salahs goal - he was fired up and ecstatic - if we start winning then magically all those little problems will just fade away!


13 Aug 2017 22:36:12
Hi ed,

I know you will be getting bored of the questions about pipco replacements and I know that Meyer is the most probable player.

But with insigne being rumoured I'm wondering have we had him checked out as I think he would be an unbelievable player to bring in.

Thanks.

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - Try the search engine.}

13 Aug 2017 22:25:19
For all those who think we should have signed Joe Hart (you know who you are) I suggest you watch MOTD.

Believable6 Unbelievable4

13 Aug 2017 22:59:57
Don't know what he could have done with any of the goals. Man Utd ripped West Ham apart at will.


13 Aug 2017 23:03:45
I'm not his biggest fan but not sure he had a howler.


14 Aug 2017 02:00:26
no thanks Razor, not interested in getting a fever today. either from MOTD or from watching Joe hart.


13 Aug 2017 22:11:37
After yesterday's shambolic defensive display, when was the last time we could actually defend? This has been going on since Benitez left, which is totally unacceptable. We will never win anything until we sort this out. I can't understand why mignolet has not been replaced, why we persist with lovren. Surely the defence/ tactics should have been reviewed by the management? If not this appears negligible to me imo. I'm absolutely gutted with the way the club is heading. Love Liverpool and will support no matter what, just my thoughts. Peace.

Believable2 Unbelievable2

13 Aug 2017 22:42:36
We were decent defensively under kenny with steve clarke as well. Glen johnson enrique skrtel agger. Skrtel won our player of the year that season too I believe and then man city came in for him. I would still only take one of those players for our back 4 right now, so that's exactly the point. The current way we play does not lend itself to be solid defensively, van dijk's sheer phyiscal capabilities would certainly help, but we will still conceed plenty the way we play.


13 Aug 2017 22:43:25
Things are not that bad, we're just as likely to roll Palace over 5-0 next match.
The team has obvious weaknesses but also many many strengths. What is important is how the manager and coaching staff address the weaknesses.
Chelsea were shambolic last season before their tactical tweak and then won 14 games in a row and stormed the league. There's no reason why we can't do the same, but it requires changes to be implemented.


13 Aug 2017 23:01:56
I hope your right Ron, my concerns are that these issues aren't new and haven't been addressed. Wouldn't surprise me if we hammered palace, it's what happens the week after that concerns me.


13 Aug 2017 23:14:36
There's a reason why we've not won anything in so long. It's because we don't address our issues. Can't see why we will start now.


14 Aug 2017 00:11:41
Maybe because Klopp knows his reputation is at stake.


13 Aug 2017 22:07:36
Ed002?
Would you expect lfc to break there transfer record again before this current transfer window is closed? I was wondering if there a website or anything to check the real amount paid for transfers. I've seen the echo report salah is our current record round about £37m-£39m but on sky sports im sure it says £34.7m. Was jus wondering how in would go about finding out the actual fees paid?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - The fee is recorded on the TMS which the public does not have access to. Just try and ignore the money.}

13 Aug 2017 22:23:58
Sorry ed I know talking money on here isn't advisable but was just curious how it all works really. It seems this particular transfer window seems more reluctance in clubs selling top players and I can't imagine this changing before the current window closes so when the inevitable happens and coutinho leaves I got a feeling we will be taken to the cleaners for players as they will know we will be armed with over £100m.


13 Aug 2017 23:09:37
The press just throw rough numbers out there, I seen a report saying with ad dons salahs cost could rise to 50mil. They just seriously love guessing stuff. There is many many many many many different fees to be paid besides the initial transfer so it is all guessing games after the 'initial reported fee'
If it was 34mil it could possibly actually be in the 50mil range with all the other carp added on. Only the teams involved will know the true figures.


13 Aug 2017 21:33:17
Why doesn't Klopp be the bigger man here and bring in some assistance on the defensive side, bring in a coach or a former player like Hyypia and get this back line sorted. I don't remember Dortmund being so disorganised what did he do there or have there that he doesn't here?

Believable3 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 22:20:29
Because Klopp is infallible.


13 Aug 2017 22:20:33
He had hummels who is not only a great CB he's a leader! And was the captain. We have Matip and Lovren neither are in the level of hummels defensively or leadership wise.


13 Aug 2017 22:23:23
Hyypia, whilst a better shout than Carragher, had an unsuccessful stint as a manager in Germany. His Leverkusen team were very poor defensively which would suggest he would not help to resolve the issues.

If you are all desperately keen to employ an ex-player to help, then Bolo Zenden is a superb young coach. Not sure he'd want to be a dedicated defensive coach, but he would be a great assistant manager. Ed002 suggested Mike Phelan. My personal choice would be Ray Wilkins.


13 Aug 2017 22:57:23
Ray Wilkins?

We could add Lance Armstrong as a fitness coach too, call it some nice clean professional additions to the backroom staff.


13 Aug 2017 23:03:17
😂

You've had a mare there MK with Butch Wilkins. You should have stuck with Bolo.

It's not a "defensive coach" we need, we need to change the way the team is set up and that is the remit of the manager alone.


13 Aug 2017 23:12:57
Wilkins had a drinking problem, not an inability to coach. Klopp has a smoking problem. Should we sack him for it?


13 Aug 2017 23:30:04
Steve Clarke?


13 Aug 2017 23:35:50
MK, your posts are usually a great read, but Wilkins, he has his own problems, and we have too many as it is, we need someone who is strong on the defensive side, I think we are quite strong up front, so no worries there mate,
Klopp makes too many basic errors for me, but who would we get to replace him .


13 Aug 2017 23:37:47
Wilkins has openly stated he 'dislikes Liverpool'. No thanks.


14 Aug 2017 00:12:48
Well, drinking too much impairs your judgement.
Smoking doesn't.


14 Aug 2017 01:00:21
Depends on what your smoking Won League. Sorry, Ron Teague.


14 Aug 2017 01:14:43
Depends what you are smoking Ron:-)


14 Aug 2017 01:59:58
1 goal conceded in 2 games against each of City, Spurs, Everton and Utd last season and two against the Chamoions Chelsea! Only Arsenal scored a few. does nobody else not think its more the players attitude when not facing the top teams that's the problem? most of the team were asleep for the 1st half Saturday, by the end of which most of the damage was done.


13 Aug 2017 21:39:29
Yes Coutinho as an absolutey quality player and we would love to keep him. But if we do keep him, is his heart in it? No, personally I can't see Coutinho playing to the level he did last year if he stays because he clearly wants to move and his head will be turned so his performance will dip imo. Ideal solution imo would be sell Coutinho now for as much as possible bring in VVD to try and shore defence up, buy Ox to give more options and sign Keita if we can persuade RBL to sell (which will be tough) but if not I'd honestly give Lanzini a shot because not only does he have PL experience he has enough talent to improve and become a regular figure in the team is he Coutinho? No but he has a similar style. So VVD, Ox, Keita/ Lanzini and I'll honestly be happy. I'd rather keep Coutinho if his head is in the game.

Believable0 Unbelievable5

13 Aug 2017 22:38:06
He'll make the World Cup team regardless if he plays well or not Neymar likely tells the coach who to pick in today's day which is sad really that players have as much power as they do.


13 Aug 2017 23:37:30
I would like us to go for Lanzini, he did not play for west ham today, wonder why . he ticks a lot of boxes .


13 Aug 2017 21:28:28
Looks like paulinho is on his way to Barcelona, I have no idea where this leaves couts. I guess its possible they could sign both.

Believable0 Unbelievable2

{Ed002's Note - It, like everything else in the world is nothing whatsoever to do with Coutinho.}

13 Aug 2017 22:33:53
There has to be some outgoings within Barcelona I suspect if Paulinho, Coutinho/ Dembele comes in. With Rakitic, Andre Gomes, Rafina, Denis Suarez, Arda Turan and Sergi Roberto all looking for a place in that midfield?


{Ed002's Note - Yes - they have a list of surplus players - it have been dealt with.}

13 Aug 2017 21:14:23
Why was Andy Robertson not in the squad yesterday? Is he injured?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - RTP.}

13 Aug 2017 21:51:19
I tried the search function and found nothing either, 2hotty. Perhaps it's a smokescreen to distract everyone from a marquee signing? I'm hating this transfer window.


13 Aug 2017 22:31:05
Ed002 said yesterday that Robertson just wasn't selected. ie. no injury or fitness problem.


13 Aug 2017 22:46:37
cheers, just found the same post. find it really odd that he wasn't picked, even for the bench.


14 Aug 2017 03:11:02
Moreno. Shop window. Etc.


13 Aug 2017 20:53:57
eds question for you. if couts does go (personally I think he will) and you were Liverpool manager at this time, who would you buy with the £€$? I think we need a cb (vvd, koulibay) and a holding midfielder (nzonzi, medel) i don't think we need attackers if we can keep Sturridge fit ( I know it's a big "if") but he can be the difference with firmino in the hole with good back up with origi, solanke and Ings as back up. I think we can score goals for fun but we lack players who organise at the back we need big leaders. Players who will not get bullied and are willing to put there body on the line which I think we are lacking in this current squad. Would love to hear your thoughts eds.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - I have answered this on a number of occasions. Meyer perhaps.}

13 Aug 2017 21:11:19
THanks eds just didn't know which one would reply.


13 Aug 2017 21:16:15
I appreciate you we're asked for you opinion Ed but I don't understand personally what Max Meyer has done to be anything close to a replacement for Coutinho.

He's just a kid.


13 Aug 2017 21:31:10
I'd rather give our own kids a chance.


13 Aug 2017 21:40:16
I don't mind replacing Coutinho, will do it for 10% off his wages and will add some much needed ruthlessness to the side for next to nothing if you don't include my wages and the 20 B&H gold I'd need daily, if someone could get me into touch with Klopp I'd appreciate it

Cheers.


13 Aug 2017 23:37:42
I would rather play Firmino in the position that Coutinho would have been playing and buy someone like Aubameyang or Belotti.


13 Aug 2017 20:53:54
I have read here that we have no leaders in the team. Shouldn't Henderson be more of a leader 'he is the captain.

Believable4 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 21:21:35
I think Henderson does a good job personally. I think there are many factors tho why there aren't that many leaders in a lot of teams nowadays. But we do seem to be a club lacking. I always think more local lads would help.


13 Aug 2017 21:22:43
He can't do it all on his pal, east at least need a strong keeper or centre back.


13 Aug 2017 22:06:47
I said it last season, we have a lot of players who are liable to phone in performances when it's not another team in the top six they're up against.

And Hendo and Milner, whilst they're good pros in their own right who always give everything, aren't strong or vocal enough to captain a team like that and keep people on their toes, imo. They're just too nice, basically.


13 Aug 2017 22:08:57
i think people are talking about a more directive leader. stevie wasn't this type of leader either. people like carra (and unfortunately I can't think of anyone else recent enough.! ) who would take responsibility of their own sh*t as well as get things organized for their team.


13 Aug 2017 22:14:11
Big fan of hendo as a player, but was quite saddened by his lack of reaction to the 2nd goal we conceeded.


13 Aug 2017 23:31:39
No one really reacts when we concede a goal, that's part of the problem.


13 Aug 2017 20:53:53
Andy anfield I think I would expect more than one pass to judge a players performance over 90 mins, I judge midfielders b y their ability to grab the game by the scruff of the neck and impose themselves particularlywhen things are not going well and believe me as a Liverpool supporter I have seen quite a few as I am sure you may have. Sorry if my opinion upset you.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 20:42:58
No VVD no Keita and possibly no Couts what should have been our chance to finally push into being a serious and continuous top 4 contender lies in ruins and I'm sorry if I sound miserable but if Couts goes and we can't get anyone else in then 5th or 6th is where we will finish this season . Terrible shame as i seriously thought for the first time in 25yrs plus that were we actually going to start building a team and squad to match any of our rivals .

Believable9 Unbelievable5

13 Aug 2017 20:47:07
Stop crying.


13 Aug 2017 20:56:23
OP, VVD and Keita have been a no-go from the get-go. Why do you seem so surprised and sound sad, exactly?


13 Aug 2017 20:58:29
Just finished my second box of Kleenex there now Davey 😭😭 all I was trying to state was what seemed so positive before the transfer window opened has been very disappointing if you think that this squad minus Couts will really challenge this year then your deluded my friend.


13 Aug 2017 21:05:35
There are 18 days left in the window, the club are no doubt actively pursuing deals (with the Eds and Macca already pointing out that something may be possible regarding VVD and Keita) . Overall we've improved the squad thus far and I know it's not enough and I know we need to continue working on our deficiencies but how about we get behind the team and remain optimistic for the season? It's one game in, last year Chelsea's start wasn't the best (and were torn apart by Arsenal as well as being soundly beaten by us) but went on to win it. Whinging about everything on the first weekend of the season doesn't in anyway help. I don't mean to rant but but we're all in it together and we have to get behind the team, and that means staying positive.


13 Aug 2017 21:46:53
Window isn't shut yet lad. I have a feeling there's a lot being worked on behind the scenes. If Coutinho goes and it's looking increasingly likely, despite what ex Liverpool players are saying on TV, I think the club will make a huge statement. Have a little faith, it's still early days.


13 Aug 2017 20:37:30
Question on the VVD situation (Yes I did use the search function first :P)

So why precisely can we not bid for him? What would actually happen? I am not asking what did happen, that has been written about at length. Although we royally p****d off Saints what happened that is such a threat we now won't bid? It makes no sense. If we did something horrendous Saints would have made their complaint official. So that can't be the case.

Ed02 mentioned FA are not involved and 'people are making stuff up'. But what would be the reality of us bidding now?

Believable0 Unbelievable2

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool withdrew all interest in the player when the apology for the illegal approach was made. Nobody has said Liverpool "can't" bid. There has been a formal complaint made by Southampton.}

13 Aug 2017 21:18:26
Thanks Ed002. So in your opinion we have no interest anymore? Because Saints made the complaint? If that is the case then it seems very unlikely that Saints anger would disappear. Which would mean there won't be a deal.


{Ed002's Note - This has been done to death.}

13 Aug 2017 22:09:27
am i right in saying for us to bid for van dijk, that southampton would have to contact liverpool first to give the go ahead?


{Ed002's Note - RTFP.}

13 Aug 2017 22:13:11
if liverpool went against what their previous public statement said and submitted a bid to southampton, would their be some kind of acceleration to Soton's formal complaint? is it a matter of shame for the owners if they did that? or does it implicate the club in further loss of credibility and respect in world football that would have long lasting effects on the club? I think that's what BB is asking?


{Ed002's Note - Go and read the posts.}

13 Aug 2017 23:21:28
Ed2 I think it’s time to do a VD post ban like the Keita post ban 😂.


13 Aug 2017 20:36:56
I am not advocating sacking Klopp but wanted to gauge opinion. Do you prefer the style of football we play; good attacking flair but crippled by defensive frailties, or would you prefer the approach adopted by someone like Simeone; a more pragmatic approach built on a solid defensive unit, but less likely to get you out of your seat?
For me, I want to see us win and if that means losing some flair in exchange for regular cleans sheets, I think I would take it - despite loving some of the football we play at times.

Believable3 Unbelievable6

13 Aug 2017 21:05:29
Bobby, it is a fine line we have to walk regarding attacking flair and defensive steel. We are who we are. We are built to attack and we are darn awesome at it and would not change it for nothing as our players are not built for this. Our system may need to be tweaked defensively to mitigate against allowing attacks.

Also, you have to look at the nos. Yesterday, Watford only had 3 shots on target from open play. That is darn good defensive work away from home. We scored 3 goals and could have scored 5 had we taken our chances. That is how darn good we are offensively. But as we all know in football, set pieces are the greatest equalizer and that is how we blew the game.

Our defensive setup on set pieces was crap from the jump plus, if you have players who lack the leadership and bottle to attack crosses, remaining static when the ball is in the air whereas the opposition already has a running start on you, don't be shocked when you concede. VVD will not help you here. The setup and leadership qualities is what is at fault here esp. with players not taking charge of clearing the ball efficiently when it gets to them.


13 Aug 2017 21:02:49
Not at all, i think the football we play is what sets us apart from teams like chelsea and utd.

For longer than i can remember 3 of my mates (all utd) have been crying about the boring style of football their team has been playing.

We might have defensive problems and we may have only won 1 league cup in the last 10 years but i love watching my team slaughter the likes of city, spurs and arsenal with our high tempo fast flowing football.

I think poor defending is easier to fix than poor attack.


13 Aug 2017 21:37:33
Proof that any system works is shown by trophies and progress. Last year we got 4th, that's progress.

Can we build on that? Not if we lose key players and don't strengthen where weak.

Have we done that? As of yet, for me, the answer is no and we saw signs of the same mistakes and defensive frailties on Saturday.

If we don't have the quality players we have to change system. With Mane and Salah's pace do we have the perfect players for a strong defensive set up and hit on break?


13 Aug 2017 22:17:48
I like how we play. I just don't like how we've recruited. we don't often have a succession plan that is good enough to build on top of whichever player is heading out the door.
We've struggled to identify players who can play our style and also have that strength of character to pull us out of these kinds of lapses of concentration. I think we have genuinely good guys in the team who are genuine fighters at what they do best. But everyone's resilience is tested best when faced with trauma, and our guys haven't been able to consistently step up to the mark. It means we can compete, but that ultimately we're constantly fighting an uphill battle. cos eventually poor form and injuries will come, then it becomes about the leaders in the team who can pull us through. my view is that we haven't thought through that aspect of the recruiting very well.


13 Aug 2017 23:26:41
If we ever started playing defensively I guarantee the chants around the stadium will be
"Attack, attack. Attack attack attack. " which we haven't heard for some years now 😂
I myself love goal galore games because it is entertaining. Our defence being so brittle and conceding so many goals keeps my heart rate metabolism extremely high and the goals we score bring joy after joy.


13 Aug 2017 20:08:18
Klopp was talking about trying to bring in an experienced midfielder.
I think the Polish player at PSG who played for Seville, Krychowiak would be perfect for us.
I don't think he was used much in his 1st season with psg and with them spending big, it might be worth looking in his direction.
Big unit and can play a bit too.
Ed02 can tell us if it's a possibility or not, people have been asking who could we get I think he would be perfect solution for a cdm.

Believable6 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 20:26:05
Love Krychowiak, would be a good holding midfielder for us. I got to figure PSG would look to sell a midfielder given their current abundance of Midfielders and pursuit of others!


13 Aug 2017 21:06:58
I would take him too. He is a true DM who is a very good passer of the ball and Ed02 has said that PSG will be willing to sell cos they need to move guys on due to the Neymar deal. Now whether he will come to us, is a diff. story.


13 Aug 2017 19:39:21
The Coutinho saga, will he play mid week in the CL qualifier which would potentially see Barcelona become less intent on signing him.
The question is, will he become a disruptive influence in the same way Tevez was or would he buckle down and wait until next summer.
If Liverpool do sell, will you get adequate replacements in for him. Once you sell a player for the amounts being quoted, it will only encourage clubs whose players your are interested in to ask for more money. If Coutinho goes and you don't get anyone in, then that is a huge loss.

Believable2 Unbelievable5

13 Aug 2017 19:51:45
Playing in the qualifier won't cup-tie him for the competition proper, so playing Hoffenheim won't effect his move to Barcelona.

Also Klopp says he's unlikely to play due to injury.


13 Aug 2017 19:58:17
You do know the qualifier won't rule him out of playing for another club in CL?


13 Aug 2017 20:20:06
I don't think he will play again until this situation has been resolved, one way or the other.


13 Aug 2017 21:56:56
If we defend like that v Hoffenheim, we won't have to worry about anyone being cup tied for the CL proper, cos we won't be in it.

Our performances at Set pieces are killing us and draining any momentum and confidence.

All our players seem to freeze at set pieces. We need somebody who will row Z the ball.


13 Aug 2017 19:38:44
the mid field of Gina, he do, and can is pedantic, predictable, no flare. The defence is awful, we knew this, same players as last season. if we sign VVD we at least have a player who will attempt to get his head to the ball at corners, but he will not sort all the problems, this is what worries me most and I think I can be forgiven for thinking our defensive coaching is not good and who ever oversees it is tactically nieve and needs replacing.

Believable4 Unbelievable7

13 Aug 2017 19:52:22
Ridiculous observation. That same midfield with no flair that flicked the ball through on a one-two for Mane's goal? Henderson who often looked to bring TAA and Moreno forward to open up their organised defense?
Gini was superb last season, a real box to box midfielder.
Yes, they need some work defensively but it was our first game.
Our defense in general I do agree with, we simply need to look at our defensive set up and start over.


13 Aug 2017 19:59:39
well said Andy. seems to me too many slagging him off. Last night you could pick most the team as being weak, but Gini for me has been a really solid, if not magical player.
He looks like he wants to be part of this team, scored, tries hard to make things happen. He is not the most dynamic player but does a good job.


13 Aug 2017 20:15:25
If we hadn't scored you'd have a point but you can't blame midfield for no flair when your team scores 3 on the road. crazy post.


13 Aug 2017 20:31:32
Early days but if Klopp does not address the key issues then we are in for a very disappointing season. To begin with he needs to start with a proper striker. This is PL not German or Spanish leagues, even the bottom side has the ability to score a goal or two, so you can't afford to miss so many chances. If he can't buy anyone, put Solanke in. Midfield engine of Hendo, Can and Gini is very weak. I know eds would slaughter me for this but Hendo has no quality and Can only has quality for 5-10 minutes a game. Only Gini out of those three should remain in the starting 11. Defense with Moreno and Lovern is a disaster bigger than titanic. TAA is definitely not ready and Clyne is mediocre at best. We needed to buy Ox and put him at right/ wing back (ala Valencia at Man U), put 3 CBs and Robertson at left/ wing back.


13 Aug 2017 20:32:01
IMO, I love gini in our squad, but feel a midfield of Gini, Hendo and Can won't get us to the next level. and i'm not basing that opinion on yesterdays game alone. Gini off the bench I can see, Can I could see being sold and I know he's our captain, i've just never been a big Hendo fan. Still hope he does well, I personally would just rather see someone else in a holding role. Krychowiak might not be a bad option, Vidal is one of my fabvorites and although time isn't on his side, might be the leadership and credibility we need in mid. Thoughts?


13 Aug 2017 21:14:16
OP, you cannot on one hand say we were not creative in midfield whereas on the other hand, we created 7 clear chances, hit the bar and scored 3 goals and could have scored 5 easily. If that shows a lack of creativity then you should be excited at what we can do when we become really creative. I do agree with you that the Hendo-Gini-Can trident look too similar individually. I would put Grujic in place of Gini, Hendo or Can as he is very diff. to all those players, a true B2B CM with goals in his locker. Gini has goals too but not like Grujic. Worth a try, IMO.


13 Aug 2017 19:35:40
I can see why Liverpool wanted KEITA so much anyone see his goal for Leipzig today he looks really powerful pity they didn't sell would of been a great addiction.

Believable5 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 20:01:24
Think he has been an addiction to klopp and some of the fans on here . might be best if we go cold turkey.


13 Aug 2017 20:24:24
Yes, it's easier to have an opinion on potential signings we know nothing about.


13 Aug 2017 19:08:26
Eds, max meyer is a name im really interested in, I think he would be a perfect addition to liverpools attack, playing behind firmino or out on the left side. I've watched a lot of him, well as much as I can being I live in the states, and in the games I've seen, he seems like a perfect fit. Do you see him as the most likely player Liverpool signs before the window closes to replace Phil? Or even to be the back up if we don't sell, knowing Phil wants to leave? The attack against watford really seemed to be lacking in the middle of the field, other than emre can pushing up the ball. I really think more goals could of been had if Phil or someone could of been pushing the ball up. Thanks for your time.

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{Ed002's Note - I cannot sensibly answer "most likely" questions Chris but he is a player that Liverpool are aware of and as I have said I think he would be a good fit.}

13 Aug 2017 20:24:35
One year left on contract too, so hopefully not too costly.

Kovacic could be a good shout too, and what happened to Ante Coric?


13 Aug 2017 21:16:26
Ed02, I'm not sold on Max Meyer as I am not that impressed with him and he is no Cou, for sure. The only true replacement for Cou would be Eriksen but Spurs won't sell, clearly. What makes you think he would be a good fit, pls?


{Ed002's Note - Liverpool has shown no interest in Ericksen.}

13 Aug 2017 22:21:49
He's stood still last couple of years but remember seeing him a few years ago in a Champions League game against Real. think he was only 18 and he was señsational. Remember thinking he was going to be something special.


13 Aug 2017 19:03:36
Hi eds with only 18 days left of this transfer window do you see Liverpool sorting their glaring problems. thanks as always.

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{Ed002's Note - RTFP.}

13 Aug 2017 19:00:41
we should let Coutinho go imo drop Firmino back into number 10 position and sign Aubamayang as our main striker, firmino is a attacking midfielder and not a out and out striker anyway.

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13 Aug 2017 21:17:47
Really? Another Auba link? And what do we do with the 4/ 5 other strikers we have? And who says Bobbie will be good in the no. 10 role cos I don't see it?


13 Aug 2017 18:35:14
What I don't get is how fans can go from the best coach to the worst coach after just one game. After another good win then he is the best again. Just beyond me.

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{Ed002's Note - It is because they are fickle.}

13 Aug 2017 19:15:31
Totally agree. One game in a long season. We used to have faith and stick together. I'm a believer. I always will be. ynwa.


13 Aug 2017 19:33:49
We should just sack him. im sure the likes of Ancelotti, Simeone or Zidane would be beating our door down to come manage Lfc. Playstation generation supporters.


13 Aug 2017 20:04:56
Well at least with Ancelotti he is old school and we wouldn't be dealing with this tapping up situation. Our targets would be in place and the clubs name not tarnished. I do believe he was interested in the Liverpool job but he wanted to build a spine of a team first. For some reason it didn't materialize.


13 Aug 2017 20:19:17
I'm more than happy with him. Just wish he'd tighten up our Leaky defence.


13 Aug 2017 20:47:10
Klopp is a fantastic manager and we are lucky to have him.


13 Aug 2017 20:48:57
Ha. old school so wudnt tap up? i give up.


13 Aug 2017 20:54:33
Wasnt Ancelotti Chelsea manager when Torres went there?


13 Aug 2017 21:20:24
And what has Ancelotti done at Bayern exactly? And btw, winning the Bundesliga does not count as an achievement as it is a one team league. I love Klopp and would not trade him for anyone but he really needs to sort out his mistakes on and off the pitch ASAP.


13 Aug 2017 18:34:05
Moving more forward from our defence, let's forget the MSN at Barcelona. We have MSF now at Liverpool. A goal a piece. Not a bad start.

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13 Aug 2017 19:12:24
Sorry to rain on your Parade but Neymar has left Barcelona!


13 Aug 2017 18:30:38
We are entering the most crucial 18 days of our season. 18 days that will determine whether we are in the Champions League, whether we hang on to our main asset, and whether we go with the squad that we've got till at least January.

I fear for us if this is the squad that we effectively have to utilise for the rest of the season. This negativity isn't based on yesterday's result, a game we should've won easily, but on what we've all witnessed over a sustained period of time. Totally inept defending which clearly isn't being addressed on the training ground.

I'm struggling to recall a time when I wouldn't be bothered one iota if we were to get shot of everyone of our keepers and entire defence and start again. This clearly isn't going to happen, but unless there is major improvement (and I just can't see it happening) or there is personnel added, I fear for us this season.

Like I say, an important 18 days.

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13 Aug 2017 18:25:24
These Insigne rumours are simply rumours. How could Napoli agree to sell their best player so close to the end of the transfer window? If as Ed002 claims, Liverpool were informed a year ago that Coutinho wanted to leave then they should have planned for a replacement. If Keita were the replacement then as in the case of VVD they messed up. Evidently they underestimated RBL'S resolve which shows that who's in charge of transfers has no guile. Ed 002.you refer to alternatives to Coutinho but you overestimate LFC's ability to negotiate successfully transfers. It won't happen 15 days before the window closes.

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{Ed002's Note - There is no reason at all to assume that Liverpool cannot, if the choose, negotiate the transfer of Max Meyer who has less than a year left on his contract in the time available. There is a lot that is still going to happen across the board in regards to transfers.}

13 Aug 2017 19:36:33
No guile? we offer a team almost their entire yearly turnover and they turn it down. Fair play to them i say but the club did all it could.


13 Aug 2017 18:16:49
Hello Reds, it's been a long time since I've been on here.

After the draw with Watford and the window still open who should we target as VDV and Keita appear to be unlikely.

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13 Aug 2017 19:34:18
Van der vaart is a bit past it. Would've been a shout in his prime.


13 Aug 2017 19:57:10
It's ok Scouse pride, I'm always getting mixed up and calling Van Dyke, Van Der Vaart. Don't know why.


13 Aug 2017 18:07:00
Doubters to believers, was Klopp's message from the beginning of his tenure. Over those 22 months we have made progress, players improving and targets hit (top 4 16/ 17). Yet we the fan base seem to be in a negative spiral of doom and gloom at the moment. I admit my concern at the defensive lapses from yesterday must be addressed one way or another once and for all. But the attacking trio Mane, Firmino, Salah look very dangerous, not to mention the depth behind them. Sturridge, Origi and Solanke anybody? Coutinho is an artist any team in the world would be sad to lose, but the club is bigger than any one individual, we'd move on like before ala Keegan, Rush, McManaman, Owen, Saurez. Transfer window is still open and as far as I can see our top target's haven't moved to rival's as has been the situation in previous windows. Rival's domestically also having issues regards squad building. Chelsea seems to be doing the usual infighting again. Spurs have for them a golden generation/ team but they haven't won anything yet and if they don't this season will the squad break up, showing signs of fracture already with Rose. City spent a fortune again, but still not convinced that there recruitment this season is any better than the last 2. Arsenal similar to ourselves, lack of signings they wanted, plus questions about star player. Utd still maybe lacking creativity and pace in wide positions. Let's see how things look after six games, keep optimism and cast aside doubt and have some patience before we make drastic judgements on our season ahead.

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13 Aug 2017 18:30:20
You are right, we should wait and judge after 6 games that's why I've framed from posting after the match and it's good to read a positive post atm.
I am however really worried with our defence and I don't see why Gomez isn't given a chance, what do we have to lose.


13 Aug 2017 19:19:10
Is that the same gomez whose first involement was to give the needless free kick that resulted in mignolet saving for the corner which resulted in the the third goal.


13 Aug 2017 21:24:05
Spot on, OP. I will say that Klopp's subs were terrible as 007, alluded to. TAA played 90 mins. Why was he subbed off for the final 5 mins of added time for Gomez, who was not in rhythm and was caught out every time he touched the ball.


13 Aug 2017 18:02:57
Hi Eds, so Veratti was Barca's 1st choice. He wanted to join and PSG refused to sell. Exactly same scenario with Couts. Am surprised Barcelona didn't use Neymar sale as leverage. Thanks.

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{Ed002's Note - No, it is not the same situation at all. Coutinho has been talking to international colleagues about Barcelona for more than a year, he used Neymar to approach them and I have explained on a number of occasions about his agent visiting them in October 2016. He has made his position clear to Liverpool and now he has formally requested a transfer giving up £4M or £5M to try and get the move. Verratti has done none of that. You seem to struggle with all of this if you cannot tell the difference.}

13 Aug 2017 18:21:23
So in that same year he was courting Barcelona and his agent making illegal moves on his behalf he signed a new contract for a massive pay rise and no buy out clause, now he's throwing his toys out of the pram and throwing out false stories bout falling out with the manager over the last 6 months, I hope to god the club stand firm on this, Barcelona think they can just take who they want and it's about time someone stood up to them,


13 Aug 2017 18:37:58
Barcelona will just reimburse him his losses so no big worry is it? We are shocking in the transfer market it's either really poor transfer committee or fsg not willing to pump more money into the club.


{Ed002's Note - You seem to not understand how any of this works at all. You certainly have no grasp at all about money.}

13 Aug 2017 17:58:27
I no its early but i think liverpool will struggle with this squad to get into the top 4 . manu look good a strong forward line mean defence. man city strong all round . spurs good 11 . arsenal signed a striker will score 20 goals.
Liverpool strong forward line . shocking defence . it is so frustrating as a supporter to watch a manager not addressing a back line which is shipping goals .
How about Klopp recruiting carragher as a defensive coach.

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{Ed002's Note - Wouldn't the club look to a qualified and experienced defensive coach rather than an ex-player?}

13 Aug 2017 18:15:50
Utd flew out of the blocks last season along with Man City. Spurs still haven't won a title in how many years? Conte was under pressure and then went on to win the league. But we do need to see a marked improvement sooner rather than later. I doubt that we will get in a defensive coach because Klopp probably won't go there as he wouldn't want to be undermined. We have already seen his stubbornness in relation to Sakho.


13 Aug 2017 18:46:51
Because Carragher is a mouth piece on a football TV show, not a coach. How did it work out for Neville?

These pundits think they know but they don't know anymore than me or you. You might as well put yourself forward!

All these ex-player pundits are bottlers anyway. Instead of coaching, they took the easy route of slagging off their ex-team mates and adversaries on TV for dirty money.

Leave them to it.


{Ed002's Note - If the club is looking for someone then Mike Phelan fits the bill perfectly - and he is available. But that is not how Klopp works.}

13 Aug 2017 19:38:50
Bring back Steve Clark.


13 Aug 2017 17:52:22
So macca, how's that house search going? 🙄.

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13 Aug 2017 17:39:01
Eds rather than faf about back and forth between Barcelona at this stage in the transfer window why don't LFC just give them a demand of £xxx and have it wrapped up, let him go whilst there's time to actually do something with squillions they get for him! I know they say transfers are complicated but surely now he's in effect forcing the move.

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{Ed002's Note - He cannot force the move and transfers rarely work like that.}

13 Aug 2017 17:20:12
Hi ed002,

First of all thanks for the work on the site, your insight is fantastic as always.

If Klopp wasn't in charge today who would be the manager/ coach you would turn too. An upcoming name or a well established?

Regards

Crooky.

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{Ed002's Note - I would have taken Jorge Jesus at the time. I am not going to get in to who I think should replace Klopp until nearer the time when he is being replaced.}

13 Aug 2017 17:47:20
Which could be soon if we keep conceding soft goals!


13 Aug 2017 17:51:32
If Pep hadn't screwed Bayern around, we could easily have ended up with Ancelotti, with Klopp at Bayern. Football's a funny game sometimes.


13 Aug 2017 17:57:13
And there is every chance klopp will still go to Bayern in 2019.


13 Aug 2017 18:05:35
Unless Klopp pulls off something spectacular at LFC this season I can't see Bayern being that interested to be honest.


13 Aug 2017 17:33:07
Ed01, from reading the site over the years it appears to me that you have links within the club, so if I may can I ask you a couple of questions
Firstly, has your opinion ever been asked regarding how the team is performing, strengths weaknesses etc?
Secondly, has you opinion ever been sought regarding who you feel would be a good transfer target.
Finally, is there anyone in the club equally freaked like the fans with how poor our defending is and how poor the organisation of the defending is, or do they all trust Klopp unequivocally?

Thanks for your time.

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{Ed001's Note - 1) Not in a very long time no.
2) No, never.
3) Yes, there are quite a few, which was the same last season and led to a change in play at the end of the season, when we kept 4 (I think) clean sheets.}

13 Aug 2017 17:44:28
Such a pity about 1 and 2 mate, I think in this day and age knowledge and opinion should be sought especially when available from people who know the subject matter so well.


{Ed001's Note - the issue is mate, and I have seen this a lot, coaches who have spent time and money getting qualifications develop an arrogance and believe they are above criticism from anyone who has not got them. I have heard and read, in various places, coaches give petty little digs at anyone who dares criticise their opinion, and been on the receiving end of one particularly nasty little verbal attack myself on LinkedIn from a guy who thought he knew better because he had badges and I don't. It was bad enough when it was just ex-pros involved in coaching, they would get arsey about anyone having a different opinion that hadn't played at their level. Now these coaching badges have made a lot of coaches think they are above criticism by us mere mortals mate. I have stopped even bothering to even give an opinion outside of the sites these days mate. It is not like the old days, the likes of Shanks, Paisley, Fagan and Evans would sit and chat with fans and pick their brains. Probably why there are no truly world class coaches any more, just world class spenders.....}

13 Aug 2017 17:16:36
I think one of Klopp's flaws is that he does not appreciate the fact that good defending is an art. Football is not just about attacking in numbers and scoring. You should also be able to defend in order to protect a lead. Klopp needs to be pragmatic.

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13 Aug 2017 17:41:08
I know there were two goals prior, but Watford's final goal was due to Wijnaldum not dealing with what came his way at the near post. That's not really the "defence's" fault. Defending set pieces is a team skill, and everyone in it needs to be able to do the job.


13 Aug 2017 17:08:23
Hi eds

Im asking this and im going to say upfront im sorry for asking but I am like many reds fans getting concerned about our defense and the Coutinho situation. I have 3 things I wanted your views on please.

Are we actually talking to other clubs at this stage in the window to try and bring players in? I no you and Macca have said your thoughts but you have also said we have not made new contact with Saints or RBL.

Can you see a way back for Coutinho after his TR, In terms of the fans and Klopp putting him back in the team, I ask because imo I can't see anyway back and we have to sell him.

Is all of the above on hold until we know what's happening with Pipco, meaning we will have a better idea of funds and indeed if we need to replace him or not.

Thank you in advance. I hope your not to pissed at me asking.

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{Ed002's Note - (a) Liverpool will look to speak to clubs about players, but there has obviously been no contact with Southampton at all. Macca says that the club are again interested in Keita - but I am not aware of any further approach to RBL by Liverpool. (b) Coutinho has been courting Barcelona for more than a year. If the club refuse to sell him then he stays. (c) Aside from a replacement, none of this is impacted by Pipco.}

13 Aug 2017 17:35:48
Cheers for reply ed. Really appreciate it. I guess we sit tight and see what develops over the last 2 weeks of the window.


{Ed002's Note - Right.}

13 Aug 2017 17:08:06
Hey Eds.
After watching yesterday game I think we need good defender who can lead back line. Are we interested in someone except VVD? Do you think Sakho will get another chance if he apologizes to Klopp? If Coutinho leaves it will be difficult to replace him. A. Firmino will play in his position and Sturidge Origi Solankee will play up front. B. Wood burn will get chance to play regularly in first team?
My opinion is PC should stay with us. He was bench warmer at Inter. Rodgers brought him here and LFC developed him in great player. If he wanted to leaves why he signed the contract with us in January and lied everything he said. I know each South American has dream to play for Barcelona and Real Madrid. But for me Barcelona best time is gone. We will see down fall of them soon.

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{Ed002's Note - There was a very low offer for Kalidou Koulibaly that was rejected and Liverpool were looking at Mahamadou Dembele but he would have been one for the reserves. Klopp wants Sakho gone from the club. Woodburn may get to sit on the bench now and again and perhaps get a run out in the League Cup. As I have explained over and over, Coutinho has been courting Barcelona for more than a year.}

13 Aug 2017 17:03:24
Ed02 if your about.

A lot of people talk about players and their contracts and also the way to approach a club correctly about buying a player which we have not done.

How does it work regarding a current manager? Can they just resign from their position or is tgeir a rule on how a coach/ manager of another club has to be approached first through their current club and can clubs refuse this?

Got me thinking if Klopp left 2018 season for BM and FSG and the board decided we would like Pochettino or Allegri how would should they go about it and what would generally be involved? Is it different from country to country or the same. are there any restrictions etc?

Thanks in advance if you have the time to respond!

Cheers

Jon.

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{Ed002's Note - Managers are contracted in a similar way to players Jon. If Liverpool wished to approach a manager contracted to another side they would make some "discreet" enquiries, typically via a third party, to establish if they would be open to an approach and then they would have to contact that manager's club to say that they would like to speak with him.}

13 Aug 2017 19:03:55
Thank you so much Ed02! Very much appriciated.


13 Aug 2017 17:01:00
Eds
Klopp has had 4 transfer windows since he took over. Surely in this time the defence should have been fixed
Do you think he's done good or bad business in this time? IMO he's bought some quality in but nowhere near enough.

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{Ed002's Note - I have already answered this but much of the problem coming from many of the mans who see Klopp as a "world class coach" and not for watt he really is, a decent coach.}

13 Aug 2017 17:25:45
We should not ignore JK'sa very good record against top 6 sides, further managers would killed girl that, so he knows how to motivate and set-up for an open game, but equally you cannot ignore poor record against alternative opposition and finals. The latter are both different tactical tests and he seems to fall short. So all in all a likeable manager, who has done quite well but a long way short of great so far, and unlikely to do much better without a major rethink about what he wants from defenders. Good defence is about a system but it's also about individuals who tackle, cover, go in when and where it hurts, and can think for themselves. Not much sign of that at present and he has to take responsibility for it.


13 Aug 2017 16:46:41
Hi Eds.
Do you think we did good business this transfer window? Do you believe we can challenge for title? If we look at Man City, Man Utd they build very good squad. Also all pundits and Steve G said last night that we won't sell PC. but one unhappy player upset rest of the players.
Thanks.

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{Ed002's Note - (a) The club has not done the business the manager wanted at all. Much of this is due to how the manager went about business. So at this time the business has not been good. (b) I think that might be tough.}

13 Aug 2017 16:45:38
Just wanted to add my 2 cents from yesterday.
Positives: mane played very well and linked up well with Salah a few times too. Bobby had a decent second half after an awful first.
Negatives: where to start?!
Moreno was his usual rash self. Dived in and got nowhere near it for their second goal. Hope he never plays again for us. He is so bad.
The team lacked any cohesion and looked like a bunch of strangers playing together. First game of the season though so understandable. Watford were just as bad.
Lovren got bullied all day.
Can and wiji shouldn't play together. For me they are too similar and cause a big lack of imagination in our midfield.
Set pieces. Same old story. Set up is completely wrong. Allowing opposing players free runs at our 6 yard line. No bravery from anyone. Fitmino and matip for the first goal and wijnaldum for the 3rd.
Substitutions! Gomez on for TAA was idiotic. Sure bring him on to add height from set plays. But take off moreno. Origi was gash. Milner didn't do much other than blunt our counter attack.
The fact that a lot of these negatives are avoidable by better coaching is the worrying thing. I love Klopp but I'm not blinded to his many mistakes. He must improve massively or he has no-one else to blame for our failings but himself.
Sorry for the rant!

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13 Aug 2017 17:01:54
good post Jason .


13 Aug 2017 17:19:05
I agree Moreno was useless but to be hoenst the midfield three were all as bad as each other, no tackling, no vision not the usual pressing. I know they're all capable of Jt so assuming it's just the one game. TAA substitute was a random one and instead of origi solanke should have been brought on ANYBODY who knows Liverpool FC know we can't rest on a 1 goal lead, as much as I think origi gets hard time solanke is always going to be the more likely to score. But it just seemed like we as a team weren't up for it, wayward passing pressing less effective it was farcical at times.


13 Aug 2017 16:01:44
A question for ed001, if coutinho leaves and it looks like it will, would you target a player specifically to replace him or would you alter the team in some way, as in playing firmino deeper and starting an out an out striker.
Also, seeing as we made the same mistakes yesterday as we've been making for so long, what would you have done, buy a new CB or make changes to the way we play or both?
Thank you.

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{Ed001's Note - no replacement for Couts out there. We need both changes to the way we play and players in the team.}

13 Aug 2017 16:50:04
I agree ed001. A lot of people have been saying we need a holding midfielder who sits in front of the back 4. I think that's right, I think Klopp needs to swallow his pride and give it a try.
Last time we had a good defensive midfielder breaking up attacks was with Mascherano and we had a really solid defence. Granted we had Carra and Reina at the back, but I think a defensive midfielder is needed now. Who should that be? I've no idea but Carvallho is available.


