Liverpool Banter Archive June 30 2016

 

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30 Jun 2016 19:26:24
Hi Reds does anyone know how you get to watch the preseason games. I want to go to the 29th July at Reading, cheers.

Believable3 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - that is my birthday, so I will expect to see a Happy Birthday banner in the crowd then ;-)

30 Jun 2016 20:17:48
Buy a ticket off the official website if they are on general.


30 Jun 2016 20:54:09
8 days previous ed001 and you would have had the pleasure of being born on the same day as as me. 😎.


{Ed001's Note - my birthday was far too important for you to be allowed to be born on it Reet....}

30 Jun 2016 22:04:47
You may want to check out ticketmaster. They were selling the tickets for the 6th August game against Barcelona.


01 Jul 2016 12:56:48
Terrible at remembering birthdays my own included. so happy birthday tristan and many happy returns. 🎂.


30 Jun 2016 18:21:21
I don't claim to be a football expert or analyst, but I'm wondering Eds, instead of this Zielinski guy, why not help Luis Alberto take the next step?

Just saying.

Believable4 Unbelievable5

{Ed001's Note - he doesn't want to stay.}

01 Jul 2016 06:32:45
I don't like comparing players as much, and some players can seem exceptional in one team/ league and very average in another, having said that I think Zieliński is much different to the types of players that LFC currently has, and what stands out the most about him is his calm and direct approach, and his ability to make spaces for himself and his team mates is exceptional for a 22-year-old.

Also, he appears to be consistently looking and preparing for attacking chances, which is a skillset that I see in Henderson and Firmino, and to a lesser extent in Can and Coutinho. What I mean is that they consistently scan around before the ball is at their feet, so they have more than a few options available to them. and their movement with the ball is accompanied by intent, and this is where I see Milner and Allen having difficulties, as good players as they are, there's rarely any intent in their play, this is apparent when they are playing against teams that give them no space or time.

Obviously, Coutinho has an exceptional set of skills and creativity, and I am not comparing him to Zieliński in any way, but I see Coutinho and Alberto for a lack of better description as more of a "thinking with the ball" kinda of players, which is great to have in any team, and I really hope that Coutinho stays.

Alberto, on the other hand, struggles with speed, movement of the ball, and his tendency to not realising the ball quickly enough, but he does have some nice touches and splitting passes.

Sadly, these are the skillset that Ibe is struggling with at the moment, without the ball he's too static, with the ball he rarely looks up or has an idea of what to do next, which is more of a mindset than lack in his skillset, a season away with lesser limelight on him might do him good.

Ooooh, apologies for the long reply! :)


30 Jun 2016 17:56:08
Eds/ reds

I read we have signed Norwegian youngster Sandvik Tagseth. Apparently very highly rated? Does anybody know much about him?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - That was last summer - he is a child.}

30 Jun 2016 19:18:53
Thanks ed.

And looks like I'm a bit behind.


30 Jun 2016 20:42:53
Not like ya Carra mate.


30 Jun 2016 20:42:53
Not like ya Carra mate.


30 Jun 2016 21:16:56
I don't keep up much with the youth teams Barry. I use to but having two kids etc and the Liverpool channel now not being free I never really get a chance.
I read an article by a Norwegian coach saying he's the best player of his generation and Liverpool have pulled off a real coup by signing him. Hence why I thought it was a new signing.
Still, last year or this year sounds like we have a good player on our hands.


30 Jun 2016 21:36:26
I dunno if you saw a post of mine from about 2 week's ago. I've got two myself and like you the TV is a no go so I've put out a contract on Peppa Pig, just had to be done.


01 Jul 2016 03:21:44
He was signed last summer, but will join up this summer after he turns 16.


01 Jul 2016 08:45:54
I have a friend who is scouting kids for the U-15, he was watching him playing a tournament some some years ago think he was 11 or 12. He was very impressed. He told me to check him out, claiming he was one of the better young players he had seen. I didn't get to see him til Norway cup a couple years later, i only saw 3 of his matches and he was way above the rest in both skill and has very good fotball understanding. He was however beeing a bit lightweight even against other kids his own age. I think he played a u-16 tournament for LFC earlier this year (? ), and was one of the best players ( didn't see it myself) . He is finishing he's school in norway before joining the academy full time next year.


01 Jul 2016 09:39:49
Cheers everyone

And Barry its ben 10 or Dora the explorer in my house! Nightmare.


30 Jun 2016 16:26:27
Tony Barrett, who clearly reads this site, has thrown out Chilwell and Zielinski as our next two signings AND that they're close.

Not news. However, my question is, if this is correct and happens, knowing Klopp preferred all incomings done for preseason. Would these two signal end of incomings and if so, a successful window?

For me, a fit again Gomez and Ings. A returning Markovic, alongside a new CB, LB, GK plus two midfielders and finally a speedy winger/ forward would be an amazing window and needs only outgoings.

It would take a major dent, like Coutinho or Firmino leaving or a season ending injury to an important first teamer, to consider another buy.

Could anyone, Eds included, see other areas (not academy) purchased this window if Tony is correct? And would they really be necessary?

Believable7 Unbelievable3

30 Jun 2016 16:50:11
Hope I wrong but can't see us finishing in the top 4 if this is true. Just hope the players development gets better or we going to full behind even more.


30 Jun 2016 17:20:03
You are wrong Reus. We're nailed on for top 4 and likely title winners.


30 Jun 2016 16:59:10
This zielinski signing is utterly pointless, what a waste of 10 million. Likewise with grucic to be honest. Not good enough to take can or Hendo place. So 15 million maybe more for a couple bench jobs.

We need quality in the centre of the park and badly.


30 Jun 2016 17:35:14
Hope so Ron . i'm looking forward to seeing Origi mane emre can and others . Ynwa.


30 Jun 2016 17:35:38
How do you know they're bench jobs? How many times have you seen either play? How do you know Henderson or can is better till youve seen the lad play? It seems to me Klopp is preferring forward thinking midfielders over those who have a tendency to play sideways and back, this team will look loads different this coming season and better for it. some surprise players out yet i reckon.


30 Jun 2016 17:51:51
Very positive about next season.


30 Jun 2016 17:54:27
After reading negative posts over and over on this site, just let me mention one thing

. if Leicester city can win the premier league then absolutely anything is possible.


30 Jun 2016 18:27:42
In my opinion, we don't need players like Pogba, Götze and Ibrahimovic. Klopp doesn't work like that. He needs players who are hungry to prove themselves, players without ego. Players who will buy into his methods, train like crazy and play as a team.
Now I don't know if Mané will be a player like that but Klopp obviously thinks he will. I'm happy with our "transfer ins" so far but we probably need a left back. The obvious alternatives are Gomez or one of Flanno or Clyne.
If we get Chilwell and sell a load of fringe players then Klopp's team have done everything expected of them from my point of view.


30 Jun 2016 18:45:36
It doesn't stop.
1st it was, it has not been Klopps players. Then we wasn't linked with high enough profile players after all being in knowledge that Klopp likes to unearth raw talent and attempt to mould them to his style of play. People piped up about the Mane fee. Who else is it out there that's going to come to us for that sort of money?
Now I'm reading his signings aren't ready for first team action after two pre season training sessions?

I want the same as all of us and that's the best for Liverpool football club. I'm patient enough to know that Klopp has a good track record and i for one will support him and his signings.


30 Jun 2016 18:01:25
I don't know how both Zielinkski and Grujic would be an improvement on Hendersin or Can. If I say this here I might be slaughtered for not supporting the players. But this is my opinion. Just like last season Pogba and Co would ripp off our Midfield.


30 Jun 2016 19:22:06
Boo Daddy Cool!


30 Jun 2016 19:23:23
Not sure about you guys but I'm pleased with our summer so far. Also I'm very optimistic for this season. The squads improving and we have no euro footy to tire our players out this season. Remember the last time we didn't have euro footy?


30 Jun 2016 19:44:27
Keep believing G. o. T 😉.


30 Jun 2016 22:16:06
My god the negativity. One of the primary reasons I was so thrilled about us signing klopp was his ability to buy cheap and develop world class players. His record of it is pretty impressive . Give the guy a chance guys.


30 Jun 2016 22:22:29
Clearly you haven't seen zeilinski play. He's nothing like henderson. He would resemble mata, with pace. Quick short passes, constantly moving the play and opening up the space. Quick one twos, balls into dangerous positions. He's an excellent player. He's nothing like can or henderson 👍.


30 Jun 2016 23:27:33
Hate to say this but I have watched Zielinski on youtube and he looked a very impressive young footballer.
He is very quick on the ball, goes past players with ease,
he has very good vision always looking for a game changing pass and also tackles .
I think we may be purchasing an outstanding future talent so I ask people to be patient and give Jurgen and his scouts time to get this right.
Remember Rome wasn't built in one day.
Mike M.


01 Jul 2016 02:49:32
Well said Tom. everyone raved about how excited they were Klopp could bring in young talent and develop them into the next Reus or Lewa, now some are devastated we aren't buying world stars. can't have it both ways. As Klopp himself said give the new players a season and then judge them.

We should be looking to Hendo, Can, Coutinho, Firmino, Sturridge, Origi, Lovren, Clyne etc. to step up and make the difference this year, not Zielinski, Chilwell, Grujic. Mane is the exception IMO with his Pl experience.

I for one am glad we're on this project rather than buying Ibra, and optimistic about a top 4 with what we have.


01 Jul 2016 06:39:33
It gets tiresome reading thread after thread having the same debate aboit zielinski being worth it. Pulling for the kid!


01 Jul 2016 08:46:33
Gosh. Bet if he was German and has 30 mil price tag some people would be over the moon with us chasing him even if he was only 19 and hardly got game time with national team. Sane Sane Sane Sane.


30 Jun 2016 15:28:46
Someone explain why the tabloids are saying were favourites for Memphis depay and the bookies have slashed the odds? just as we sign Mane who plays the same position. That makes no sence. lol.

Believable3 Unbelievable5

30 Jun 2016 17:19:31
Same with nani, just designed to sell paper/ get views etc i would ignore anything outside these pages mate.


30 Jun 2016 17:21:27
1.tabloids are saying were favourite to sign memphis.

2. bookies have slashed the odds on memphis moving to liverpool.

3. this makes no sense.

conclusion: tabloids and bookies makes no sense.

you already have the answer.


30 Jun 2016 18:28:26
The tabloids don't make sense? 🤔

There's a surprise 😄.


30 Jun 2016 18:47:33
The bookies is to ward you off the m losing money. It's like a 5th favourite that's got no chance getting his odds cut so the gullible public place bets on it and then someone else will take the win.
Depay is never coming to Liverpool.


30 Jun 2016 20:49:51
Depay isn't coming to liverpool and i wouldn't want him here. One if not a few of the eds pointed before he singed for utd he has a attitude problem if i recall and it was completely bob on and hasn't worked out. Would hate to waste money on him.


30 Jun 2016 13:10:34
Have we any interest in Axel Witsel? Seems top drawer and would be an great signing IMO.

Believable5 Unbelievable5

30 Jun 2016 15:36:57
This question was answered this morning mate and the answer was no.


30 Jun 2016 15:37:12
He's awful. Like Lucas mk2. To slow.


30 Jun 2016 16:07:49
Awful player. Criminal that he gets picked ahead of Fellani.

Should've been sent off twice already in these Euros. Awful passing. Awful end product. No defensive awareness. He's just an athlete who seems to get away with his dirty style of play. No thanks. Save yourself £20m and get Lee Cattermole if that is the kind of player you want.

Wilmots is a terrible manager, but picking Witsel over the players he has at his disposal is borderline stupidity. They've only played one good team so far, and they got found out by Italy for the lack of balance in their defence, and the lack of control in their midfield.


30 Jun 2016 16:30:46
Wilmots is tactically inept and woeful coach. If Belguim had a manager as quality as their squad they could and would dominate international football. They almost don't have a weak area and at least two sides available which are capable of winning everything. They just do not have a coach who can get them playing as a team, or able to pick an 11 which can have a plan B.

Shame for the Belgiums.


30 Jun 2016 18:49:25
MK, I have been a fan of Lee Cattermole's for a while. Always thought he could step it up in terms of club and club ambition. Be interesting to read you doing a synopsis on him mate.


{Ed001's Note - hahaha.}

30 Jun 2016 19:27:17
Dembele should blatantly play. Witsel isn't fit to lace Fellaini's boots. And that is saying something!


30 Jun 2016 19:55:11
Lee Cattermole is hopeless, and just as much of a thug as Fellaini is. He was read the riot act after his club got sick of him being sent off 5 times a season, not that it mattered as he would just run around 10 minutes behind the ball, lunging at players he was too slow to keep up with.


01 Jul 2016 08:48:44
Lee Cattermole, hahahahahahah just made my morning.


30 Jun 2016 14:31:08
I don't watch much Bundesliga. but what is the difference between Dahoud game as opposed to Brannigans?

Believable1 Unbelievable1

30 Jun 2016 14:50:09
He's probably slightly ahead in terms of development. He's also a bit quicker across the ground and slightly more aggressive. I hate to say this because I love Brannagan but has got everything to his game that Cameron has and more. But not £25mil more.


30 Jun 2016 15:05:37
His passing range is nowhere near as good as Brannagans. Neither is his defensive awareness or tackling. Brannagan is far more aggressive in the tackle.

Dahoud has a better shot, better dribbling skills, and a better final ball.

Dahoud is quicker, but Brannagan is far stronger.

I don't see the point in spending £25m on Dahoud when we have Brannagan who is already attracting interest from Barcelona such is his quality. If Dahoud was £10m it might be worth it, but you don't pay £25m for a 20 year old off the back of 1 good season.


30 Jun 2016 18:26:04
Comparing the two is an insult to dahoud.


30 Jun 2016 19:30:34
If you genuinely believe that Jezza, I would bet my house you have neve extensively watched either of them. Barcelona aren't interested in Dahoud. They do fancy Brannagan though. Because they have coaches and scouts who look for technical ability and tactical awareness rather than just players who are fast and can shoot well.

Dahoud is potentially a great player, but so is Brannagan. The only difference between them is that Dahoud is a year older and further down his path of development. Brannagan has equal if not better potential.


30 Jun 2016 21:38:34
MK scouser

Beg to disagree, the main difference is that Dahoud has a fancy sounding overseas name, therefore he has to be the Mutts Nuts.


30 Jun 2016 14:20:07
If Benteke does go do you think Klopp would look to sign up his own striker signing?

Believable1 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - The club has more than enough strikers.}

30 Jun 2016 13:25:43
So Shanghai SIPG just signed Hulk for £46m.

Do you know if the Chinese have an interest in any of our players?

Would love to see Balotelli go there for a relatively big fee.

Believable5 Unbelievable2

30 Jun 2016 13:37:32
Tbh, any fee!


30 Jun 2016 14:22:37
I am kinda surprised none of the Chinese club have not made an offer for Balotelli yet. High profile player which adds to their brand and a helping hand to get him off our books would be nice.


30 Jun 2016 14:27:47
Makes £34 million for Mane look like the bargain of the century.


30 Jun 2016 14:44:12
Baloteli won't go to China.


30 Jun 2016 15:02:30
Wait til u see chinese bid for Liverpool fc.


30 Jun 2016 20:51:43
46m for hulk is literal madness aha.


30 Jun 2016 13:18:16
I have 2 questions for eds. 1) from top of the list players that been rumours to us, Zieliński, Dahoud and chilwell, also the player we already got like Karius n Mane, from what i gathered myself, Klopp do choose and highly rated all of them himself. So do i right? 2) I heard Chilwell is injured, so for confirmation, if liverpool do bought him, he's still under recovery or already fit for our pre-season?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed002's Note - The players are Klopp's choices and I am not sure when Chilwell will be fully fit.}

30 Jun 2016 13:36:13
Klopp may of chosen zeilinski but he is choosing within certain restraints.

In a perfect world he wouldn't be picking him over dahoud.

To say "klopp choices" is a very simple way of putting it.


30 Jun 2016 16:53:25
He's choosing players we can realistically sign. If you asked any manager who they wanted most would say messi, Suarez, Neymar etc. Dahoud will probably stay put a year before moving to Bayern. He won't move to us as we can't offer him anything his current team can't other than a bigger pay cheque.


30 Jun 2016 17:27:07
How do you know that dontgo, he took the time to tap up zielinski nearly half a year ago. For all we know he is his top target. If we are going to shell out 30m on mane then it stands to reason if the target is good enough we will pay the fee to get the man.


30 Jun 2016 12:57:35
Will they unveil Matip tomorrow so that he can join up with his team mates eds?

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - unveil? He has signed, it was confirmed, he can join with his team mates without being unveiled. It is not a wedding. He doesn't wear a veil until the rings are exchanged or anything.}

30 Jun 2016 13:14:21
I'm sure the official site have a wonderful photo shoot and interview session planned mate.


30 Jun 2016 15:22:40
No veil? Gutted 😩.


30 Jun 2016 15:29:10
Where is Liverpools honeymoon this year btw?


30 Jun 2016 16:14:35
I do lv a good unveiling. can just see mk and edd1 at the bar discussing how world class hendo is. there's harry at the doorway welcoming everyone in with a sign kovacic sticker. benny sneaking upstears with edd2 for a bit of the old in out. what a night.


30 Jun 2016 11:54:50
Ed could a deal be struck for Dahoud by loaning him back for a season?

Cheers.

Believable0 Unbelievable0

{Ed002's Note - I would not think so.}

30 Jun 2016 12:40:53
Hi ed's not posted in a long time but still check out the site most days. Pointless asking questions when I get the answers on here

Big thanks to ed1 and ed2 for your continued work and in depth answers to the things I did ask

Funny season with highs and lows but that's football. Hope the new signings settle and we can find a bit of consistency

Regarding your reply about balo earlier ed1 I know we are trying to shift him out. I just think it's not going to be easy. Shame as he has talent but it's going to go to waste. At what point does a club decide to pay out a players contract. Is it an easy thing to do. No idea how this works. Just think any manager will struggle with the lad so wondered on your opinion.

