Liverpool Banter Archive January 21 2016

21 Jan 2016 23:08:18
Just a thought nothing else but .


Why am I getting the feeling of dejavu in this window for the 1st time since we out of the blue landed Suarez

The whole page was dedicated to what I remember 2 players only one of which out of those 1 was to sign and then .

Bang

Suarez was signed and everybody was doing cartwheels

Like I said just a thought but would be amazing to get one of our preferred targets
( whom ever that may be ) hopefully of the same pedigree as Suarez but without the cannibalistic tendencies

Personally I would wait until after the euros and in the meantime weigh up all options and field our best 11 available until the end of season as I think we have a really good squad of players that will do until the end of the season and then hopefully lose all the extra baggage after that and bring in some real quality, mixed with some current players and the younger players like flano smith and ojo etc

Eds I have said it before and will say it always I really don't envy you guys with all the repeated questions over and over, Amazing job as always and to everyone else if we manage to bring in someone of real quality or not don't panic as Klopp knew what he was getting into before he agreed to take the job after the disaster of Rodgers and co so don't loose faith just look at the quality of some of the younger guys on the fringe at the moment and you can see that the future is bright.

YNWA.

22 Jan 2016 00:42:37
Get them in now so they have time to get the speed of the league I say it's going be harder in the summer with the euro going on.

21 Jan 2016 22:38:05
Hi Eds I have tried the search function and can't really see anything regarding the reason why we have given Mignolet a new contract, I understand that good quality keepers are a rare commodity but does this mean we are no longer looking for someone to at least give him a run for his money and challenge for the no.1 shirt?

{Ed002's Note - I am not aware of Liverpool looking to add another GK in January.}

21 Jan 2016 21:12:26
A question for Ed2 if you have time please?

I was interested in your thoughts as to whether something will ever be done to improve the reserve and youth team infrastructure, primarily to help prepare younger players transition easier into the first team.

Personally, I really like the idea of a 'b' team in a lower league but I won't claim to know the ramifications to other clubs etc.

Surely there is something that can be created or implemented without having to loan so many players out mainly for them to not get sufficient opportunity to make it at their parent club in the long run?

Thanks in advance as always.

Bryan.

{Ed002's Note - The "B" team concept is not allowed under FA rules and that is unlikely to change. What many clubs need to do is look to better support structures with loans to clubs in other parts of the world. Sadly few will make it through the ranks and or loan system as it is structured right now.}

21 Jan 2016 21:58:21
Do you mind me asking what you would do if you was in charge of this for the FA?

Thanks for previous response to by the way.

{Ed002's Note - Few clubs are suffering and none are complaining, so probably nothing.}

21 Jan 2016 19:44:19
Sorry for what will probably be a difficult post to answer. Eds do you think if Liverpool are looking at certain players (Teixeira) that would cost a fair amount that they're confident that certain deals can be struck with regards to outgoings? It just seems, and I guess the summer is more likely, a foolish thing to do to spend money while we're are under financial strain as it is. All the best, thanks a bunch. Awesome work as usual.

{Ed001's Note - not so sure about that, FSG have shown little signs of prudent financial foresight with the club. It seems to be just a hope that rising revenue will keep the club going.}

21 Jan 2016 20:05:44
He would cost some serious money, but he is world class talent. What was the use of paying 27 mill on Lallana and back out from Tex?

{Ed002's Note - Tex?}

21 Jan 2016 20:24:15
Thanks Ed001, I guess they're open to spending if its deemed right or necessary, hopefully they know what they're doing and can get some cash flow in from outgoings.

21 Jan 2016 20:09:09
Teixiera Ed02. I would love him at Liverpool. He is a top class talent and I have hardly seen you praising players. It's such shane we wasted our money elsewhere.

21 Jan 2016 22:00:18
ED001 and 2

correct me if I am wrong here, or slightly off the mark, but it is my understanding, that when the books are looked at again to see if we are within the FFP constraints, it will be period from June 01st 2014 to June 01st 2015 (? )

So, if we were to be successful in signing Teixeria ( or any other player for that matter) for a huge transfer fee, adding to that agents fees, taxes, wages etc, the club would need some significant outgoings in this January window to recoup a large proportion of the cost of the Teixera deal to the club, as it cannot be offset against potential outgoings from July 01st 2015 (summer transfer window)

Regards.

{Ed002's Note - Or other income.}

21 Jan 2016 22:22:36
Income generated within that definitive period. not potential income outwith ED?

{Ed002's Note - Money could probably be brought forward from next season to offset further loans.}

21 Jan 2016 18:48:38
Cheers for the update ed02 on the situation teixeria. Doesn't look like the deal will happen for us, maybe Chelsea considering there situation and the fact he's already agreed terms (so its only the price left to decide) .
Cheers.

21 Jan 2016 20:06:56
I don't think Chelsea ll but him ( They should have bagged him long ago ) PSG could definitely look at him as a replacement for Lavezzi.

21 Jan 2016 20:06:56
I don't think Chelsea ll but him ( They should have bagged him long ago ) PSG could definitely look at him as a replacement for Lavezzi.

21 Jan 2016 18:19:44
The Guardian are reporting that they have had confirmation from within Shakhtar Donetsk that the club have entered negotiations for Teixeira and that Liverpool are the only club to have made an approach so far.

{Ed002's Note - That is incorrect. Five bids (two formal submissions and three verbal) from four clubs have been made to Shakhtar since November and each has been rejected as Mr Akhmetov does not want to sell the player at this time. The clubs are Chelsea, Juventus, PSG and I understand Liverpool.}

21 Jan 2016 18:28:01
i think he'll end up at your beloved chelsea ed, seems there are interesting times ahead for them a lot of in's and out's in the summer plus a new manager, interesting to see the line up next august.

