Liverpool Banter Archive December 09 2011
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09 Dec 2011 22:15:41
Come On Andy Carroll! