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06 Mar 2014 23:43:38
DG
What a genuinely top bloke and football fan you are passionate about your own team and yet knowledgeable and balanced enough to have a considered view with humour on other's.
Absolute pleasure Chris.
I always say, treat people with the same respect as they offer you, and I always get a warm welcome from you boy's on this site.
06 Mar 2014 23:21:16
Henderson had a poor game yesterday. I think one of the reasons why people find it hard to criticise him is the fact that he doesn't make mistakes frequently. But there is a clear explanation for his seemingly impressive pass completion; he does not attempt many forward passes. If anyone watched the game yesterday, you must have noticed the fact that he played very few adventurous balls, opting instead to pass it to the team mate either next to or behind him. This would be acceptable if he contributed a lot defensively, or played in a deeper role. Busquets, for example, does not get many assists or provide many key passes. However, he protects Barcelona's defence flawlessly and holds it together. Henderson, on the other hand, does not seem to put in too many tackles, or break up attack after attack like Sandro or Vidal do. He also doesn't get the goals that Vidal, again, and Ramsey do. But then he doesn't seem to provide the flair that we see on a weekly basis from the likes of Hazard and even Lallana. And he doesn't run at the defences and cause them problems like Sterling and Sturridge do. My point is, despite having a fantastic work rate and making lots of surging runs into the box, I genuinely struggle to see what else he provides. Please don't shoot me down with 'Wow, I can't believe you're so blind', or 'Get behind the team.' I genuinely want responses as to what you think he does. Ed001, I seem to remember that we got into a bit of a, well, kerfuffle, shall we say, the last time I posted on this subject. This time, can I please have an answer as to what you think he adds to the team? I'm asking this respectfully, and I hope I will get an equally respectful response.
{Ed001's Note - simply put, you are talking nonsense. I am not wasting my time with this, if you are watching the lad, like you claim, you would know that what you just posted was ludicrous. You even have the audacity to claim Busquets is top class, when he quite clearly is not, well other than at cheating, feigning injury, diving, rolling over and over, oh and play acting. Other than that, Busquets is what he is, a very average player who is part of a fantastic team. Henderson creates space with his surging runs for others to use, or for himself to get on the end of balls, though he should be finishing off more of his chances. He shields the defence well, there is no need for him to be throwing in crunching tackles, he is there to press the ball, force the opposition to move the ball faster and so turn over possession. Obviously you have not remembered Woy's time at Liverpool, when every player was passing sideways and backwards constantly, following the orders of the manager. Now you are judging a player on how well he has bothered to follow the orders of the manager, despite it being clear he never plays like that normally. Knee jerk much? This is the kind of stupidity that is annoying.}
Question, BigRedF: what do you think of Coutinho, out of curiosity?
Ed01, I think your reply to bigredf was over the top, bigredf stated more than once he didn't want an argument and asked for the same respect in your reply that he gave when giving his opinion. Your reply started and ended with an insult. Bigredf was only giving his opinion but you shot him down in flames. I recall recently you accused me of not letting anyone have an opinion, kettle and black comes to mind.
Bigredf, don't get embroiled in a row with an Ed, they are in a comfy position of approving posts that they want to or not, sometimes making you out to be in the wrong when it may or MAY NOT be the case. The Eds also have there band of arse lickers backing them up.
Ed01, it's all about opinions lad, we can't always agree can we, if we did this page wouldn't exist, try and be a bit less prickly, have I signed my own death warrant now?
{Ed001's Note - whatever. If he doesn't want my reply, he could have just not asked for it. Not that it is any of your business. Now grow up with the arse licker talk, people can agree without being arse lickers, after all they do have an opinion of their own you know. Or does that only apply when it suits you?}
Whoa Ed01, you ARE in a nasty mood.
Yes people can agree without being arse kickers but there IS plenty of Ed arse lickers on here.
For the record, my opinion on Henderson.
Poor when he arrived.
Improved massively.
Love his work rate.
Love his attitude.
Love his passion.
Worth his place in the side this season.
But if we are to progress in future in my opinion we need better.
{Ed001's Note - how is that nasty? You are just being pathetic now. I give up, I can't be bothered with this, you are just being a knob for the sake of it. By the way, people said exactly the same stuff about Whelan when he played for us as they now say about Henderson.}
Ronnie Whelan was immense ED001, he did exactly what it said on the tin - protected the back four and kept the ball moving, awesome player - so underrated tho'
Guys, calm down! No need for all the heated rhetoric. Before I begin, I am NOBODY`s arse licker. Why? I have had my disagreements w/ the eds (especially ED01 about Mourinho) in the past and am not afraid to debate any soul on earth because as a former member of a debate team, I thrive in such situations. Now for the OP, I disagree with you on so many levels and don`t really know where to start. Hendo is brilliant at what he is asked to do which is what the ed said and judging by his constant improvement to the point of being MORE of a goal threat, he has done great. Comparing him w/ a player like Vidal who is a much older, more experienced and frankly better is just stupidity and does not pass the laugh test. I`ve known Vidal since he became a star at the U-20 WC (w/ Messi, Fabregas, LLorente, Mikel, Medel etc) in 2007 and he`s been great for Bayer Leverkusen b4 moving to Juve for a small fortune where he has gotten much better while playing w/ beasts like Pogba, Marchisio and the aestro himself Pirlo so comparing him to hendo who`s still learning the game at age 22 is illogical and intellectually dishonest. As for Busquets, I have watched him play many times and frankly, its easy to play that position when u have xavi, iniesta and co monpolising possession most of the time and the opposition barely crosses the half way line. If he were to come play for us now, he will be DEEPLY exposed for the average player that he is. In short, Barca would make me look good if I played for them. Just slating Hendo who I can`t remember the last time he had a bad game, for the sake of voicing an opinion is not logical. There is simply NO logic to your criticism hence, no point voicing your opinion because it lacks the basis for objective discussion. Logic.
RDL, I think he's great on his day but very inconsistent.
Your sexy when your cranky ed001!
But Busquets is top class?
I've said before Hendo reminds me of Ronnie Whelan and I'm in good company, RW was a legend, hard working consistent and a very good under rated player.
Hodgson hasn't a clue how to play Hendo, just look at how he plays the highest scoring Englishman in the PL as evidence.
All I know is that Hendo has been a large part of what we have done well this year and above all, he is a grounded bloke who hasn't let the BS of being a footballer change him into a monster.
Anyone slating Hendo needs to actually watch a game of football rather than sitting playing FM and FIFA.
06 Mar 2014 22:59:42
Banter please Eds.
So, that's how it's going to be is it?
We all have a nice little friendly football match, nothing serious, just a friendly kick-about, and your boy Agger goes and injures our boy Wilshere?
Underhand tac-tics and downright dirty if you ask me.
What a bunch of scoundrels your boys are.
(Big smiles)
It's a shame for Wilshere but I've looked at the tackle a few times now and to me it's a 50-50. Was surprised that it resulted in a fracture but you have Ramsey coming back who should more than compensate.
Bit harsh on Agger there DG. Hard to blame him for mistaking Wilshere for Rooney as the two are looking a lot alike these days ;-)
I do feel for you DG, losing a quality player with everything so close and 11 games to go. I'd be gutted.
In his defence, Aggers not usually a dirty player, it was unusual for him, and I'm sure he regrets causing that kind of damage to a fellow pro.
Dagz, to be fair Mr Wilshere needs no help getting injured does he? He probably fractured his foot this morning getting out of bed! He can do it all by himself, such a big boy! (Bigger smiles)!
I think that all teams with something to play for should have stopped all of their top players risking injuries in pointless friendlies. Dag all managers involved in competing for places should have told the FA to do one.
It wasn't a dirty tackle.
No badness meant dg, I really think wilshere is overrated, injuries aside no doubt he has talent but from what I've seen him this past 18 months he seems to think he has made it already but he is miles away, I'd much rather rosicky or Ramsay they at least give it their all.
I know Gents, was only joking.
Wilshere breaks his ankle just putting his shin-pads on.
In fact, I was dusting the TV the other day whilst Arsenal were playing. I accidently knocked the TV with my elbow and Wilshere fell over and sprained his ankle.
To be fair to Wilshere, given that Agger is equally fragile, I'm sort of surprised they both didn't fly into a million pieces cartoon-style after the collision.
Wilshere is overrated and is not even the best MF on his own team. Secondly, he could pull a hamstring while walking his dog and frankly, Dagger could to.
Wilshere looked like a potential world-beater when he first emerged.
Now he looks like he doesn't really give a she*p.
Whether the bright lights and the money got to him, or fitness issues due to the constant injuries - I don't know. Although it's when you're a half yard slow that you are more likely to get injured - as Wilshere himself said yesterday, I think.
Whatever is happening, there is the look of unfulfilled talent about him.
Irish, tbh I agree with you.
He should be going past his potential and taking his game to another level.
In the past he has been in the shadow of players like Cesc Fabregas, he has left but for me, he has stagnated over the past few years.
I think for England it's a shame he will be fit in time, I quite frankly don't think much of him as a footballer. Prefer 1 position which is in the hole, can't tackle, can't win a header, can't sprint, doesn't track his man well. Hendo, barkley, Morrison, lallana or all much better for the England squad in my opinion.
The best response I've heard on the incident. "Our China doll beat your China doll" ;)
Wilshere is a crackin player
He will come good eventually
He has a lot of spirit aswell as skill
Just needs a bit of time like ramsey did
Sorry for my ignorance but what is a she*p?
06 Mar 2014 22:39:08
Really hoping we can plum up ManU and try and finish as high as possible, summer window will be such a hair pulling event as we must now invest to further develop and challenge for trophies. Salah on loan from Chelsea haha, anyways just hope our team can do the unbelievable and go on to greatness once more.
THe mancs will be up for that game because they would like to play spoilers because their season has been reduced to just that. It will not be an easy game so the boys MUST be ready to go and compete and earn those 3 points.
06 Mar 2014 22:13:33
you say Suarez' agent is talking to clubs about a move in the summer yet Suarez is happy here! isn't it time that agents were not allowed to try and broker a deal until the payer is in the last 6 months of his contract? we don't want to sell do we? shouldn't the FA and UEFA stop this pimping of players?
06 Mar 2014 21:56:54
When Suso, Borini, Ibe & Assaidi comes back in the summer - and with the transfers we make - We're going to have a very competitive squad.
By the looks of things we're after:
- LF (e.g. Konoplyanka)
- CM (Powerful, perhaps a DM?)
- LB (e.g. Bertrand, HOPEFULLY Moreno)
I fully expect Assaidi to leave, which is unfortunate as he's done relatively well, however that means we'd potentially have Sterling, *Konoplyanka or another, Ibe & Assaidi in one position. If he carries on in this vein of form I could see us getting between £5-7M for him.
For the rest of the team: Suarez, Sturridge, Borini & Aspas are sufficient I think for the advanced positions. Our number 10s would consist of Coutinho, Suso & Alberto. The CMs being Gerrard, Allen, Lucas, Henderson & The new guy; hopefully Rakitic. The defense being a new LB, Sakho, Agger/Skrtel, Johnson (if he leaves obv. a replacement).
If we get champions league this year, and invest adequately in the squad, with the right players leaving & the right players coming in, We have not just a team, but a squad, capable of competing for a long time.
In BR we trust. it was a masterstroke to play the diamond formation against Southampton, nullified a lot of Southampton's threats by flooding the middle of the park, Excellent work Eds.
06 Mar 2014 21:48:59
Hi guys,
Well after a very long 5 or so days I finally feel confident enough to post an update.
My Mrs went into labor last week, all was well and everything was ticking along nicely, so much so my Mrs decided to have the home birth she wanted.
At about 11am the midwife told me to get all the stuff ready, (sheets etc).
At 11:50am it got complicated and to put a long story short the ambulance was called and my Mrs (in quite some distress) was took off to hospital because the thoughts were my boy was 'being a git'.
Little did we know what lie ahead for the net 5 days.
I arrived at hospital in the car, as my Mrs wanted her mother to travel with her in the ambulance & its not like I can start disagreeing with a woman in labor so I agreed to meet them there. I let my dog out and rushed to the hospital about 10 mins behind. When I got to the hospital, I asked the front desk to take me to her and I was took back outside where at that point the ambulance with my Mrs in turned up and the nurse went running up to the ambulance and came back to me and told me how my Mrs had given birth on route and the baby had gone into distress and ended up (to put in in lamens terms) swallowed his own poo and totally blocking all his lungs and needed resuscitating and bringing back to life.
They rushed me and my Mrs into a room and sorted everything out that needed doing (u won't want me to go into details).
after about an hour they told us what had happened to him and took us to the intensive care unit where he was.
I arrived into a room with my boy with about 5 tubes in his mouth and nose and a machine working flat out pumping his lungs and shacking him to hell, along with sensors all over his head to monitor his brain.
That night the Doctor asked me if I wanted him baptized and pretty much told us there was little chance of him making the next 3 days (it was the worst form of this thing she had seen in her life she said).
I came home that night without a Mrs and a baby and didn't expect the latter to ever come home.
I prayed in the hospital chapel that night and when I got home I reached out to this site and asked for some positive thoughts and what I got words could never do justice.
I logged on once a day, normally just before sleep and could not believe the support my boy was getting from many people from many boards praying and hoping for my him and I promise I read every single post from every single person & I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart.
5 days on my boy is fighting strong and has improved so much the doctors are calling him the miracle baby and they are now telling us they expect a near full if not full recovery.
To give u an example how poorly he was, there was a couple with a baby born just 26 weeks into a 40 week pregnancy and I was told my boy was the sickest baby in the ward still.
Football brings people together for many reasons whether that be friendships, relationships, unity etc.
But I'm so glad about 10 years ago I typed into Google 'football rumors' and arrived here, albeit it was very different back then and began checking it daily.
Over them years it has changed so much and all the thanks should go to the edds for that, as well as the fine people that frequent this site from across the boards.
We bicker, whinge and wind each other up (I'm one of the worst, ain't that right Marcellus? :)) but I would just like to say to all the people on here that support many different football clubs. We are often all shown in a bad light and called some quite unsavory things from people who hate what football stands for, but 5 days ago I reached out to u all and with your help and the brilliant work of the doctors and nurses and the, Rosie-Addenbrookes, U helped save a boys life this last week and for that I'm forever to u all and always will be.
Today I saw my boy open his eyes for the first time and I can't wait to hold him, but none of that could of been even remotely possible with out everyone's help on here.
Love you all so much right now
THANK YOU SO MUCH
P.s we named him Jack with a middle name of Goerge (yes after the man himself).
Made up for you. All the best to you and your family
Omg Chris,
I can honestly say that's the 1st thing I've ever read that had me crying and laughing for joy at the same time. My wife thought I was nuts until I showed her your post and now she's balling on the phone telling anyone who'll listen the good news. I am so happy for you and your family. There is a little justice in this world after all. Well done mate!
Congrats to you and your boy man. God works in mysterious ways. Couldn't help getting a little choked up at that. I'm sure he will have a hell of a dad.
That's amazing news chris! All the best to the 3 of you, I have no idea how you must be feeling or what you are/were going through.
I've got a little boy, best thing ever.good luck to you and your family . I still hope we stuff you and you get knocked out of Europe and. I could go on all day. Take it easy lad
Welcome back Chris.
I have replied to your post on Arsenal page mate.
So pleased for you and your family.
Glad our thought's and prayers, along with the fantastic nurses, have managed to pull you all through such a testing and traumatic period in your life.
Glad to have you back Chris.
That said, your team are still sh*te mate, lol.
Brilliant news chris. I've been looking for an update for a while.
Over the moon for you and your family mate
ST33VO
Hi Chris,
I prayed for your boy when I heard about the complications via Dagenham Gunner. I am really pleased for you and your family. As you say football brings people together, it doesn't matter which team you support we are all part of one big community that pulls together in tough times.
God bless you and your family. Keep us updated with how little Jack is getting on.
Red Rum
I'm made up for ya mate. so glad the lads making good progress. Some things are bigger than football mate, and I'm glad we was able to pitch in and try and help you through this difficult week.
YNWA
Absolutely made up for you buddy, congratulations! Hope lil Jack keeps it up! Local lad, my son was born at the Rosie. They're top notch so he couldn't be in better hands! Will be thinking positive thoughts for you and your family. Y.N.W.A
Hi Chris,
My wee man had his first birthday yesterday. You have been through a hell of a lot.
I hope things keep improving.
All the best to you and your family.
Paul mc
Really great news chris, all the best to yourself and family for the years ahead.
Brilliant news mate - I hope he fully recovers. Sounds like you have a real fighter there mate - you must be a very relieved and proud father. I am siting at work right now (down in Aussie land) and can't wait to get home and hold my two sons. All the best to you, Jack and your missus. Thanks for the update.
Great news chris. all the best!
Fantastic news Chris! Much positive energy and love to you and your family mate : )
That is brilliant news hope everything goes well for you and your family from here on.
Congrats, Bro!
Fantastic news Chris, your news about your little lad has made my day. Wish you and your family all the best for the future. Feel free to drop by this page anytime mate.
Fantastic story. I can only try to imagine what you have gone through.
My best wishes to you and your family.
Brilliant news! Good to here that the little guy is doing good. Looks like you have a fighter of a son CTR!
Hi Chris,
I don't no you at all and although I log on everyday, I don't post alot, I just want to say that your post nearly had me in tears and the fact I'm at work it probably would have, I know what your going through, my little fella was born 20 months ago and required a life saving op the day after he was born, he was taken form Cork to Dublin by ambulance 6 hours after he was born and it was like my life was over. it's amazing how much you love them as soon as you see them even though you never met them. we didn't get to hold him for 8 days but when we did it was like all my Christmas's came together. all I will say to you is that babies are such fighters and I'm sure who and your wife will enjoy him so much when you take him home. all the best to the 3 of ye
07 Mar 2014 12:43:58
I shall remember him as the Istanbull baby. "Anything is possible". Also because along with Istanbull, this story is only the second thing in my life to make the hairs on my neck stand up. Hope you cherish your little miracle and he grows up to be as a good a man as yourself! You'll Never Walk Alone Jack. I nearly died myself during birth. I got stuck 'on the way out' and had to be prised from the womb with forceps. Still got the dents in my skull to this day if you look at me straight on. Be good to him, and whatever you do never let him go a day without you telling him you love him. No matter how old he gets and how many friends it is in front of!
YNWAdam
Hi Chris
i am so pleased for you and your mrs and I hope the full recovery is realised for you.
i too was asked if I wanted my son baptised when I was a young man of 21 due to my 1st sons premature birth and there is no feeling worse than that moment they tell you the horrific news. I do not want any person to go through the moments I did and like you I spent time in the hospital chapel praying to a god I don't know and don't believe in for help, I am so glad your prayers have been answered and hopefully all will be ok and at times like this football rivalry really does not matter. as a human being no-one deserves to suffer what you are going through and my heart is with you and your wife and more importantly your son.
keep your faith and I am sure the love you have for your son will pull him through
please keep us all updated when you have a minute as we are all here for you mate
Hi Chris
I'm delighted to hear that it's looking good for the little fella. I hope he continues to improve and that he, you and your good lady all have long and prosperous lives. I also hope your team suffers many years of mid table mediocrity.
Great news. God bless you and your family Chris :)
Fantastic news hope he makes a that full recovery
06 Mar 2014 21:17:09
Banter please Eds.
Evening Gent's.
Earlier I asked if you think your boy's can handle the pressure of being 2nd and now possibly one of the favourites for the League. As always, you all replied with good, solid, sensible answer's.
So, another question for you that kind of follow's on from the previous question.
In your honest opinion, if and when, thing's get a little bit "squeaky bum time", who do you think will step up and be counted? Who will raise their head above the trenches?
For me, Mignolet, Coutinho, Flano, Aspas, Sakho, Sissoko and Sterling are fairly inexperienced and have never been in this situation before.
You could also say Sturridge is fairly inexperienced, in terms of winning thing's, as are a few of the others.
But who do you think, from the first team, will be invaluable in carrying the less experienced players over the line?
Who is your flag-bearer?
Maltese gunner.
The answer to all three is quite clearly Howie Webb
Kind regards
Gerrard.
Sakho won a lot with PSG.
06 Mar 2014 22:10:06
I'd say Sturridge is familiar with the pressure, playing less would probably increase that pressure, with more imports to try and gain a regular birth.
Obviously Gerrard, as there is probably no player ok the league more worthy of a winners medal than him.
Suarez will as always drag his teammates over the finishing line, kicking and screaming.
You raise a good point, and aside from the very obvious (international captains, agger etc, ) I don't think we have much.
We have talent, potential and great players, but experience we lack a little,
06 Mar 2014 22:10:17
On the pitch, I expect Hendo, Suarez and Flanno to lead the charge. The most passionate players.
Off the pitch, I expect Gerrard, Toure and Rodgers will be getting the lads fired up though as they are the vocal leaders.
Good question though as we are a relatively new team with a lot of youngsters and a very young manager as well!
YNWAdam
Agger skrtel gerrard johnson suarez toure enurique are experienced and the players you named are young and fearless young players hold no fear always try to express themselves our lads proved that I think anyways
Dags,
I suspect that psychiatric dude will have them all meditating and chanting with incense lol
Luis Luis Luis!
Thanks Gent's.
Sizemick, I take it you have seen my pic on the Arsenal pages hall of shame? lol
Interesting question - not being involved in any competition is a massive help.
Gerrard & Suarez are the main men.
Tbh honest I am not that concerned about this issue.
The likes of Suarez, Gerrard, Dagger, Sahko, Toure, Robinson, Skrtl, etc have all been around the block - players with a ton of international caps. And the likes of Sturridge, Hendo, Flanno, do not lack either an ego or the fight.
If there is anyone one player I am concerned about, it is Mignolet. He looks a slightly nervous kitty to me.
Quality pic, I immediately broke into a rendition of club tropicana. Bloody good ruse that Dags ( driving instructor )
P.s,, you diden't quite manage to cover up the liver bird with the follow up tattoo mate!
06 Mar 2014 20:56:23
Do you think Sebastian Coates has a future at Liverpool considering we just bought Ilori and Sakho?
{Ed002's Note - No.}
06 Mar 2014 20:47:46
Boy, am I glad I missed the Lukaka, borini, assaidi, drogba, giroud, heskey,, addabeyor, crouch, Carroll, west brom, Everton, west ham, stats, no stats polava!
All go and crack a can open lads and kiss and make up.
Tomorrow is another day and another load of banter.
06 Mar 2014 20:35:01
Ed, Regarding all the talk of Suso leaving (Real gem real shame also) how much would you say we would get for him? Imo he will be a 30m player one day. I think he will be in the las year of his contract too. Maybe 8m-10m?
Thanks
{Ed002's Note - I really have no interest in speculating over his cost. Sorry.}
06 Mar 2014 19:54:26
Banter please Eds,,
I would like to start with the Liverpool game last night which caught me a bit by surprise as I was not expecting a game for another 10 days or so. however we did ok I thought, although 1-0 is a bit depressing considering we usually pop 4 to 5 past a Lumbago sufferer on a weekly basis. Stevie was sublime as normal, danny scores as per the norm, and young Raheem just gets better and better,, hendo coverered more miles than Mo Farah on a smartie diet, and glenno impersonated a player he once was for the 90 and yet I am still a bit confussed,,,, why's Woy back? where's Brendan?
P.S it was good to see Agger getting some game time on loan.
The best post this week.
1 problem,,, who was that fat bloke upfront with Sturridge? I'm not happy about him replacing Suarez
No No DBol,,, don't you go confusing everyone. To give the others a chance, we were playing our new system of 1-2-2 . if I have to return my new kaleidoscopic contact lenses I will, but clearly the Fat Bloke you refer to was indeed The Hot-Dog Seller.
Classic post
06 Mar 2014 18:00:44
the question about pressure posted earlier by dags is a great question. what has been the most important part I feel is not only the qualty of the players in our team but also the mental aspect rodgers has brought with him. having a top sports phycologist working with our team has help bring the biggest changes to me. all teams should have a sports phycologist to work on a players drive, focus and winning attitude. the difference in our team is massive in such a short time br has been at the club. the french national team used one when they were at the top of world football, I remember a quote from that time that the french players were to soft. so they were sent to a phycologist and for judo lessons to toughen them up. they then went on to win the world cup and euros. my point is with arsenal they seem weak mineded and crumble at the business end of the season. as england at every major championships. just my opinion feel free to research the facts of sports phycology and how it has helped top sports people over the years. a fact that shouldn't be over looked.
But what's the difference between our style and martinez evertons? its basically the same as ours. the only difference is lukaku is the main CF, with Liverpools they swap around a bit not as much as when sturridge first came in. In recent matches sturridge has been mostly staying up front and suarez has been doing the tracking back, against arsenal he was on monreal. To say Liverpool can't play a player like lukaku is wrong, Liverpool are not just a one dimensional team with one formation so he could be useful to come on and change our play or else to start he would just have to be our main striker with suarez or sterling on the sides of him.
If we where not interested in one position strikers why did we enquire about benteke? very similar to lukaku but I think lukaku is better.
The sports psychology part is very important to any team. A coach`s job involves being a pseudo-psychologist and knowing how to handle each player and his mental make-up but he can`t do it alone. Hiring a sports psychologist will only help him reach the players in a more professional and effective way. I truly support the idea.
First of all, we do not play the same way as Everton because Martinez likes to have possession even if it doesn`t get the team anywhere (see lfc v Efc at Anfield in Jan) and BR likes to have possession BUT launches attacks immediately his team has it hence, lfc is very diddicult to defend which leads to goals, goals and more goals. Secondly, For the life of me, I cannot understand this new found obsession for Lukaku. He is a good player and is still learning the game BUT he cannot fit in w/ the fast and furious style of football that BR has deployed. Having a big striker up there only makes the attack easier to neutralize because the central defenders know he will never get behind them due to lack of pace and more than likely, he will be the central point of all our attacks hence, slowing down some counter attack s due to his lack of pace. Suarez or Sturridge can play up top on their own, can play out wide on either flank or can play as a partnership all with devastating effectiveness. Why swap that with putting Lukaku or any other player like that for that matter and to what end? The plan B issue has been laid to rest FOR GOOD as our forwards can play multiple positions and switch positions at will. Lukaku will never be a player BR would like to have because we`ll NEVER play to his strengths and he doesn`t do what is required to thrive in our system and based on goals scored and current results, BR and I are right.
06 Mar 2014 19:46:02
Irishlloyd
If we were in for benteke, Then I have no clue what was BR planning with him, Probably Benteke's goals should have been one reasons.
06 Mar 2014 22:06:06
We were in for Benteke because Rodgers started the season with "death by football" on the agenda. Hence the 1-0 wins with a generally dominating display of football. However, we struggled to maintain the pressing required to play a methodical passing aproach in a more rigid (although still adaptable) formation of 4-2-3-1 with Sturridge at the focal point getting all the goals. Every game in the second half, we fell apart. This is why he has dropped us deeper to soak up pressure preserving the midfields energy, altered the front line to a fluent front 3 rather than his old Swansea approach of a target man (Graham) who lays the ball off to midfield runners (Dyer, Sigurdson and Sinclair). His philosophy has changed, which is why we are seeing such devastating football, rather than 60% possesion and only 1/2 goals. This new system can not encorporate a rigid striker. It needs 3 forwards all capable of beating a man, breaking at pace and playing through the middle or down either flank. Hence Sterlings coinciding resurgence. With how entertaining and effective this has been, I don't see us returning to the old style. This has made it impossible to fit in a player like Benteke anymore. That is why we previously enquired but have not pursued it since and instead went for Konoplyanka who is versatile enough to play across the frontline and has the pace and technique to slot right into the front 3 on paper. Gone are Rodgers days of a Danny Graham like forward. However this new fluent attack and sitting deeper has affected Coutinhos game as he is now getting caught up in a midfield battle instead of being in between the midfield and defence. I have faith he'll adapt to the new system though. I prefer this new style as its much more similar to Barcas freestyle attack rather than being like Spains boring possession game with a Torres or Lloriente lurking in the box. If we can slowly improve the fitness so we can play this style and press the opposition we will be a force to be reckoned with. Don't be fooled Into thinking we are Barca Mk 2 though. This style is very unique and very effective. Btw Lloyd mate, I'm hoping we can put this all behind us and just get on being fellow Pool fans. let's save the stick for the Devils down the road.
YNWAdam
Warney, firstly I'm sorry that your post was ruined due to misplaced comments. I remember Henderson and Allen saying that the psychologist played a vital role in their confidence and personally feel it is the way forward.
In my opinion if you are of the belief that a psychologist can help you and you put yourself into it and apply the techniques it can help you greatly!
In short you have to believe in the idea, be open to self analysis and want to implement them to benefit. The power of the mind is nothing short of immense IMO.
06 Mar 2014 15:07:41
This summer will likely see senior players such.as Reina, Coates, .skrtle( not good.enough) or agger leave within the defense. Midfield I really don't anyone leaving and I pray suso is in our future plans. The.forwards in question would be assadi, aspas and borini, though.ive been very impressed with borini. The youngsters, some will go, some loaned for more experience. Texeira and suso are wonderful prospects. Imo with loans.especially borini and suso returning.and.youngsters to.excell( notably texeira) our squad will be stronger before we buy. We still will aquire 3 players, .a LB, Attacking player( Ukrainian well pursue i'd imagine again and a DM. We have a lot off CM's on our books and if BR wants another attackingmidfielder allow suso a run of games. The boy has everything to be.worldclass.
06 Mar 2014 14:57:35
Banter please Eds.
Afternoon Gent's,
Most of the season you boy's have been pretty much 4th/5th/6th and people haven't really spoke about Liverpool as title contenders.
Now however, you are 2nd (justifiably) and the media/TV pundits/supporters in general are mentioning Liverpool as one of the favourites to win the League.
Do you think this will add more pressure to BR and the boy's?
The reason I ask is because Arsenal are notorious at crumbling at this stage of the season, unless its to pip Spurs to 4th spot.
06 Mar 2014 15:54:54
Ofcourse, It adds extra pressure, The first thing to do is to ensure CL spot. Liverpool have a great chance to win the Title. The reason being we are only left with 10 games and not a whole seaosn to win the title. Arsenal have some tough fixture coming up and should win most of it like us to have any chance to the title.
A win at OT would actually Increase the sweat of Jose and Pelligrini
Sorry to correct you DG ;-)
Our average league position this season has been 2.9.
We've never been lower than 5th after a game and we've only been 5th twice. After every other game we've been 4th or higher :)
Source - Premier League (dot com) and a calculator.
Oh and DG.
You boys are far from out of it just yet!
I don't see pressure being any more of a factor. We have been under pressure since day 1 to make top 4, and we have thrived off it. Not to mention, these guys are used to playin in front of 40 thousand screaming fans so I don't see the media as much of a factor.
I've believed all season that this could be our year. Just hope Howard Webb doesn't trash our chances.
Hi Dags,
I see it kinda like the bookies if I'm honest. Apart from the 2 games against Chelsea and City away, we were unlucky not to get any points but played extremely well, we are the form team in the premiership. I think we are seen as 3rd favourites simply because of these 2 results. We are unbeaten in the prem this year like Chelsea but they have the points advantage so are rightly ahead.
We've both got good momentum at the moment and are top scorers, although city have games in hand. I think if Arsenal didn't have such a hard run of fixtures this month coupled with a lack lustre display at Stoke(again Liverpool and Chelsea won there) it might have been different.
Let me put it this way, if you lose against Everton and Bayern it's 3 losses in a row, out of 2 more comps, a huge dent in confidence with huge prem games still to come this month. Imho the Everton game is the biggest of your season.
p.s love the snap lol
It'll add a certain amount of pressure, but being the underdogs is, at least for me, always less pressure than being the favorites. I suspect we'd be under far more pressure, at least internally, if we were sitting just outside the top 4 then where we are. Only game that matters at the moment is at Old Trafford though, in my mind.
One game at a time dags, that is the mantra.
BR and co have done well deflecting all title talk away till now and managing expectations and there must be a growing sense of optimism within the club and with the media making some noise perhaps the pressure will grow. But the good thing is we have a pretty young team with no previous baggage (unlike Arsenal for example, sorry).
Personally, I feel if we are within 5/6 points of the top come April then it becomes all to play for with City and Chelsea to come to Anfield.
At the end of the day it is their title to lose.
I agree with RDL. Sitting where we are is much better than say where Spurs are in the PL at the moment. That would have been bigger pressure.
Love the post from Matt S - YNWA. Good one Matt.
Simonpw, one little error in your post mate, Chelsea did NOT win at Stoke. They lost in injury time through a screamer from Assaidi (smiles).
A big game coming up next for us and IMO, all the remaining 10 games are as big as any. Take it one game at a time and try and win it.
4th place is all i'm worried about right now. 3rd would be great, 2nd amazing, 1st, incredible.
But fourth place will do me, and that's what we have to aim for. Aim to win games, and see where we end up.
On a side note, random trivia, if we do win the league it will be the first time we've ever won the league without a scotsman in the squad.
I stand corrected AG, it was the home game in fa cup I had in my head. My bad, I just remembered they beat them this year oops.
No pressure just confidence! Go into every game with the "nothing to lose" attitude and we'll be fine.
Red Rum
Less pressure on us than MCFC or CFC simply due to the huge amounts of money spent by those two clubs.
BR is only charged with getting the club back into the CL and anything else although welcome will be a huge bonus.
WEnger is also under immense pressure to deliver a trophy due to the barren run the gunners have been having in recent years.
This is why City, Chelsea and Arsenal are under more pressure than Liverpool and I think BR and the players are aware of this.
I hope you are correct Matt.
Thank you Simon, lol
DG - For the record, Arsenal's average position this season is 2.2.
You've been top in 20 weeks out of 28 and without the glitch on the opening day of the season your average position would be 1.5!
Simonpw,
You are correct about Everton being a massive game for us, it could define our season.
Matt, where do you get these stats from mate?
Very impressive.
Haha, thanks DG :)
On premierleague(dot com) they have a graph which shows league position for each game week. Click on Arsenal and have a little search. Then I just added each weekly position and divided by 28 (games played so far.)
Cheers Matt
Right now we are focussed on getting into CL, not winning the title.
The pressure will come, I feel, if we beat City and Chelsea, and are top of the league heading into last few games.
06 Mar 2014 12:32:21
I recently put together an article and would greatly appreciate your opinions.
Sam Adzii
The article is called, 'Close Your Eyes & Open Your Mind' and is located on the Liverpool FC blogs page
Thanks as always Gents.
Matt, I hope you are correct my friend.
A good read Sam, cheers!
06 Mar 2014 13:35:45
YNWADAM how am I a cyber bully? because I stated you talk nonsense? I think you need to either grow up or grow a set. Constantly beating teams I don't call that luck. The system is set up to outscore opponents if you want clean sheets and 1-0 wins youll have to support the chelseas of this league because that isn't our style, Gerrard is not holey to blame for our defensive problems so please give it a rest.
Also to say passing teams like us can't play with target man is more nonsense. WHat type of player is giroud and negredo? do they not play for passing teams or do my eyes deceive me and arsenal + man city hoof the ball towards their respective target men?
Eds please post this i'd love to hear YNWADAM's response to the big lumps that other passing teams use!
06 Mar 2014 14:42:54
Irishloyd,
I don't wanna interrupt your conversatin with ADAM. But To be fair, Giroud has been simply poor, sole reaosn where Arsenal are now, Negrado has improved and I don't think he was any sort of caroll or Lukaku.
But you should add dzeko, another typical CF, who would score goals given inside 6 yard box, or even Berbatov.
06 Mar 2014 14:33:38
I agree with Lloyd though. Man City's gameplay is not disrupted if they play Negredo or Dzeko up front. So does Mandzukic with Bayern and Diego Costa with Spain. It will just give us a different option up front and the opposition defenders will have to deal the strikeforce in a different way and interrupt the rythm of their defending. They have to shift their focus and players like Suarez or Sterling can have more time and space. Well, this is only my opinion.
p/s: I respect YNWAdam and love his posts so much. Different people have different opinions. Take it easy.
Giroudmay have been in poor form recently, but he's still scored an assisted a lot this season. He won arsenal a fair few points early on, and they wouldn't be where they are now if it wasn't for his early form.
For me no walcott and ox on the wing doesn't help either. Arsenal have seriously lacked that for large parts of the season. They helped stretch the play and create space.
Negredo has been brilliant this season for me. He and Aguero when fit have been up there with Suarez and Studge.
A little bit unfair on Giroud, Ajay_Kop.
Whilst I would agree he is no Suarez or Aguero, to say he is poor is a tad harsh.
He has 12 goals in 26 prem games and 3 goals in 8 games in Europe plus 1 in FA Cup.
That's a rate of 1 goal in every 2 games. Not great but also not too bad.
Plus, he is a different striker to the likes of Negredo, whom I admit is blooming brilliant.
You say its the sole reason why Arsenal are where they are now?
The last time I looked we were level on points with Liverpool.
Just an observation.
Im sorry but I disagree with Ajay_kop for the simple fact he has scored 12 in 26 and set up seven goals. he's one goal away from a record of a goal in one of every 2 matches which is the benchmark for good strikers. Negredo is a lukaku type player he's not a player that'll skip by players he's more the type for of power and pace that can ruffle up defenders and if you look at the majority of his goals they are mostly coming from his power to hold off defenders with clinical left foot finishing.
I definetley couldn't blame giroud for arsenal shortcomings I beleive its down to wenger not replacing the goals lost by walcott and ramsey.
I don't really think negredo can be categorized as a big lump. that big lad can play. and play very well. just my opinion.
06 Mar 2014 16:00:46
Dreamgunner and Irishlloyd.
I am sorry, If my opservations or post have offended either one of you. But I still believes and everyone at Arsenal believes, Wenger's failure to sign a striker (by striker I means someone who has to score goals not to be a part of 11), the major downfall this campaign and for the title.
Forget Suarez, Arsenal needed a striker like sturridge, things would have been different. They have argubally everything behind the striker set up perfectly.
Giroud is a good player, But he isn't the player who could push a team for the title. (All smiles no offence)
06 Mar 2014 16:02:57
Irishlloyd
I agree on your point about Walcott to some extent, he had a poor second half last seaosn after his new contract.
Ramsy?, This is the only seaosn he has actually played well. I don't think any manager would bank up on him. He has been the surprise player for Arsenal, No one would have ever predicted him to be score and be such important.
Thanks kaizer your exactly pointing out what i'm trying to get across that big lads up front can play ball and doesn't have to be floating midgets playing an interchanging system.
Ajay I mean replacing ramsey as in when he became injured in january, wenger stated gonalons was to cover for flamini and ramsey. gonalons was never going to replicate ramsey goalscoring so I think that was mistake number 1 by wenger.
Giroud doesn't need a replacement CF because a CF scoring 1 goal in 2 matches is a striker that's performing well enough its just he needs another clinical striker to help or rotate with as sanogo and bendnter isn't up to the task. Walcott scores a lot of goals for arsenal and by wenger not replacing them once injured was his shortcomings in my opinion
So we are talking about the "big lump" who CANNOT play football, like Andy Carroll? (Joke)
06 Mar 2014 18:38:44
Man City and Arsenal play different styles to us. They don't play 4-3-3. They play 4-2-2-2 and 4-2-3-1. If you want to compare a target man, compare it to Zlatan at Barca. He still performed quite well because he is the best target man in world football, but he still never really fitted in and he made Barca weaker. City and Arsenal Don't play anything like our style though. How often do you see Dzeko, Negredo or Giroud running down the channels? Answer; not very often. They are all asked to play as strikers.
As for the Gerrard part, I'm not getting into that and I really want this discussion over mate. I'm most certainly not the one who needs to grow up hear. The irony being you asked how you are a cyber-bully, then proceded to tell me to "grow a pair".
Lets keep it clean please though lads. There are no age restrictions on this site. Some of you may be fathers and how would you feel if your children saw this sort language?
YNWAdam
No offence taken Ajay mate, we are all entitled to an opinion my friend, your's just happens to be wrong (only joking mate)
06 Mar 2014 18:43:55
Also Giroud, Negredo and slightly less so Dzeko are all fair superior to Lukaku technically. Lukaku plays In a passing style at Everton. But like Giroud, he is the tip of the attack. Berbatov cannot even be brought into a discussion about lacking technique. If that guy put effort in he'd have been up their with the Thierry Henry's of this world. His touch is sublime.
YNWAdam
Haha dg I wish there was a like button on this site - I love your posts man, keep it up :)
06 Mar 2014 19:48:18
DG,
No worries mate, you have been a class gooner here.
06 Mar 2014 19:51:14
DG
No worries mate, you have been a class Gunner here.
Thank you cyprusred91 and Ajay_Kop, always a pleasure talking to you guy's.
06 Mar 2014 11:54:49
Hello Ed02, we know of interest in Dani Parejo and Will Hughes from LFC. Are you aware of any other players LFC have shown an interest in or is it too early to be asking?
{Ed002's Note - Where I know of interest I have said.}
06 Mar 2014 12:50:33
Bumped into ally cissokho yesterday, what a miserable git. Haha
Surprising that Mikey considering he has one of the biggest smiles I think I've ever seen! Haha
He must have been having a stressful day then haha
06 Mar 2014 11:36:03
I'm living in the Netherlands and on their major football show last night they had a big section on Luke Shaw with lots of clips of him in action, they called him the complete fullback.
Pretty impressive coming from the Dutch
I'm not surprised.
He tore us to pieces for half an hour at St.Mary's - until we changed tactics and they went farther behind. Flanno had no answer to him - and Flanno is not bad.
He's like a muscular version of Philip Lahm. One hell of a player.
06 Mar 2014 09:07:43
Firstly, thank you bobatron for the patronising childish remark. Secondly, congratulations on just bleating out the easiest stat to quote (goals scored) and not elaborating on it.
I'll start by saying that Borini, Assaidi and Lukaku all came to the Prem as different players. Lukaku was built for the rough and tumble. However he has not added anything to his game since he arrived. i'm fact he has regressed this season when comparing to his last here. He plays every single game he is fit up front, with 3 supporting attackers trying to run beyond him and create chances for him. This system is built around the main striker. Its the One Rafa used for years and that's what made Torres look amazing with goals and assists left right and centre. Lukaku is playing in arguably the 5th best team in the league, as a settled regular.
In contrast, Borini and Assaidi have been in and out of the team for very low teams, no matter how well they play (which I personally find ridiculous). They have also both been used as left and right midfielders respectively. Despite this they have still both scored and set up goals. Neither player was ready for the Prem when they came. They came from less Physical more technically reliant leagues. Therefore they need time to adapt unlike Lukaku who was a beast anyway. Lukaku played in a strong West Brom team (Steve Clarke had them in the top half if you don't remember) and now he's in an even stronger Everton side. Therefore, purely looking at goals an assists is just ignorant. You can only do that without elaborating if the players being compared receive similar gametime in the same positions at relatively evenly matched clubs.
Lukaku this season has 10 goals and 6 assists in major competitions. that's in approximately 1720 minutes as the main striker. He therefore averages a goal every 172 minutes and an assist every 287 minutes. let's compare that to a player who is getting similar gametime at a club at the same level. In fact, let's compare that to a similar player all together, Adebayor. Since Tim Sherwood arrived he has 11 goals and 4 assists in approximately 1340 minutes. that's a goal every 122 minutes and an assist every 335 minutes. So whilst Lukaku is assisting slightly more often (which is to be expected with Evertons style) he is far less clinical than a striker playing a similar role at a club of similar capabilities.
Borini has 6 goals and 3 assists in 1610 minutes playing as a winger. that's a goal every 270 minutes and an assist every 540 minutes. So let's compare him to a player of similar squad involvement at a similar level team. In fact there is a perfect comparison in Sunderlands squad. Giaccherini. He has been in and out of the side and played in a very similar array of positions. He has 4 goals and 1 assist in 1700 minutes. that's a goal every 425 minutes and an assist every 1700 minutes. Therefore Borini is a class above the average wide squad player at Relegation fodder.
Then you have Assaidi. He has 4 goals and 2 assists in 1350 minutes. that's a goal every 338 minutes and an assist every 675 minutes. Once again, a cut above Giaccherini's stats. My point is, for where they are and where they are playing, they are performing just as well as Lukaku, and they are both far more suited to our styles than tge stylea of their loan clubs. Whereas Everton have built around Lukaku.
So yes, I can count to 10, but I'm not sure that is even relevant.
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 09:55:24
Lukaku's game has nothing to do with the way he is built, and he wasnt born to play in PL. The lad is just 20 and he is pretty much like Benteke or Adebeyor.
He would score goals, If the team plays to his strength, He wouldn't do anything with teams like Arsenal, Liverpool, Southampton, or Barcelona, who plays with flair and interchangeble front 3.
The comparison over the minutes / per ratio of goals, would go in sea water, If he or any above scores a couple of Hattricks (including penalty or by hook or crook) in next two games against any team.
I wouldn't go for him, simply coz, he isn't the type of
player we needs, He coulnt be an Impact sub, coz, Liverpool doesn't play the way he could be used.
But make no mistake, He is a pretty good striker at the age of 20.
Daniel sturridge did nothing for the first 50 mts yesterday against Denmark, because he was playing at Wide right, running from one end of the pitch to the other.
If you play any player at his best position, he would certainly do his job, provioded he is quality.
Ajay, I struggled to make sense of your first paragraph, which is contradictory. You say Lukaku was NOT born to play in the EPL and his game has got nothing to do with his build and then compare him to Adebayor and Benteke who use their physical strength and build to their advantage.
I think Lukaku is a very good player but I don't think he will move to LFC to sit on the bench and besides, LFC has shown no interest in him.
Adam, I think you can massively over complicate the very simple game of football. Stats are all well and good but who is to say that Borini will return to Liverpool, fit into our system and score approximately so many goals in so many minutes of playing as a right winger? I remember reading somewhere that Downing had one of the best attacking stats in the league as a left winger for chances created, goals and assists, It didn't really work out too well for him at Liverpool though and he certainly didn't replicate those kind of stats. Thorough statistical analysis proves very little in the long term, it just makes the correspondent look to the average fan a mathematical genius.
Sam Adzii
06 Mar 2014 10:54:12
The Real AG.
Adam had his first paragraph, about lukaku benfited from his physical attributes in EPL, which is just a coincidence, He wouldn't do anything with Arsenal or Liverpool, because the system we play,
I would also add crouch in the list, (non physical, but thin and tall) who plays similar to Lukaku.
Benteke plays more with his physical attributes, muscling with the defenders, but Adebeyor isn't such nor crouch, they are different types of strikers.
Lukaku is a good striker and would do good if played to his strength and style.
06 Mar 2014 11:00:31
Take out the stats and its still blindingly obvious that Borini and Assaidi are far more technically gifted than Lukaku, far more versatile, and far more suited to our style. I'm not saying Lukaku is a bad player. I'm simply saying that he is not really performing much better than Borini and Assaidi despite both of them playing out of position/in a style that does not suit their game. Goals do not tell the whole story. I haven't even gone into that much depth statistically. Its literally just goals, assists and minutes played. I could have delved into conversion rates, passing accuracy, chances created, ground covered, duels won etc. This post is not really over reliant on stats, I just used them as a very basic barometer. If we sign Lukaku it begs the question, why didn't we just keep Carroll?
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 11:09:28
YNWAdam
why didn't we just keep Carroll?
Thers the answer of all your question, BUT DOES THAT MAKE LUKAKU A BAD PLAYER?. Lukaku and caroll will score gaols at westham close to 10-15.
I don't think Drogba would have ever scored more than 5 goals, If played for Arsenal or Liverpool, We pass and move the ball quick and take defenders with sheer skill not with our muscle.