{Ed002's Note - I would hardly call Chelsea "beloved". It will eventually be all about the money - if someone has the stomach to pay the asking price it will be down to the player.}

21 Jan 2016 18:29:54
That's 4 eds.

{Ed002's Note - Have someone read and explain it to you.}

21 Jan 2016 18:30:43
You finished your traveling now ed. You can confirm then we have made contact. Unlikely we can get it done with the company were against or possible mate?

{Ed002's Note - RTFP.}

21 Jan 2016 18:30:45
Oh right read it again. . having a blonde moment then.

21 Jan 2016 18:38:13
i know you hate talking money ed, but how much is wanted for him, you informed us that liverpool paid far more than anyone wanted to for firmino, plus his cost can still rise.

{Ed002's Note - €50M plus fees.}

21 Jan 2016 18:42:06
can i push my luck ED002 and ask if you know if the liverpool bid was the latest bid? and I understand you don't like discussing figures but who of your knowledge is closest to shakhtars valuation?

{Ed002's Note - The Liverpool offer is the most recent and it is less than one of the others. But all miles away from what they would consider.}

21 Jan 2016 19:17:29
Hi eds02 do you know if they are looking for straight cash or could a player be thrown into the deal? Thinking maybe Markovic? (Though that may be impossible with his current loan deal)

{Ed002's Note - They won't be looking to players being included.}

21 Jan 2016 19:22:46
top bloke, cheers ED002. I know you will be getting a lot of questions regarding teixeira and really appreciate your time in answering our questions.

{Ed002's Note - You are welcome.}

21 Jan 2016 19:26:09
Thanks for the reply ed, that figure for someone who can't even get in the national team is just obscene, well I really hope that's us out, world class players aren't much more.

21 Jan 2016 19:39:34
Hey ed002, thanks for the info. What is your opinion on that price tag. Do you think it is way too much? Will we be seeing a lot more price tags like this after new tv deals?

{Ed002's Note - Chelsea certainly think it is too high - and it has gone up in the past couple of weeks. Basically, they don't want to sell part way through the season.}

21 Jan 2016 20:07:05
Quick question ed, if you don't mind. Are clubs aware of an amount that other clubs bid for a player (for example, did Liverpool know how much Chelsea offered)? If yes, why would someone offer less than something that was decline already?

{Ed002's Note - It depends if they are told or not.}

21 Jan 2016 20:11:12
I go with ED02 on this one, Chelsea might walk away leaving it to PSG and Liverpool. Chelsea might try one last time for Grizemann.
Just my guess from what I gathered it from the site.

21 Jan 2016 21:38:42
When I read the posts on this site, I kind of have a picture of what I think people look like. For some reason ED002 is a cross between Gram Parsons and Jerry Garcia. Have probably built myself up for a big disappointment! (I obviously look like Kate Bush) .

{Ed002's Note - I was in a bar last night and the were playing Gram Parsons - there you go. And I saw Garcia on many, many occasions - but remain slightly slimmer.}

21 Jan 2016 21:52:00
I wasn't too far off the mark then?!

{Ed002's Note - Not far.}

21 Jan 2016 22:23:48
Ed02 Picture is out leaked in Facebook Kate and for one last time Ed02 is a woman 😆😆.

21 Jan 2016 23:03:50
I'm at a loss to what you look like Harry!

22 Jan 2016 00:08:33
He wears glasses and has a scar on his head.

{Ed033's Note - Warning, the monster demands a mate! The perfect combination of horror, camp, comedy and style.

21 Jan 2016 17:49:17
{Ed's Note - We have posted a new article entitled, Bale Transfer Agreement Leaked, Barcelona Defender Sentenced To Jail Plus More

21 Jan 2016 16:33:57
Missed yesterday's replay with Exter. Good to know that Flano got game time and looks like he did well based on the comments here.

Ojo's goal was very refreshing to see. Very confident indeed.

What's up with Allen? Scored twice against Exter. If we go on his goals will be highly talked abt.

Cheers.

{Ed023's Note - Allen only scored once against Exeter}

21 Jan 2016 16:09:18
Looks like we may be seeing texiera in the first team after all.

21 Jan 2016 16:30:58
Why? Sounds to me like klopp sees his future away from liverpool.

21 Jan 2016 16:36:20
I know you're making a joke here but I was about to ask about the Teixeira we currently have. It seems Klopp kinda hinted that he should move on to get game time. While I agree that he needs game time, why can't he get it here? It's not like we are setting the world alight right now.

21 Jan 2016 17:45:38
Imagine Teixeira upfront and Teixeira behind him 😖
No but seriously the one we already have is older than Emre Can! He isn't anywhere near the Germans level of ability.

{Ed001's Note - hmmm ability wise he far surpasses Can, it is producing it on the pitch and experience he needs to reach Can's level. It must be remembered that he is over a year behind after serious injuries as a youngster, so he has not had the chance to develop that others have, but the chances are his hunger and desire will have increased because of it.}

22 Jan 2016 01:11:41
Yes. Agree completely.

21 Jan 2016 15:07:56
Javier Mascherano: Former Liverpool FC star sentenced to one year jail over tax fraud.

21 Jan 2016 15:31:39
What a shame 😄.

21 Jan 2016 15:34:33
You do realise he won't actually go to jail?

{Ed001's Note - but he will have to pay another fine to get out of it.}

21 Jan 2016 16:01:08
A fine yes but I believe in Spanish law for sentences under 2 years you don't go to jail unless it's for violent crime
So I've been told.

21 Jan 2016 17:15:17
Yes Chris your correct but there are exceptions in that law but like Ed said he will just pay a further fine on top of what he already has to pay and he won't have to have a frying pan strapped around his buttocks for health and safety reasons

😬.

21 Jan 2016 17:15:17
Yes Chris your correct but there are exceptions in that law but like Ed said he will just pay a further fine on top of what he already has to pay and he won't have to have a frying pan strapped around his buttocks for health and safety reasons

😬.

21 Jan 2016 18:19:47
Yeah the Spanish justice system is a not an issue as long as you have £££.
A bit like ours, and Americas and.

21 Jan 2016 14:50:28
If Shaktar are not going to sell him regardless of any fee offered, then what's the point in ayre flying over.

21 Jan 2016 15:48:03
Every player has their price and if he wants to leave like it has been stated by them rejecting every bid could actually make him annoyed to the extant that it has a bad effect on the team.

21 Jan 2016 17:50:03
can Ian Ayre fly?

{Ed001's Note - yes, did you not know the flying motorbike in the Harry Potter films was borrowed from Ayre?}

21 Jan 2016 18:36:01
Ah ed you got it wrong it's meatloafs bike from the Bat out of hell. 😂😂😝.

21 Jan 2016 14:18:26
Can I just say what a delight it was to see Flanno back on the pitch? How can you not love the guy? I think if he stays fit could grow into a Carragher mold (obviously in a different position)

21 Jan 2016 14:56:13
Im a very big Flanagan fan. If he gets himself fit in the next few months and can pick up his form from 13/ 14 he would be my no.1 full back .

21 Jan 2016 19:20:07
I actually stood up and applauded in my living room when he came on. i thought we had lost him for good when he got injured.

21 Jan 2016 14:09:15
Seems a lot of times we are linked with players, and reporters go mad about how we've agreed a fee or contract. After the eds comments I'm not holding my breath. This will probably seem stupid but it's been a while since smokescreen has been used, I thought I'd bring in back. Do you think people linked to clubs ever unofficially leak false information to journalists to maybe deter other suitors or keep there deal quiet? I know they would never admit doing so, but is it a possibility?

{Ed002's Note - Yesterday it was Morata Liverpool bid €60M for. Today €30M for Teixeira. Tomorrow it will be €65M for Lewandowski.}

21 Jan 2016 14:20:27
Would Lewdanowski be a straight swap for Jerome Sinclair?

21 Jan 2016 14:23:36
Touché Tristan.

21 Jan 2016 14:28:07
To be fair, Liverpool is a more attractive option than Chelski at the moment. And where would he fit in at Chelski with Hazard, Oscar, Willian, Kenedy etc on the books? We need him. Chelsea don't.

21 Jan 2016 14:42:21
He'd fit just as well at Chelsea as with us and Coutinho, Lallana, Ojo, Ibe, Firminio, Ings etc. Both sides overloaded with attacking support.
I'd expect him to choose Chelsea, London, Champions League football (maybe one season without) over us. Although I'd love to be wrong.

21 Jan 2016 14:41:44
My point was ed, unlike the others the reports are saying it's all but done but you stated, and obvisouly I trust your knowledge, that Chelsea are interested for the summer, maybe something is being said to make sure he is still available in the summer.

{Ed002's Note - Chelsea are interested in him now but for the three reasons I have given it is very difficult.}

21 Jan 2016 15:05:25
Liverpool have approached shakhtar over texiera though ed2, all the major news outlets are reporting it along with highly accurate and respected journalist such as tony barret and Ben smith. I'm not sure what your post was implying but it seems like you think the texiera link is just some made up Twitter Rumour like the others.

{Ed002's Note - I have explaine dthat I am travelling and don't know the situation with him.}

21 Jan 2016 15:19:37
Lol kman92 love it. even talk sh*te and caughtoffside were reporting it. Must be true ;)!

21 Jan 2016 16:57:42
I didn't like the tone of the post but he has got a point. Generally when Tony Barrett and BBC Ben Smith report things their information tends to be solid. It's hardly comparable to talk sport and caught offside. Those two outlets are on a par with the metro and the star I'm afraid.

21 Jan 2016 17:19:25
Tony Barrett, Ben Smith and the BBC get a lot of things wrong in my experience.
Every source gets things wrong. Experience has taught us that Macca and the Eds get more things right than wrong.

22 Jan 2016 02:50:49
So we are counting on James Pearce of Liverpool ECHO, Paul Joyce of Express, Tony Barrett of The Times, Ben Smith of BBC, Sky Sports and ESPN ALL to be wrong on this story. Guys, relax.

21 Jan 2016 13:47:19
Lets just say that the Alex Teixeira reports are true.

Isn't it nice that Liverpool appear to have gone back (in some respects) to doing business the old fashioned way. Like with Firminio and Caulker this has just dropped out of nowhere.

That's how I like the club to do business.

21 Jan 2016 12:59:43
Hello eds, has any info about this Alex bloke joining liverpool filtered down to you yet, this forum is in meltdown with posts ( I've just added another ) plus the media outlets are just the same, I really can't see us beating Chelsea to him but ed002 did say they've gone for pato because they didn't get the one they wanted, if true we could be spending a huge amount of cash like we did for firmino, we would need to sell a lot of players, as we are already overspending with massive debts.

21 Jan 2016 12:56:32
First time poster, might be wrong.

But heard news that Alex Teixeira just injured his hamstring, hours after he was linked with Liverpool.

21 Jan 2016 13:08:19
Heard it just a while ago. What an irony.

21 Jan 2016 13:38:15
He hasn't pulled his hamstring, only a minor injury.

21 Jan 2016 12:16:53
Hope the Teixeira talk is true, seen a bit of him and like him.
Yes he is another AM but I wouldn't say he's like Coutinho or Firmino, he is bigger stronger and quicker than both of them but still has great feet and a quick brain.
Maybe central of a 3 between Coutinho and Firmino then we have the option of Ibe Ojo and other youngsters off the bench and we sell Milner and Lallana
Sounds good to me
I don't want to say I told you so but I've always said money would be found.