{Ed001's Note - Obiang?}

13 Aug 2017 20:53:14
Agreed Ron, felt we needed a holding MF for years! Carvalho would be decent, Kimmich (although he won't be leaving Bayern), Diawara? Krychowiak.


13 Aug 2017 15:31:55
Hi eds,

Just a question from a disgruntled LFC fan in relation to FSG, do you firmly believe that Jurgen Klopp has the full support of FSG, James Pearce had indicated that LFC had 200m to spend in this transfer window, surely any quality manager looking at our defence over the past 18 months would have identified reasonable solutions to our defensive situation and made the necessary changes to improve the team, VVD aside, surely Klopp with a 200m warchest has the capacity to purchase alternatives or is Klopp being held back by the FSG profit making machine who are only interested in supplementing the Boston Red Sox.

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{Ed002's Note - I don't get why the Liverpool fans are so concerned with the owners of the club. The club runs itself and has its own board of directors. FSG as a business do not directly interfere with the day to day running. I have no idea why anyone mentioned a budget but obviously Klopp identified back in April (to select member of the press) the four targets that he wanted. I know nothing of any "war chest". Why don't you ask James Pearce?}

13 Aug 2017 17:04:24
Were the 4 Brandt, Keita, VVD and Mendy Ed?


{Ed002's Note - Sessegnon, not Mendy.}

13 Aug 2017 17:16:46
Ed002, it's just because they are a more accessible outlet to which frustration with the current situation can be directed. The board of directors are, by and largely, anonymous, and the understanding shared by many fans in that the owners are somewhat apathetic towards the club. That's obviously not true, this is a huge investment, but understanding why is easy.


{Ed002's Note - Right, I can't help how little the Liverpool supporters know about their club.}

13 Aug 2017 15:26:10
Since Klopp arrived I believe we've conceded 27 goals from set pieces not including yesterday's.
In the same period Southampton havr also conceded 27 goals from. set pieces.
They're only stats and usually mean nothing but is that a concern regarding a 70+ million bid for Van Dijk?

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13 Aug 2017 16:50:12
The problem with one dimensional stats, from how many set pieces are these goals conceded? We know that ours seems almost 1in 4 but their's could be only 1 in 20, who knows.


13 Aug 2017 16:50:40
Didn't VVD miss most of last season with an injury though?


13 Aug 2017 17:02:20
Van Dijk is not the solution.


13 Aug 2017 17:37:51
He could be part of a solution but there are stil some coaching issues here methinks. oh, and we're crying out for a top class goalie who can help marshal our defence. from what I've seen, neither Migs or Karius are up to it. If we truly have as much money as the bid for Keita suggested then it should be spent on a better keeper.


13 Aug 2017 15:20:39
Hi eds, is there any chance of a double raid on Schalke should Coutinho leave, and Emre not sign a new deal? Goretzka and Meyer to replace them both? Both on last year of their deals I believe and both players Klopp should know about. Just a thought eds, cheers for any info.

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{Ed002's Note - No.}

13 Aug 2017 15:03:51
Spurs are like us, but with a quality keeper and a quality CB partnership.
Flair, goals, good speed.
It's not rocket science really, we could've signed Neymar last week but we'd still have conceded 3 goals against Watford.
We won't win a single trophy with this defence ever, and if Klopp doesn't see this then I was wrong about him and He's simply not good enough.

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13 Aug 2017 15:37:43
Go and support Spurs then.


13 Aug 2017 15:46:43
we won't sign VVD, or another centre back, were does that leave us, well it means that we will ship a lot of goals, giving us more draws and losses, and sadly no top four .
Klopp will be under the microscope this season, and it wontbe pretty .


13 Aug 2017 15:57:19
Spurs are not like Liverpool in anyway, their management and scouts etc etc identified where they were short and got players into these positions. They are now consistently challenging for the league and champion's league spots. That is something us Liverpool supporters can't say, unfortunately.


13 Aug 2017 15:02:41
Regarding the equalising goal why didn't Mignolet catch the innitial shot instead of pushing it out for a corner? Then Gini half hearted effort headering which was a shite corner out, afraid of a slap he was. If my daughter done that I would be disappointed . and then not one player gives out about it? NO LEADERS.

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13 Aug 2017 15:48:44
Peter, we should be very careful who we have as the first man, we should have a man on the first post, call that whatever you like, just do it .


13 Aug 2017 16:08:31
Agreed. that's basic stuff the ball should have been headed back out to where it came. Gerrard used to do that job. Its frustrating seeing a player pull out of a tackle/ header when everyone on here would run through a wall for the club.


13 Aug 2017 15:00:50
Hi eds, just seen Coutinho picture being taken down in the club shop window, if it's not a hoax then it doesn't look good.

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{Ed002's Note - If you have just seen it why do you think it may be a hoax?}

13 Aug 2017 15:02:55
Smokescreen.


{Ed002's Note - That is far more likely.}

13 Aug 2017 15:03:04
Relax, they were removing all the orange away shirt promotions to install Autumn fashion promotions for Monday.


13 Aug 2017 16:53:29
then its tuesday that his photos and stuff will be taken down, Barcelona will offer us a offer that we can't refuse, just take the money and hopefully spend it all on players, we need another three players fast .


13 Aug 2017 14:36:29
Eds, great work on here - first time poster! It's looking more increasing that this Cout saga will probably not go away and he'll either ruin his reputation with us to force the move or we will agree to sell quickly this week. My question to you is, I've seen many people here suggest a cash and player transfer from Barca, but no-one has mentioned Dennis Suarez! He is young, a quality midfielder with a bit of flair, great with noth feet and is a creative player! Sure he would be a really good addition for us if we could snag him and a good price! If Barcelona are really desperate to get Couts, could be a really good deal for liverpool if we did this smartly? Thoughts?

Believable0 Unbelievable5

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool can certainly ask Barcelona to include Denis Suarez but they have not shown interest in him so far.}

13 Aug 2017 15:53:32
Couts will be gone next week, we will have to buy in a replacement very quickly as sick note Lalana could be out for 3 months, Hendo is not looking good, we have to keep hold of Can , he was one of our better players yesterday,
too many problems for me, plus we have to travel to Germany for a difficult game on tuesday .


13 Aug 2017 14:34:27
On another day the ref might have said that Britos was blocking off Mignolet for there 3rd goal. It was bad defending anyway.

Believable2 Unbelievable4

13 Aug 2017 14:52:00
Also Richarlison's shot looked it was going out for a throw in before Migs batted back onto Britos' head.


13 Aug 2017 14:40:55
And the first if you watch replay from behind the goal. He marked Mignolet but nobody marked him on both goals. So Simon was expected to mark him and keep goal. Terrible defensive set up.


13 Aug 2017 16:55:09
Don't know what you're being downvoted for Something Red it was going away from goal and if Mignolet hadn't touched it would have gone out for a throw.


13 Aug 2017 14:25:11
Hey eds / macca

Is it true about the big bust up with klopp and the owners heard he has told them he was going to walk but out of respect to fans and club he's stayed to do his job .

All sorts of rumours flying round ours about it

Have yous heard anything?

Cheers.

Believable0 Unbelievable4

{Ed002's Note - Twitter I assume.}

13 Aug 2017 15:18:54
I think there is something going on between them, just got a gut feeling something doesn't feel right especially with the lack of transfers in and out of the club and the Coutinho saga.


{Ed002's Note - The club looks after the transfers, not the owners.}

13 Aug 2017 13:56:52
This might seem like sour grapes and you know I don't mind, but how was Gomes not red carded yesterday?
Last man, Salah about to score as he was clean through and going round Gomes.
Tomas Kalas was red carded for a foul outside his box yesterday, out wide and there was still a keeper to beat.
Anyone care to explain the rules to me on that?
Gomes should have gone, Kalas yellow card.

Believable7 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 14:09:37
It's the double jeopardy rule. Should of been given a yellow though.


13 Aug 2017 14:10:03
i believe gomes was not blocking a clear goal scoring chance. it was a foul in the box, hence a penalty.

i may be wrong. not sure about kalas sorry.


13 Aug 2017 14:23:10
Kaizer is correct IMO.
The ball was travelling away from goal therefore it was not a "CLEAR" goal scoring opportunity.


13 Aug 2017 14:35:40
did they not change the rule so if you are only deliberately trying to foul witch Gomez was not he just go beat to the ball so right call for me.


13 Aug 2017 14:38:54
Ok thanks all. Will have to watch that again with Salah/ Gomes.
To me on first observation I would have felt with Salah's pace he would have scored. Sure he flicked the ball past Gomes but he'd have easily got to the ball. Much like how he made up the ground for his goal.
But anyway, thanks all.


13 Aug 2017 13:36:52
ED001 any update on sturridge mate?

Believable3 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - he should be fit for Tuesday night.}

13 Aug 2017 13:25:53
I couldn't care less about coutinho after yesterday's display.
It only brought up previous cracks that were blanketed over that klopp needs to address. Organisation and a lack of leaders. A jamie carragher or john terry in that back four yesterday and that game was won. The third goal conceded was the worst of the lot. Swap wijnaldims pathetic attempt to head the ball with a player like Roy Keane or even Gerrard and that ball goes back the way it came.
Chelsea and United dominated for years because they had leaders throughout especially in defence and midfield. Two areas we desperately need to add reinforcements. United had Keane, ferdinand, vidic neville etc. Chelsea had one of the greats in terry. They also had Cole, lampard, Drogba etc. We have absolutely noone. It's like a team of kids at times. Add to that they had both top class goalkeepers to help organise the backline.
For those that argue quality alone wins titles. Sorry but I recall arsenal running away with the league years back and when they were up against the wall they faded away.
We need to both add quality in key areas and leaders. I'm not sure we'll achieve either before the window closes nor is it realistic at this stage. Also mignolet remains a thorn in our own side. Karius or ward should be given a full season and their chance.

Believable5 Unbelievable5

13 Aug 2017 13:51:19
There aren't many Gerrard's, Carragher's, Terry's, Keane's, Feedinand's, Vidic's about.

Unless you can suggest some? What do you expect Klopp to do? You can't sign someone who is not available or doesn't want to come.


13 Aug 2017 14:01:31
Ron, we are looking at spending 70+ million on Van dijk who I'm not sure is the leader we need. I think we need to splash the cash on one of the great CBs out there, Koulibaly, Bonucci, Chiellini, Godin, Jerome Boateng. There's supposed to be plenty of cash available and potentially Coutinho money so go get a top class leader and CB and build from there. These guys would be great working with Gomez and TAA and the other U-23 defenders.
This is where we should be breaking the bank in my opinion.


13 Aug 2017 14:04:25
if VVD does join, I'd also bid for shawcross not popular i know, But people who are not afraid to head the ball and throw there weight around. A back three of VVD, MATIP, SHAWCROSS, with TAA and Robertson either side as wing backs. our defenders when they head a clarence seems to have little neck muscle to get distance.


13 Aug 2017 14:14:41
Nice names McGoveb. It'd be interesting for the Eds to rate our chances of getting them out of 10 for old times sake. I think there is ZERO chance of any of those regardless of money.


13 Aug 2017 14:22:46
Shawcross! 😂😂.


13 Aug 2017 14:23:39
Shawcross? Really? Are things really that bad?


13 Aug 2017 14:34:44
with our defence, yes things really are that bad.


13 Aug 2017 14:58:00
We need to show intent Ron. Players are employees like the rest of us. Make them an offer they find very hard to refuse. Getting a top CB could mean getting out of CL group which would cover a sizeable chunk of the fee and with our very good attacking could mean a sustainable challenge for the PL again covering a lot of the fee.
Every player has a price and every club a value for their players so as I said, show some intent.
30 million for Rio Ferdinand way back in the day is surely one of Fergusons best ever outlays.


13 Aug 2017 14:58:49
You wanted names Ron, there's your names.
Let's hear who you want as leaders.


13 Aug 2017 15:12:32
Van dijk the lad from Southampton i believe, not sure if anyone's heard of him would be a lovely fella to add. But also wouldn't mind gibson boy from Middlesbrough those 2 would be good signings I think and should add some leadership.


13 Aug 2017 15:33:12
5 years too late to bother with Shawcross. He is a shocking footballer, but a very good leader and was a good defender. A bit of a thug mind you, but we can hardly moan about being soft and then say we don't want any players with a nasty streak.

Teams used to fear going to Stoke under Pulis and Shawcross was a big part of that because whoever you put next to him would all of a sudden be like a wall especially at the Britannia. Teams haven't feared coming to Anfield for a decade so we are in no position to mock Shawcross. Not since Carragher and Hyypia have we had a solid and reliable centre back partnership.


13 Aug 2017 15:56:14
you know, that if someone told me that there would be a two month period, where we could buy and sell players, I would be so happy .


13 Aug 2017 15:59:43
Doc, could you please sort out our defence, give us whatever you think will heal our wounds, we need a good check up .


13 Aug 2017 16:38:53
I can't think of any players who are available who fit the numerous descriptions of leaders.

Let's sign Neuer, Kante Ronaldo and Mbappe if every player has their price.

They do, but they also have a choice of which club they wish to join and we're not on their radar.


13 Aug 2017 13:06:34
Klopp could have handled this one better.

Ward set to have showdown talks with Klopp.

He is not 18,19,20 to be as third choice backup. At 24 he should be playing and if he has that chance Klopp should not block it.

By not making up his mind, this is creating insecurity with all 3 gk's

Cheers.

Believable6 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 13:30:05
Wasn't ward in Scotland I think? And playing well then klopp ended his loan and he's Sat on the bench since?


{Ed001's Note - he spent last season on loan with Huddersfield Town as first choice keeper there.}

13 Aug 2017 15:08:45
They (coaching staff), spend more time with team than we can ever hope to, I'm sure if ward showed it in training, tat he's our best gk, then he would get the nod. I would like to see him get his chance too but he is behind hennesy at Wales and I put mingnolet before Wayne. I like karius personally.


{Ed002's Note - Ward is going to ask for assurances and then, if he doesn't get them, he will ask to leave immediately. This has been on the cards all summer.}

13 Aug 2017 10:56:27
Just trying to keep my mind off the coutinho saga at the min.
Ed25 we all know you a blue my question is do you get to goodison much and watch the blues play?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed025's Note - not as much as i used to KJ as my health is not that great these days, i was a season ticket holder for many years but now im old and decrepit and falling to bits mate..

13 Aug 2017 13:40:24
Just like goodison then Ed025😀.


{Ed025's Note - very much so bobby..

13 Aug 2017 13:51:08
An old saying to think about mate, "the body always follows the mind".
Healthy mind, healthy body.
If it's arthritis mate, I feel your pain and I'm only in my 30's.
Still as active as I was in my 20's though, you just have to be sensible and manage it well.


13 Aug 2017 13:54:06
You'd be right at home then ed 😉.


{Ed025's Note - its years of drinking like george best, smoking more than john wayne and eating like homer simpson ron...but besides that my body is a temple mate..