Im not saying your wrong, you have a opinion which I respect and one you are totally entitled to. I however think people rely on stats when actually the mean absolutely nothing whatsoever to LFC. I could go into why I think that if you want me too Adam but I fear it may bore you ever so slightly as your of a different opinion to me. As for Lukaku, why are people speaking so negatively about him? Didn't we enquire about Benteke in the summer, they are similar types of players and I know which one i'd prefer out the two!
Sam Adzii
And sorry, did you genuinely just ask why we didn't keep Carroll?
Sam Adzii
Ajay, I'm pretty sure Drogba would still have smashed them in at arsenal or Liverpool
06 Mar 2014 12:06:09
Lukaku has literally bags more technique than Carrol.
Ever seen Carroll actually run at a defence with the ball? Or even outmuscle someone? Plus Lukaku can finish, Carroll doesn't even have that!
Poor comparison there,
06 Mar 2014 12:11:54
Carroll is a very similar player to Lukaku. He's struggled with injury but before them he was scoring as much if not more goals than Lukaku at a similar age. We sold him because he didn't fit the system and you cannot have players worth that much money on the bench. So why sign Lukaku for more than we sold Carroll for and put him on the bench? I am not being overly critical of Lukaku, I'm just trying to prove to people that he is not performing that spectacularly. He might improve, but he might also go the same way as Carroll, Heskey, Benteke etc and just stagnate, and eventually go backwards. Adebayor is of a similar style but he has more technical ability than the others. That has allowed him to adjust his gane when necessary. The same goes for Giroud, another target man with some ability with his feet. Crouch was never a target man. He always needed a Defoe or a Bellamy alongside him. He is useless as a lone striker.
I appreciate you accepting my opinion, and like wise I accept yours. I just think Lukaku is a bit over rated and not the right player for us.
YNWAdam
YNWAdam, you're forgetting the fundamentals of the game.
All that stat nonsense won't get you anywhere.
You write so clearly and concise, with some excellent opinions at times, but it's a game of football.
06 Mar 2014 12:25:22
YNWAdam.
I appreciate and respect your opinion, But Disagree on Caroll-Lukaku, I am not sure, how worse Lukaku can be, But the only thing caroll could do is jump above the shoulder of any defender and nick one in by his head. that's it. would only play for Sam Alladyrce team.
YNWADAM your always complaining about players and expect them to be the complete package. lukaku is 20 which in footballing terms is a wee niper. for someone of that age to score 10 goals in 22 appearances isn't bad what so ever. when u don't like a player or a certain position you do everything possible to slate them with your lil stats, you haven't been moaning much about in CDM position lately is it because it working and Liverpool are winning. Your just waiting for our team to lose before you can't jump out of your box and say told you so gerrard can't play blah blah blah,,, as ed 2 said yesterday you talk " subjective nonsense "
06 Mar 2014 13:01:20
I'm guessing none of you saw Carroll in his Newcastle days before injury blighted his career. I am not only ever critical of players. I just don't jump on the hype bandwagons because I don't use MOTD and Youtube to judge players. I am hardly going to say "I don't want Lukaku" and then list all his good points. I'm merely stating why he wouldn't suit our play. If you want I'll do a full scale review on the lad and then you'll see I am well aware of his strengths as a player. I just think his weaknesses as a player make him incompatible with our team. A view shared by many others on here. If you don't like people using stats to back up their points, don't read the posts with stats in them. Simple as. The fact is though, stats are a relevant way of assisting oneself when attempting to present a coherent and balanced argument. Simply saying "Lukaku is average" would not explain why I think it. I admit that my weakness as a person is that I can be overly logical sometimes, but I think that is a better weakness to have than to be an oppressive cyber-bully who can not accept anybody having a different opinion to theirs.
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 13:06:52
And btw Gerrard in CDM has not worked defensively at all. It has made us more effective going forward but I haven't seen us control a single game since he played there. We have a couple of clean sheets as far as I'm aware from about 9 games and the Southampton one was a lucky clean sheet to say the least. Gerrard always ups his game against Everton so it was no suprise he played the best in that match. Conceding 2 to Fulham, 3 to Swansea and 2 to Aston Villa is not what I would call "working". Gerrard has shown me enough to say he'd be an adequate back up to Lucas for the position. I'd still put Lucas straight back in when he is fit though. I can't see us riding our luck for the rest of the season.
YNWAdam
This is getting boring now.
I think the jist of it is Liverpool do not need a big lump up front with our dynamic attacking style.
Yes, I think you have been overly critical of Lukaku, but the fact is he is a very good young player with bags of potential. He wouldn’t suit a team like Liverpool or Arsenal, but would certainly improve a team who play with a target man.
Red Rum
06 Mar 2014 13:13:06
At the very least, Lukaku is mobile, Carroll isn't.
Fair enough not to rate him, but I can't see why you made this comparison.
It just seems lazy. They are both big, so that'll do, type thing.
Carroll had a good half season, Lukaku is going on to have a second successful season, and given his age, anything over 15 goals would be successful,
Carroll isyet to replicate his old Newcastle form at any other club, whilst Lukaku is scoring at Everton as well as at WBA.
They have both had a lot of injuries and niggles in the past two seasons, Lukaku has managed almost 30 prem goals in that space though, I doubt Carroll has 10.
If you want to talk about his poor work rate, I'm all in, that needs to improve if he's to play at a top club for sure.
His awareness is another area that needs to improve, and as has already been mentioned, his technical ability could also be improved.
Any similarities between Carroll and Lukaku are, for me lazy. Asides from height, which Carroll shares with all tall players, they have very little in common.
06 Mar 2014 14:48:33
welshboye,
Given the point by Adam, If Lukaku is overrated, I am not sure, But yes, he has been tagged the next Drogba, The best signing by Chelsea, massive potential to be the world best,
I am sorry nothing would be happening, he is a good player at his given age and would only improve depending on the team he and style he plays, He is never going to change his style nor would hit any bulls eye.
He has played with 2 teams, who actually plays similar ways, westbrom and Everton.
Mate If chelsea decides to sell him, Where do you think he would end up?.
Any team who plays pass and move would never buy him.
Directly lifting your quote here adam
''But they are not much worse despite less game time/a more creative position''
nuff said
Adam you will also note I say this
''Lukaku is a proven 1 in 2 man. he did it for West Brom last year, who were much worse than Everton, and has done it for Everton this year. Assaidi and Borini haven't scored that much. I get that he wouldn't fit our play, but to suggest his ratio and scoring ability is on par with those 2 is ludicrous, the facts speak for themselves''
OMG did I just see right ''carrol is a similar player to Lukaku.''
All hope is lost on this one
06 Mar 2014 15:42:59
Carroll is very mobile when fit. I've seen him attempt many acrobatic over head kicks, he is surprisingly fast and he is very strong. He has the ability to run with the ball. The main example that is remembered (for all the wrong reasons) is his powerful run vs Newcastle where he dived to try and win a penalty. This lack of mobility is a myth. He also has a much better workrate than most big men. Lukaku is obviously playing much better and has less off field issues, but had Carroll not been hit by so many injuries, I highly doubt we'd be questioning this comparison. It is not lazy in any way, shape or form.
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 15:46:48
Bobatron, you persist to miss the point. I am saying for their positions they are performing relatively as well as Lukaku in worse teams. They both suit our style of play more as well so would be better options for us.
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 16:08:06
Bobatron
he did it for West Brom last year, who were much worse than Everton, and has done it for Everton this year
Mate the point here is, Both the teams plays similar styles, Lukaku would also score 10-15 goals for westham or any team which plays with his natural game. I am sure you have only seen him scoring goals which is an excellent prspect, but not slightly changing his style as per the style or game.
Sturridge was a Wide right player at chelsea, Now a much more balanced front man, who would hold up, drop deep, pass forward, link ups and also score both foot and areilyy, that's a massive Improvment and adaptation depending on the way Liverpool plays.
By No means Lukaku is a bad player, he is a good little player who has a bright future ahead, But he plays one dimensional.
Only thing I would like to add, Carroll is nowhere near the player Lukaku is/was/or will be.