{Ed002's Note - Nobody has ever denied that there would be money available for the right player at the right price.}

21 Jan 2016 14:50:17
I don't think keeping Coutinho, Firmino and Alex Teixiera is an option. One of the first two would have to go. Unless Teixiera is to be played only as a striker, as a replacement for say Sturridege. Many on the forum don't believe that Coutinho and/ or could be gone soon. I think it's a real possibility.

21 Jan 2016 12:03:46
Hi Eds

Can you try and find out some info on the Alex Teixiera rumours?

Can't see it myself,

Ta.

{Ed002's Note - See previous answers.}

21 Jan 2016 12:53:28
This Texeira news has come from nowhere to some sites saying its all agreed. Bit like the Firmino deal.

Eds did you no of this?

{Ed001's Note - I know nothing about it, he seemed to be all set for Chelsea, so I have taken no notice of anything regarding the player at all, not even watched him play.}

21 Jan 2016 11:02:33
A lot of bright prospects last night, but we should take the rose tinted glasses off - sadly, very few of these players will make it with us. I am especially pessimistic about young Joao - he has the quality, I like him as a footballer, but he seems somewhat slow at times in the same unusual way as Lallana - both could be so much faster. Also, we are overstocked in the position.
I would like to ask ed01 about his opinion on two particular players who impressed me the most - Brad Smith and young Brannagan.
Ed, Smith at the moment seems to be better going forward than Moreno, but he was not much tested defensively last night. Have you heard from the club how he fares when playing in the back? Left back was a position of worry for me, but right now Smith seems a capable deputy, who might even start to push for a starting spot?
Brannagan - a rather unusual AM converted to a CM. He surprised me very pleasantly, as he is not among the most celebrated prospects, and he dies not have the build of a traditional CM, but he seems to be playing around his weaknesses and to his strengths, taking the playmaking role. Do you think he has a chance to grow into an established CM, perhaps a better version of Joe Allen?
Andf last but not least - Flannagan. I already asked ed02 about him, but I would like to hear your prognosis as well - will he be able to recover from his injury? I would guess he is VERY far in terms of fitness right now, but his passing and running looked impressive last night. If him and Smith manage to come through, we will actually be having the 4 FBs needed for a strong side, and the position sorted for years to come - not to mention Gomez being able to deputize and Randall. well, he is capable, but I do not see a long-term future for him, sadly.

{Ed001's Note - Smith has done fine, he just lacks experience but is very highly rated by the club.
I have to say I do not see what impressed you about Brannagan last night, he was very wasteful in possession for a playmaker. I don't see him developing into a Joe Allen type, I think he is being stifled and needs to move on, he is not a central midfielder, but he is also not good enough to hold down a place further forward for us, in my opinion.
Flanno is not far off being ready for the Prem being honest. He has been back in training for a while, playing in the U21s. For me he needs to be on the bench from now until he is fully fit when a decision needs to be made as to whether he is back to the form that would mean he would slot into the side or if he needs more time to recover mentally as well. In my opinion, he did not look like a player who was struggling mentally after a bad injury, he looked fired up.}

21 Jan 2016 13:06:32
Respectfully disagree with your opinion on Brannagan ed. I think we was one of the better players the last two games against Exeter.

{Ed001's Note - the first one I agree, but not the replay. He was ok, but no more and he needs to do more than be ok against a League Two side under the cosh.}

21 Jan 2016 13:06:41
Edd001 I think smith and flannaghan could slot straight into the first team before the end of the season. Flannaghan needs time to get up to par but he and smith are considerable improvements on moreno and especially Clyne. Excellent options for klopp.

{Ed001's Note - personally I think so too. Moreno could develop into a top class full back, but he has a long way to go yet and Smith is on par with him, at least, right now. Flanagan is, at his best, the best fullback we have.}

21 Jan 2016 13:47:33
Totally agree with you Al. Would love to see Flanno and Smith as our first choice FBs.

21 Jan 2016 13:47:33
Totally agree with you Al. Would love to see Flanno and Smith as our first choice FBs.

21 Jan 2016 14:07:55
The sad thing is we look to have 2 top young left backs at the mo and I think both need to be playing regular to reach the potential they have. The fact they are aimilar aged also. Do you think that they will be happy to compete with each other for a starting spot and both stay or one will need to leave in order to more fulfil their potential.

21 Jan 2016 16:40:11
Fair point ed, he was not spectacular. However, what continues to impress me with him is that he is not overrun in this position. Everything in him just screams: "awful fit, he would not make a good CM" (at least to me! personal opinion here! ), but he manages to fulfil playmaking duties and tries to battle for the ball. He did not do much in case of spectacularness, but not folding up and being bullied is an encouraging sign for me. Hope he will build on his game later on.

{Ed001's Note - I hope he does too, I would like him to make it.}

21 Jan 2016 10:32:47
Hello Ed's,
Love the site, just a quick question, do you know if at the end of January Texeira will be able to be registered for our Europa Squad,
Thanks.

{Ed002's Note - The manager clearly has no future plans for him.}

21 Jan 2016 11:48:32
So i missed a lot of the live chat last night, and watched the game sporadically.

Overall I thought it went well, it spoke volume about the team that I think Exeter only had 1 shot at goal?

Klopps added some more experience in the middle of the park in Allen this time round and it worked, he set the tempo and spread the play and allowed LFC time on the ball without panic passing, a better pitch helped too.

