Liverpool Banter Archive June 19 2013

19 Jun 2013 23:11:30
I'm reading a lot of posts where people keep comparing potential signings to existing first team players and saying we don't need them, as if 11 quality 1st team players will give us a successful season.

1 poster even descibed some potential signings as a slap in the face to Sterling an Ibe (2 teenagers who have great potential but may well go on loan for a season). Or numerous posts about why would we sign another quality keeper if Reina might stay

Look at who we're competing with.

Before anyone comments, I know we are trying to uncover top players rather than signing proven top players like those I list below, but still.

When City signed Ageuro did city fans thing it was unfair on tevez?

When utd signed valencia was it a slap in the face to nani or Giggs?

When Chelsea signed Ba was it ridiculous because they have Torres?

We need real competition for every place on the team. It may sound crazy to some but I'm sure BR wants to get to a place where even Gerard is under pressure.

That's where he has to build the quality of the squad back to in the coming seasons.

Fitzy

I make you about right son.

Since I suspect you're referring partially to my post, figure I'll respond.

Let's look at Atsu as an example. I know very little of the lad (good, bad, or indifferent) but I suspect he's not being considered an automatic member of the starting 11, correct? Which leaves him as potentially 1 of 6 subs (the 7th being a backup GK) or in the reserves.

Right now I already see our bench as potentially being Henderson, Downing (if he stays which I think he will), Allen, Borini, Kelly, and (probably) Ilori (apologies if I'm missing someone obvious). This already makes it really difficult for Sterling/Suso/Coady/Ibe to get a look in at getting on the first team sheet on game day. Add Atsu and Alberto to this and even those two would struggle to get on that list above those already listed.

I guess my thought is buying a player for the reserves seems pretty pointless to me, especially at 3M+.

Now could Alberto/Atsu surprise everyone and suddenly vault into the first choice 11? Absolutely! But who would then fall into the reserves in their place? Aspas? Borini? Henderson? At some level you either need to play with the ones we have (we have well more than 18 capable players already) or start putting people out on loan/selling them, particularly when we don't even have European games this season.

Well fitzy if we had a team good enough to compete with they wouldn't have anything to moan about!

It's more the quality of the players we are buying. I think everyone has an issue with the likes of Alberto/Atsu coming in and not being as good as say downing/shelvey. We would have no problem signing aguero just because we have Suarez already. The point everyone is making is they want better players in the starting 11 not the bench! 99% of us would rather see downing dropped to the bench and use the money from Alberto/Atsu/llori to buy someone better to replace him in the starting 11. It's what spurs do and that's why our if nowhere there a better team.

Don't compare Atsu and Alberto with Aguero please! Tevez to Aguero is like coutinho to MK which improves the team as you now have two great players.

Let's be honest, has anyone seen any of our targets play consistently (at least 15 games viewed)?

Sure, we should back and support them.
But just like we shouldn't slag them 1st, we shouldn't hype them up either.

2 many liars here, actin' like they watch Portugese, Ukranian and German football every week.

"We don't believe you; you need more people!"

What it allows us to do is send our youngsters out on loan to another prem club where they will play high intensity matches more often, probably on a regular basis.
That way they develop and learn quickly and then we can recall them when they are genuinely ready for a starting berth in our first team.
It's worked for other teams in the past, and I actually think it's been a massive weakness for us in the past.

19 Jun 2013 22:59:29
Seeing conflicting things about Mkhitaryan, any updates? {Ed052's Note - Nope, I have explained a stupid amount of times}

19 Jun 2013 22:51:32
Evening eds, jus a quick q if I may?
I know you guys don't like talking money issues on here but jus wondered if let's say we did sign mickey for the region of 18/23m as rumours suggest would this or in fact any other deal be paid in full upon completion or would it be settled via instalments? Only reason I ask this is most rumours suggest that mickey deal isn't dependent on LS leaving & was wondering if it was a risk splashing the cash b4 any other sales completed?
many thanks guys keep up the gr8 wrk u ALL DO. {Ed052's Note - I don't see the Mickey deal being related as such. It's complex. We will probably go ahead and get him because Carroll has gone (which frees up a squad spot so to speak), If we get Mickey, and Suarez doesn't go (5000000/1) then its not a problem. When LS goes, then we already have the replacement and cannot get held to ransom, i.e. pay 25m as you need him, rather than 18 as a squad option (if you get me). It'll be instalments mate}

Cheers eds0052 for your quick reply much appreciated mate. Regardless of who we sign or how much it for let's hope they hit the ground running because by reading a lot of posts on here they in for a rough time from fans if they dont.

19 Jun 2013 22:44:07
Was just wondering which would be the best way to get tickets. I'm a fan from Australia and will be in Liverpool the weekend of the Manchester United game.
Any help would be appreciated
Cheers Brent {Ed052's Note - If your a member then trying to buy when the tickets are released, by loging on an hour before release and waiting is the best way}

You will need previous ticket purchases recorded on membership card to have any chance of Liverpool v united ticket. Probably 7 games from last season
Redgib

Cheers ed. How many days before the game do tix usually go on sale? {Ed001's Note - I thought tickets went up for sale in one bunch? Sometime next month, if I remember correctly. Just looked it up and checked, I was half right, the first half go up for sale in July, the second half of the season go up up for sale in November. That's home Prem games, away games are up to the selling club.}

19 Jun 2013 22:33:30
Eds do you see us going for another striker when Suarez goes? I know we have all these new attacking player but I still feel we need a guaranteed goalscorer. {Ed052's Note - I don't see us going for another one no. We know who we want to sign, and I expect us to get them. I have explained how I feel that we have plenty of goals in the team anyway}

Ed. let's be honest about the potential signings. A lot of the m are not up to it!

Mignolet- He isn't a great keeper and is probably a downgrade on Reina. 3/10

Papa- Top class if he joins but it is at a price. However even with the large fee his value will probably increase. 8/10

Alderwerield- He is a cheaper option than Papa but would still be a very good signing. 8/10

Toure- An excellent defender who was captured on a free. He doesn't block a youngster and is a quick fix. Wages are high enough though but he is good. 7/10

Llori- Is this guy really any better than the likes of Lloyd Jones. 2/10

Mkyhitaran- Looks a great player and excellent signing if it happens. The fee is high though for someone who has only really played in the Ukrainian league but he would have no problem adapting I think. 7/10

Eriksen- I don't think he is as good as HM but represents a much better deal plus he is considerably younger. His value could multiply by 3 or 4 if signed. 8/10

Atsu- Is this guy any better than Ibe and Sterling. I don't think so! 2/10

Alberto- I think Suso is just as good and is actually a year or two younger. Suso is a year older and will be a much better player after last season. Fee is also too high! 3/10

Aspas- A great all action player that I have no doubts will be a big success! 7/10

These are the players currently linked but if suarez leaves there will no doubt be more.

Out of that lot I would sign: Toure
Papa or Alderwerield
Eriksen
Aspas {Ed052's Note - I'd disagree but thats your opinion}}

So, is Suso a year or two younger, or a year older than Alberto?!

Mate, you're dressing up opinion as rational assessment of players ability - most of whom you haven't the faintest clue about. Lloyd Jones is a teenager, Ilori is much older with half a season in the Portuguese top flight under his belt. Therefore right now one is in all probability 3 years more ready. I would love Suso and Sterling to be world beaters but right now they ain't. Take off your one tinted specs and ask a neutral fan - there's no real buzz about either of them. Hopefully a loan and gulag football can accelerate their progress because they look to have talent. Atsu by contrast has played in a top team for a number of years and has CL experience? Are you saying this isn't relevant? Alberto looks a class act and will replace Shelvey who really is over-hyped and not good enough. You realise even Carra and Gerrard spoke out last season about the youngsters getting first team chance without earning it. Really narks pros - Sterling hopefully now understands that he has a helluva lot to learn before he can strut around thinking he's made it with his bumper contract.

19 Jun 2013 22:23:26
Throwing a bit of positivity into the mix here.

First of all thanks Eds, most of us appreciate the work you do and the info you give us.

Second I'd be pretty happy with the players being touted at the minute.

Aspas - looks pretty good. To be involved in 51% of any teams goals is impressive. obviously its not going to be as high next year due to the higher quality of our players etc but hopefully he has a big impact.

Kolo - I was watching some videos on Youtube where they show his whole involvment in a game and these were impressive. there's one wheres City play Chelsea that really stands out and shows what he's about. And this is from a player whos not player a lot since he had the 6 month ban.

Mkhitaryan - I would be very happy with this one. Fingers crossed it happens. He scores goals and is very highly thought of by most accounts.

Papa - Quality CB. Would be a great move if we managed to land him. Would put a real statement of intent for our top 4 credentials along with Mkhitaryan.

The above 4 I see as really imprvong the current squad. Presumably Aspas will be a replacement for Downing. Who, while he has got better, doesn't create enough goals for us. Kolo is a replacement for Carra so a decent replacement. Papa - Skrtel. Skrtel's not had a great season and costs us a few points and papa is definately a step up from him. Mkhitaryan - not entirely sure who he is a replacement for or if he is even replacing someone. Obviusly the financial investment has come from the inevitable sale of Suarez but the goals lost from Suarez will easily be spread across the team with the firepower we have.

Mingolet - had a good seasons last season and Pepe needs a kick up the bum or a decent replacement. Mingolet is that. Pepe has been a bit iffy this season and i'd back Mingolet to step up to shore up the goalkeeper position.

Alberto - Seems a good prospect. Barca wanted him and Sevilla rate him. Hopefully he's taking Assaidi's position and Sterling / will go on loan somewhere else so he can develop.

Illori - replacement for Coates presumably. I had high hopes for Coates but didn't rate him when he played for us. Always looked shaky. Illori definately has the potential to grow into a good cb for us. So see what happens here.

Atsu - seemes to be a lot of negativity surrounding him as a result of Ed002s friends feedback on him being of 'Fulham quality'. i'm not sure who he would be replacing but would hope that this did not halt the development of Sterling. But it seems we are replacement two forwards (downing & Assaidi) with 3 forwards (atsu/alberto/aspas) - unless tehse 3 are a replacement for Suarez / Assaidi & downing.

An 8 player overhaul is quite significant. But this is obviously the reason why Rodgers is trying to gte all of his business done early so that the new players can fully integrate into the team.

I remain optimistic as always that we are on the right track and believe we will be challenging with Tottenham & Arsenal for 4th next season.

Rodgers is clearly improving us and with these signings I think we have a strong squad of players.

Cheers! {Ed052's Note - Great post}

Top 4 are great additions while the bottom 4 could murder the acedemy!

Barca didn't want him. They could have for half what were paying
Carlo

Belter post mate; is rite!

You're right; 8 player overhaul is big and potentially worrying.

However, it's out of BR's hands to a certain extent.

Too many players are poor and need replacing, and we needed numbers anyway to give us some depth.

This is why the number (8-ish?) will end up being so high.

But, as yorightly said, acquiring early will hopefully help them settle quicker too.

Here's hopin' ey?!

How is having more players of a similar age and similar ability "killing the academy". Surely a 25 man squad of seasoned internationals on mega bucks with huge egos is a bigger barrier to the youngsters? We should have a strong 14/15 experienced pros and then 2 young and hungry players fighting for every position behind them. That's called healthy competition and a deeper squad.

Kidder

19 Jun 2013 22:20:13
Am I right in thinking this mickey fella will be bought from selling big andy rather then Suarez? And therefore can expect another big money signing wen/if Suarez leaves? {Ed052's Note - No}

19 Jun 2013 22:04:15
Eds, if Atsu does come in is that then the end to wingers coming in, with already getting Aspas and probably Alberto? Would really like to see us sign a winger of proper quality. {Ed052's Note - That would be it, yes}

19 Jun 2013 21:58:17
Hi eds great site.

Sorry to go on about Mkh but in your opinion what are the chances of us signing him?
I know you have probably answered this question many times but I'm getting confused. Some news papers report he will have medical tomorrow, some say Ian Ayre has cancelled going to brazil to speak with Shakhtar and now tv are reporting we haven't even made contact? what is the current situation?

Thanks YNWA {Ed052's Note - I cannot serious be asked to answer this again}

19 Jun 2013 21:54:05
Ed what do you make of the fixture list for us? I personally think it's almost perfect and could be the difference between top 4 and 5/6th. Thoughts Ed? Cheers.
ROI. {Ed052's Note - It is great up til October. But you have to play everybody twice home and away, so it matter little tbh}

I think it's good though the way the big games for the Champions League are all mostly a good few games apart. So at least if we were to lose a couple of games we would have a few games to build up confidence. Losing against United and playing Chelsea in the next game could affect morale in the squad and could prevent us getting top 4. At least this way we have a better chance IMO. Cheers.
ROI.

Ethiad and Stamford bridge in two days!

Found out that I won't be able to watch either mam utd game due to electric picnic and a friends wedding in march. Not impressed. Hopefully sky rip up the fixture list in my favour lol

Looking at the fixtures I would have to say that we are going to be very lucky. We are the only team that doesn't have to play against LIVERPOOL.
DM2013

Sorry, but what the FSG is an 'electric picnic'?!

Sounds promisin'!

19 Jun 2013 21:53:08
Reports coming out of Yerevan, Armenia today is that Mkhitaryan will be flying to London tomorrow evening (20th). Let's hope it is for Liverpool reasons!

This will be the 6th flight he's been on in 2 days according to 'sources' lol talk about jet-lag.

HB

Maybe he uses a Flying carpet HB?

The real AG

19 Jun 2013 21:46:22
Hey all
seems to be a lot of negativity about the potential new signings with atsu alberto especially being criticized and questioned

However I would like to remind everyone that 1) Rodgers knows what he's doing in the market countinho, Sturridge were great signings and 2)

These players haven't been bought yet! they still might not read a report from shakhtar that they have not received a bid for mkhitaryan maybe atsu and alberto are targets and they won't buy both heck maybe they won't buy any of the players we are linked with so calm down peeps

In Rodgers we trust

p. s what do we make of the andy carroll sitch? good deal? still on the fence personally

I think we got the best possible deal we could for Carroll.

Personally, I thought we were lucky to get that much.

The real AG

Imo Carroll is a 10-12m player on recent form. Lucky to get more than that for him.

19 Jun 2013 21:42:56
Ed 52 as you are about mate. I see that there have been protests about ticket prices and basically fans getting ripped off. In your opinion do you see there is a chance of ticket prices coming down and would the Premier league have any power on how much clubs can sell seats for?

Thanks in advance. {Ed052's Note - What protests mate? Arsenal fans always moan, and so they should. If you are referring to Brazil, it is different and to do with deeply rooted social problems. Ticket prices should come down a lot more, but they wont}

Jo! Goal! He comes on. He scores. Maybe we should by him. 100% international scoring record!

There were protests last season about away match price tickets, I seem to remember City protesting and others followed! {Ed052's Note - Yes, and the linesman haha!! Nothing will change. It should, but it wont}

Ed52 I believe that there as been groups of fans protesting outside premier league HQ today. It was a planned protest from all fans from different clubs. Fans of SOS was there. There is info online mate. let's hope they listen. {Ed052's Note - Prices wont drop. I hadn't known of the protest but wouldn't expect anything to come from it}

Funny about the linesman, he got banned for telling them to go over to the fans because of the money they had spent! Fair play to him. In saying that he did it in a smug way! so maybe he deserved the ban haha

A group of supporters from a group of clubs (Liverpool, Spurs and Arsenal to name a few) joined in protest outside the Premier League offices today over ticket prices ed.

Here's the bottom line. Ticket prices are set by supply and demand. A protest will do nothing to change that. If enough fans don't like the price then they won't go to the game. If games aren't selling out then the clubs will lower prices. Football Clubs are still buisnesses and are trying to make as much money as possible. As long as fans are willing to pay the prices and pack the stadiums than prices will continue to rise. Its simple capitalism.

19 Jun 2013 21:34:05
Be funny, just and interesting IF Madrid Higuain and now upping courtship of Bale-leave Suarez high and dry. And others do not come forward. HUGE humble pie minimum required by the slime ball then

Does anyone understand?

Google translate

No mate, I think we need a cipher to decode it. lol

Yes but I had to read it a second time

19 Jun 2013 21:24:21
Hi eds

I know I'm asking a hard question to answer, but apart from our known targets, is there anybody else were interested in? The defence was supposed to be the priority this summer but I see no rumours (lately) of defensive recruits, do u think we've decided to keep skrtle, because our first choice targets are deemed to expensive?

Would love to know your thoughts ed30/ed52

Cheers BC {Ed052's Note - I expect Coates and Skrtel still to go. I also expect Ilori and one other, more expensive and higher quality CB to come in. Someone like Alderweild (although we walked away there due to price) or Papa}

19 Jun 2013 21:19:31
What is the latest on
a) Mignolet
b) Ilori
c) Alberto
And do you expect them to sign? Thanks {Ed052's Note - I have answered this, maybe an hour ago. They will probably all sign, with C being the most likely. Nothing new on any of them}

19 Jun 2013 21:10:30
Ed which deal looks like closest to going through next do you think? {Ed052's Note - Alberto, then Migs, then Mickey, then Illori, then Atsu, in that order, one a day. We cannot predict the timing of transfers, just keep you updated with talks, enquiries, bids etc}

A signing a day keeps the pessimists away.

19 Jun 2013 20:28:26
I think ever since ED002 voiced his concerns earlier (which of course I welcome) some posters are getting a bit nervous and upset.
I think the only target which perhaps worries me is Atsu (a step down from Sterling IMO). The rest, I think are very good players and will make us stronger as a squad.
All we can do is trust BR to make the right calls and I think he will.
Thanks,
Puzzled Red

19 Jun 2013 20:54:22
Surely Liverpool should be looking at better wingers than Atsu, IMO Mertens, Dzudsak or Nolito would be much better players for LFC

RedjavRedjav {Ed052's Note - Because all those other options would want to sign and would be available for 3m}

Im sorry, but with additions like Atsu and Alberto we will not be challenging for the top 4. I would much rather spend all this money on 2 or 3 decent proven players than on 6-7 maybes {Ed052's Note - How do you know. Are you a Premiership manager. Have you ever actually watched them play. Have you read my profile?}

FC Porto?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢s youth player of the 2010/2011.

Rio Ave Player of the year 2011/12.

Played 28 matches 2012/13 for Porto.

1 year left on contract and Porto want him to sign a new deal with a 22m transfer clause.

Hilarious. We should get 2-3 decent players instead for the 8-10M we may spend on Atsu and Alberto? Let me know how that works out for you.

People scream for players like Benteke who is 20 million imagine he was still at genk be murder 7 million on him so on so on haha

How terribe it is to be probably signing one of the best young players in Ghana for less than 5m
Would you prefer we go and blow 15m on Zaha or Tom ince?

19 Jun 2013 20:06:35
hi eds,
i have a query not really rumour related.
was looking at the BBC fixtures for the upcoming BPL and noticed all the matches are scheduled for saturdays 1500. how long will this list stand before Sky intervene and reaarange the games to suit their schedule, i. e saturday evening 1715 KO and sunday early and late kickoffs. or can you shed some light on how it works

thanks {Ed052's Note - It wont be long. Im not sure when they start messing the lists up, but it wont be long}

19 Jun 2013 20:01:17
Eds. one of the eds earlier tday stated that a bid for mickey had been put forward but now all over sly sports, and various sites have said no bids have been made who's right and who's wrong. ynwa {Ed052's Note - All these ''sources'' are reporting what the CEO has said. Ed002 is correct in what she or he says. If you don't want to believe them, then don't, read a paper and believe we are signing Soldado}

19 Jun 2013 20:38:35
U have to look and say hm, aspas, atsu, alberto in place of suarez from last season it is clearly a step backwards. Its interesting that eds said about worrys he has of quality of atsu and alberto, I was told a year ago that atsu all africans believed he was a superstar in making but having seen him few times he really isn't Liverpool quality at all he really is just as bad as assaidi. Alberto don't know much but didn't exactly excell in a second division team that didn't even win the league i'm not seeing this at all

Yeah you'd be one who thought Sturridge and Coutinho was a step backwards. Behave mate.

Agree with that mate. Although I have trust in BR I somehow can't belive Atsu is a improvement to our players, don't see anything special, neither speed or finishing. Very average imo. Alberto, may be a suprise, he looks like he could be a talent, he has a good vision and very good finishing so will wait and see I guess. But Atsu, I am not so excited about. Hope i'm wrong.

19 Jun 2013 21:36:29
I agree with the 2nd poster, Behave.
Mkhitaryan & Aspas to replace Suarez
Luis Alberto to replace Shelvy
Atsu to replace downing.
I don't understand the moaning about the youngsters, Luis Alberto and Christian Atsu are different players and play on different parts of the pitch, Alberto is a right footed Suso and Atsu is a left footed Sterling, So they could easily play together, front 4 of ST-Borini, LW-Sterling, AM-Suso, RW-Atsu in easy cup games or in case injuries etc. Because they are back up to
ST-Sturridge, LW-Mkhitaryan, AM-Coutinho, RW-Aspas.
I actually love the fact we are looking to improve the starting lineup and our bench optitions because our bench last season was week at best.
I think Aspas, Mkhitaryan, New CB, Mignolet will be starters while the likes of Toure, Kelly, Ilori, Allen, Hendo, Teixeira, Suso, Sterling, Ibe, Alberto, Atsu, Borini, will provide good competition for places and great back up!
Liverpool fans have become "followers of the bandwagon and lost the ability

Lots of posters complaining that the young guys being considered to replace Suarez are not an improvement.

Have they forgotten that Luis was on fire last year, was short listed for Player of the Year, could've had Golden Boot - and we still came 7th and flopped in the cups?!

Those wanting to keep the status quo and afraid to give new lads a chance seem to me to short-sighted and lacking in ambition.

In the good old days, we snapped up everybody - all the best players available, whether we needed them or not. We had fantastic depth and huge competition for every position. And we were a proper team. No stars, prima donnas, or even big names - until they reached LFC that is.

Lots of people quoting the old 'no man is bigger than the club' mantra, but not many seem to actually believe it! You're blind if you can't see that we need to move on from last year and need to keep building and improving. Support the team, trust the boss, and walk on.

Coyle's Law states.

20 Jun 2013 00:10:09
Fantastic post Coyles law states

Da Vinci Coutinho

I've never seen Aspas, Alberto, Mkhitaryan or Atsu play apart from YouTube highlights and ill bet the vast majority of posters haven't either. You need to trust that BR and the LFC scouting team know a bit more about players abilities than Internet commentators and editors. Maybe these players might benefit from being allowed to show what they are capable of rather than being damned and slated before they've even kicked a ball for us.

cozinoz

19 Jun 2013 20:20:15
So atsu, luis alberto, the armenian lad all play in similar positions in that they can play from wide or in behind front man. this is similar poition to coutinho. we also have others in that position such as suso, sterling, assaidi. is rogers trying to fill the squad with this type of player?! I despair. Where is the def midfield player we are crying out for? Rodgers is obsessed with barcelona and wants to model everything he does on their style. I mean joe allen as the welsh xavi. ?!
He talks a good game but lfc have been consistently let down by their dealings in the transfer market. I am seriously concerned by his lack of vision and only looking at plan a players, plus some of the fees being mentioned for unproven and inexperienced players. Owners are being had. ! Barcas game ain't all that anymore either as bayern proved!

What a pathetic post

Gazline

I don't think it was BR who said 'The Welsh Xavi ' to be honest. I may be wrong!

19 Jun 2013 19:57:28
I don't seem to get these mkhitaryan, papadopoulous, alderweireld & these kind of pronunciations perfectly right. Does someone have Joe Kinnear's number?

Seems like BR is trying to make us THE UNPRONOUNCEABLES next season? any chance we bid for lewandowski or B?Ö‚Äöaszczykowski?

19 Jun 2013 19:52:55
Hey eds, Just saw a few sites quoting Shakhtar's chief executive, about no actual communication between Liverpool and them, and just yesterday many sites claimed that he was to arrive for a medical imminently.

So what exactly is happening? {Ed052's Note - Ed002 has told you what has happened. }

Sorry Ed 052, I don't quite understand. Just searched the engine as well. Could you help clarify it? {Ed052's Note - I have had no feedback regarding approaches made to Dortmund and Bayern Munich at this time. For now, the interest from Liverpool will be more attractive to the player and his representatives than any interest from Italy - but time will prove to be a problem as he is continuing to be offered to other clubs. As of last night I understand that Liverpool has made an offer to Shakhtar and are actively discussing a deal for the player. I still expect that a deal can be brokered. A bid was made and discussions have been going on. My understanding as of last night is agreement has yet to be reached but I still expect it to be.

This is what Ed002 has said in the last 12 hours or so, how hard was it to find. Easy, it took me 10 seconds}

19 Jun 2013 19:49:36
Hi eds, what is the latest on
a) Mignolet
b) Ilori
c) Alberto
And do you expect these players to sign? Thanks. {Ed052's Note - There is no latest. I expect all 3 to sign}

19 Jun 2013 19:39:03
Ed052 you state you believe that we will make top 4, I hope you are correct but who do you think will be the team in the current top 4 that we will replace. {Ed052's Note - Arsenal}

Thought you may say that mate, I'll have a little, no in fact I'd have a large bet with you that we don't finish above arsenal.

Really Ed? Wenger has been rumoured to spend big money this summer. Any particular reason why you think Arsenal will loose out and not the likes of say. Man U :)?

Crowman. {Ed052's Note - Because United will be spending big. Wenger is interested it what I see as overpaid primandonas, who I cannot see fitting them or doing well.}

19 Jun 2013 19:37:26
{Ed052's Note - I have tried out a new format for profiles, so please please check them out and drop me a comment. They are designed to give a more extensive view of a player, more detail, and more talking points.

Updates:
Sterling - http://www.youth-football.net/raheem-sterling.php
Coady - http://www.youth-football.net/conor-coady.php
Ngoo - http://www.youth-football.net/michael-ngoo.php

New:
Honda - http://www.player-profiles.co.uk/keisuke-honda.php

Thanks very much}

{Ed052's Note - There are some more updates too, here:

Borini - http://player-profiles.co.uk/fabio-borini_.php
Walcott - http://player-profiles.co.uk/theo-walcott_.php
Yesil - http://player-profiles.co.uk/samed-yesil.php

Many thanks}

New format is fantastic Ed52. Much easier to read. Please stick with this format.

Thanks,
Davey Sulls {Ed052's Note - Im glad. I have tried to make it so its quick to read, you can skip to what you want, and it can be used as a reference also!!}

19 Jun 2013 19:17:38
Evening eds, I've just seen that lfc are looking to get the Belgian trio mignolet, alderweireld and benteke. Is there any truth in this?

Cheers

Roobert the red. {Ed052's Note - We are trying and should get the first. We walked away from Alder... for cost reasons, but he is cheaper then Papa. We enquired about Benteke, but I don't believe we will try to get him, cost, and other targets}

19 Jun 2013 14:47:48
How significant is the interest in Christian Eriksen, class player in my opinion, don't understand why we don't go ahead and put in a bid before another team snaps him up, would fit in well aswell, cheers {Ed052's Note - We have scouted him and have interest but a move is very very unlikely. We know who Liverpool want and will probably sign}

19 Jun 2013 14:41:19
Hi Eds, I posted a rumour around midnight last night and I signed it, just wonder why it didn't get through, I know you get loads of posts, but thought it might have been quieter at that time. Thanks in advance for any response.

PaddyB 75
YNWA {Ed002's Note - No idea.}

19 Jun 2013 14:36:00
Afternoon All,

I see there is a mixed reception to the players that we are being heavily linked with.

From what I can see we are still operating with a medium budget as we will be recouping most of, if not all of what we spend through sales. So bearing that in mind, and assuming the prices being mentioned are (approx) correct, who do the Ed's/posters think we should be going for instead of,
1. Mignolet
2. Llori
3. Papadopoulos
4. Mkhitaryan
5. Atsu
6. Aspas
7. Alberto

Personally think there is a lot of potential in the above list.


Tommy Walsh

Leno for GK if Renia stays
Alderwield
De Cegile
Van Ginkel
Affelly
Tello
Higuin if Suarez goes
Aspas

Potential being the key word.

I would expect a couple of well known players to be joining the squad too.

The youth we are investing in will be good for the future and are great additions.

Red Lee

Can I just say its Ilori not Llori or Lloris who is the Spurs keeper.

Just upsets my OCD that's all.

19 Jun 2013 14:32:53
Hi eds,
Are we interested in Ibrahim Afellay?
B

19 Jun 2013 14:31:06
Hey Ed's

From the young lads that came through and were brought in last season, do you expect any of them to make a big impact considering they have had a good 1st year in the 1st team? I expect Borini to come good now that he is cleared of injuries - He looked very sharp in the European U21's. Personally, I also hope Suso get's more game time.

Cheers, Big Red

19 Jun 2013 14:30:01
So Christian Atsu is the latest name said to be signing, I think he would be a good squad player, and for anything under £5m I think it would be similar to Assaidi, a deal posing very little risk and could turn out to be a bargain. One thing Atsu does have is pace, probably up there with Nathan Dyer and Aaron Lennon however sometimes he does rely on this too much running out of ideas if he can't sprint past the defender. I feel he would add so much more going forward than Downing and will be a decent signing provided he doesn't get in the way of some of the very promising youngsters coming through.
The club seem to be moving very early which is a great thing, all the signings could be wrapped up by the end of July, now while i'm not sure of some of the prices being banded around for, Mignolet, Mkhitaryan or Alberto if these are the players the manager wants and will help us get in the top four the finances should be left for the money men to discuss.

always a red

19 Jun 2013 13:30:15
I read Wisdom may go on loan to Fulham. This correct Eds? {Ed052's Note - its too early for loans}

19 Jun 2013 13:47:03
The Spanish newspaper reports this afternoon (Wednesday) that Alberto will begin the final stages of completing his move to Anfield today after Sevilla agreed an improved offer from the Reds. Liverpool had initially had a bid turned down this week but Marca report that a lucrative deal of around �7.5million plus variable add-ons as Alberto's career progresses as well as a percentage of any sell-on fees the Reds get for the 20-year-old has convinced Sevilla. {Ed002's Note - One would have to ask what the hell "Alberto will begin the final stages of completing his move" means? Is he packing his toothbrush? Making sandwiches for the trip?}

Yes he loves his cheese and pickle sandwiches

19 Jun 2013 14:24:56
Ed 02. relaax mate. cheers. I know you ain't feeling good at this transfer.
Someone pointed out here is actually worrying me too, we have become like a QPR or Newcastle.
All these Kids, and one real Goal CL.
Ed, don't you think with Micky arriving, it will seal the fate of Hendo?
where is he going to play?. suerly we don't want micky to flop, so he must start with countinho.
we already have gerrard and lucas to play in the middle.
a 16 mill warming the bench?, another player downing 20 mill warming the bench, with Allen already warming at 18 mill.

surprised our first team players would be cheaper than the bench for the very first time

I've heard he prefers a nice Tuna pasta, rather than sandwiches Ed
John Wigan

That as tickled me ed2.

Ed002, I have a question.

Whats Albertos favorite sandwich?

Sam Adzii JFT96 YNWA {Ed002's Note - Interestingly, whenever I need to head in to Spain they give me those little white bread sandwiches with an off-white filling in the airport lounge. Never figured out if they are fish or chicken. But LA is a traditionalist - corned beef, swiss and dried slaw (instead of sauerkraut) on rye - a reuben sandwich variant.}

19 Jun 2013 13:29:57
This Micky transfer talk is perhaps the most interesting transfer in years for us, he will be a hit for us. Top 4 definately with hi: Rodgers: 'we need about 20 more goals to the team' Mick-- 25 goals last season and don't say the ukranian league is toss its about the same as the dutch league.

In
Atsu £ 3m
Papa £up to 15 mil
Toure free
Aspas £7.7mil
Alberto £6
Micky £23mil

Out
Carol £ 15. 5

Net spend £ 35 mil without the sale of Suarez but + 5-10 mil if we sell suarez {Ed002's Note - Toure is not actually free and you need to consider all of the other costs in the spend as well.}

19 Jun 2013 14:26:55
But still these signings would come into our budget plus we might have another 20 mill in suarez deal to spend somewhere.
and what about CB?. Is skertel staying?.
or is it going to be toure and agger to start?
My GOD. the last time Toure kicked the ball. is beyond my memmory

Toure played against Man U near the end of last season, and had a very good game.
redforever

19 Jun 2013 13:25:28
You know they say youtube makes heskey look good. Well atsu fails miserably to even impress on that. All pace and no end product. Sterling a far better player. Don't see the reason behind signing him. Think he would struggle at championship level

Danny

Yes I thought that too Danny! even Babbel looked good on there! lol

Marc

If you were watching the same clip as me it old hardly be described as a highlights edit. Therefore he is being shown in a lesser light than other players ho have a more skilled fan making the video. I'll trust our scouts who I would imagine have watched him more than anyone spouting a view on here.

19 Jun 2013 13:18:08
Hi eds what players do you see being loaned out this season by Liverpool? Suso, ibe, coady, wisdom? All great potential {Ed052's Note - all 4 could go on loan yes}

I think Suso would take a lot of convincing, he was apparently enquired about by Wigan last season in January and he didn't want to know. I don't think he likes the idea of being away from his family, friends and support in Liverpool. I think he needs games, I think all the youth need competitive football, or watch them leave, sink and swim somewhere else.

Sink AND swim?!

Sink AND swim?!

19 Jun 2013 13:14:20
Ed I was just wondering, with Arsenal, United, City and Chelsea likely to spend big this summer, do you reckon 5th/6th place would be enough to convince the owners to let Rodgers stay on as manager? I mean it's improvement and moving in the right direction but do you think the owners would be happy? Cheers.
ROI. {Ed052's Note - no. Its 4th or nothing this year}

Well I hope you're wrong Ed. 4th is going to be tough! the owners need to stick with Rogers for the long term. no more new managers!

So even if we just miss out on top 4 you think Rodgers will get the boot? Cheers.
ROI.

So you think BR will get the sack, if he doesn't get top 4? What then? Another period of transition? {Ed052's Note - yes I do. He said he'd get top 4 and he didn't last year. it isn't a problem as we'll be top 4}

I can't agree with that, we haven't been a 4th place team for 5 seasons now and Rodgers as good as he is can't be expected to get 4th, especially not when Suarez a 30 goal striker is leaving. It's too much of an ask. Yes best possible scenario then we get fourth but if we do really well and show huge promise and leaps and bounds in the right direction and say Arsenal, maybe Tottenham pinch 4th from us by a point or two, I think we have to draw on the positives. This League is getting harder and harder each year and we have no divine right or inheritance of a king to automatically qualify for the elite European competition, we couldn't even get Europa this season. So, just my personal and I believe realistic ambition for this season is finishing in the top 5 and pushing really hard in a domestic cup. I'd like to see us play very fluid and attractive football and push on. But I think fourth or bust is pathetic, there is no proven way to do it without quality players and we'll be losing more than we can gain this Summer with Carra and possibly Pepe and Suarez leaving what with Gerrard only getting older, like i've typed, it's just my thoughts, slow and steady will get us there, ridiculous pressure will lead to collapse and have to restart all over with a manager who needs half a new squad with different approach and ethos of how the game should be played.

He was signed on a 3 year contract, it's only been a year by my workings out so far.

{Ed052's Note - yes I do. He said he'd get top 4 and he didn't last year. it isn't a problem as we'll be top 4}

Love the optimism Ed! :)
I think we'll be there or thereabouts next season. My only problem is I think other teams will have more money to spend. We need to buy more quality if we want to make it though. Mkhitaryan won't be enough. We need a proven goalscorer and a quality centre-back if we want to even be close. Hopefully BR notices this and buys quality to replace Suarez and Carra. Cheers.
ROI. {Ed052's Note - I am about to address your worries in an article}

I'm worried about DM; we need cover at least there.
Ideally, a powerful, tough-tackler to start (a la Essien - back in the day of course!)

Maybe Stevie will shift to here?

19 Jun 2013 13:08:22
If youtube can make any player look good, then your boy astu looks a BAAAD player. Very surprised rodgers would be interested in someone so raw. I don't think he'll have the quality to make an impact in the first team, but I hope i'm wrong. I have to give it to him, he has pace and stamina, but his final ball is a lottery. I can see myself getting frustrated wit dis lad! any1 else share my thoughts. feel free to shoot me down!

StillJohnBarnes

19 Jun 2013 12:52:10
Gone a bit quiet surrounding Mignolet eds, do you expect a deal go through?

Its better if Liverpool do the business behind close doors!

Chaki

19 Jun 2013 12:48:20
I have been impressed with how quickly and organised Rogers and the club have been in getting out transfer targets in. However, at the end of last season, I thought our priorities were for a bit more older experience in the team and defensive targets.

We played some great attacking football last season, scoring 24 more goals and conceding 3 more than we did in the previous season. We also have a lot of promising youth.

Our supposed transfer targets;

Player Cost Age
Toure free (32)
Aspas 7m (25)
Mkhitaryan 20m (24)
Alberto 6m (20)
Atsu 3m (21)
Mignolet 10m (24)

The deals for Atsu and Alberto are the deals i'm not so sure of. I know rogers has changed our system around a fair bit over the course of the season, but say we play our 4-3-3 with a fluid and interchangeable front 3.

In our current team for this front 3 we have; Sturridge, Suarez, Borini, Downing, Coutinho, Assaidi, Suso and Sterling. Plus youth such as Ibe and Yesil.

Add to that Aspas, Atsu and Alberto if we sign them.

Seems to me that signing Atsu (21) and Alberto (20) may be a kick in the teeth to likes of Suso (19), Ibe (17), Yesil (18) and maybe even Sterling (18) with only a couple years age difference.

Yeh, well repeated. The Ed002 just said that about 3 hours ago!

Probably 2 if not 3 of the above will leave - Downing, Assaidi and prob Suarez (just realism not what I want one way or another). Suso also touted on loan for a season.

Ibe and Yesil need another year or two. As good a Sterling was this year he wasn't able to cope with the whole season - too young. The same will apply to Ibe and Yesil.

So 2/3 out, 1 on loan, 2 not ready yet for anything other than a cameo. Seems like we may need Atsu and Alberto. Hopefully BR knows what he's getting in terms of quality from them. Not seen enough of them myself to comment good or bad.

IrishRedDog

Funny how nobody had an issue with either Atsu or Alberto until Ed002 said they aren't so great

19 Jun 2013 12:40:20
ed are Liverpool still interested in Papadopoulos? {Ed052's Note - yes}

Ed do you expect us to get him eventually?
I reckon we will eventually get him but will have to pay around 15 million pounds but think he would be worth it.
We have to go all out for him as the ones that were supposed to be his back-up are off elsewhere. {Ed052's Note - I dont think we will pay over the odds}

Has Liverpool moved on elsewhere because of his price now or are they still thinking about making a bid? {Ed052's Note - Both}

19 Jun 2013 12:33:37
This henrik lad were being linked with from shaktar donesk, we all know what going to happen if Liverpool sign him. If he flourishes in his first 2/3 years Liverpool will be forced to sell him as he'll have a clause in his contract that will allow him to speak to barca/madrid

19 Jun 2013 12:53:08
Excellent. Post mate.
Countinho would probably leave us next summer,
No CL. then we are screwed.

Tbf at the point the club is at (trying to get back into the top 4 whilst trying to make the club more self-sufficient) I don't particularly see this as a bad thing depending on the fee we would get for him. Obviously you want to keep your best players, however, as long as you make a healthy profit on selling them (for example selling a £20m-30M player for between £45-60m).
Look at Spurs, the have sold their best players consistently over the past few years; Keane, Berbatov, Modric & now Bale. The only difference is Levy makes sure he gets the right amount of money. The only problem is I don't see them investing enough into the squad, only needed a quality striker last season and would probably have gotten top 4

So wot we just sign the next mikhtarian then, players come players go its a fact of football now or as ED02 says footballers are just transiant employees off the club!

Well in them 2/3 years if we get back into the champions league he wouldn't leave. same for the other stars of the future. suarez would have stayed if we finished in the top 4 I believe.

pp. lfc

19 Jun 2013 12:05:35
do you think there is a chance we could get christian eriksen as dortmund have said that they aren't interested in him {Ed002's Note - Mkhitaryan is the target.}

19 Jun 2013 12:00:56
Ed, 002 seeing that you have your doubts regarding the quality of players that BR is buying especially regarding atsu & alberto, what's your opinion about mignolet & papa from schalke?. for me mignolet is a good keeper but not an upgrade on reina but papa potentially is way better than skrtel. again aspas, mkhtariyan & toure are good signings & hopefully alberto would be as well but atsu I have never seen him play. also do u honestly reckon that Borini would live up to the hype of "the next inzaghi" & be a top premier league striker? {Ed002's Note - Personally, I doubt only the price with Alberto, not that he is not a decent player, or has the potential to be as he only has played a handful of first class games. Atsu is perhaps more of a concern. I would think Mignolet will be fine. Papadopoulos is well thought of and certainly one that would be a good buy at the right price. Manchester City, Dortmund and Chelsea have already walked away from the price being asked. If Liverpool wish to pay over the odds, particularly given last season's injuries - then he is the one.}

19 Jun 2013 11:57:40
Hello Ed, this is for people finding it hard to pronounce Henrikh Mkhitaryan's name. It is Hen-rik Ma-hit-ar-yan.
Repeat after me. Ma-hit-ar-yan.
Yan as in Jan Molby easy!
Thanks Brad

Papadopoulos easy: Papa-daw-pool-os!

I like this game - Tom -mee Sm-ith.

Condescending people spring to mind.

Kopping a feel

Mickey!

19 Jun 2013 11:34:44
December is the make or break point of our season playing 3 teams that finished above us last season and the lot of them are away. I believe that we will beat Manchester United at Anfield but I believe that game will be moved to the 1st of September for TV purposes. We will finish higher than last season as long as our time carries on with last seasons form and Sturridge hits the ground running. Coutinho will be young player of the season and we will be challenging for the top 4 all season.

Our time is now!

I really get annoyed with fans like you. "our time is now" Coutinho young player of the year like it's a full gone conclusion. Realistically the targets we are looking at are average. Although I do think Mickey will good despite the inflated price.

An I get the right ump with no name posters like you giving it all the doom and gloom. jog on cecil!

One game at a time. Just win the next game, simples : )

Coutinho definitely has the potential to be young player of the year next season. Don't see that as a ridiculous or rosy perspective at all. Sure we are biased, but if you can't see the kids ability I'm curious why you comment at all. "Full gone conclusion" is you have no idea what you are taking about. If you can't get excited by our prospects and the positives we have going forward then why support us?

Dont you think Coutinho should be trying to impress Scolari and try and get into the Brazil world cup set up rather than player of the year FFS

What has getting in the Brazil team got to do with Liverpool, In fact its better for us if he doesnt!
John Wigan

19 Jun 2013 11:22:07
Delighted with our first ten games more worried about the last ten United city spurs and chelsea tough once we don't end up like spurs ha

That said, if they are all still involved in Europe it may be of benefit for us to play them then. just a thought.

19 Jun 2013 11:16:20
*banter*

Training stuff looks pretty dudey this season! I rekon the grey shirt would have made a really nice away kit!

Aldos Tash

19 Jun 2013 10:28:39
Just like to ask a favour. Can people stop asking the editors if we have any interest in (insert players name here). That way we don't have to read/scroll past endless text of editor 2 repeating the line "no interest from Liverpool" or even list every team other than Liverpool who are interested in him.

You are joking right? Selling suarez is not going to gelp us achieve our goal no but what if these cheap players turn out to be like sturridge and coultinho? Instead of having 1 super player we would have several good players who bolster the numbers in the team giving the manager variety and backups.

Nobody wanted it to turn out like this but Brenden is doing a bang up job in replacing people. He hasn't even finished yet. Give him till at least the end of the window before you start moaning.

19 Jun 2013 10:21:14
Ed02 has previously suggested Thiago and Tello could perhaps be offered as p/e by barca this summer.
Now I know this is unlikely, not least because barca have shown no interest in Suarez (yet) but would fans be happy with:
Suarez for £10m + Thiago + Tello?
Just a hypothetical.
Puzzled Red

Are you sure your name isn't "puddled red"?

Thiago currently has a release clause of 18m and Tello is valued at roughly 9m I believe. that's 27m plus 10m bringing the total to roughly 37m for the package. Ideally, I say Thiago + Tello + Sanchez with no money but would accept the above package if it came down to it. Of course this is all dependent of Barca being interested and Thiago/Tello being willing to come to LFC. I rate them both very highly and think they would be excellent additions.

Thiago is amazing and whoevers been watching the Spanish youth for the last 3/4 years knows that lad is exceptionally gifted in the football department. Ridiculously good. Sanchez had a good season and a half at udinese but what's he done in Spain, in terms of individual achievement? Style over substance with him, I'd prefer an end product. Sanchez doesn't have that. In my opinion {Ed002's Note - It looks increasingly likely that Thiago will go this summer with interest from Manchester United and his opportunity to meet an interesting person or two last night. Barcelona of course might make a real push to keep him. We will see.}

Thats 3 wages we be stupid to do that.

Not a bad theoretical question! Would Thiago be before Mickey or would we need both?
John Wigan

John Wigan, good point. I would prefer Thiago to MK because I believe he has a higher upside. i'm not saying that MK is not a good player and wouldn't improve our team but I would love Thiago in the middle with Coutinho out on the left and a dynamic goal scoring wide forward out to the right (Lamela instead of buying MK). All highly unlikely though.

19 Jun 2013 10:11:06
Hello Ed's, I read a post from someone claiming to have held discussions with BR about his plans etc. , it was 3-5 days ago I think. It was a good post, pretty long and detailed but I remember it stating Atsu as a target and, taking into consideration the press about our interest in him this morning, I was wondering how I can re-read the article. I've tried searching the Banter pages but they don't go back far enough. Can you help please?

Many thanks,

Bryan {Ed002's Note - The archive or search engine would work.}

Any chance you know the OP name so I can search it? {Ed002's Note - I have no idea at all.}

19 Jun 2013 10:05:29
Eds, what's you thoughts on these players signing?
Luis Alberto
Mikhitaryan
Atsu

Also could you provide info of other players that Liverpool are enquiring about. Also when do you expect these deals to be completed? {Ed002's Note - RTP.}

19 Jun 2013 10:31:00
Do you actually not read a thing that the eds have ever said?

I know; what the f*** is wrong with some people?

Do some work, 'n read through the pages!

Takes about 10mins for your post to go through anyway, so why not scroll down and see what this site is about?

Just recently started visiting and I find it infuriating that people ask the eds the same questions from a post or 2 before, feel sorry for the eds tbh.

Now I find it embarrassing that a lot of posts on here are ridiculous, If we buy a player for 30m then he must be better than a 5m signing etc. They think taking 3 good Barca or Real players for Luis is that simple, they don't take into consideration wages on the books.

To some of you regulars I enjoy reading, especially Waro who tbh spouts crap sometimes but I actually admire him for having his own opinion. Cheers guys makes an hour interesting.

19 Jun 2013 09:35:59
Can I just say to my fellow fans this:

If, big if, Liverpool sign all of our targets before the window opens; ie Mk, Aspas, Toure, Alberto and maybe Papa, then please can fans not get all moody about us not signing anyone post July 1st up to the deadline. Just be like me and super happy we are acting fast and sorted ourselves out.

We have one of the longest serving premier league manager, are acting quickly and have stability. This COULD be a great year!

And also can I please plead with you lot to stop give players a hard time before they pull on a jersey when suarez came in never taught he would be that good (ie a surprise) so maybe the new signing will surprise a few if you lot give them a chance

19 Jun 2013 09:20:24
Normally I'd look at them first 6 and say 'not bad that' but I fear for Liverpool ATM. Loosing Suarez, and not looking like signing anyone who makes me think we're going to improve as a squad. You'd think Stoke at home is winnable but it was 0-0 last season whereas United smashed 4 past them. (Not surprising though having useless Sahin and Allen in midfield). Hopefully BR has a few top class transfers that we're NOT expecting and we will kick on for top four. But sadly I doubt it, IMO I can't see us getting over 10 points in the first 6 with this team.

Suarez will 100% not be playing versus Stoke whether he is here or not. Stoke are a bad team + especially away from home. Mark Hughes is a low quality manager trying to change the Stone way. Easy 3 points.

Top by August 20th :O

19 Jun 2013 13:30:56
Didn't everyone say last season oh west brom away we'll smash them. Easy three points, look what happened there!

19 Jun 2013 09:17:13
Stoke at home first game. Be good test to see if we can break down defensive teams.

19 Jun 2013 09:53:20
Hey Eds, how many teams are realistically interested in Suarez? Starting to worry Real are not willing to stump up the cash.

Thanks. {Ed052's Note - search function}

19 Jun 2013 09:49:30
Fixtures list is out lads we got stoke at home, then our next home game is against united, we travel to goodison in Nov 23rd. Newcastle at home is the final fixture. Among the 6 teams that finished above us we only have arsenal away and united at home for the first ten games. If we can kick on from the start and build momentum then top 4 is a real possibility. Really optimistic about this season. let's stick together and cheer for our lads.
Cheers!
YNWA

19 Jun 2013 09:45:16
Liverpool vs Manchester United at Anfield on 31st August.
Heres to hoping we manage to win strongly our first two games against Stoke at home and Villa away.
Could be top by the end of the month? I remain optimistic.

RedSox69

The United game will have no added significance at all imo except perhaps to those that deem them unbeatable which I believe they are not as invincible as most think. We only need to win as many games as we can and United should not be respected as much as we are being made to believe. Look at the log now, its there to be won by the team that amasses the greatest points tally. Its still 3 points for a win 1 point for draw and nil for a loss

19 Jun 2013 09:42:52
Is Atsu And Alberto going to improve the team? I am yet to be convinced! {Ed052's Note - have you ever watched them play?}

19 Jun 2013 10:15:32
Alberto looks like a good buy. But he is too young, and can't reply much on him unless he becomes another countinho.
Atsu for 3 mill is a bargain over 20 mill downing, for any blind man.
I would still want to add another right sided striker, like remy to comepete with Asapsor borini.
Remy has got pace, something we lacked, he looks good in finishing, and he has prooved in EPL.
If Asaps have scored goals for a relegation threatened Celta vigo, then so remy for QPR in the PL.

Finally ed someone making sense I never seen any of those players play (well never hada qreason to didn't no lfc wanted them) so what's the point in been unhappy I'm over the moon cheap and quickly signed in trust Rogers knows of the ability not me plus he picks the team got to trust him come on lads

19 Jun 2013 09:37:41
Hey ed, not watched much of Atsu, but can he by any chance be used as a left back? Otherwise this transfer confuses me a little, unless a deal is being brokered for Stu, or Raheem is about to be released on loan.
Also, do you think he will be a Rogers signing, or one similar ot Assaidi and picked due to value, and therefore disliked and ignored by the manager?

Drigan {Ed052's Note - Atsu will probably be a replacement for Assaidi, and will hoepfully fit in betterand impact off the bench}

19 Jun 2013 09:06:48
Sat 13 Jul 15:00 Preston V Liverpool
Sat 20 Jul 14:30 Indonesia All Stars V Liverpool
Wed 24 Jul 11:00 Melbourne Victory V Liverpool
Sun 28 Jul 11:45 Thailand V Liverpool
Sat 3 Aug 14:00 Liverpool V Olympiakos
Wed 7 Aug 18:00 Valerenga V Liverpool
Sat 10 Aug 17:00 Celtic V Liverpool
Sat 17 Aug 15:00 Liverpool V Stoke
Sat 24 Aug 15:00 Aston Villa V Liverpool
Sat 31 Aug 15:00 Liverpool V Man Utd
Sat 14 Sep 15:00 Swansea V Liverpool
Sat 21 Sep 15:00 Liverpool V Southampton
Sat 28 Sep 15:00 Sunderland V Liverpool
Sat 5 Oct 15:00 Liverpool V Crystal Palace
Sat 19 Oct 15:00 Newcastle V Liverpool
Sat 26 Oct 15:00 Liverpool V West Brom
Sat 2 Nov 15:00 Arsenal V Liverpool
Sat 9 Nov 15:00 Liverpool V Fulham
Sat 23 Nov 15:00 Everton V Liverpool
Sat 30 Nov 15:00 Hull V Liverpool
Tue 3 Dec 19:45 Liverpool V Norwich
Sat 7 Dec 15:00 Liverpool V West Ham
Sat 14 Dec 15:00 Tottenham V Liverpool
Sat 21 Dec 15:00 Liverpool V Cardiff
Thu 26 Dec 15:00 Man City V Liverpool
Sat 28 Dec 15:00 Chelsea V Liverpool
Wed 1 Jan 15:00 Liverpool V Hull
Sat 11 Jan 15:00 Stoke V Liverpool
Sat 18 Jan 15:00 Liverpool V Aston Villa
Tue 28 Jan 19:45 Liverpool V Everton
Sat 1 Feb 15:00 West Brom V Liverpool
Sat 8 Feb 15:00 Liverpool V Arsenal
Wed 12 Feb 19:45 Fulham V Liverpool
Sat 22 Feb 15:00 Liverpool V Swansea
Sat 1 Mar 15:00 Southampton V Liverpool
Sat 8 Mar 15:00 Liverpool V Sunderland
Sat 15 Mar 15:00 Man Utd V Liverpool
Sat 22 Mar 15:00 Cardiff V Liverpool
Sat 29 Mar 15:00 Liverpool V Tottenham
Sat 5 Apr 15:00 West Ham V Liverpool
Sat 12 Apr 15:00 Liverpool V Man City
Sat 19 Apr 15:00 Norwich V Liverpool
Sat 26 Apr 15:00 Liverpool V Chelsea
Sat 3 May 15:00 Crystal Palace V Liverpool
Sun 11 May 15:00 Liverpool V Newcastle

Are you saying that lfc are only playing once on a sunday all season and that's on the final day. I find that very hard to grasp but then again stranger things have happened in the past ha ha ha! {Ed002's Note - That is how the fixtures come out. Plenty of stuff will move around.}

What a first game for our new over seas recruits to get used to the physicality of the Premier League, Stoke. A result here would be absolutely great for mentality and adaptation!

Christmas period looks fun, especially with cups and stuff : (

19 Jun 2013 07:00:29
Hearing whispers that if we bring both Atsu and Alberto in, we will allow Sterling to go out on loan for a season to a championship side.
Also, there's a very good chance Suso & Adorjan are both getting loaned out to a Spanish side. Genuinely have no idea which one, or even which division.

Cant see us loaning Sterling to a champ side

19 Jun 2013 06:14:06
Top of the morning to you eds, How long is warriors kit deal with LFC, and when does it end? I've bought a replica shirt for the past 15 years but the this seasons are 3 shirts are well nasty. They just look cheap and tacky the grey training tops bob on tho. Is there a chance ADIDAS could get the kit deal back int future?
Love the site you do a bob on job eds.
Oh yeh one last thing, what time does Stevie G's testimonial kick off?

DELAHUNTY {Ed002's Note - It is a six year deal, so 2018, and I don't suppose Adidas or anyone else has thought about what happens then. Try the club website about the KO time.}

19 Jun 2013 02:14:25
Alberto having medical thursday
Mkhitaryan to have is medical saturday
Llori fee agreed
Mignolet having medical next week
Aspa
Toure
Will all be confirmed Liverpool fc players by July the 1st
And the sale of luis suarez will even bring in one or 2 more top players

Add Benteke and we are well poised for the season
G

19 Jun 2013 01:31:20
Hi Eds, I'm hearing we have made an offer for Alberto but its not good enough?
I've also heard that we are in for Atsu for a reduced fee as he will not be renewing his contract?