Adam, you seem to suggest that it was Carroll's injuries which are the reason he hasn't done as well as Lukaku, I disagree completely.
06 Mar 2014 17:52:24
I have no problem with you disagreeing AG. At least your were a gentleman about it. I think that Carrolls injuries are his own fault, but that they have hindered his development. If he put the can down and picked up a football he could be brilliant. However when fit Carroll is basically the same sort of player as Lukaku. He's never played in a style like the one Lukaku finds himself in now, but I'm sure he could. However neither are right for us so it's irrelevant. I'm not sure why everyone jumped on this discussion and allowed it to escalate quite how it has. It comes largely down to some not being able to accept the views of others. I don't rate Lukaku as highly as others. I'm not saying, nor have I ever said that Lukaku is a bad player. He could (should he go the same way as Drogba or Adebayor) comfortably become a 20 goal per season striker in a physical style where he is the focal point. However, there is always a risk he will be the next Carroll/Heskey where he starts his career looking excellent and fizzles into a "lump" up front. Irrespective of what way his career goes he will never suit a fluent 4-3-3 that Rodgers wants to play. I apologise to the Eds for being the spark to all this 'rubbish' and to any posters who have had to read all the dribble from both sides of the argument. Its grating on me now though and I'm not going round in circles on an irrelevant subject for any more time than I've already wasted.
I am agreeing to disagree. Peace.
YNWAdam
Your comparing Carroll and lukaku but stated they've never played in the same system? SO how can u possibly compare the two if they've never played in the same system?
This is why you have to compare lukaku with players who play in the same systems and are roughly of the same stature/game style eg costa dzeko or giroud
06 Mar 2014 19:00:25
I compared them as players. I didn't compare their statistical returns.
YNWAdam
06 Mar 2014 21:22:55
I still disagree with the Carroll comparison.
To be honest, Carroll's goal return needs to improve dramatically for that, it's like comparing Sturridge and Torres ATM, both quick, off the shoulder type players, yet 1 is consistently outscoring and out performing the other.
I agree with your reasons to disagree though Adam, if that makes sense, I see how he currently wouldn't fit.
I do disagree that he wouldn't be able to adapt to our style though. Because big guy or not, the ability to waltz into the premier league and adapt like he has is not an ability shared by all, or even many.
I also respect that you haven't stated he couldn't fit our system with time, just currently.
I also agree he could go the way of Carroll or Benteke or Heskey, but I personally don't see that as anymore risk than the average transfer.
Effectively, what your saying with that is 'he might not be as good for us' which is totally a fair question, and one you would certainly expect us to be asking before any transfer.
You directly said their goals per game were not much worse. CLEARLY this is not sinking in that, this is just a complete fabrication of the numbers on your part! They are nowhere near his goals to games and for that matter, there is 0 evidence they could be that close if they played in that position, it's clearly speculation on your part.
What you've essentially suggested is Sterling has the same amount of goals to games as Suarez and sturrdge, then when the evidence was pointed out to you, you've said, well, he could be on that same amount, if he played central striker. Your complete lack of grasp for the evidence in front of you is quite frankly shocking.
Also just how do west brom and Everton have the same style? They are nothing alike, nothing in their managers has ever suggested they play the same style. You are simply just splurging out your opinion as a factual statement.
06 Mar 2014 01:57:51
Title Chances:
These are just my opinions and maths may be wrong, apologies;
Man Utd v Liverpool = Should win depends who the referee is. We will beat one of City or United and Lose or draw to the other. Call it a win.
Cardiff v Liverpool = Should be easy win
Liverpool v Sunderland = Should be easy win
Liverpool v Spurs = Should be easy win
West Ham v Liverpool = West Ham shouldn't score any more than 2 at most, but have good defence. Should win but could draw. Say opposite to City score Draw/Lose
Liverpool v Man City = Could be Win, Draw or Lose. If we Lose City will win the League if we beat Chelsea, but I think Chelsea will win it if they beat us. As said above Draw/Lose
Norwich vs Liverpool = Should be easy win
Liverpool v Chelsea = We have to win this game. For any chance of the title. And because I hate Mourinho.
Crystal Palace v Liverpool = Tough ground Selhurst. Should win, but this is where we could slip up, hopefully not as it's the second to last game and I think Pulis would of made Palace safe by then so won't be in the relegation battle. So call it a Win.
Liverpool v Newcastle = Should be easy win
That's with us not winning both games against City and Chelsea**
In terms of points;
Win x 8 = 24 points
Draw x 1 = 1 point
Lose x 1 = 0
Total = 25 points, so we would finish with 84 points (25+59), This is a great outcome which is realistic, as shown above. Could get more hopefully say 26, maybe less 24, 23 or 22 points so would finish with a total in the range of 81-85 points. So a chance of title.
Chelsea will win 6 or 7 of their next 10 games ( IF we beat them). Say 2 draws 2 Losses. So 20-23 points. Their Points Per Game this season = 2.25.
2.25 x 10 = 22-23 points, but I think we will beat them so they only have 9 games to get as many points as they can, basically no more than 3 LESS points than us between now and then end of the season, to finish above us.
City will win around 8 of their next 12 games. Say 2 draws 2 losses. So minimum 26 points, maximum 29 points. Their Points Per Game this season = 2.19
2.19 x 12 = 26 points (City have 2 games in hand). City need to get at least 2 MORE points between now and the end of the season to finish above us.
City would finish with 26-29+ 57 = 83-86 points
Chelsea would finish with 20or23 + 63 = 83 or 86 points.
Conclusion:
If City of Chelsea beat us, we won't win the League.
So Liverpool have to win 8 games to be in with a fair chance, I'd say outside chance just, if we beat City/Chelsea and draw to the other. It would probably come down to goal difference. But City OR/and Chelsea will probably finish above us.
However if we beat City, Chelsea and United We will win the league. I'll put my head on the line now!
YNWA
Looks to me like you've added 2+2 and got 23.5. No such thing as an easy win, especially against relegation-threatened teams and those striving for European places. Any game could be won, lost or drawn.
06 Mar 2014 09:56:24
If ever footie works on stats, things would have been upside down.
I am sorry Wez, but you have assumed too much here. The games against the likes of Crystal Palace, Norwich, West Ham and Cardiff, all away, would be very very difficult as they are all fighting to stay in the PL.
The home games include Spurs, Man City and Chelsea which would be no doubt very difficult.
The Manchester United game you just can't call it a LFC win. It just doesn't work like that.
06 Mar 2014 10:57:14
The Real AG.
Agree, Westham game would be a very very difficult game with the style they play. I could see us winning against norwich and palace.
United, actually is a must win game for both (plenty of reasons apart from 3 points)
Every game is a must win. It's all about taking each game as it comes and giving everything towin in the game regardless of who we're playing, United or Palace.
Hard reading that with a hangover mate will have another go later haha
The Real Ag, I said West ham would be a tough game and predicted a draw for it, try reading instead of making up I said West Ham would be an easy win. If we don't beat Cardiff, Norwich and Palace away then I'd be disappointed. Read what I said at the start it's opinions. Basically what I'm saying is we can win 8 games out of the 10 and I've just guessed how they will be spread out.
I've only said there's 5 easy wins: Cardiff (a), Sunderland (h), Spurs (h), Norwich (a) and mid table Newcastle at home on the Last day. So il stick by them easy wins thanks. If we don't beat them then you can write the title off and be all smug, I'm just working out how we can get the points to get anywhere near winning it.
Yo Mikey, I did this when I wasn't sober surprisingly,!
Listen, to all the people hating on this BANTER, if I predict it right I want an apology from all of you.
YNWA, p.s. cheer up we're 2nd
Wez my apologies. I wasn't making up stuff, just suggesting that you can't foresee the future.
All of what you have said is purely guesswork and nothing else.
I clearly wasn't hating but the recent theme in these banter pages have seen tension between posters and unfortunately this reply will not be helping matters.
I must say Wes, that was a nice relaxing read after the Lukaka polava.
I should of just put:
IN MY OPINION, Liverpool might sneak the title if they win 8 games, but I if we get wins against Chelsea, City and United, we will win the league. IN MY OPINION.
Happy now? I so hope I'm right now losers haha
YNWA