From 1st glances in his 2 games vs Exeter that Stweart looks like a little gem, maybe some 1st team and more cup action wouldn't go amiss for him? He stepped up to mark free players, closed down, cut off passing lanes, read danger, and got a few interceptions up field reading the play, Overrall I thought he was MOTM for me (though I reiterate I only watched here and there)

I don't think Randall is going to make it. He's competent, decent in defense, ok in attack, but I feel Flanno is WAY ahead of him, and Wisdom and Clyne. I feel he won't crack the team, but he can be a good prem player if coached right somewhere else and given game time

I didn't think Brannagan had a great game I kept seeing him give the ball away and put in poor deliveries. he's had some hit and miss games. we'll see

I didn't bother really paying attention to Benteke Ilori Enrique or Migs, Ibe mainly because they're senior, I;ve made my mind up of them, or I couldn't really get a chance as they had little to do.

Smith had a good game with some great link up play and can certainly cross the ball should be really presurring Moreno in training. could those 2 on the wing work well?

Tex. Chased down everything, put in a good cross for Benteke, some neat footwork at the edge of the area. He always makes it seem like he's got an extra second on the ball than most individuals, some through balls went awry at the edge of the 18,but can be forgiven.

Ojo, I didn't get to see much sadly but saw the goal. Composed found the space well wide of the defender cut in with a finish any one would be proud of.

Overall a much calmer and composed game, I think Allen alongside Stewart ran the show gave us a calm on the ball and more purpose going forward with the press.

Overrall a good night. I feel they've earned a shot vs west ham if Klopps decides to stick with youth.

P. S SHOUT OUT TO FLANNO TOO, GREAT TO SEE HIM IN ACTION AGAIN!

21 Jan 2016 12:50:36
Tex is 22.

21 Jan 2016 13:23:39
erm thanks Hijkle I'm aware of that, I think you read edge as age?

21 Jan 2016 13:30:32
Tex is 24.

21 Jan 2016 13:30:32
Tex is 24.

21 Jan 2016 13:30:32
Tex is 24.

21 Jan 2016 14:51:41
Tex had his 23rd birthday three says ago.

21 Jan 2016 10:19:47
Alex Teixeira would be an unbelievable acquisition! A potentially world class attacker. Please Klopp, forget Shane Long! This guy Teixeira has about 50 goals in 2 seasons. Can play on either wing, up front or in attacking midfield.

For those who've not seen him play he has great pace, lots of technical skill, and he is a very courageous flair player. He always looks to make things happen. His goal record speaks for itself. This would be potentially the best signing since we got Suarez. I absolutely loved watching this guy play with Douglas Costa, Mkhitaryan etc. They were all equally as good as one another and on the same sort of wavelength. Mkhitaryan now plays for Dortmund and Costa for Bayern Munich. I always thought Teixeira was the best of the 3 though so if we signed him it would be one hell of a statement to the rest of the league. I'm actually excited by this rumour!

21 Jan 2016 12:26:47
Agreed Adam. I have seen him play and he is world class to me. Quick, powerful and brilliant ball control. I am so jealous on Shakthar. Willian, Micky. Costa, Tex. Wow.

21 Jan 2016 12:27:31
Always dubious about judging players playing in the Russian league especially on stats.
I'm not sure he's worth the gamble tbh.

21 Jan 2016 12:30:02
the first sniff we're interested in him and the first time you mention him and have seen him ems.
You do makes me laugh mate 😂.

21 Jan 2016 12:43:32
Can i please ask how you find the time to watch every football player ever?

21 Jan 2016 13:23:14
Big Al/ beef why would I mention him when previously he'd only been linked with Chelsea? I'm not here to waste the editors time unlike most people by asking questions about players I think are out of our reach. However it now appears as though we can afford Teixeira and have an interest. If you haven't watched Shakhtar play before then where do you live? Under a rock? They are Champions league regulars every season in my memory. You can get streams of their games online as well.

Harry, also Bernard is a very good player. They seem to love the pacey flair players in attack! Got some great little gems over there. Another player in Ukraine who I'm surprised hasn't been snapped up is Yarmolenko. Seems like he's been linked with a move to the Premier League every year for about half a decade!

21 Jan 2016 13:42:23
EMS it might be because you raved about players at other clubs too that you seemingly watch, EG lacazette and Rakitic, and many many others over the last 2/ 3 years. Whilst also doing your studying at uni and then coming on the board to say you hadn't been on in a while because you were busy. Yet you still found time to watch all these players across different leagues.

With regards to your comments on the players, and why you don't bring them up, there's nothing stopping you from saying '' 'insert name' looks good I think we should go for him, he'd be a good fit because'', and starting a discussion pal, infact I'd welcome it, it might enlighten me to watch players from other leagues who I rarely get time to see. You don't have to bother the eds asking if they're coming

Just a thought mate for going forward, and then when/ if we do go in for them and they're class you have bragging rights as top scout :)

21 Jan 2016 00:19:24
Daniel Sturidge goal, a little further out than Ojo's.

youtu.be/I7LGSC0DoSs

21 Jan 2016 09:26:26
Eds, any truth in the Texeira rumours? Is he worth the l £29 million being reported?

{Ed001's Note - I am sorry I do not know, never seen the lad play either so can't judge him.}

21 Jan 2016 10:11:46
The one thing is for certain this player is a Klopp target. I am not saying we will get him, but Klopp wants him Fact.

21 Jan 2016 11:00:39
Plays for Shakhtar, very talented- 22 league goals in 15 apps this season. That's a superb contribution.

21 Jan 2016 01:24:29
Anything on the Danny Ings tribunal?
How would that work Ed. would it be a one lump payment or could we spread the cost like other transfer fees?
Thinking that if we're in debt and we have to find X amount of millions £ were further buggered.

{Ed002's Note - It has not happened yet.}

21 Jan 2016 08:13:17
hi eds,

Are there any plans for teixiera?