Believable1 Unbelievable0

{Ed001's Note - it really depends on the player and it depends on how keen the two are to split. If the club are willing to just pay up his contract in full, then it is easy. If the player is desperate to leave, then it is easy. What we have here is a club desperate to get rid, but not wanting to pay up his huge contract in full and a player desperate to leave, but not willing to give up any of his huge contract.}

30 Jun 2016 13:00:04
Bit of an awkward stalemate situation then. Just worry how he will affect moral and the dressing room. Some players just need to knuckle down, think most of us would love to get a chance to earn that sort of money.


30 Jun 2016 13:29:33
summed up exactly Ed, and actually what we have here is what we all knew would happen except for who ever sanctioned the move in the first place.
Benteke seems different he seems desperate to play and looking for a move if we can't promise that, hopefully that will help find a club without a huge loss.


{Ed001's Note - fingers crossed we can be rid of both this summer.}

30 Jun 2016 14:07:13
It is a pity Benteke does not fit our style of play.


30 Jun 2016 14:39:38
I'm still waiting to see this talent that people say Balotelli has! Never once seen a game with him on the pitch and been impressed, be it for AC, Inter, City, us or Italy! One wonder goal from 35 yards every 6 months does not men you are talented, if you throw enough s#! t some will stick, just like Hulk!


30 Jun 2016 15:18:20
Be cheaper to hire a hitman.


30 Jun 2016 11:12:23
Hi eds just a quick question is there any reason why we seem to miss out on up and coming stars we always seemed to be linked with players a year or two before they move to a big club.

Believable1 Unbelievable6

{Ed002's Note - Liverpool cannot buy everyone.}

30 Jun 2016 12:07:31
Apparently many lfc players were seen texting their agents on 1st day of triple session training.

Believable2 Unbelievable4

30 Jun 2016 12:13:46
Good one Leekuanyew.


30 Jun 2016 12:19:40
Amazing that people can actually tell who the players are texting.
I'm surprised they have time. 😄.


30 Jun 2016 12:23:51
Who has that eyesight which can see who is texting who? Please reply, I genuinely want to know.


30 Jun 2016 12:41:58
How would you be able to tell it was their agents? They properly wrote "I freaking love this. No pain, no gain! let's get pro! #gengepressen #kloppthenub #idontgetpaidtosweat.


30 Jun 2016 12:44:04
Have they started triple sessions yet. And how would anyone know who they are texting.


30 Jun 2016 13:12:12
I'm just guessing but I'd say there was a hint of sarcasm in the post.


30 Jun 2016 14:33:07
Get me our of here in actually getting made to work for my wages, this is not onn

New club why have you chosen to leave Liverpool well the boss was making us work hard.

Cant see them getting many moves haha.


30 Jun 2016 09:20:18
We expecting Lucas to stay or not?

Believable1 Unbelievable0

30 Jun 2016 12:26:13
Impossible to say to be honest, i think we should do everything we can to keep him but we cannot stand in his way if he wants to leave.


30 Jun 2016 14:10:48
If he wants to leave? If he leaves, he was moved.


30 Jun 2016 14:25:44
This decision should be left solely to the player. He has been a very good servant to the club, never kicked up any fuss over money or a transfer and has helped Couts and Firmino settle in. If he wants to stay, then i'm sure Klopp will find a role for him in the team for next season.
I would be disgusted if the club tried to force him out at any point.


30 Jun 2016 09:26:01
Quick question for Ed1 or 2, any idea what the plan is for Wisdom?

Arguably we are one injury away from having Gomez (inexperienced even if very talented! ) on the bench covering CB and/ or relying on Flanno at RB who's recovery still unproven IMO.

Do you think Wisom will be used to provide emergency cover in both of these roles in case of injuries? Or is he not viewed as good enough and likely to be moved on?

Thanks.

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - Wisdom is available for transfer.}

30 Jun 2016 12:00:54
Thanks, probably best for him in long term.


30 Jun 2016 18:14:28
Celtic will get wisdom I'd say.


30 Jun 2016 08:56:41
Ed01 we were talking about deep midfielders lower down the page. Dembele was mentioned. You saud wgat a fantastic player he is. No way we would be able to get him cl footy etc. But is there anyone similar you would like? Talented strong aggressive even nasty at times?,

Believable0 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - I can't think of anyone similar that I have seen playing recently to be honest. A few years back it would have been Medel, but that boat has long since sailed.}

30 Jun 2016 09:31:06
Demebele doesn't sit deep, Dier sit deep. Demebele is proper CM who likes to push forward with the ball. He has a great range of passing.

Kovacic is one of the players who sit deep and carry the ball from way deep to forward. He accelerates in the process and has a great vision.


30 Jun 2016 12:51:47
Ed01 thanks for the reply. Game of thrones i didn't say dembele sits deep - ed01 mentioned him when we were talking about dier etc.


30 Jun 2016 12:09:25
Kovacic can't tackle though, which is something we need in MF.


30 Jun 2016 08:50:38
Hi All,

Question for the ED's and the rest.

In Lallana, Coutinho and Firmino we have real creativity, however they all have the instinct to come in field and attack the center.

With the signing of Mane, I believe Klopp wants Liverpool to play with more natural width next season, and get round the back of teams. He will bring a great balance to the attack and we will not be as one dimensional.

So my question is, do you think a player like Benteke may well thrive in a team playing with real pace out wide? Or, do you guys think he is not good enough and must be sold?

Personally, I think we have not seen the best of Benteke yet, and I think he could offer a certain something in this season.

Thanks,
Faizal.

Believable1 Unbelievable2

30 Jun 2016 09:27:57
I'd rather have Origi upfront for that, he has the height and physicality but also provides movement. There were many times Milner out in a great cross with Benteke on his heels and still outside the box.


30 Jun 2016 14:04:47
Problem with Benteke last season was almost every time the ball went wide to be crossed he immediately reversed to the edge of the box looking for a pull back. Drove me nuts watching him do it time after time. He should have been pumping into the small box for the cross and leaving room behind him for attacking midfielders.


30 Jun 2016 14:14:58
Benteke would thrive, besides, he would give us an ace in the hole for changing the game or stretching legs in the last quarter of the game.


30 Jun 2016 08:29:34
First of all happy birthday Toby all the best!

Secondly, can I suggest that we change the Agree and Disagree buttons to Doubter and Believer please in honour of what our manager said on his first day at the club.

The reason for this is that it's that time of year again, were we see the bile and the hate being spued on these pages in regards to our new signings not being the signings that every Fifa 16 player wanted us to buy.

Now for me, if these are Jurgen's signings no matter if its Mane or Karius or whoever else might walk through the door, if it's who Jurgen wants at our club then that's good enough for me, because I am a believer and so should every other Liverpool fan be too.

Christ, do you not understand how lucky we are to have a manager of his caliber in charge of us, there's not a manager on this planet alive that I would swap him for.

If any these players are good enough for Jurgen then they are good enough for me.

I think it's time to find out on here which of those are the doubters and those that are the believers.

Believable12 Unbelievable6

30 Jun 2016 07:08:37
Well today is a special day, it's my son's second birthday. Whilst it my seem a little strange posting this on here I have to spare a thought for the Neonatal nurses at Warrington hospital, for if it were not for their skill and dedication my son would not be here today. He was born 10 weeks early and weighed 2lb 11 when he was delivered.

These amazing nurses are paid a fraction of the players we all adore so I have to put things into perspective. So Happy Birthday Toby and can't wait to take you Anfield for the first time and sit with Dad on the Kop.

Believable26 Unbelievable1

{Ed001's Note - well said mate. Happy birthday Toby!}

30 Jun 2016 07:35:07
As Ed002 would say, Post of the Day. Happy Birthday Toby! i'm sure you will be spoilt rotten.


30 Jun 2016 07:43:09
Happy birthday to Toby! YNWA.


30 Jun 2016 07:52:51
Happy birthday Toby.

With a bit of luck you should be able to cheat on LFC winning the EPL before you start infants school.


30 Jun 2016 08:31:18
Very happy Birthday Toby, hope its a great day for the fam!


30 Jun 2016 08:34:50
A very happy and red birthday toby! !


30 Jun 2016 09:20:58
Cheers Ed 1 and everybody, that will make Toby's Day 😀.


30 Jun 2016 09:40:20
Excellent post puts things into perspective.
Happy birthday you your little man.


30 Jun 2016 09:52:01
Lovely post Nicky you are so correct.

Happy birthday to Toby have a great day sunshine.
No better feeling than taking your boy to his first game.

All the best mate.


30 Jun 2016 09:57:27
happy birthday Toby. lol its my anniversary. so he's in good company lols.


30 Jun 2016 10:54:25
Happy birthday Toby.


30 Jun 2016 11:05:08
Happy Birthday Toby.
All the best little man.


30 Jun 2016 11:06:07
happy birthday Toby welcome to the family.


30 Jun 2016 21:32:28
Amazing news . So good to hear . A very happy birthday Toby . YNWA.


30 Jun 2016 00:36:03
Hi eds,

You guys have been doing great work so cheers! Just a couple of questions.


A lot of rumours have come saying we are demanding 30m for Benteke and Crystal Palace are interested given that they have missed batshuayi to Chelsea. don't you think 30m is too high for Benteke now?

Given that Klopp likes 4-2-3-1 formation the most, don't you think we have too many midfielders given no european football as well? Hendo, Milner, Can, Zielenski (if he joins), brannagan, Stuart, Grujic?

Believable0 Unbelievable3

{Ed001's Note - if we can get someone to pay it, then it is not too much.
Formations are irrelevant, players can play more than one position.}

30 Jun 2016 04:16:33
good strikers are hard to find, whilst he doesn't suit our play and didn't work out there are some teams he will flourish in. he's still young and under a long contract so we should be asking a fee in that ball park. it will be worth it for a team that suits his play.


30 Jun 2016 04:53:11
You left something out just before "players" in your comment Ed001. Either "talented" or "intelligent" or "disciplined" needs to slot in there I reckon. I agree on your point though - why people think a player can only play one position, I don't follow. They all have their best or preferred position, but they should be adaptable.


30 Jun 2016 07:43:57
Benteke is a decent striker but will miss many more chances than he will stick away. One on one with any keeper, i'd back the goalie, even Charles Itanje.


30 Jun 2016 06:33:25
I would sell him for anything above £25 mill which still ain't his true value. We were ripped off in the first place. I am pretty confident one of West ham or Palace would buy him late late in the window ( After missing out on all of their targets ) .


30 Jun 2016 02:01:49
Not necessarily asking who you would buy, but if there was just one position left that we could get a quality player in, what would it be?
I'd go for a quality defensive mid.

Believable2 Unbelievable4

30 Jun 2016 02:21:53
Depends on how much quality. I still think left back is a position we need filled the most. But I haven't seen much of karius and if we could get one world class player i'd have a keeper. That's just me though. I am very optimistic about karius though just to clarify.


30 Jun 2016 04:07:33
A LB first and foremost which looks like it will be Chilwell.
And then if the likes of Allen, Benteke, Alberto, Marko and Balo can be moved on, I would like Dahoud as well. The kid's going to be a star in a couple of years.


30 Jun 2016 05:11:04
I guess that's why I talked about quality. What position do you think needs quality the most. Yes, we'd love quality players in all positions, I just think of the importance of the spine dictates a defensive mid which we haven't had for years, probably since Mascherano.


{Ed001's Note - Alonso you mean surely? Mascherano was not quality, not true quality like Alonso. Personally, other than Alonso, I don't see one defensive mid worth buying. I would rather just not have full backs bombing on and leaving the defence exposed, so we can have a proper midfield, not having to use one as an auxiliary defender.}

30 Jun 2016 06:02:55
Alonso was the most complete midfielder we have had in a while. The likes of Gerrard, Masch, Lucas, Hendo and Can all have their limitations (quite a few actually for all of them) . Its been 7 years, and still no sign of a replacement for world class Xabi. Not even sure there is a younger version of him out there.


30 Jun 2016 06:51:35
What about busquets ed001? I don't mean to buy him, but easily him and Alonso in his day and busquets are the 2 best dms out there.


{Ed001's Note - Busquets is vastly overrated. He has no defensive ability at all. He can't even run. If people actually watched him play when he is made to defend, rather than just support the attack, they would see how hopeless he is. Not a good player at all, purely there because he can dive and play act with the best of them.}

30 Jun 2016 07:00:27
Who do you think right now at this time is the best dm around? In there prime, Alonso was probably one of my favourite players ever to wear the jersey, I'll still never forgive De jong for what he did to him in the world cup final lol :-) .


{Ed001's Note - there are not many good ones around right now. Dier had an excellent season last time around, but he needed Dembele alongside him to provide the quality on the ball. Alonso was world class because he had the quality as well as the defensive mindset to spot danger. He is probably the best in that specialist role that there has been. Makelele was brilliant, but he was very limited.

Right now it is going back towards old fashioned all round midfielders, like Kante of Leicester, who are not just there to act as an extra defender, but get involved in the build up.}

30 Jun 2016 07:17:30
Thanks for the reply ed mate.


{Ed001's Note - very welcome mate.}

30 Jun 2016 07:18:27
I always felt Masch sat deeper than Alonso and that his remit seemed more focused on shielding the back rather than joining in the attack. Give me Alonso any day, but surely Masch was more defensively inclined? And though ED you say Masch was not Alonso quality, agreed, at his best he'd still be the stand out DM in this current premier league? I think when Argentina played him in that role at the last world cup and not as a CB as Barcelona do, he was the player of the tournament.


{Ed001's Note - other way round, Mash used to run around a lot like a headless chicken and pick up needless bookings because he was caught out of position. Fans loved him because he looked good on TV chasing back, but if he had just been intelligent he would not have been out of position and not needed to sprint back. He could have cut the pass out or blocked the run, just as Xabi did so well.

As for international footie, it is too slow and lacks the pressure on the ball you get in club football. Much easier to play and look good, because you have time and space to operate in. Mash was made to look great because he played with Alonso. Mash was good, but nothing more than that.

Oh and he is absolutely hopeless as a centre back, but you don't need to be any good in defensive positions when you play for Barca. It is so rare you have to do any defending, you can get away with playing almost anyone there.}

30 Jun 2016 07:50:27
I agree with Ed on Busquets, a diver a hugely overrated player. It is so pleasing that there are others who see the same as me, it's only because he plays for Barcelona that he gets praise and not for what he can't do!
Oh to have another Alonso, we can only dream.


30 Jun 2016 07:59:49
The best CDM around right now is Krychowiak imo. PSG have picked up a bargain if the price is only 25 million.


30 Jun 2016 08:04:13
Agree with Ed001 about Masch and Busquets. Barcelona look one big hot mess when their defense is put under pressure. That happened a lot this season when the Fab 3 left their shooting boots at home. The opposition took a shot at the Barcelona defense and they crumbled miserably. Their whole defense sucks imo. Pique, Alba as well. If i was the Barcelona coach, i would be begging their president to fund a whole bunch of new defenders.


30 Jun 2016 08:27:26
I thought dembele was just immense for spurs this season Ed. I get with the question why you'd say dier as he was a pure defensive mid, although when you drop deeper than your cbs for 75% of the match I start to just consider you a back.
But yeah think dembele for all the accolades and attention he and spurs got was still quite underrated in the role he actually played in that team.
Don't know if he has or had attitude issues but seems like a player that really could/ should have it all and be up with the best of them.


{Ed001's Note - he is a fantastic player, but he lacks goals, that is his main weakness.}

30 Jun 2016 08:47:32
Agree totally about busquets. Rubbish. Dier did great for spurs but was mainly deep between cbs. Dembele is a fantaztic player wven okaying further forward he's excellent. Nasty attitude too.


30 Jun 2016 09:01:37
Ed what about Gary Medel. I read few years back that you wished we signed him when cardiff got relegated. I liked him a lot. Correct me please if i'm wrong.


{Ed001's Note - I wanted him before then, before Cardiff signed him, when he first moved to Spain I would have taken him. Love him as a player, but not seen much of him since he moved to Italy.}

30 Jun 2016 09:04:09
One more player came to mind. Ever banega do u think he is good to play in our midfield. Or what about the Mendy guy leicester is looking as kantes replacement. Ed02 thinks he will come good just like Kante.


{Ed001's Note - Banega has issues, I would avoid him. I have not seen Mendy enough to judge him.}

30 Jun 2016 10:40:06
this is so funny. Busquets is bad player, yet according to the ed01 Henderson is wonderful player. no comment i guess everyone has different opinion and view of football. football is played for trophies, fans and prestige. sergio has a very good trophy record henderson has one carling cup.


{Ed001's Note - that is an idiotic way to judge players, Cleverley has won the Premier League, but he is still crap. It is a team game, that has clearly escaped your notice.}

30 Jun 2016 06:35:50
IB got it pretty much spot on. He isn't even a specific DM. He is a defensive midfielder who could launch attacks from the back. Carrie and DeRossi are the only two similar players in the last 10 years or so. And it's no surprise since his departure our midfield has looked pretty average.
Common Buvac find another Xabi.


30 Jun 2016 12:06:13
Sergio Busquets like all other Barcelona players would flop outside their system and club. ( Hardly any names who has had success ) I saw him play against Itaky and he was awful from start to end. De Rossi showed him how to get it done. He is good if you have a Xavi alongside as he cannot pass for his life.


30 Jun 2016 15:55:52
ED001, what was your opinion of Didi? Always thought he was excellent at breaking up attack, I don't know if the mists of time are clouding my judgement here but I rarely remember seeing him give the ball away either. Agree about Alonso though, what a class act. One of the finest midfielders we've had during my lifetime anyway. Have a great day.


{Ed001's Note - I loved Didi, he was fantastic at breaking up the attacks, but he was stifled a bit by being held back. He had one of the best shots in the game, but was never able to get forward enough to use it for us. He was quality though.}

 
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