I personally think Mikhitarian will be signed to allow Suarez to leave. Leaving us with Sturridge, Aspas and Borini fighting for a singular spot up front, utilising Coutinho, Mikhitarian, Atsu, Sterling etc as support just behind/either side.

Expect to see more of Ibe, Wisdom and maybe a little from Coady this year. {Ed002's Note - See earlier answer.}

19 Jun 2013 01:16:24
Loic Remy is a possibility to help fill the void if Suarez goes. Would be available for around 8 million pounds and his wages would be within our structure. Proven quality, versatile forward can play as the main striker, second striker, or even a wide forward. Exactly the type of player Rodgers likes and will no doubt be looking to play in the premiership rather than the championship. With sturridge and Borini both prone to injury this would be an excellent coup.

19 Jun 2013 09:20:35
yes, I too would be happy with this adition. he would jump to join us. he is young and got lightining pace. would be top draw on the right side.
he has got good finishing ablities and would bang some serious 10 + goals all seoasn,
7-8 mill and a rezsonble wages.
get him.

19 Jun 2013 00:59:46
just a little reminder to all please when you come on the site. what ever you are going to ask edd/s search the topic first. because if it was me I would be sick of answering the same questions. because the energy you use in askin the eds/s use it to search the topic you were thinking of asking. that is all DATSMINE {Ed002's Note - Post of the day.}

This post didn't work the first few posts had the reply of see earlier posts. I get sick of looking at the same questions imagine having to answer them

London red

Noooo keep askin cause I look forward to ed2s sarcastic and hilarious replys, u do make me chuckle ed2 lol keep up the good work

19 Jun 2013 04:41:05
Hi guys! Anybody else think the Alberto transfer is a right waist if money? I mean a 5m offer rejected so its gunna get up to 7m+ for a guy who can't get into the Spain u21 team? I'd rather us keep it and put it towards papa or HM seen as we already have suso and sterling, if suso doesn't get a run soon he's gunna be off to get first team football! Unless we have plans to loan all our top youngsters.

Thoughts?

BC {Ed052's Note - you've almost certainoy never seen him play...}

19 Jun 2013 00:24:13
Didn't Newcastle play the same management game as Liverpool are trying to play out this time round. And Talk-sport said Newcastle could be a real relegation contender this season to come.

New didn't invest in quality or experience. instead picked up a lot of young Frenches and now have a dis-jointed team.

You can only buy younger players, if you have a spine of experience within the team. We don't have that anymore. Carragher gone, Reina gone, Lucas is injury prone. Team of kids with Grandad Gerrard

Grandad Gerrard to shepherd the children through the valley of darkness.

Alan Hansen - You can't win anything with Kids - MOTD 1995

Here we go. and so begins the negativity

But Hansen was sooo wrong, wasn't he

Agger, Johnson, Enrique, Gerrard, Lucas, Downing, Toure are not "kids". Henderson, Sturridge, Mignolet (?), Allen all have plenty of EPL experience.

We are not a team of kids FFS.

A lot of AC Milan's older players retired together last season and they even sold Ibra and Silva. And yes. they still made it to the CL comfortably. Why are you comparing us to Newcastle though?

Red PG

Agger, Johnson, Downing, Toure, Enrique too have plenty of experience

1) Who won 95-96? 2) And what was the average age? 1) Man United 2) Average Age = 23-24.

Andy K

I'm glad you put Hansen's quote at the end because the rest of your post is just as misguided and wrong.
I don't remember Newcastle buying many £20million plus midfielders.
Newcastle are in the premier league and financially viable, Leeds and Portsmouth are not.
Have we sold Reina? News to me.

Callin Gerrard a grandad is completely out of order. You do realise Ryan Giggs won a premiership medal last season?

WUM begone!

Right. Because Jones, Johnson, Enrique, Agger, Lucas, Gerrard are kids. And for the moment, we still have Suarez, Reina, Downing and Skrtel who if they leave could well be replaced by 2-3 experienced quality players. That's 10 first team squad players with an average age of 29. So, yeah, whatever.

Sorry, but so far kid-wise, the only players we've been linked to buy are Luis Alberto and Christian Atsu - Who to be fair are both over 20 now, and aren't likely to be first choices in their positions.
Toure is clearly not a kid, Aspas Mignolet and Mkhitaryan are all in their mid 20s, and approaching the prime ages for footballers.

So please, get a grip mate!

Alan Hansen - You can't win anything with Kids - MOTD 1995.

Didn't Manchester United win the title with those kids?

So is Talksport now the golden goose? The almighty genie of football predictions? It seems to be me Newcastle have had a couple of fluke seasons and I wouldn't be surprised to see them finish mid-table, which reflects the quality of their squad.
I'm pretty sure we're investing in quality, Toure is a top centre half who's been frozen out at City, Aspas is Celta Vigo's best player, Mkhitiyaran broke the record for goals from a midfielder and from what I've seen of Alberto and Papadobolous I can't argue that they are anything but quality.
Plus your post makes assumptions that aren't really backed up, Lucas has had a couple of nightmare injuries back to back but he was and has been fit pretty much 100% the rest of time. Equally its looking unlikely that Reina will leave, but even if he does we'll still have experience in the team in the form of Jones, Agger, Johnson, Enrique, Skrtel (maybe), Lucas, Downing and Sturridge.
Finally, you do know leaving that quote at the end of your statement destroys your argument, don't you? Hansen said that about United at the start of the season in 1995, by the end of it United had won the league, and then went on to, for want of a better word, rape the league year on year with these 'kids'.
John YNWA

Glen Johnson, Toure, Enrique, Agger, are also experienced and they have an astute Manager in Rodgers. And besides if you are good, you are experienced enough. The way the team is planning is a mid - long term vision that will bear fruits for many years to come. In Brendan I trust, and the future is more clearer than it has been for many years.

Why is Lucas injury prone? Because he got injured twice in a year? What about the 5 years before that when he was never injured?

Nevada

Lol I think we will have have a cracking team hits of jealousy I feel in your tone :)

Johnson, Enrique, Agger, Lucas, Gerrard - hardly a lack of experience. Sturridge & Coutinho didn't struggle to adapt to life at a big club. Toure has won it all. Allen & Henderson lots of experience despite their age. New GK likely to be young and with plenty of PL experience. Two main targets are under 25 but both have plenty of CL experience (Micky and Papa). And the best crop of our own youngsters in a long while plus some clever players from Spain/Portugal. I think we'll be fine.

Kidder

Gerrard is hardly ancient at 33

I don't think people will be coming to see Gerrard like the actecs do you?

Agger, Johnson, Enrique, Gerrard, Toure, Downing, Lucas. We have experience. Stop being daft.

Didn't Ferguson win the title with kids like Scholes, Neville and Beckham etc? Newcastle are relegation candidates because they have hired the worst possible DoF and coupled with a group of disinterested and not so talented players, no team is following Newcastle at all mate.

18 Jun 2013 23:54:00
if Liverpool are going to lose Luis Suarez. Shouldn't they look to do a swap deal for players in the same class level like Gonzalo Higuain.

Higuain the same class as Suarez?

Errrrr. what?

Yes they should. But no they won't
Carlo

They should do BUT getting players that want to move in the opposite direction is hard as the likes of higuain are not interested!

Ideally that would be the best solution but we have Ayre in charge so it won't happen!

To say Higauin is of the same class is criminal, hugely overrated because he plays for Madrid.

18 Jun 2013 23:50:37
So it's looking at a big summer even before the window opens. Going by the amount of medicals quoted we stand to bring in by 1st July
Toure
Aspas
Alberto
Micky
Atsu
Mignolet
Cissokko
Ilori

With others strongly linked. If Suarez werer to stay and only Coates adding to Carroll And Cara as outs then this squad is fully covered for top four and good cup runs also cover for injury and suspension
Still a long summer to go
Carlo

18 Jun 2013 23:17:05
Eds, is it certain that we won't purchase another Striker to replace Suarez if we are buying Iago Aspas, Mkhitaryan and Luis Alberto? {Ed002's Note - No, I am not going to say it is "certain".}

How could BR confirm he is wanting to add to the squad (current) 20 more goals but only replace 30 goal Suarez with three players who will cover that if we're lucky. Must replace Luis if he goes with a top scorer
Carlo