Do you think he will be able to make it in the first team in coming months?

Thank you for all your crucial updates and tireless work!

{Ed001's Note - to be honest, the plans are not fixed, he has the rest of the season to sort out his future. It is up to him, he has the talent to be a first team regular, but he has to convince Klopp he is ready. Personally I love him and think he deserves a shot, but I don't believe Klopp rates him as highly as I do and I think, sadly, he is going to struggle to make a go of it with us. It really is up to him though, he will get a few more chances, but he needs to take them.}

21 Jan 2016 08:24:52
Thanks ed001, insightful as always.

Whom did you like yesterday? Branngan?

{Ed001's Note - Smith was excellent in the first half, Flanno has to get the award for best player just because he slotted in like he had never been away. If he gets any better Cafu will be known as the Brazilian Flanagan....}

21 Jan 2016 08:27:43
hahahaha. good one ed001.

thanks again!

have a good day ahead!

21 Jan 2016 08:32:33
Ed, do you know what it is that is keeping Lallana ahead of Teixeira in the pecking order? Because Lallana contributes virtually nothing apart from hard work to make himself stand out as a clear first choice, and I'm curious as to why Klopp's not willing to take a risk on Teixeira, and see if he can muster up any better attacking contribution that is beyond Lallana's capabilities.

{Ed001's Note - hard work is its own reward they say mate, and it is certainly rewarding Lallana, as it is his work rate that is keeping him in amongst the first choices. It is up to Teixeira and others to match the work rate and then their better ability can take them into the team.}

21 Jan 2016 09:25:54
To be honest ed01 it's a bit of a joke that Tex and co are not getting more game time when the likes of lallana and Milner get started, I know there young, and are lacking the experience and fitness of the senior players but they show a hell of a lot more heart. They also carry more threat in front of goal, Ojo and Tex's finishes are far better than what we have seen all season from some of our seniors. I understand they can't just be thrown in every week but surely they have started to show there talent and that they offer more in attack than others.

I listened to the Pod earlier and honestly was shocked be benny's defending of Lallana, and we are all entitled to our opinion and I'm not having a go, but Tex getting 1 goal makes me feel like he should easily start before him. Lallana dosnt seem to want to be a goal threat and take chances where the young lads do.

I guess for myself, I just don't see what it is lallana offers that one of the kids dosnt, we need goals and the way some of the shots were taken they have shown a better instinct for goal as well as looking like they have more composure in front of goal. The only way I guess we will know is if they get there chance and take it, and after the last few years it worrys me that some of these lads will leave for first team football before we know if they will make it.

{Ed001's Note - I don't think it is a joke, but I would prefer to see Tex getting the chance.}

21 Jan 2016 09:47:50
is it really night and day between their workrates? surely all footballers should have good enough work rates. he must hate sturridge.

21 Jan 2016 10:13:24
Ed01 I see your point and to be fair I'm not putting the blame squarely on Klopp. We have known about some of these youth players for a long time now and have repeatedly purchased players that have kept them out the team without really making us any better. Guess it's a little bit of impatience on my part to see Klopp work with the lads and create something special which I fully believe he will.

21 Jan 2016 10:22:15
Ed I remember klopp been unhappy Rogers left tex out of the Europa league squad can he get put in that now think we will see our younger players get chance there.

21 Jan 2016 07:22:18
All the people calling for ojo to get a run of games now need to calm down a bit. The boy is still very much a kid, i seem to remember all the posts to give ibe a run of games when sterling was sold and look at the abuse certain posters give him. Also all the posts praising allen after last nights game saying how much quality he has. Typical of some of the so called fans on here, two weeks ago he was the worst midfielder at the club!

21 Jan 2016 07:46:46
The thing to do with both Ibe and Ojo is to let them compete with one another, Alternate the pair in games. Both lads can bring each other on. In the end there is no reason why they both can't play. Ibe all right foot Ojo all left foot. They both have ability. I believe Ojo has more belief in his own skills and shows more composure, very much like a young John Barnes.

21 Jan 2016 08:11:35
Ojo is a big lad. Looks like he is carrying a bit of timber, maybe its all muscle. Took his goal really well but i would guess Klopp would want him to work a lot harder if he was to play in his style of team. He looks a real talent tho. i'm glad Klopp has brought him back to work with him.

21 Jan 2016 08:14:39
CA - surely that's more of a call for the criticisers to calm down and stop jumping the gun than a call not to play young players when they do well?

21 Jan 2016 08:30:47
tbh, i thought allen had no future when klopp first came (ive personally never thought he was a bad player, have always seen his qualities. ) but we have some serious underpeforming players and right now allen is miles ahead of them. allen was brought off last night because klopp is starting to realise this. he's still young and will be a great squad player for us because he is capable of slotting right into our lineup.

problem is we have hendo, lucas and can. and then the two phoneys lallana and milner as our attacking players. we really should drop these 2, pop allen in there with ibe and firmino.

but i think klopp has this idea of using milner and lallana as dispendable workhorses and resting quality players for when needed in a game. i don't like this at all. rest quality players and play other quality players.

21 Jan 2016 08:51:48
Disagree, Allen is not a forward. Yes he's popped up with intelligent late runs into the box and scored twice but now he deserves to play on the wing?

I do agree Milner/ Llalana on the wing together doesn't work though, we need at least one pacy goalscorer out wide if playing a front 3.

And Hjikle I think there's a difference between wanting to see Ojo get a shot and saying he should get a string of games. I say put him on the bench and sub him for Llalana or Ibe as situation dictates against Norwich. Let's see how he steps up against a PL defence for 30mins. He clearly has something we lack in the side apart from perhaps Ibe and his confidence is up. a bunch of 30min cameos this season would be invaluable experience heading into next.

