Liverpool Banter Archive February 24 2014

24 Feb 2014 23:13:41
When can we expect the next stage in the redevelopment of anfield. Have the club got a figure in mind for capacity? Rumours have been circulating that it will be a 55,000 seater stadium others are saying closer to 60,000. Personally I think the club should be aiming more for between 65-70,000 seats. Just imagine the european nites at a packed anfield

I have been doing a fair bit of research on this and from what I understand (please correct me if I am wrong) this is how it will go down:

Phase 1: The Main stand will be the first to be expanded, a third tier will be added, this will take the capacity to around 55000

Phase 2: The Anfield Road stand will get an expansion and this will take the total capacity to around 58000

Potential developments after this include filling in the corners etc to raise the maximum capacity to around 64000

The Club cannot take the capacity to around 70k for a few reasons

1) The surrounding area does not have the infrastructure to effectively transport and withstand 70000 people coming into the area twice a week.

2) the club probably cannot afford to expand and get the extra couple of thousand seats due to the increase in cost of the project (e.g. adding 5000 seats wouldn't cost too much, but adding 25000 seats costs more than the cost of adding 5000 seats 5 times)

3) the infamous "sweet spot", apparently the club want to maintain demand for tickets so we can continue to be ripped off. I always thought this was BS due to us having a 75k long season ticket waiting list but it does appear to be a huge factor.

Anyways from what I have read, researched and asked the eds as well as a couple of architects:

Anfield will not be a Emirates type of football ground, it will be a proper football ground, steep stands with the maximum possible gradient, close to the pitch, large blocks of seating, not cheap but cost effective.

Also I do not believe we should be getting too excited about the new atmosphere, the added seats will mainly be corporate seats and hospitality packages etc.

Adding any amount to the ground won't make a difference to the issues around transport, anfield is a nightmare to get from after a game whether it's driving or trying to use taxis or buses. Best thing to do is have a few pints on Breck rd! Being a non season ticket holder but member I Can only ever purchase tickets twice a season so only get to a couple of home games. the increase capacity won't make it any better for me (to get tickets) but i'm pleased the redevelopment is going ahead as it will bring extra revenue but by adding to rather than moving from we get to keep the traditions and history of Anfield.

If we have a waiting list that long I can't see why we don't aim for the biggest capacity. "Future proofing" gets thrown around a bit in these discussions so surely it must cause a problem moving forward with a limited capacity?

{Ed002's Note - There is a very significant cost to the club to go beyond 60k. Well beyond what the club can afford.}

Any chance of them improving the tea bags and kettles? The cuppers at anfield are horrendous

25 Feb 2014 14:49:31
Ed02 will increasing the stadium have bearing on the fair play rules?

{Ed002's Note - No.}

25 Feb 2014 14:49:42
Ed02. if the stadium get to 60,000 and the club improves on and off the pitch can we add to that capacity in the future and to what sort of figure?

{Ed002's Note - The problem is that the infrastructure changes that would be required would need to be paid for by the club and it is not viable.}

24 Feb 2014 22:39:45
From what I saw watching a dodgy stream Joe Allen's movement and skill was very similar to that of Luis Suarez. Several times I thought it was Suarez on the ball until the commentator mentioned it was Allen. He certainly looks like he has been working hard behind the scenes and played very well.

Hopefully, with a good run in the team, he will become as consistent as Jordan Henderson and Lucas have become. I think we, as fans, have to learn that we can't expect too much too soon from the youngsters brought in.

Red Rum

Ed001, I was wondering if I could possibly pick your brains about grass roots football.

Are there any real concerns about grass roots football if so, do you know of any plans to change how it works and do you think they are suitable plans?

I only ask because I personally don't watch the younger levels of football any more, in fact I haven't really watched much outside of Liverpool's games really. And I remember after the Euro's, a lot of papers were making out there was hardly anything worth mentioning.

Cheers.

{Ed001's Note - by grass roots, are you meaning youth football or non league football?}

24 Feb 2014 22:16:28
Hey eds, didn't get a chance to watch the game yesterday, only seen MOTD.

How did Johnson get on playing LB? Was he same as before his injury or did he look a little less uninterested.

Thank ye.

24 Feb 2014 23:10:49
Johnson is just so lazy and un-interested. Cissokho even though slated by our fans he tried his absolute hardest every game. Johnson on the other hand just looks so bored and doesn't care. He left huge gaps in LB. I'm not a great analyser of the game but even I could see the gaps left.

Cissokho's defensive work has been good as well, he has hardly made any mistakes at the back. Now going forward, especially in possession he can be suspect (looks like he lacks confidence) and his crossing/distribution does need to improve but, all in all I prefer Cissokho. The defensive unit looks more cohesive (as opposed to Johnson bombing it up the line leaving massive holes) and, as mentioned, he gives 100% every game. When was the last time you could say the same about Johnson?

24 Feb 2014 21:39:00
hello eds,
rodgers has come out after the swansea game and said that most of our conceded goals tend to be personal mistakes by the defense and it does seem to be that way. he doesn't blame the coaching saying it is up to the player to make the right choices. do you think our defense is not adapting to the style of play or just immensly lacking in confidence. I feel like in the offense and midfield the players genuinly trust eachother to do the right thing and keep the ball, however I have seen many times at the back that the players don't necessarily trust eachother which I think is leading to errors. for example I remember kolo toure said of the west brom game that he looked at cissokho, and was going to pass to him but decided to play it back. it seems he didn't trust cissokho enough to just pass him the ball. also you can see how skrtl and mignolet have a lack of communication at times. skrtl didn't trust agger enough to head the ball away during the swansea game and gave a uneccesary pentalty. also if memory serves me in the aston villa game, johnson was ready to head out a cross and it seemed mignolet didn't see him or didn't trust him enough. and of course we know what happened next and benteke made a 2nd goal. to me it definitly seems like there is a lack of confidence of the defenders of not just themselves but of eachother. eds what's your take on it?

24 Feb 2014 21:43:28
Excellent article on Daniel Sturridge in the Guardian re statistics compared to other top strikers in the premiership and europe. Might surprise a few people and defo worth a read. Sean Ingle must've seen my post earlier lol.

Was a very good article. The lad has been absolutely fantastic since his move here and am really surprised at how little recognition he seems to have gotten for it.

24 Feb 2014 21:13:48
Eds fellow reds, just a quick question do you think BR has moved Luis out wide to boost sturridges confidence? My only concern is that Luis has gone off the boil with goals and could be costly for us .could do with moving Luis into the centre in games for 20 mins to get the scoring boots back on .

{Ed001's Note - no, he has kept Sturridge central to force opposition defenders to drop deeper and create space for the midfield to exploit.}

24 Feb 2014 20:52:23
All games at this stage of the season are vital and the next one up is Southampton. If we can get anything there, I would really fancy us to push on, as I think we will try to blitz Chelsea and City at Anfied by bombing at them from the start, as per the Everton and Arsenal games.

Getting back to Southampton, I'm sure they will fancy their chances against us as they like to press really high up the pitch and get in your face.

If we try to play out from the back too often, we will eventually get caught out when one of our defenders panics under the pressure and makes an error.

That is why I think BR should mix it up a bit and abandon the passing from the back type of play for this game. Look at it this way, if they have 3 or 4 midfielders and a striker pressing our defenders or even Gerrard when they have the ball deep, and we play it long for the SAS to battle for, it will immedately take all those pressing players out of the game. I'd back Luis and Daniel against even 3 or 4 of their defenders if all their other players were struggling to get back.

I think this makes more sense than trying to play it out with players snapping around their heels on the edge of our box.

24 Feb 2014 20:04:41
Eds did we enquirer about Micah Richards or not? I would have him but can't we him moving on the wages we would pay and I Wudnt want to pay silly money 4 him. what about lescott says he is playing for a contract elsewhere would u think we would be interested. I'm not sure and I guarantee the question will get a lot of mixed responses.

Glad to hear u think CM, LB and winger r out priorities, top 4 and CL beckons

{Ed002's Note - Search engine please.}

24 Feb 2014 19:03:23
Eds,

If we do finish in a top 4 place come the end of the season, do you see Brendan's summer budget being significantly increased? Would be nice to see a couple of big additions to the squad.

All the best.

{Ed002's Note - I suspect there might be more money available but everyone seems to expect massive changes and a year of transition. The team is doing well but will get some improvements - it won't be a whole new side. A wide player, a central midfield player and a left back will be the priority. Then you are into replacements for other folks leaving.}

Hi Eds. good input and information down the page on potential targets such as Hughes for midfield and Konop for the wing. Do you have any firm info on who we have interest in please at left back?

{Ed002's Note - There was previously discussion with representatives of Ryan Bertrand.}

Gladly take Bertrand off Chelsea's hands.
Good player, English, with something to prove.
Definitely.

Is Will Hughes the type of Midfielder we really need though? Joe Allen is already not being utilised and offers a similar style of midfield player to Hughes. And I don't see him starting ahead of any of Gerrard, Henderson, Coutinho, Suso or Lucas. I know he has been mentioned but i'm not sure our limited funds would be best spent this way. Suso surely deserves a chance first.

24 Feb 2014 18:26:54
So lads we all love Sakho so my question is say next season who should partner him
Skrtel
Toure
Agger
Kelly
Wisdom
Illori or
Coates

My heart says Agger

My brain says go out and buy another centreback.

I think Sama or Wisdom Should be given a chance to prove themselves I think Kelly is Too injury prone like agger. Ilori needs a season or 2 out on loan. Coates I feel bad for I really expected a lot from him after seeing him play for uruguay But he never seemed to settle at all I think he's destined for the same path as ayala. Toure makes too many mistakes and skrtel is the same he risks giving away a penalty in every game with his tuging in the box. Agger I think is destined for Napoli Because Rodgers seems to not trust him. Liverpool need to invest highly in their defense in the summer although Flanagan has been sensational and could make the right back spot his own for many seasons to come.

Preferably someone not on that list, who has experience, and does not bottle it on numerous occasions. Hopefully one of them steps up, like Ilori. We would then have a quick, young and dynamic defence.

I thought the idea was to bring Illori in along side sahko.
But I'm not sure if he would be ready to start next season as one of the main CB's, due to lack of Prem experience, I see him being integrated into the side gradually next year. That is however if he is still at the club? I'm sure he is one of the players Edd02 was referring too, as to be looking for an early move, due to lack of playing time.
I hope I am wrong with thinking he wants out.

Good question.
My heart wants to say Agger. He is very good on the ball, he is dedicated to the club. Skrtel is ok but not good or consistent enough if we want to progress. Toure is on the decline and is good as a backup. Kelly's game seems to have fallen apart, lack of confidence or accumulation of injuries have affected him. Still hope he will get there but not the answer. Wisdom has potential, but again not the answer for next season if we want to progress.
Coates will be gone in summer. Who knows about Ilori? He might be good enough but it seems unlikely.

So my answer would be "none of the above". I think if we're in the champions league next season and we want to progress I think we need another solid centre back. We also need 2 new fullbacks.

True wisdom and illori deserve a chance even pre-season no point sending them on loan for the crack they're both doing well on loan deserve a chance ed001 what's you opinion on the original question?

{Ed001's Note - Ilori for me.}

Ilori has done well so far in Spain he's a confident lad and I hope we give him the chance, him and Sakho are the future.

My only concern witha Sakho-llori partnership would be communication and leadership, same issues at the moment really, no one seems vocal and we have no organisation.
personally I'd let Skrtel go and keep Agger, promote Llori although I've only seen a small bit of him play. he certainly seems talented. He will get opportunities next season with more games.

If Ilori and Sakho played it would give us two really quick centre backs enabling us to play a high line and press much further up the pitch - I really want us to do that. We obviously need back up but if Ilori is good enough he deserves a chance. Not sure what his distribution is like either but dare say it couldn't be much worse than what we already have.

His(Ilori) distribution is awesome. A true ball playing cb if ever I saw one. Could easily be a CDM.

24 Feb 2014 17:49:34
I'm aware we have quite a few centre backs at the club
We still need to buy one more in my opinion, a top quality established experienced centre back
Wouldn't you agree Eds?

{Ed002's Note - There are nine registered with the first team squad including Coates.}

I would agree Chris. We can ship a fair few out as well.

That doesn't mean we have 2 good enough to make the difference though Ed

{Ed001's Note - I would say Sakho and Ilori and Agger are all good enough. Possibly Kelly as well in that position. Toure is good enough to be back up. How many do you want?}

I just wanna see Ilori in a Liverpool shirt.
Him and Sakho would do me.

"I just wanna see Ilori in a Liverpool shirt.
Him and Sakho would do me."

Brutal image there Juicer.

24 Feb 2014 17:22:28
Hi reds. any buzz with lucas recovery?

{Ed002's Note - His leg is make no noise at all.}

24 Feb 2014 18:47:49
Come on.

{Ed002's Note - There is very slight hum coming from his left leg apparently.}

No noise at all? Worrying times indeed.

Lol Edd :0)
Try physiotable.com mate.

Ed, are we sure it's not just a bee caught in his shin pads?

24 Feb 2014 15:17:57
Following on from DG's post re PFA player of the year and ED001's excellent analysis of Daniel Sturridge down the page. I find it unusual that no1 has given him a shout for it. He has been consistent all season and given his current form will run Luis very close for golden boot. I still think Luis will win but I don't think Daniel will be far off.

IMO the remaining 11 games will have a big say on who gets it.

Simonpw,

I totally agree mate, I just think that Sturridge is not "Hollywood" enough, if you know what I mean.

Shame really because he has been, arguably, Liverpool's best player this season, has scored lots of goals and is nailed on to go to Rio.

Not sure about player of the year (although I do think he has to be in consideration), but if Sturridge doesn't get young player of the year then that would be criminal, in my opinion.

Shouldn't "young" player of the year be 21 or under though? I know Bale won it last year as well as the main one but it seems stupid that a 23-24 established premiership player can win it. Would prefer it to go to an actual youngster. Think Sterling could be considered for it.

24 Feb 2014 14:56:54
Hello everyone, it seems as though everyone has a different view on who should be are main centre half pairing. I personally think toure and sakho would be the best. Toure has taken a lot of criticism lately, which I really don't understand. Apart from a couple of mistakes, think he has played well! Toure and sakho I believe are the best for the job because they're the most physical, quickest, have the biggest aerial threat, good passes and toure brings leadership and communication to the side which skrtel doesn't offer. Does anyone else think it was extremely unfair for cissohko to be dropped for Johnson? The lad had just builded up some confidence, now I'm guessing that is destroyed! At least Aly has defended (unlike Johnson who is extremely lazy)

I think our best centre back pairing is Skrtel and Sakho.

For me, Skrtel has been our best defender all season, but to be fair, with our defence that isn't much of a compliment. He had a really bad day yesterday, but he is also capable of displays like the one against Arsenal.

From now till the end of the season he has to play. It is too late to start experimenting with centre back partnerships.

Come the summer I wouldn't be surprised to see several players leave. Possibly, Enrique due to his injury problems, Johnson due to his form and Agger too. I would also expect Cissokho to return to Valencia.

Therefore, we could see the arrival of possibly 3 new defenders.

Red Rum

Aggers mohawk couldn't agree more. as well as skrtels played and as good.as agger is on the ball I think your spot on. center halfs should never get bullied like skrtel and agger often do

Hopefully we can try Agger/Sakho out one of these days. If Ilori does well and wants to stay he could make it interesting - I fancy the idea Sakho/Ilori at the back, their pace would mean we could play a really high line and I think, for our pressing game, it would be very effective.

24 Feb 2014 14:21:05
If anything I take our short falls at the back as a positive at this present time. We are supposed to have a terrible away record too. Yet here we are in a strong position in 4th place, 6pts clear of 5th and 11pts clear of 6th and 7th with a much superior goal difference, which in effect is as good as an extra point.
As far as I can see even though we haven't had a settled back four for pretty much the whole season, the main reason we have conceded is down to individual errors. This is not down to coaching or tactics or even team shape but usually a loss of concentration or error in judgement. What I think is that if individuals stay focused both the defensive and away performances will improve. It's really small margins that will decide where we finish this season.

Firstly I think when Johnson and Skrtel get started together that we are likely to concede.
Johnson just doesn't mark at set peices whilst skrtel seems more interested in strangling his man than clearing the ball.
Skrtel drops far too deep and at the stupidest times, even when there is no need for it. He also gets pulled across very easily when he really just stay in his position.
Johnson, on several occasions yesterday conceded sloppy possession to the opposition in terrible areas and always seems to isolate himself by dithering on the ball.
Yes Toure and Agger make the odd defensive error but Skrtel just has a lack of awareness and consistently duffs up the shape at the back. I still think he is good at certain stuff like aerially he is okay, he is generally a good man to man marker and will look an absolute beast in Italy or Germany, even playing for Chelsea or any team that sits deep. Even during Kenny's reign I remember Skrtel and Johnson playing pretty well but the change in manager has lead to a decline.

24 Feb 2014 14:16:36
I was just reading through today's posts and something clicked with me.

'I think we have finally become serious contenders again'

Not because we are 6 points clear in fourth, or that we are only 4 points off the top. Or that we are the leagues top scorers. Or that we are playing some of the most exciting football of recent years.

No, it is because we won yesterday and everybody on here is not happy with the performance. this is how I remembered it to be in the late seventies and early eighties when everybody would be grumbling as they walked away from the ground because we had only beaten somebody like Wolves or West Brom or Stoke City by 3 - 0.

Long may this grumbling continue!

24 Feb 2014 13:40:44
I know that this might be to far but even though we don't have the money man city has or even Chelsea you have to admire the fight our team has,
yes we make loads of mistakes which I hope we can sort out, but he drive and determination we showing is impressive, by my count we were only out played twice this season.
so all in all there isn't a lot of matches I didn't believe we could win an we all now know we can score goals.

so to my fellow LFC fans and supporters let's keep hoping and keep supporting the best football team in the world

YNWA

24 Feb 2014 13:13:57
Hello everyone, you won't believe what I did yesterday. I was looking to see what channel the match was on yesterday and realised it wasn't on the telly. And I had no laptop or access to internet because my laptop was broke and well, none of my mates would let me watch it on theirs! So anyway, my uncle rang at 10 o'clock yesterday morning. He asked me if I wanted 2 tickets for the game. Got two tickets for 100 quid and I was sat in the Kop! Traveled to Anfield, arrived at 1 o'clock and watched the match! So I traveled to Anfield, from Dublin, just so I wouldn't miss the match! Big rush to get there but it was worth it! Nice to see Henderson chipping in with goals, hopefully he can add a few more to his game. Have to say Allen played well when he came on, intercepting the ball on half way and playing it to Suarez, which ended up in Henderson's winner. Sturridge is on fire, Suarez chipping in with assists, Flanagan had another good game too. Johnson had a good comeback, still not my cup of tea though! As long as we score more than the opposition I'm happy. Goals win games, good defence only gets you a draw. Sterling's pass for Sturridge's goal was unreal, proving Brendan right when he said he's not just a one-trick pony. Also have to say I'm glad Skrtel was pulled up for his foul on Bony. May have been soft but at least we can now watch a game without needing fresh underwear on standby! 6 points clear, top scorers in the league as a team, have the two highest goalscorers, and creators, onwards and upwards!
Cheers,

24 Feb 2014 12:23:06
ED001 and fellow reds, 3 quick questions:

1. Fowler vs Suarez?

2. This Team vs 2008/2009 team?

3. Torres vs Sturridge?

{Ed001's Note - 1. There is only one God, Suarez has a long way to go to match his level. Fowler. Suarez is special, but Fowler was even more special.
2. This team. The 2008/9 team was far too reliant on 3 players, the rest of the team were not that special.
3. Sturridge. Not even a contest, when comparing them at their best. Torres was far too reliant on acceleration, the rest of his game is being shown to be weak now he has lost it. Also he was not exactly a team player, he offered little if he wasn't scoring.}

Agree with you 100% mate, but allow me to play devils advocate here, on the second point if we took Sturridge, Suarez and Gerrard out of the current side we would also look incredibly average wouldn't we?

{Ed001's Note - fully fit, we would still have Coutinho, Henderson, Sakho etc that are excellent players. Rafa's side was full of players that simply weren't good enough or weren't allowed to settle in and show what they could do.}

U could say that about any team that has the 3 best players out the 2008 team had no depth at all we had no pace and one striker

Cant agree with much of that at all.
1. I love God as much as any red but come on he was not near Suarez's all round level, only aspect of God which was better was his instinctive finishing. Robbie was never thought of as being one of the best in the world Luis is.
2. Very difficult this one, I wouldn't argue strongly either way, 2008/9 had a superb backbone of a side (reina, hyppia, agger, gerrard, alonso, masch, torres) so don't agree we were too reliant on 3 players, a toss up to be honest.
3. Another hard call but Torres at his peak just edges it for me, Sturridge is class though and not taking nothing away from him. Saying Torres relied too much on pace is like saying Messi relies too much on his technique/dribbling skills, well isn't that what makes them special.
Ed01, are you just trying to drum up controversy so the site gets loads of hits? Because I am sure you will recall our recent banter session when you said there is no difference to us finishing 4th or 5th this year, I disagreed, I think maybe that is what you were doing then.

{Ed001's Note - don't talk soft. I was giving my opinion.
1. Suarez is great but Fowler is the best player I have seen in the flesh. He was far better than he was ever given credit for and was very similar to Suarez, without the exposure and lacking the quality of players alongside him. Put Fowler in our current team and I firmly believe he would get more goals and assists than Suarez. He could even take those edge of the box free kicks, just with his left rather than right. Fowler was just unlucky to play in a team that was still trying to rebuild following Souness.
2. I am sorry but I just disagree, especially as you are failing to remember we didn't even have a proper striker on the bench. The squad was appallingly weak considering the amount of players Rafa had brought into the club. The team is close, but the squad was light years apart.
3. Your comparison is idiotic. You haven't even read what I said, it is nothing to do with pace, it is acceleration and that is wholly reliant on his fitness. Totally different things.
As for being controversial, I just wish you would grow up and allow people to have a different opinion from you without accusing them of ulterior motives. It is pathetic to assume that your opinions, which are just that, are the only ones allowed or someone must be being an arse. It is just possible that we see things differently. For instance, Torres was always a prick behind the scenes, which lowers his value to the team, whereas Sturridge is very much a part of a good team spirit.}

Yes you are correct, our opinions do differ, (actually most of the time they don't) interesting to see if anyone else thinks Robbie is better than Luis! As this one in my mind is not even close and it does hurt to say that because I love Robbie, I see Luis doing things Robbie could only dream of.
The other 2 is as I said, are very close shouts.
I fully realise it is all about opinions but some opinions of yours like if we don't finish 1st finishing 4th is no different to finishing 5th just puzzles me.
No need to get insulting ED01, because if I insulted you as you just have to me you either don't post it or edit it.
By the way I do not like Torres in any way shape or form I was just commenting on what I witnessed every week when he was in his pomp and he was awsome, I now see him as a prick.

{Ed001's Note - I was merely pointing out that you are incapable of a discussion, you make accusations that are extremely insulting, and now you are complaining because you didn't like my answer. If you are going to be a bitch, don't complain when you get a reply in kind. If you want to discuss my views, then fine, go right ahead, I understand most people haven't watched Fowler as much as I have and can only judge players on a few clips or from MOTD-type footage. But, having watched Fowler on the pitch many times, he has a slight edge over Suarez. He was more clinical, also slightly faster, though he wasn't as good at beating his man as Luis, he could do it when it was needed. The difference is that Suarez will look to beat his man for the sake of it a lot of the time, Fowler would only look to do it when he needed to. That is the main difference between the two. That is why Fowler was so much more clinical, because his first thought was about how to get the ball in the back of the net, whereas Suarez doesn't always think about that, he has that tendency to just want to do something special first.}

Fowler and Suarez are two different types of player IMO, like edo1 I'd choose fowler over Suarez but only just. For me fowler was the best natural goal scorer in the premier league at the time and didn't get the recognition he deserved. Far better player than Owen IMO, and we should of cashed in on the injury prone midget. However Suarez is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world and does things most players only dream of so I can see where the OP is coming from.

1) for me no contest, cannot pick one and unfortunately didn't see enough of the "early" Fowler to make a balanced call. I wonder Ed what you think did more damage to God - his injuries of Houllier (by extension Owen)?

2) Personally I'd say the 2008/09 team shaded it. Squad wise I couldn't say (as I cannot remember) but I thought the Alonso-Masch-Gerrard midfield was just deadly. Defensively we were pretty strong as well (Arbeloa, Carragher, Agger - Sami in reserve and who was class even at his age) plus a forward who was in world class form in Torres. Oh and Reina in good form too! I think attacking wise we are much better now but over all I'd go that 2008/09 team, just a bit more quality I think

3) I used to love Torres but think Sturridge is just a complete striker he does everything, his passing is good (when he looks up), he is a ruthless finisher, his off the ball work is great and for team spirit he's absolute class as well. I was very critical of our attempts to sign him and had similar fears of him being able to fit into a team. He has performed beyond all expectations - I think he is playing better than Torres was at his prime and that he has a lot more respect for the red shirt. Sturridge all the way.