13 Aug 2017 14:15:17
You're only as healthy as you feel ed025. And what would you have felt like without all Of those lovely. uh, habits? :)


{Ed025's Note - your right Tj..if it wasn,t for my gambling addiction i would be a right mess..

13 Aug 2017 13:20:03
Anyone actually know how long Coutinho's out for?

Believable0 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 13:29:23
Does it matter? It is looking unlikely that he will play for us again.


13 Aug 2017 13:34:20
The only cure is the air in Barcelona apparently.


13 Aug 2017 14:03:57
Until the transfer window closes.


13 Aug 2017 14:24:40
Out for evermore.


13 Aug 2017 16:54:44
get him sold. Transfer Request on the opening day of the season, makes me sick.


13 Aug 2017 13:15:35
I don't see any real leaders in r team, Ivery been crying out for klopp to buy a dominate midfielder who is not afraid to shout and get in people's faces if they r not pulling theory weight, still in keep the faith thou YNWA.

Believable2 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 16:55:23
Vidal would be amazing for us. Not happening sadly.


13 Aug 2017 12:25:44
can someone explain to me how the fek PSG can get away with breaking the transfer record AGAIN to sign Mbappe.

And yes I am just bitter. He is the only player worth signing who is available imo and we have the money if we sell phil.

Believable1 Unbelievable2

{Ed002's Note - Mbappe was never going to move to Liverpool. Zero chance. Perhaps you should ask on the European pages.}

13 Aug 2017 13:19:05
Thats not the question I was asking. I was under the impression you had some knowledge on FFP and could pass that on.


{Ed001's Note - how is it relevant to Liverpool what PSG do? Go to the European pages and ask this if you really are interested.}

13 Aug 2017 13:35:25
sweet jesus. Its relevant because financial fair play applies to everyone in Europe and I simply wondered if you knew how it works. that's fine you don't, I will ask the other guys. I didn't know three was a specific website for that. Actually embarrassing how you lot react to some questions on here.


{Ed001's Note - oh go away. It is embarrassing that some tit thinks we are here to answer his utterly irrelevant questions about PSG because he is too lazy to go to a site related to the question. We are editors, not here to serve idiots who are too lazy to use a search engine. It is embarrassing, you are right, that entitled people like you think you deserve more from a free site and waste our time with idiotic questions out of pure laziness.

As for knowing how it works, I don't but Ed002 does. How that is relevant to you being unable to see this is a Liverpool site not a PSG, I really do not know.}

13 Aug 2017 14:13:48
Joshy woshy got up on the wrong side of the bed.


13 Aug 2017 14:19:47
Yeah not hard to go to the relevant site and ask there, ed002 would have answered your question in perfect detail.
This is the Liverpool site for matters relating to Liverpool, we don't want it clogged up with PSGs financial affairs.


13 Aug 2017 16:57:11
Financial Fair Play doesn't exist. Rich owners = success.


13 Aug 2017 12:51:50
My opinion is that phils head and heart has already joined barce, no matter how good he is when that happens you don't have the same player anymore. We need to get the money for him and sign a replacement. all this press around him is distracting the team and the team come first. find a cb and playmaker that is attainable and give this season a real go.

just my two cents.

Believable4 Unbelievable4

13 Aug 2017 13:09:15
I can't believe how this seasons just crumbled in 2 days.
Worst transfer window in the clubs history.
I'm starting to question FSG, the transfer windows since them buying the club are an utter embarrassment.


{Ed001's Note - worst? Have you only just started following LFC? We have brought in 3 players to improve the squad, unlike when we signed Poulsen and Konchesky.}

13 Aug 2017 13:01:48
Although I think he will go, if the move breaks down, he will slot back into the team like nothing ever happened before long, coutinho has nothing to gain and everything to lose by sulking for a year, the whole "breakdown in relationship with Klopp" comments won't be forgot though and he will be on borrowed time and sold in Jan or next summer.


13 Aug 2017 13:27:03
I think it's actually a decent window so far.
We needed a new left back so got one.
We needed a new left winger so got one.


13 Aug 2017 13:51:12
"IMPROVE" yesterday's embarrassing performance says different in fact we looked worse yesterday than any game last season.


13 Aug 2017 14:20:53
So did a lot of teams, just like it is on the first day of every season.


13 Aug 2017 15:08:15
Forgot about the Hodgeson era, we had Gerrard Torres and Carra tho ed.


13 Aug 2017 15:27:27
Trying to think of the big tall skinhead striker that hodgson brought in 🤔 Think it began with a j
This is going to bug me now.


13 Aug 2017 12:50:18
While I agree that our defenders are poor I am so surprsed that it's always Lovren getting hammered all the time, Matip was also very poor yesterday and for a lot of last season. In my opinion we don't have a very good, let alone great CB at the club, that's our biggest problem for many seasons now. Klopp has to address this before the season starts, he's into his third season now and has been awful in addressing our biggest problem.
If he doesn't finally get it sorted we will really struggle to get top 4 and considering he promised the title to the owners he's as far away from that now with our defense as we've ever been.

Believable9 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 12:59:58
Matip was twice as bad as Lovren yesterday. Strolling around like a lazy git and did not win a single header as far as I can remember. Cannot believe we have gone from Carra and Hyppia to this shambles.


13 Aug 2017 13:05:03
Whenever we have brought in a CB in recent years they have gone backwards in terms of capability, suggests to me the problem is more to do with training and set up rather than the actual players.


{Ed025's Note - fair point that mikey..

13 Aug 2017 13:07:33
Matip got an easy ride last season because he was new to the league and had just had an operation on his ankle.

This year he has no excuses so he will be scrutinised more intensely.


13 Aug 2017 13:37:01
Matip is very averaga and is made to look good by Moreno, Lovern, Klavan and Clyne.

Just that we got him in free transfer and with the quality of the other defenders make fan boys here think he is gr8.

He has not been able to put few decent games together.

Cheers.


13 Aug 2017 14:17:01
"Matip is very averaga and is made to look good by Moreno, Lovern, Klavan and Clyne"

😄 Sounds like an alternative reality.


13 Aug 2017 15:11:33
Ridiculous. Matip is a decent cb, new boy last year so probably not going to be the leader back there. From open play our defence is decent.


13 Aug 2017 12:39:32
people on here complaining that we can't get our transfer targets we can't even sell our players that are surplus to requirements. has the club had a fundamental breakdown of relations with other clubs. i can't help but feel CEO's of other clubs check there mobiles see LFC And just refuse to negotiate any kind of deal either way.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 13:00:41
The whole recruitment dept at lfc needs a complete overhaul.


13 Aug 2017 13:12:15
Relax.3 weeks left! They'll all be out the door come the last week. Drama merchants.


13 Aug 2017 12:30:41
Didn't watch the game, anyone know how well TAA played? Chance of cementing a place in the first team when Clyne is back?

Believable2 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 12:46:30
I believe Clyne will struggle to get back into the team. TAA did pretty well. TAA's delivery of the ball will be Clyne's undoing.

Moreno had a decent game too.


13 Aug 2017 12:48:39
TAA played well and worked hard for the team and his delivery from set pieces was pure quality as it created two glorious chances for Matip (who hit the bar) and Lovren who forced a save from Heurelio Gomez. Why Klopp took him off in inury time for Joe Gomez, I have NO idea.


{Ed001's Note - probably 2 reasons, one to get Gomez some game time but mainly because he had been booked.}

13 Aug 2017 12:53:02
Couple of errors but more to do with inexperience but nothing major got forward well and put in some dangerous balls which solanke would benefit from. Good game overall but can't see klopp preceding him over clyne just yet sadly.


13 Aug 2017 12:58:45
He was good going forward, but he wasn't at his best defensively. Still not sure if he's ready.


13 Aug 2017 13:14:36
Looked very very good, will only get better and stronger. Keeps playing like that and he can't be dropped anyhow.


13 Aug 2017 13:49:52
Can't be dropped? Did you watch the game? He did okay, nothing more.


13 Aug 2017 12:08:12
Question for ED01 if he is about.

Who would you say in your opinion is a viable alternative to VVD?
Have we looked at anyone else as 2nd choice. Or is it eggs in one basket?

I'm currently wishing we had a 10 years younger carra!

Cheers.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - as far as I am aware we have not looked at an alternative.}

13 Aug 2017 12:41:49
Although we have problems at the back, we seem to not be the only team.

If you look at Arsenal and Chelsea's opening matches, they have are in the thick of things too.

Klopp will have to address the problem in our defence i. e. set pieces.


13 Aug 2017 14:36:28
Is it not a little short sighted to only want one player for a position? I just can't understand all eggs in one basket. Seems to me if there's a position to be filled, it should be filled and if the priority player is unavailable, the idea of an alternative should at least be explored. I know many of us still think vvd is coming in, but what exactly do we do if the window shuts and Chelsea have completed the deal.


13 Aug 2017 12:04:32
IMO, the problem with Coutinho is to do with the length of the summer transfer window. If it was set up that you can only sign a player up to the eve of their domestic league starting. So once the English, German, Spanish leagues etc etc start you can't bid for a player playing in that league. This would encourage teams to get business done early and stop the last minute unsettling of players. The January transfer window should be done away with as well because it just unsettles players half way through the season.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - That is not how it works. You can bid for players from any league as long as the transfer window is open in the country of the bidding club.}

13 Aug 2017 12:00:40
It's the formation 443 with 8 attacking and 2 defending, every time we lose the ball the other team either scores or very nearly scores, can't believe r midfield has more holes in it than a microphone, and r defence is worse thand last year.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 12:07:07
It's set pieces mate.


13 Aug 2017 12:45:51
It's not just set pieces at all.


13 Aug 2017 12:52:59
Fowler, it is everything, really and the OP is right. That setup has to be looked into. Our setup at set pieces is awful and the zonal marking is not a bad system PROVIDED the players communicate well, show grit and determination to attack the ball in the air and leadership. Without that, even VVD or Maldini can't help us as they will be in the same crap system.


13 Aug 2017 12:54:39
It's basic defending, our defence and midfield just don't know how to do it.


13 Aug 2017 13:12:44
Everyone concedes goals. But we conceded from the first corner of the season lads.
They had 3 corners,
and conceded 2 goals from them. Think about it.


13 Aug 2017 13:15:19
The 3 goals came from a throw in and 2 corners. We were not troubled in open play.
Set pieces undo us cause no one takes charge.


13 Aug 2017 11:13:43
Ed01.

My point previously about needing a natural holding midfielder seems to have been enhanced by yesterday's performance.

It's no coincidence that spurs and Chelsea, the top 2 from last season, had Wanyama/ Dier and Matic respectively and they went on to finish in the top 3 for least goals conceded.

With the way we bomb full backs on, we need natural protection.

Yes I don't think Lovren is good enough and Matip doesn't have enough about him, but any world class centre backs would be exposed in our current system.

A new CB and natural CDM for me is a must. Not another headless chicken in midfield!

Saying that, whoever we buy, if we set up like we do at set pieces, we're surely still going to concede.

I feel it's a mixture of more and better coaching needed with the addition of 2 key players in the positions I stated.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - you will never get an argument from me, if the full backs are going to get forward as they do, then a holding mid would help. It is not essential, if the players in the team were intelligent enough and given enough freedom to spot gaps developing, as one player goes forward and fill that gap. Sadly players are overcoached and robotic these days, so it seems a proper defensive mid is needed who just fills in gaps, as a normal mid never bothers.}

13 Aug 2017 12:10:48
I'd love a 2017 version of Didi in the team at the minute.


13 Aug 2017 12:24:08
The goals we conceded had nothing to do with the full backs bombing on.2 corners and a throw in.
Yesterday our defending set pieces showed Mignolets lack of command in his box. I now understand why he kept Ward and its he doesn't trust Migs or Karius.


13 Aug 2017 12:47:52
I wasn't after an rguement ed by the way, just to see if you understood my point and for your opinion on it. So thanks for that mate.

No fin way - if you think our goals conceded tally is just down to set pieces, you should watch again. Yes we defend them horribly, both coached badly and played badly as individuals, but our awful defensive record is not all down to set pieces.


{Ed001's Note - I have wanted us to sign Medel to fill that role for years mate. I think we have lacked bite since Hamann left.}

13 Aug 2017 12:58:52
OP, Ed is correct. Look at the second goal off a throw in. Can goes in to press but he gets bypassed. Instead of Hendo to drop into the space as cover in anticipation of Can not being able to get the ball, he goes in to press the other player instead. He gets caught out and there is where Moreno is exposed with Amrabat and Cleverley with Cleverley unmarked out wide. Neither Can nor Hendo try to track back and the whole defence are in 6's and 7's trying to cover the gaps both Can and Hendo left behind as there was an overload on Moreno's side. This is what the Ed is referring to.


13 Aug 2017 11:10:03
Eds, I know your sick of the pipco situation but can I come at this from a different angle. When this whole business kicked off Klopp was adamant he wasn't for sale, and then on Friday FSG (not lfc) issued a "difinitive" statement on the situation which appeared to really add some weight behind klopp going into his press conference. Since then couts has put the TR in and then been coming out with what I can only assume is a load of bull, about a breakdown in relationships over the past 6 months. There has never been even a whisper of that on here and pictures of him hugging klopp would suggest otherwise, you just wouldn't embrace like that if you didn't get on.
Could it be that what Klopp referred to yesterday was in fact that it's the owners who are going to insist he stays, and that actually Klopp thinks after what's gone on it's best not having couts around, a lack of trust etc. As I said FSG were unequivocal on Friday and perhaps it's them who don't want to loose face now?
Maybe I'm looking too much into it, I don't know.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 10:25:14
Eds and fellow reds
A question for you over CB position.
If we were to buy a new CB from an EPL club:
A) which club?
B) which player?

I have my thoughts on it, in that instead of looking for someone who is able to play out from the back etc we need someone who is happiest when defending and used to playing in a well-drilled back 4.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 11:21:43
We need someone who is used to defending in a haphazard clueless back 4 of strangers.

Players who can play well in a well drilled back 4 include Lovren and Matip (at their former clubs)


13 Aug 2017 11:47:08
Names Ron. Without names that's an easy post 😉

I jest buddy, from only Prem clubs, my pick would be Kompany but obviously this is hypothetical. More realistically I'd take someone like Fonte. He actually made Lovren look a good player.


13 Aug 2017 11:58:20
My unrealistic choice would be Alderweireld, realistic would be Ben Mee.


13 Aug 2017 12:10:35
VVD. He Wants to play for Liverpool, he's one of the best CB in the prem.


13 Aug 2017 12:41:44
ben gibson anyone?


13 Aug 2017 13:03:30
Even Maldini won't help us if we keep playing the crap defensive setup we have at set pieces. It's not even about zonal marking anymore as that system can work provided the players are well drilled, communicate well, can adapt to avoid mismatches (which is why Firmino should have been nowhere near the 6 yard box on that first corner), attack headers instead of reacting after the opposition heads the ball into the net and so on. If you are are not doing any of that then you can have the legendary AC Milan backline of Baresi, Costacurta, Maldini and Tasotti and we will still concede.