21 Jan 2016 09:51:54
To the original poster, i clicked agree for the Ojo comment. He's probably not ready so let him get there with good coaching but that was a gorgeous goal though!

The Allen comment seemed fair, i read the site every day and nobody has done anything except give Joe a fair shout out when he's had a good game. Seems fair to me mind.

21 Jan 2016 10:24:02
Ibe all both feet you mean.

21 Jan 2016 10:37:49
It's not about making the young lads play every week, it's more a case of being giving a run in the cup, they have done well, next step is to introduce them to the Premier League. There was a valid point made on the Pod about reversing the way we use the squad for cup and league games. Instead of using the kids for cup games use the senior players and the kids in the league when we can. The reasons for this were that we are not going to win the title this year and top 4 is a bit of a stretch as well now, where as we are still in with a shout of winning 3 cup competitions and even winning 1 of those brings us more success than we have had in 4 years. We have to trust them at some point and the remainder of this season is the perfect opportunity to get games into the lads.

21 Jan 2016 06:39:07
Good morning!

Have a feeling I could divide opinion here but is any else getting a little frustrated watching Ibe?
I am a fan of what he does but time after time he takes on players down the right and either runs into them, tries one too many tricks and loses it or has a heavy touch and the ball runs out of play.
He looked much better when he switched to the left last night and was able to cut inside. He reminds of the lad that left for city last season (his name escapes me now) when he was breaking into the first team. Too cocky and thought prem defenders were easy to beat.
He's going to be a a top player but I'm struggling with him at the moment. Needs a better cross too.

YNWA.

21 Jan 2016 07:00:31
He's learning, to learn you must make mistakes.

21 Jan 2016 07:25:06
I agree it's frustrating watching him run at defenders and lose possession, and feel his movement off the ball could improve a bit, so no, you're not the only one. He's clearly part of the issue too in terms of lack of regular goalscorers from midfield, however that's also to be expected at his age.

There's no question in my mind of his talent and eventual ability to be a major threat, he just needs our patience and game time. Love him, but I don't think he should be a nailed on starter either.

21 Jan 2016 07:26:45
I appreciate that but I can see why Benteke would get frustrated. Every time we got the ball out wide last night we tried to bring it in 5 yards to get a better angle when sometimes a first time cross would be better. In my opinion!
If I was Ibe I'd be trying to impress by doing the simple things well and getting some good early crosses in. Please don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of Ibe and excited about the type of player he will become.

YNWA.

{Ed001's Note - but where was Benteke when we did get the ball out wide? He was never anywhere near the 6 yard box, so why cross it first time?}

21 Jan 2016 07:41:50
Ibe can be frustrating at times, i agree. He is still trying to bring it all together still. He is strong, quick a really good shot, sometimes he makes the wrong decision and still maybe a bit apprehensive. He is worth waiting for and working with. Maybe he needs to be taken out of the limelight now and again. I think he will be a hell of a player in years to come.

21 Jan 2016 07:47:40
Very true Ed but we know Benteke isn't really a lone striker and a more players in the box wouldn't have highlighted his lack of presence quite so prominently as it did last night.
Also as a striker it's very frustrating to constantly make the same movement into the box and not get the supply so maybe he was just mixing up his runs.
Bottom line is we need a 20+ goal striker and I don't think Benteke is the answer especially if we aren't going to get early balls in the box. PC RF AL aren't wide men by trade and they want to thread neat balls to runners in and around central positions.

{Ed001's Note - he has spent most of his career playing as a lone striker, if he can't play that way now then there is no hope for him.}

21 Jan 2016 07:49:20
Well said Ed001. I was tearing my hair out watching Benteke constantly move back out the box to the edge of the area as we attacked down the flanks. He just has no clue. His movement is dreadful. Unless something drastic happens I think he may be up for offers in the summer. So much potential but doesn't know how to apply it.
Also I was a Joe Allen hater under Todgers but he seems to have found some form under Klopp so credit where credit is due. He's been good. Is he worth keeping hold of? Who knows. Would have to be more consistent for me.

21 Jan 2016 07:55:03
Well he certainly doesn't fit the ideal of a lone striker for the current team but if what Klopp says is true, he is a fan and maybe in the long term wants to build a side that includes him! Who knows?
YNWA.

21 Jan 2016 08:07:31
He didn't constantly move out to the edge of the box. He had a few chances with headers that he won in the six yard box (still missed tho) . His movement is weird tho, a player not knowing what is expected of him, a touch that has desserted him and not really playing with any rhythm.

{Ed001's Note - you are right, usually he never bothered to move into the area in the first place to have to move back out.}

21 Jan 2016 08:51:45
I think for his own development at 19 years of age he needs to go out on loan. Maybe to a lower level premier league team. That way he can develop and not get so scrutinised. Massive talent no doubt but so so raw.

21 Jan 2016 10:49:08
I must have been watching a different game, he had a couple good shots on goal, had 3 quarters of the ball in the net. He skinned his markers time again, played good pass and move with randall and branagan down the right. Put a great cross on the head of benteke if i remember rightly who fluffed. Just because benny baller has been giving him grief everyone all of a sudden is on the kids back. He played no worse than anyone on that pitch last night. In fact the worse attacker was benteke who looked awkward all night.

Yes he still needs to develop but there arenfar worse performers in the team than ibe.

21 Jan 2016 01:04:19
Just want to chime in with a defense of Benteke. Thought he actually played quite well tonight. Expensive I know, but +I actually think he will prove to be the best in a long line of BIG Liverpool strikers since the good ol' days.

He is more of a goal threat than Heskey, has more physical presence than Crouch and is a lot less injured than Carroll. All facts. So, unless you remember any of those players fondly, prepare to be defending Benteke for a few years at least!

He will be with us for a while no matter what, partly because nobody in their right mind will ever pay £32.55 million for him ever again. But also because he will score a minimum of 50 goals for Liverpool, in all competitions perhaps.

But anyway, point is, lay off him, he's better than Heskey.

21 Jan 2016 04:15:16
so were keeping him because no one will pay 32.5m? sometimes you got to bite the bullet and take a loss if that means moving the club forward in terms of results. i don't mind klopp taking a loss with players because he is here to get us results on the field not making sure we get back the price we paid for players.

21 Jan 2016 04:38:20
LFC can not afford to keep making massive losses on players. I also feel the players need and deserve at least a full season with Klopp.

21 Jan 2016 05:16:16
I don't think he should start as sole striker until his movement improves to bring the best out of our creative talent (Coutinho/ Firmino etc. ) and he fits our desired style of play. Until then he can be used a highly effective plan B (eg last 30mins or as part of a twin striker setup when opposition parks the bus could be extremely useful) .

He's young and we should give him a shot to adjust until at least the summer to settle - he deserves at least that.

If he can't adjust by then though and
1) we can get a good price for him and
2) a better fit becomes available in the summer (eg lacazette)
Then we'd be silly not to consider making the change given Sturridge's problems leading the line.

21 Jan 2016 06:10:34
He won't adjust. He should be sold in the summer.

Bring in Breel Embolo. Or Lacazette. Or Icardi. Or Morata in the summer.

All miles better, more upside, and fit our attack.

I'm especially keen on Embolo. Incredible combination of pace and power, friends.

21 Jan 2016 06:32:44
I would personally prefer Lacazette, who has a better goals to games ratio than Embolo, or even Morata who also has a good ratio and scores in big games.

21 Jan 2016 06:47:01
I disagree strongly with the idea that Benteke is better than Crouch was for us. He is a better finisher than Heskey and yes he does not get injured as much as Carroll, but you miss one blindingly obvious point, he is a big man who doesn't hassle defenders for the ball in the air.
Crouch, Heskey and Carroll would all challenge defenders for a cross, as a cross comes in Benteke pulls off to the edge of the area, and hardly ever gets up with the CB to challenge for the ball, so no one can even feed off him for the second ball.
You cannot defend him from last night. He was a £32m Striker playing for Liverpool at Anfield against League 2 opposition in the world's most coveted cup competition. He should have dominated the game and come away with goals to show for his endeavour, and to do so should have been easy for a man playing for international team ranked #1 in the world.
Instead he was outshone by Brannigan, Ojo, Ibe, Smith. Texeira had more of an influence on the game than Benteke. The re-introduction of Flannagan had a greater affect on the fans than Benteke's performance.
In a game where he should have dominated the play and outmuscled all and sundry, he once again struggled. How many times did one of our players race towards the corner and look to cross only to find that Benteke, who had been on or around 6 yard line or penalty spot, had pulled away to the edge of the box or the back post. What, the big strong £32m man that is better than Carroll, Crouch and Heskey didn't fancy challenging the CB's of League 2 Exeter?
I get that he is low on confidence, and that he had a great scoring record for a poor team, and he may come good. You just cannot excuse that lack of positional awareness, a lack of ability to runt he channels, or the fact that 3 out 3 times that he has been 1-on-1 with a 'keeper he has allowed the keeper to dominate him.
The three strikers you mentioned were much better at connecting the play with our midfielders than Benteke is. It is almost as if we want a Giroudesque player, someone to bring Lallana, Coutinho, Firmino, Henderson, Milner, Ibe into the game much as Giroud does for Ozil, Ramsey, Sanchez and co, but he simply doesn't seem to be able to. Origi links with the midfield far better than Benteke.
Yes, he may adjust in time and become superb, but your belief is based on fantasy, there is no evidence to suggest he will score 50 goals in all competitions for us.
Why is a player who is not ready worth £32m?

Rant Over.

21 Jan 2016 06:50:07
Lacazzate is having a very ordinary season at Lyon and one reason his price has tag has dropped significantly. 7 in 17 is two more than Benteke.
Majority are still buzzing with his last year stats.
We should be looking at Vietto instead who is struggling for games at Athletico and would be attainable at a very decent price.

21 Jan 2016 07:21:45
Crouch played very well for LFC. Well after he got of the mark anyway (12 games? ) . Seemed like a really good bloke although i'm still trying to get my head around how he ended up with Abby Clancey!

21 Jan 2016 08:21:32
Money Irish. Money. And a good sense of humour but mostly money.

21 Jan 2016 08:34:02
I thought crouch was a great player for us. Played a key role in reaching and winning the fa cup in 2006.
Also led the line for us all tournament when we reached the champs league final in 2007 when Benitez decided to drop him for the final!

21 Jan 2016 08:58:49
I'd happily take Vietto too, forwards I thought we should have gone all out for last window were Aubemeyang, Lacazette or Vietto.

Lacazette may not be killing it this season but could be many reasons.

21 Jan 2016 00:28:51
Just back from the game and got to say how pleased I am for these kids. I've watched a lot of them come through at youth level and felt they kind of came of age tonight.

Not one of them looked out of place and fingers crossed some of them stick around for a while. I enjoyed every second of that.

Well done lads.

21 Jan 2016 05:22:04
Agreed, particularly hopeful for Teixeira, Brannagan, Smith, Ojo who all showed.

21 Jan 2016 06:34:54
Definitely 3 of them, not sure about Brannagan.

21 Jan 2016 00:05:17
Enjoying watching the game, think we completely dominated as we should . Personally I thought Kevin Stewart was brilliant, did a lot of the dirty work and did most things easy when he got the ball. I was very impressed with him as well as many of the other youngsters!

20 Jan 2016 23:24:19
Best live chat yet, mega fellas!