{Ed001's Note - Houllier and Owen.}

Didn't see Fowler a lot so can't compare, but saying that Suarez is the best player I have ever seen live. That norwich game was just unbelievable! but for the other two:
2008/9 time vs current - probably have to give it to the 08/09, may not have had anything on the bench but the starting XI was fantastic. Had 2 of the best midfielders in the world at that time and mascherano with them who wasn't shabby! Gerrard at his peak with one of the best strikers in world football at the time. With a solid defense with a great RB (arbeola was under-rated) and back then Reina was a much better keeper then mignolet. As good at shot stopping better at penalty saving with the best distribution about.
Sturridge vs Torres is difficult: Mind says Torres, simply because he may have relied on pace and power but was clinical and fit the squad perfectly, him stevie and alonso were a perfect match (also remember hammering Real Madrid). Also scored some great goals (eg. Blackburn goal) but stats would suggest Sturridge is the better player and does have a better all round game

ED01, First of all I didn't think I was insulting never mind extremely! and just so you know I watched approx 99.5% (basically never missed a home game) of Robbies home games and approx 70-80% maybe more of his away games during his 2 stints, so my views are not based on MOTD type footage if that's what you was thinking. Your explanations of why Robbie was better still don't sway me at all but I do respect your opinion. Just one thing, are you sure Robbie was slightly faster? I don't think he was you know.

{Ed001's Note - he was defo faster, he had excellent acceleration in particular.}

Owen fowler v sas? First one for me

Ed, I was just wondering which 3 players you believed Rafa's 08/09 team was reliant on? Gerrard, Masch, Alonso, Reina, Carra and too a lesser extent Torres and Arbeloa were all very good players. Not criticising your opinion, just interested in what you think.

Hyypia from the bench was strong cover as well I should add.

I agree with you though on the lack of squad depth that season though. I recall bringing El Zhar on in numerous situations when we needed something, when he just wasn't good enough. We had no real striking options as Torres was injured for a lot of the season and Ngog wasn't good enough (Not to mention Robbie Keane's 6-month nightmare).

Thanks,

{Ed001's Note - Alonso, Gerrard and Torres were the ones I was referring to.}

24 Feb 2014 11:01:39
Eds and reds,
What do people think of losing Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure and having Sebastian Coates and Martin Kelly compete for right centre back?
Are they good enough to be given the chance, should we keep the more experienced players, or should we look for better in the summer?

Kelly and coats have major injury concerns big risk

Coates is just too slow and cumbersome. It is a move which I had high hopes for but I just don't see working out.
Kelly however, could prove to bea quality defender. I know BR is taking it extremely slow easing him back into the first team, but I would hope he would get regular action next season, especially if Johnson goes

24 Feb 2014 13:11:25
So you want Kelly, Sakho, Coates and Agger as our 4 senior centre backs? I reckon you'd be lucky to get 38 appearances out of them put together!

YNWAdam

I;ve never worried about coates, when playing for Uruguay, his pace wasn't a problem vs aguero and tevez. He usually reads the game much better than skrtel. He's definitely gone in the summer though

24 Feb 2014 09:39:12
Just want to make a point here lads clearly were lacking a lot of goals but let's be honest I think were getting expksed due to playing basically a 4-2-4 sterling coutinho suarez and Sturridge are all attackers sure henderson and gerrard are more attacking minded than not so its hard for the defence to be fair and I think take 1 attacker out for Allen you will see a tighter back 4
Agree or disagree but it makes sense

I think it was obvious yesterday that Gerrard was getting over-run as the 1 holding midfielder.

Henderson and Coutinho were too far forward so Swansea basically had a free run at our back 4.

I thought we should have switched to two holders and 1 advanced but at the end of the day we won and that's all that matters at this stage of the season.

I thought Allen played really well when he came on. His tackling and possesion retention was impressive and he seems to have more confidence now.

I agree with the point that the defence is left somewhat exposed by our wonderful attacking football. And for me Toure is past it - he is nothing more than an overused reserve. I'm sure it is only because of injuries that he's getting so much game time; if others were match fit I couldn't see him getting anything more than the odd run out here and there. Skrtel though is different. He's taking a lot of flack this season and sure enough he's had some issues but I ask if there any any centre backs about - anywhere, who wouldn't suffer because our attacking style of play - which tends to leave defenders somewhat exposed at the back. For me he's done okay; he's been an ever-present. I suppose we might get a better picture of this when agger/sakho return properly and they get a crack at it. See how it works out for them.