13 Aug 2017 14:04:30
Alderwield and vvd but I'm not greedy 😂😂😂.


13 Aug 2017 09:28:30
Seen a lot of posts about the 3rd watford goal being offside, if you look closely ricarlsons effort actually went sideways/ backwards so therefor brittos can't of been offside. (i think) . Am i right ed?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - correct. I think the previous one was the one that was offside the moment Okaka attempts to get on the end of the cross, as I don't think he got back onside at any point. Certainly the 3rd goal was perfectly fine as the shot was sliced and the ball did not travel forward.}

13 Aug 2017 12:29:06
I'll take a foul on the goalkeeper then.


13 Aug 2017 12:32:30
That's what I thought too. They also had a player stand on Mignolet for the first goal too but again the ball went backwards so fair goal.
The tv crew tried to show on the second goal that the lad putting in the cross was kept onside by TAA but failed to point out Okakka was offside as the ball was passed to him.


13 Aug 2017 12:49:23
Mark clattenburg came out and said it should have been dissallowed.


{Ed001's Note - and?}

13 Aug 2017 13:06:30
Their second goal should NEVER have stood. Okaka was offside before the cross came in so the defence did it's job after Hendo and Can hung them out to dry on the wing. As soon as he touches the ball on the cross, he should have been flagged for offside as he NEVDER got back onside. We got robbed on that play, hands down.


13 Aug 2017 14:09:03
If we are nit picking lol - Gomes red card for penalty?
Last man after all and Salah clean through.
I need to watch their first goal again from behind the goal but looked like Mignolet was blocked off.
Should have come for that cross.
It was a good ball in but only 4 yards out.
A Cech or Curtois or any top keeper would have been ready to claim that. He's 6 foot 4, 28 or 29 years old so is a senior player - dominate your 6 yard box for goodness sake.
I played in goal as a teenager at times and always came for balls into the 6 yard box.
I was only 5ft 10 and punched if I couldn't catch, your defence appreciates the help.


13 Aug 2017 15:55:50
It isn't nickpicking lol its a fact of the offside rule?
And on gomes being sent off, the rule was changed, if you make a genuine attempt to win the ball which he did he cannot be sent off once a penalty is given.


13 Aug 2017 15:57:15
Also ed, second watford goal, okaka on the first pass is offside but he plays no role, once the cross/ pass comes in for the right he is behind the ball so i don't see how he is offside?


{Ed001's Note - is he behind the ball? I did not see that.}

13 Aug 2017 17:09:32
I was kidding Olber mate :)


13 Aug 2017 09:19:45
Ed, what is your opinion of getting Gylfi Sigurson if Couts leaves. A lot of people are saying £50 million is too much for him, but could he be an alternative.

Believable1 Unbelievable4

{Ed001's Note - he is not good enough. Only thing he offers, as he is usually missing in open play, is a good delivery from set pieces. We have that now from TAA.}

13 Aug 2017 12:12:32
No if we sell couts at say 110M. We need to add a world class player, blow the lot on a star player.
Not 7 mediocre players in different positions like we did with the Suarez money.


13 Aug 2017 13:08:03
Siguudrson is not even better than Woodburn and being good at set pieces is not a talent. It requires practice and work ethic, something anyone can do.


{Ed001's Note - still a talent. One that we have had a scarcity of until recently.}

13 Aug 2017 10:31:34
Ed025, well done on the 3 points yesterday. We all know how terrible Stoke are though. Surprised that you could not wallop them.

Everton have a hectic run of EPL fixtures coming up.

Man City (A), Chelsea (A), Spurs (H) and Man Utd (A) .

Away to 3 of this seasons top four contenders and home to the other.

Not a good sight mate.

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed025's Note - i know max its tough going mate but hopefully we can get a couple of results there and just hope they are not up to speed yet..

13 Aug 2017 11:43:20
We had a run like that last year, if you don't come out of it too badly off then a lot of tough games are done and dusted and you move on. I think it helped us last year.


13 Aug 2017 12:40:36
Yeah and look what happened after that.


13 Aug 2017 15:27:35
What u on about? we were challenging at the top of the league till the end of December. We beat arsenal away, Chelsea away, drew away at spurs and dew with Utd. It set us up for a great start to the season.


13 Aug 2017 10:48:26
So that's Migs 1st bollocked dropped next one and he should be dropped and Karius in.

Believable2 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 11:12:55
Ward deserves a chance, Karius has slipped back in the pecking order IMO.


13 Aug 2017 11:24:36
I prefer ward.
What does that kid have to do to get a EPL game.


13 Aug 2017 11:46:54
Is that why Karius was sub goalkeeper because he is behind Ward?


13 Aug 2017 13:10:33
Ron, who said he has slipped out of the pecking order? And who says Ward is actually better than him exactly? Your opinion is just that, an opinion.


13 Aug 2017 14:19:48
Did I say "FACT"?

No I used the letters "IMO".

Do you know what IMO stands for?
In
My
Opinion

You are free to express yours as am I. No need to get tetchy about it.


13 Aug 2017 17:21:43
No tetchiness here ron, just showing you the error of your ways 😜.


13 Aug 2017 20:21:17
Was talking to Bingo.

Being sub keeper does not necessarily mean he's next in line (in my opinion)


13 Aug 2017 10:46:24
Things are feeling a bit dysfunctional at the club right now. Phil's transfer request and the apparent breakdown in relationship with Klopp has just added fuel to the flames of the poorly executed transfer window. Who is to blame? Well, yes of course Klopp has overstepped the mark but there's no point lynching him alone when this is a collective failure at the football club. We keep blaming Edwards, FSG and Klopp but the accountability has to also include Mike Gordon who is heading up the club.

On the transfer side of things, I am torn. On the positive side I feel the identification of positions and players is much better that previous summers where we would go out of our way to buy players we didn't need and ignore problem positions and a history of moving onto plan B and Cs far too quickly. If what I read here is correct we wanted Solanke, Sessegnon, Mendy, Brandt, Keita and Van Dijk. Hypothetically speaking, if we had nailed these deals then we'd be ready for a title assault and we'd all be feeling bullish about our chances. However, on the negative side, we just do deals very poorly and often embarass ourselves. The strategy of long drawn out transfer sagas through the lens of tabloid press is awful and not becoming of a club of Liverpool's stature. What is with this ivory transfer tower nonsense? Why don't we just talk to other clubs?

Finally, I saw that Gary Medel and Pepe have signed for Besiktas this summer. Have we missed a trick there? They would walk into our team and add that winning mentality and whether you like it or not, a bit of nastiness/ snide! Sadly we don't make these kind of inspired signings anymore.

Believable3 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 11:43:09
Well written post.


13 Aug 2017 10:41:02
seeing links to max Meyer and Lorenzo insigne, just wondering which of the 2 would be preferred, if either of them. still baffled were not looking into bulking up the back 4 other than vvd.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 10:35:18
Iv had one moan on here about our defending set pieces last night so il try to be positive-ish today

TAA, I believe he deserves a run of games now to try and nail down his position over Clyne. I want to asses his defending a bit more but going forward he offers more of a threat, in particular I liked how he really whipped in those corners. Almost had a couple of goals from them.

Salah, I think he's exactly what we needed. Probably the least accomplished in terms of technique, comparing to players like firmino but he is always trying to make runs in behind, whether from deep or via quick passing around the box. I think we will score a lot of goals this season. Hoping Salah improves his composure as he settles in though, probably could have had a hat trick.

Trying to find positives about the middle 3. going to leave that one there.

Finally, Dom Solanke was sharp in pre season, was brillant in the summer for England, Origi looked woeful in the Aviva Stadium, missed couple of sitters and the ball was bouncing of his shins anytime it was knocked up to him, he needs to improve his control. I would personally like to see him ahead of Origi in the pecking order.

Believable8 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 10:31:50
I see a lot of people saying stop being negative about yesterday its the first game . But it isn't. the shambles that is are back 5 was like this all last season . We have added one defender and he didn't even make the squad. really klopp sort this out you have had long enough to address these issues.

Believable5 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 10:05:09
Fans Rralky talking about getting Rid If Klopp! After 1 game, He knows we still have defensive issues but he's wants certain players who are proving difficult as most teams are finding and unlike other seasons not just going to sign Simone for the sake of it, yes it wasn't the best of starts but the whole team was poor yesterday none of the midfield or forwards could pass or play a simple ball and constantly gave away possession there was no defending from the front! Get a grip 1 game and you want the manager out unreal.

Believable3 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 13:13:46
Those saying that Klopp should be gone are just knee jerk reactors who are simply unable to be level headed in their utterances. Chelsea got clapped by Burnley at home. I guess Conte should be axed then, right? Didn't think so.


13 Aug 2017 09:53:25
Disappointing start and fun finish yesterday but plenty to be positive about. TAA looked so assured at Right back, really surprised me how comfortable he looked, he will be a real asset this season. Thought Can and Wini were really disappointing in the first half but got better as he game went on.

Usual problems at corners and mingolets kicking his terrible. Klopp needs to sort this out and get our stronger headers of the ball in the middle attacking the ball.

With Coutinho on the way out it's important we get the past players we need in b4 hand. That's a centre back, midfielder and also a striker. I predicted Sturridge wouldn't be fit for the start of the season, which anyone could have guessed at. He needs
Replacing . Solanke is potential we need someone to weigh in with goals. We have goals in the side but we need depth if we are to compete in all the comps this season.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 09:39:53
Let's assume pipco goes next week

Would you be happy with erikson from spurs? Same age, proven premiership.

Or move firmino back and get costa/ pea (both attitude problems but we've dealt with that before)

I think no signings of any kind will happen before the 24th (after 2nd leg of cl) as why would anyone sign without definitely cl.

If we go through:-

Vvd - £70m
Keita - £80m
One other marquee signing with pipco money.


If we lose then assume it will be none of the above list.

Believable1 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 10:17:06
I'd take Erikson, but as alternative I'd take Dele Alli too who may be more willing to come. apparently would have been a LFC player already had we not screwed that up too. but Spurs wouldn't sell. and that's the problem, we can identify targets but getting their clubs to sell is the hard part.


13 Aug 2017 10:21:11
Levy is the fsg antidote . We wouldn't get anyone of note of spurs . Forget top top names like Costa and auba . Or costly ones I mean . If we Buy anyone it will be a cheap up and coming .


13 Aug 2017 10:23:21
Van dijk is highly welcome but he'd nowhere near worth 70 million. Also 80 million for keita?!


13 Aug 2017 10:37:49
Erikson will not be joining Liverpool. Neither will Costa.


13 Aug 2017 10:50:14
Pretty much zero chance of Eriksen happening, I'd take the other two now though for sure.


13 Aug 2017 10:53:23
Ah marquee I missed you.


13 Aug 2017 10:57:57
Haha it won't happen mate fsg won't an don't want to put that sort of money into the club they will sell up if someone comes in at the right price.


13 Aug 2017 11:05:18
I think it's pretty obvious we aren't going to get Keita or Van Dijk. I think Chelsea will get Van Dijk. Keita will stay at RBL.
Why do I think Keita will stay? Well RBL don't need or want the money. They will say to the player - play one more season, do well in the CL and Madrid, Munich, Paris or Barcelona might come in for you.
We can't say that to Coutinho because it doesn't get any bigger than Barcelona for him. FSG are businessmen, they will sell Coutinho.
We need to concentrate on improving our weaknesses, namely set pieces and our organisation when we haven't got the ball.


13 Aug 2017 11:13:21
Big Al. I agree 70 for Vvd and 80 is ridiculous but if that's what it costs. Also no one saw matic to utd. This tfr window is truly messed up so anything could happen. Spurs sold walker to city so they will sell if price is right. Remember levy has new stadium to pay for and supposedly doesn't pay as well as we do.

As I said nothing going to happen for 11days so let's be positive, back the team and give the eds a break.


13 Aug 2017 13:15:40
VVD will not be the answer until our crap defensive setup at set-pieces, is figured out. That is our issue.


13 Aug 2017 09:27:56
I really think if this VVD thing seems as difficult as it does to get over the line we should look to someone like Ben Gibson from Middlesborough.

It's not the fancy sexy name that fans want but I think he would do a much better job than Lovren or Matip and be more mouthy which seems like we are really missing across our back line.

What does everyone think? Ed001? What other alternatives is there to VVD? Clearly we need to sign at least a defended and a midfielder with Couts going.

Believable2 Unbelievable2

13 Aug 2017 10:27:54
Dawson-WBA
Fed up of us looking at sexy CBs who can play out from the back.
Get someone who can defend.


13 Aug 2017 11:05:51
Completely agree mate. I think our team is good and we will fight for a top 3 or 4 place. But we still lack leadership and steel and yesterday highlighted that.

Gibson in defence to organise, and play Grujic or Firmino in attacking midfield to get stuck in but also provide a bit of quality on the ball; that would revolutionise our team and make us title challengers in my opinion. If he doesn't trust Grujic and wants Firmino up front we need to go and sign someone like Vidal. Klopp said he wants an experienced midfielder, so go and do it. Vidal is perfect.

The defence was disorganised and the midfield was flat. You cannot play Hendo, Can and Gini together. They need a playmaker to compliment them. That issue can in my opinion be solved with the players we have, but the lack of leadership at the back is glaring. I'd also play Ward in goal because Mignolet has regressed right back to where he started.

No need to panic yet, but Klopp needs to get things right before the window shuts.


13 Aug 2017 11:07:00
Gibson will not improve us I'm afraid. I don't know what people are seeing in him but I think it's a case of "over-rated Englishman" again.


13 Aug 2017 13:17:35
Spot on, MK. Leadership is the issue with our back line. Now is Gibson the guy, I doubt is cos tho a very good CB, he will be at a big club and may not fill ready to be the leader like he was at Boro.


13 Aug 2017 09:12:31
Eds, not least given our woeful defensive performance yesterday, do you think we will be pushing even harder for VVD now?
It's Couts goes, as is looking evermore likely, do you have any info on whether we're looking at Insigne or is that just paper talk?
Many thanks to all the Eds!

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed025's Note - im sure irons are in fires bax but it seems difficult to get these deal over the line mate, still plenty of time though..

13 Aug 2017 10:17:40
I think Insigne would be a lot harder to get over the line than Max Meyer.
Napoli are really hard to bargain with and won't want to lose him. It would probably take a huge bid.
Max Meyer is only young and I don't know if he's good enough. But then again he could flourish under Klopp and be a star player.


13 Aug 2017 10:29:28
I bet there are 2x better defensive CBs out there who we could get for £20m each.


13 Aug 2017 13:18:36
Insigne is a non starter not cos he's a poor player. But cos the Napoli owner is a head case to deal with.


13 Aug 2017 09:06:04
I love Klopp but he has faults like any man. Do you think he is the right man to take us forward? By saying forward I mean winning things, I don't think he is nor do I think any other manager is capable either. We're not that team anymore and will take a lot to be a title winning team again.

I'm not spitting my dummy out over yesterday but everything is just an absolute shambles, Klopp can't be the only man to blame it's the owners as well, FSG haven't a clue. Compare owners of Utd, City, Arsenal, Chelsea etc etc the list goes on to FSG, give me any of them owners any day over FSG.

We NEED a striker we haven't had a reliable one since Suarez have we? No point saying we have Sturridge and Ings, they aren't reliable. Origi is turd, Solanke ok one for the future, maybe. Nevermind the future we need a goal scorer and we need one NOW an all out goal scoring striker, we have great attacking midfielders, imagine them feeding an Aguero type player.

We need at least one quality CB, Lovren and Matip are shockingly bad, put VVD with Gomez and I think we'd be laughing. We need a CM a quality one because right now we don't have one at all not even close, certainly not CL quality, how the hell do we expect to get on well in such a competition with this team?

The gk's we have are absolutely useless, Karius wasn't given much of a chance, and I'm thankful, he will never turn out to be good, he was a waste of money, Mignolet always the same, useless! Having said this, I'd give Ward a chance, he has a lot to prove and I think he'd shine.

Many people may disagree with this post but it's the truth. We need to open our eyes a bit more and realise exactly what a mess we are in.

One or 2 good points, we have Mane and Salah, both top quality, TAA is probably going to be a special lad who else do we have who is actually top quality apart from them 3? Firmino? he's decent but far from perfect, he goes missing way too often.

Miserable and 'negative' post agreed, but it's the way I see things, let the hate begin.

Believable4 Unbelievable5

13 Aug 2017 09:31:18
Can't see why you want to push blame onto FSG when they have not done much wrong this time round.

VVD could very well have been at Liverpool if the club had gone about it in the correct manner. FSG do not choose who we buy. They have clearly made a massive amount of money available as we were bidding astronomical amounts for Keita. It is not FSG's fault how the window has panned out.

They are not involved in player negotiations in and out. They will however most likely have to make a call on whether Coutinho stays or goes.


13 Aug 2017 09:32:32
We just scored 3 well worked goals with no coutinho on the pitch, Studge and Lallana to return from injury too. We don't NEED a goalscorer, we need a better organisation in def which starts on the training pitch. We have tried to sign a quality cb and cm and it hust hasn't worked out yet. The meltdown here on this site is ridiculous, we were quite unlucky yesterday, just relax.


13 Aug 2017 10:16:04
Lfcfan_03beef - Unlucky? so that's your excuse is it, ok then you keep believing that. We was poor no excuses, poor, we was playing bloody watford.

Studge to come back, for how long this time 25 minutes? See this is half the problem as well, too many people relying on Sturridge, why? he's done bugger all for ages now, get over it. He's not what he was and never will be.


13 Aug 2017 10:16:19
I don't think we do need a goalscorer, we do well in attack most of the time. More pressingly we need to sort out the way we defend.


13 Aug 2017 10:18:05
Whilst I agree about certain aspects of your post could not disagree more about our need for a new striker. Our no. 9 yesterday scored and assisted. Our front 3 all scored. Firmino sets the tone for our play. His movement is top class and not only will he score goals he will make plenty. Given he is taking over penalty taking duties he could easily hit 20 goals this season. Is that not the benchmark figure everyone seems to cry out for? If coutinho goes for me it's an attacking midfielder we need who is willing to run beyond the front man. I agree about the need for defensive reinforcements, and they need to be intelligent players as opposed to just physical athletes.

Cheers.


13 Aug 2017 10:47:00
For me, the keeper was at fault for two goals, I'd be giving ward a chance,


13 Aug 2017 10:32:54
Surprised that one got through Eds, I don't think any player should be called a turd, awful post. Give your opinion mate but calling a Liverpool player a turd is beyond contempt.


{Ed001's Note - he never said he was a turd, you need reading glasses I think mate.}

13 Aug 2017 11:08:49
He can do it. He needs to learn and adapt though.
Look at Chelsea last season, woeful start, gunned by us and Arsenal, then won 14 games in a row after the manager tweaked the tactics.

Football is not rocket science, it's a simple game.


13 Aug 2017 11:11:48
Agree gmil.


13 Aug 2017 12:09:57
Lol thank you ed001.

I also agree with you gmil, and Ron I can't argue with that mate because you are right but can we do it? I don't think we can mate.


13 Aug 2017 13:24:03
OP, what is your obsession with signing a striker. We scored 3 goals away from home and it could have been 5 had we taken our chances. Attack is not the problem, again. It is our defensive setup that is killing us and has been since last season. LFC is the only club I know where you can score 3 goals away from home and not win. What does that tell you? It says that the backline system we play is crap and needs to be tweaked. Also, what is FSG's issue here? They made funds available to Klopp and don't choose who we sign or don't sign. Enough with the scapegoating of the owners as it is getting tedious, boring and dishonest.


13 Aug 2017 09:05:07
Wondering what the supposed breakdown in trust refers to?

Why does Phil not like Klopp anymore? Were promises made and broken regarding the Barcelona move or is Phil sulking? He didn't seem the type.

Believable1 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 09:37:10
Maybe he thought he would be the centre of attention all the time and it's like work if you get a shouted at you so t like it remember sterling and rogers things were never the same after what we all saw on tv in the states.


13 Aug 2017 09:59:25
Just sounds like a load of excuses to try and justify why he's walking out on us.
He's got no respect or loyalty to LFC whatsoever.
I was hoping the Club wouldn't give in to him. but now it looks like he's going. good riddance I say.
No respect for him now!


13 Aug 2017 10:10:12
Not that I care about being downvoted, but for asking a question? This is a rumors page and I am asking about a rumor, isn't that how this place works?


13 Aug 2017 10:31:27
The reason for the breakdown in trust is the fact stories from "family members"about a breakdown in their relationship JUST as he's forcing his move to Barca! And as for not the type, Torres got slaughtered for doing the same thing but in this case everyone seems to think its "nice little phil".


13 Aug 2017 10:49:49
He's a man if he can't take someone shouting at him in work, maybe he should run back to his mammy, or to his safe place wherever his feelings don't get hurt.


13 Aug 2017 10:59:38
It's called rubbish sturing press.


13 Aug 2017 09:04:32
Well here we are the season has started and we have the same problems as last season. Our defence is not good enough. We are now playing Moreno again. Lovren shambolic. Matip looked bad also.

Why is it ed that everyone can see we need defensive improvements apart from Klopp it would seem?

Believable3 Unbelievable2

{Ed025's Note - he knows where the problem lie MR and has tried to strengthen those areas but without success, he knows who he wants but it seems he wont settle for second best mate..

13 Aug 2017 08:44:48
Regarding alternatives to Van Dijk, I read about there being some doubts over Milan's Chinese owner's financial position - would this mean Romagnoli might be available at the right price? He can play out from the back, excellent in the air and is young so retain value, ticks all the boxes!

Believable2 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 09:11:32
Excellent player, but I doubt he's attainable.


13 Aug 2017 08:53:38
It is safe to say that we will be fine attacking wise if Coutinho had to go. We have no problem scorin g without him on the pitch.

Our biggest issue still remains, at the back.

I thought Moreno and TAA had good games but the lack of communication between Matip and Lovren stuck out like a sore thumb.

Pity that the linesman did not stick his flag up for the 3rd Watford goal as it was a clear offside.

1 Point on the board vs a team who I think will cause many upsets this season.

Marco Silva looks like as very decent coach. He is the type of coach I would look at if and when Klopp decides to go.

Believable3 Unbelievable3

13 Aug 2017 10:12:42
Max, it's not just goal scoring Coutinho brings. He drags 2-3 players with him every time he's on the ball, releasing Mane and whichever other forwards we have into space. He's also the best set piece taker we have and the best passer. Coutinho can turn games on their head and create magic from nothing. We've got nobody else, apart from Mane maybe who can replicate that at least semi-regularly.

He's an enormous loss to this team if he goes.


13 Aug 2017 10:21:10
Watford played alright i thought, better than us defensively. TAA looks pretty tidy but he's still a young lad so chucking him in he will probably make a few mistakes. Thought Albie looked alright got caught a few times. Lovren and matip looks uncomfortable together though. Probably think Matip is better out of the two but as a defensive unit we struggled.

Same story one mistake and its a goal. Gigi could have cleared the ball, which is a shame

Not sure about the milner move at the end, kind of just says come and attack us the last 15 mins or so.

Attacking wise we were poor in the first half but made up for it in the second.

Gutted we couldn't close it out but there are both positives and negatives to take.

I do think the coaching probably needs to be looked at but since the season has started then im not sure what we will be doing for defence could take a while in training, fingers crossed we can get it sorted boys!


13 Aug 2017 08:23:34
Ed01 i wanna hear your views it seems to me klopp isnot happy is it with owners or not happy what coutinho doing and finally all the negativity around i just wanna say whoever comes in just make the team stronger and i will be happy and i dream this season maybe after all the problems we finally win the league title what i am wating for laat 28 yrs of my birth
Waitung for your observation ed01
Thanks.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - there is a few problems there right now, first off his tapping up, which is all on him. That has led to recruitment issues, his fault no one else's. Added to that is the problem of Coutinho. Everyone at the club knew he would want to go to Barca and that they were considering him as the long term replacement for Iniesta, it was just no one expected the situation to arise so soon.}

13 Aug 2017 08:40:00
Ed01 do u think it will harm our season much more now and can we buy delle ali for 100 mill. If couts go do u think spurs will sell for this amount.


{Ed001's Note - probably not and no.}

13 Aug 2017 08:59:16
Alls I say is this fans millions of them around the world who and come on this site he's made a massive mistake regarding the tapping up we all know this but its about time now we left that behind us we get behind him and show what we're made of supporting are manager and our team what ever comes our way this ain't a mikey mouse club so come on lads positive thinking now as there 2 weeks left of deals too be done regardless who goes (WE R LFC)


13 Aug 2017 09:05:04
Why didn't you write your user name like that?


13 Aug 2017 09:41:46
Irish red I know gutted now haha don't think i can change it.


13 Aug 2017 08:07:08
A question for Ed001: If Couts does leave in the next few days and we received substantial compensation, would an approach to Spurs for Dele Alli be worthwhile? While I understand he choose spurs over us in the past, he is a Liverpool supporter. I always get the impression with Spurs that they're always is a figure for their players.

Believable0 Unbelievable2

{Ed001's Note - I doubt they would sell for a reasonable figure mate.}

13 Aug 2017 08:34:49
I think we can forget about reasonable figures now Ed001. FSG will pull down Barca's pants when selling Coutinho and Levy will return the favour if we go for any of Spurs' midfielders. There is going to be some shameless money exchanging hands over the next 3 weeks and LFC will have a big role to play in that merry go round.


13 Aug 2017 08:54:37
I'd take dele alli as a coutinho replacement all day long. I'm sure spurs rate him more highly than they do coutinho so we'd need to offer everything we get for couts plus some imo.

Eds do you think spurs would sell for a ridiculous figure like whatever that may be?


{Ed001's Note - they will sell if they got ludicrous amounts yes.}

13 Aug 2017 08:41:15
If you were Dele Alli would you seriously see Liverpool as a step up from Spurs right now? He'll get his big money move sooner rather than later but it'll be to a club that can challenge for the big trophies.


{Ed025's Note - your being very harsh on your own club there smeg, although it pains me to say it liverpool are still one of the biggest draws in world football mate and if alli was offered the choice between spurs and liverpool then there would only be one winner, levy is bugger to deal with though so it wont be easy..

13 Aug 2017 09:06:01
And Alli's a die hard LFC fan too. If we had him, he would not turn his back on us the moment Barcelona and Real came calling. We could actually build a team around a young lad that will be in for the long haul, not simply see LFC as a stepping stone to La Liga's elite.


13 Aug 2017 09:13:09
Spurs Have a budget cap and if they wanted to keep alli if lfc came for him then they would have to break that cap and give him a new contract.

If that were to happen then kane and eriksen would demand higher wages then Rose etc. If he wanted to come to us then I think levy would let him go but it would be for a ridiculous figure.


13 Aug 2017 09:25:21
I know it's 20/ 20.But seems a bit ironic to speculate spend 100mil on a youth player spurs would make a killing off of!? And on top of that a player we were in for and could have bought for a quarter of this fee.!? Eds, what was the killer in the deal for dele alli coming to us again?


{Ed025's Note - £500k faith, MK dons wanted £5.5m and liverpool offered £5m and said take it or leave it...and they left it..

13 Aug 2017 10:23:31
Would love to purchase Alli, but Levy would ask for something like 200m. He never sells cheap and selling one of their best players and still very young to a direct competitor.


13 Aug 2017 10:25:33
That's sickeningly ed025 😂.


13 Aug 2017 09:00:08
120 million pounds for Dele Alli maybe Ed001? After Coutinho's sale, that should be well within FSG's reach plus VVD. One can dream but never say never. For once, I 'd like to see the club do something unpredictable.


{Ed001's Note - I very much doubt they would sell for that amount. Levy would want more.}

13 Aug 2017 09:01:45
It's a shame we're not man city then lol thanks ed01 for the reply.


{Ed001's Note - welcome.}

13 Aug 2017 11:13:06
I think people make too much of a player is a die hard fan . his favourite player growing up was probably Gerrard doesn't mean he is going to sign even if there was any remote opportunity.


13 Aug 2017 22:37:28
cheers ed25, I thought it was something ridiculous like that. and actually reading that reminder is actually make me feel sick inside.


13 Aug 2017 07:49:40
well besides our defence being totally crap besides TAA does anyone think an actual defensive mid would help?

eds what's your thoughts on the couts situation? would you sell if he put in a transfer request?

also what would you do in your opinion to fix Liverpool defence problems?

thanks as always.

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{Ed001's Note - sell. No point keeping an unhappy player.

Teach the players to think for themselves, rather than having all these reams of tactical set ups they have to try and learn. It should be simple. Keep small, fast players up. Bigger, taller players drop back and defend. Pick up their best headers of the ball man to man. The rest spread out to block runners from the edge of the box, cover the posts etc. Most important thing is to attack the ball, not stand and watch. Over coached is the problem. Modern day players are not just taught to think for themselves.}

13 Aug 2017 08:30:11
Spot on, Ed. Even in amateur footie, the small players are no where near the box. The tall players mark tall players to avoid mismatches and then players should be able to recognize mismatches and fix them right there with a goalie who can see these things. Communicate better, take responsibility and attack the headers with determination. As for Cou, we shall see.


{Ed001's Note - I don't understand the modern obsession with bringing everyone back, Rafa was king of it. You have no outball, which is needed. You should always leave at least one up, imo, and one just on the edge of the box with pace to break, who can also mop up and close down anyone from the opposition to stop them getting a clean shot from the edge of the box.}

13 Aug 2017 08:32:19
Ed01 the job is yours!


{Ed001's Note - I don't have the coaching badges, though I have yet to see any improvement in the quality of coaching in the league due to those badges.}

13 Aug 2017 07:46:58
Question for the eds.

When klopp was at dortmund was their defence better at defending set pieces. If so was that down to their quality (hummels? ) Or did they have a defensive coach? Or has this always been a problem for klopp's style?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - no idea as the Bundesliga does not have the same emphasis on set pieces nor Pulis type coaches who build teams of 11 six-foot plus players.}

13 Aug 2017 08:03:01
To be fair to Pulis Mourinho is king of the six-foot plus players.


13 Aug 2017 08:03:22
Thanks for the response ed. Keep up the good work. Transfer window closed soon and you gus can take a well earned rest!


{Ed001's Note - ha if only.}

13 Aug 2017 06:14:21
So let me get this straight.

1. Keita wanted to leave but RBL would hear non of that.
2. VVD wants to leave also handed in a TR but Southampton are still standing their ground.
3. Come now Liverpool. Coutinho wants to leave and the club already looks like folding.

This must be a cruel joke. Someone just shut the transfer window. Am just done with it.

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13 Aug 2017 06:18:09
Whatever decision is made it has to be in the best interests in the club, we are talking a lot of money that might be reinvested into the squad, not an easy decision in anyone's book.


13 Aug 2017 07:32:06
Mighty, reinvested in the club, on who at this time of the TW where a potential (there are not any right now, IMO bar Sanchez or Eriksen)? That is the question. The money is irrelevant if it cannot get you who can fill to some extent, Cou's void cos what's happening to Barcelona with BVB wanting most of the Neymar money, is the same thing that will happen to us so don't let the money fool you, my friend. it's a false dawn.


13 Aug 2017 07:38:26
Ok but what if Coutinho doesn't give his all for the cause? And it causes frictions within the squad?


{Ed025's Note - that wont happen with pip..

13 Aug 2017 07:39:11
There seems to be some unrest going on in the background at Spurs after the Rose outburst. Maybe Eriksen could be tempted with a bigger wage packet? He makes around 80-100k a week there so we could easily double that. But most importantly, he is the closest we will get to a Coutinho replacement with BPL experience.
I'd just throw what Barcelona offer or Coutinho at Levy for Eriksen and see if the player has an interest in joining.


13 Aug 2017 07:56:46
Ok thanks Ed25 do you believe that obviously his agent is behind this then? Last thing any club needs is a player to down tools?


{Ed025's Note - he does want to go MR but hes not the type who will sulk or down tools mate, the guy is a professional and i dont think you should have any worries on that score..

Watford v Liverpool Match Review - A Liverpool Perspective

13 Aug 2017 05:50:50
{Ed's Note - We have posted a new article entitled, Watford v Liverpool Match Review - A Liverpool Perspective

Believable3 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 06:39:33
Nice one Ed!

Do we not bother practising set-pieces in training? It's borderline unprofessional how we are allowing these problems to plague our progression year on year.


{Ed001's Note - we do practice them, it is just that we are not doing a good job of organising things on the pitch when it matters. Opponents make slight changes and we don't have anyone throwing away the instructions they have been given and reorganising things on the pitch.}

13 Aug 2017 07:01:06
I'd trade our entire set of defenders (TAA aside) for a pairing of Carra and Hyppia. Shame we can't clone them coz none of the realistic CB targets out there have it all (leadership, bravery, good with the ball at their feet) . Have a feeling Klopp will regret letting Lucas go at some during the season.


13 Aug 2017 07:40:15
IB, Lucas wanted to leave and we had to honor his wish so that is not Klopp's fault. Regarding set pieces, The setup is just wrong, period and Ed is right. When you see Bobbie at the edge of the 6 and no one recognizes that and says, "hey switch with me" and no one is in front of Okaka when he makes his run from deep to block him off, then you see the point Ed01 is making. I agree we practice them but our players need to take responsibility on the pitch.

When I played amateur footie in France, we would switch positions all the time based on the match ups. Since I was tall like some on my team, we would always mark the taller opposition players in order to avoid mismatches.

Also, we don't communicate during set piece situations at LFC. Kaboul makes a near post run and no one tells Matip he's coming so he can block him off. We also don't attack headers, they wait for the ball to come down before jumping and we are shocked that the opposition score free headers.


13 Aug 2017 07:50:51
The question should be who is taking the set pieces we are practicing against? Because no one at Liverpool can take a decent corner.


13 Aug 2017 07:52:05
I think its noticable how Mignolet's form and our defence in generals form coincides - when Mignolet is playing well, be voacl, being a leader (like he was toward the end of last season) the whole unit looks more sturdy and sure of itself; when he's meek, and silent, and not leading the whole defence looks lost - I'm not sure Mignolet has the consistency to be a top keeper and, if that is the case (which 4 seasons seems to prove) then we need to find someone better (or give Karius a decent run of games) .


13 Aug 2017 08:01:21
Agreed BingoRed, but Lucas was the closest we had to a leader and warrior at the back. And again we have not replaced an influential leader with another. All our defenders are either just bad players or lack the concentration to succeed at the highest level. Matip remained rooted to the spot and Gini just thought he would go on an early vacation. The attitude and lack of effort on the players' part just stinks. Someone needs to give them a whooping before our season plummets.


13 Aug 2017 08:01:38
I understand what you're saying, Seano, but Mignolet is just a poor keeper, it's as simple as that.
From our current predicament, we could do a lot worse than just giving Ward a run in the team from here, Mignolet has caused us nothing but disappointment for 4 years now.


13 Aug 2017 08:04:52
That's a very good observation regarding Migs, Seano.


13 Aug 2017 09:22:28
I don't disagree with you on that Lowe it has been 4 years of (at best) mediocre performances filled with clangers, mishaps, mistakes and dissapointment. I think Karius or Ward need to be given a chance to make the position their own - we've had Mignolet for 4 years without much of a change in his form, why continue down the same route? Though many posters (myself included) have been questioning the goalkeeping position fo rseasons - baffling how it is still an issue we have yet to resolve.


13 Aug 2017 05:04:07
Nutrition, fitness, etc coach changes. But noting about a defensive coach. A man should know his limitations and compensate for them.

Believable3 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 06:29:50
Carra was saying the whole defensive set up needs sorting out, is that Jamie putting himself forward for the job?


13 Aug 2017 07:43:56
Ed01 has said that we practice set piece defending for hours during the week. The prob is that our boys don't know how to make in-game adjustments which points to a lack of leadership. When you see Bobbie alone in the six, then you know there will be a match up problem. A player should be able to see that and say, "switch with me". That is the problem along with the set up which was awful.


13 Aug 2017 07:51:52
That would mean giving up his cozy Sky Sports gig.


13 Aug 2017 03:32:18
Connor randall told a reporter from the s*n to leave before he would answer any questions. brilliant.

Believable14 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 07:44:29
Good on him.


13 Aug 2017 02:46:21
Guys, we can talk all we like about defensive setups (and I agree with that point) but I'm pretty sure no-one ever decided in training Firmino should cover the most dangerous area of the box on his own.

No other team in the PL would have left that ball to Firmino without a CB or GK attacking it and this is where leadership in the defence comes into play. Also if you look at our side, Moreno, Clyne, Gini are all poor defensively in the air (how many times has Gini knocked the ball randomly backwards in the box last season? ) and I'm not convinced Lovren is that dominant either.

We should absolutely not be starting the season with a back 5 including Migs, Lovren and Moreno who are all prone to panic and mistakes, so system and training aside we just have to tighten the defence through bringing in some real competition at CB who can provide some leadership, and then put Milner back at LB until Robertson is ready. I still think we need another FB myself.

Believable4 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 04:41:13
Moreno had a decent game imo (at least he was not directly at fault for any of the goals, which is an improvement on previous seasons for him) . One of our Cbs needs to start being vocal and tell team mates to get into position. Thought Matip would be the answer but clearly I was wrong about him.


13 Aug 2017 05:49:25
Moreno played above his usual standards, but his ball control and passing is still awful.
Our defence is just a shambles, from top to bottom. TAA is the only one who should be in our plans to go on from here.


13 Aug 2017 07:51:07
Music to my ears, OP. I have posted the same thing multiple times since the game regarding Bobbie's position. Even amateur teams don't set up that way as every man and his dog knows CF's are poor defenders at set pieces so that is where the setup is wrong. Also, no one recognized that and said, "that is not right. Switch with me" Hence, a lack of leadership and a vocal voice. Our boys are not the best defensively BUT they kept 4 clean sheets in the last 6 games to get us top 4 so I know they can do better. However, I expect them to at least compete for balls in the air as a header is only won by the player with the most determination to win it. Our boys don't even jump and compete, which is even worse. We have to sort that out. Don't know if VVD is the answer cos if he was there yesterday, the goal would still happen cos he would be in the same position our CB's were in.


13 Aug 2017 00:19:11
Hi eds, hope you're all good, just seen that Barcelona are willing to pay £100M plus Gomes and Rafinha for Coutinho, this is probably a load of crap but I would let him go for a deal like that as he clearly doesn't want to be at Liverpool any more, just out of interest are these 2 players any good? Obviously they're not that good if they being offered or am I wrong?

Many thanks

Henlow red.

Believable1 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - Perhaps is the best I can call.}

13 Aug 2017 03:19:16
They have been slagged a lot on here Henlow red. Rahifina and gomes I mean. 100 mil and those two? We should take that. We know what klopp does, he doesn't buy his own team, he moulds it. He has made some of our guys much better than I ever expected.

I'd rather have two league 2 journeymen that wanted to be here over 1 Brazilian who didn't. Shame, I don't think it's Phil, I reckon it's the advisors, family, agents. Still, the damage is done.


13 Aug 2017 04:43:21
So we should over load a bloated squad with two more passenger is it Superred91? Are u implying we should bend the knee to Barcelona and Coutinho? Don't we have enough average players already at the club that all the Klopp apologists are waiting for him to "mould" into world class players?


{Ed001's Note - apologists? He clearly does improve attacking players, so nothing apologist about it to say that.

As for those two players, we don't want or need either, so it would be utterly idiotic to bring them in and be saddled with their wages. Better to get more cash and actually buy what we need, ie defenders who can defend.}

13 Aug 2017 05:32:27
Read my post carefully Ed001. I don't want either Gomes or Rafinha at LFC. Get as much cash as possible for Coutinho and sign the players Klopp wants now (Keita and VVD) or LFC are in for a long long winter. As far as "defenders who can defend", there are not many out there who would be willing to join us so if we can get VVD, I'd be pleased.


{Ed001's Note - I never said you did, I was replying to the original post with that. Perhaps you should stop assuming, I deliberately started a new paragraph to show it was not aimed at you.}

13 Aug 2017 06:44:12
Ah my bad Ed001.


{Ed001's Note - no worries mate. I probably should have said at some point that it was meant to be in agreement with you.}

13 Aug 2017 07:52:21
We don't want nor need their dross players.


13 Aug 2017 11:04:00
Ed01, surely he should have improved at least one defender in his two seasons here?


{Ed001's Note - Moreno has improved, so there is your one.}

12 Aug 2017 23:47:19
Anything truth in the links to Lorenzo Insigne from Napoli?

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{Ed002's Note - Try the search engine.}

12 Aug 2017 23:24:27
So eds, does klopp want to get rid of couts? Have you heard any rumours of discontent from klopp? Thanks.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - Not sure, perhaps it got mentioned?}

12 Aug 2017 23:04:36
Ed any real interest in Insigne or not please?

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - RTP.}

13 Aug 2017 00:28:05
Of course it is important to have tall physical defenders for set pieces, but there is no excuse, for not concentrating, not communicating and most importantly, not attacking the ball!

How tall is Lucas? Anytime I watched him fill in at CB last season he won way more headers than he was entitled to! Because he was brave and determined to get his head on the ball OR disrupt his opponent.

Its not rocket Science, just be brave and attack the football when it comes into the box, Im sick of our players making half hearted efforts, You can literally see them waiting around for somebody else to make the header.

Going to the game on Tuesday, hoping for a big performance.

Believable5 Unbelievable1

13 Aug 2017 01:54:30
I just posted about this! I think for me it's a combination of small players playing small. If you get my drift? Lucas played big ya know? If only Gini, hendo, lallana etc had lucas' attitude when attacking the ball in the box aye? Unfortunately at set piece time we only have listen and matip.

Having said that. we don't concede at every asset piece, so I think it's just a matter of working with the group, finding what does work and continue to reinforces that so it becomes a habit.


13 Aug 2017 03:51:58
We very rarely win headers anywhere on the pitch especially yesterday!


13 Aug 2017 07:57:32
Spot on OP anf Faith. Our boys simply lack bottle in heading situations. Look at Wiji on the third goal. It looked like he docked on the header instead of showing grit and making sure he made enuff contact with the ball. He just went in half-heartedly. Faioth, I agree with Lucas. The guy was brilliant in the air as he is old school. A true warrior. last season, he shut out Harry Kane and won almost every header vs him when we beat Spurs at home. He plays big and our players even the tall ones, play small. No leadership, no communication, no determination to fight for aerial balls. Heck, we don't even jump for these balls so how are we supposed to compete?


13 Aug 2017 00:26:42
Since the beginning of the 2014/ 15 season we have conceded 44 goals from set pieces in the premier league. That is more than anyone else.
It also accounts for 31% of the goals we have conceded in total, just shy of a 3rd of total goals conceded.

We like to point at our defence for these things but set pieces get defended as a team, it is nobody in the back 4's fault that Wijnaldum ducked an easy clearing header.

Last season we conceded 13 goals from set pieces and in total conceded 42 goals. Remove just half of those set piece goals and our goals conceded will be close to Chelsea's (League winners) .

I have no issue with zonal marking, when used correctly it works. However we look woeful with the system we use.
This is not a knee jerk reaction to today, it is just a continuation of last season.
We do not put people on the posts! Its the 94th minute and you are defending a lead put bodies on the line.

To earn his wage Klopp needs to address our set piece issue, it was a glaring issue under Rodgers and has continued under Klopp. The team are nervous so put bodies on the line. Nobody want's to head the ball so switch to man marking which will force them to take responsibility.

If we sort our set piece issues then I don't think our back 4 would get near as much stick as they do.

Believable2 Unbelievable0

13 Aug 2017 01:59:45
Agree totally with what your saying except our back 4 looked just as vulnerable in open play today as they did at set pieces.


 
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