{Ed001's Note - except that a major proportion of those issues are Skrtel's fault! He is causing us to drop deeper, meaning the midfield have more space to cover, allowing us to be overrun there. He is making stupid errors, time and time again, causing us to concede possession and goals. There is no excusing his weaknesses by trying to pretend it is down to the midfield exposing him, when he is at fault for the midfield being exposed as well!}

Fair point. But it can't be good for confidence when you're left exposed So much. You tend to get nervous - errors creep in. We'll see how others fare upon their return.
Jackzokay

{Ed001's Note - he was full of errors anyway, the only difference is that we used to play a lot more defensively so his errors were not so crucial in past seasons. He has learnt nothing, he is still rash, he is still holding in the box, he is still dropping deep when there is no need, he is still too quiet and not able to keep his partner abreast of what is happening. That is why the defence became so much tighter when he was dropped last season, he simply isn't good enough, and he isn't improving his game.}

I never thought I would say this at the start of the season because initially I wasnt that impressed, however, I can't wait for Sakho to be passed fit in the next few weeks.

With all our CB's looking shaky and with a mistake in them, its time for one to grab the game by the scruff of the neck and sort it out.

Toure was meant to be the experienced replacement for Carra but he has looked a bag of nerves recently.

Sakho has captained PSG and been an important member of the France team so he has leadership qualities. I really think he could give us some steel and organisation at the back, which we will need in the run in.

The question then begs. Who would you put in there when all are fit?
And while we're on it who do you think is out there (that is within our price-range) and that could realistically be brought in? Obviously you're saying Rodgers wants to play a high-line; this requires pace (and acceleration - I learnt the difference today!).
In that regard might it be Sakho/Ilori for next season?
Jackzokay

24 Feb 2014 08:53:10
There is a strength and resilience about us now that we haven't had for a long time. It's like an extra player in the team. The desire not to lose even when you are not at your best. This team will only get stronger. BR deserves a lot of credit.

24 Feb 2014 06:03:24
I think that the reason we are letting many goals is because not playing with a dm which is lucas as the back 4 doest have enough cover.Should be very careful of southampton.

24 Feb 2014 00:33:18
Hi all,
Another game down thank The Lord! I can't really say we were lucky to win because any team that score four deserve to win, chelsea and City were lucky to win only scoring one, shame could have been catch up big shtyle :)
If any of the edds could give their opinion on a few positions in the back line which would sort out the mess? Also do you reckon our lack of a fast tight defensive midfielder is one of the reasons the defence look so bad as they don't really get a lot of protection numerous time today they were just ran at with acres of room. edd 2 like to hear your opinion if you would.

{Ed002's Note - I am afraid that I fall in to the camp that thinks Liverpool are doing very well and that the players are not all in need of replacement.}

Ya I'm a big fan of that camp meself sir although I'm presuming a team can always be improved and was wondering in your opinion in Liverpools case, how?

23 Feb 2014 23:55:22
Great win today but must say I'm very, very concerned about our upcoming trip to St. Mary's.
In our last two games against Saints, who I really admire as a team for the record, we have gone in comfortable favourites in great runs of form and then been outplayed put simply.
They seem to play the exact football we struggle against, high pressure, good at set pieces, quick counter attack.
I would take a draw and a decent performance quite happily. Oh and I wouldn't mind bringing Lallana back with us- quality player!

They're definetely a side which can cause us problems as we have learnt in the past. Hopefully Rodgers and the players have learnt from this and we go there set up right and with the right mentality. If we do, we can win the game for sure!

Gerrard has to be careful at DM as he has been a marked man (literally) in certain games (Villa @ Anfield a prime example), which causes us no end of problems when teams press him for the ball when he is deep.

I think routledge exposed Flanagan big time sunday. next game we got to have GJ right back with Cissokho at LB just for Pace at the back and I think Toure and Skrtel need to go CB not because Agger did anything wrong against Swansea because Skrtel had a really poor game but atm the chemistry between kolo and martin is better Plus Kolo is a touch more alert than Agger with the games he has played.

{Ed002's Note - You are right, no one has mentioned that Flanagan is crap as well as all of the others.}

Our fullbacks also need to defend better, they shouldn't go position themselves in saints half like wingers

We also had terrible recent record against arsenal the other week so I wouldn't worry about the last game against them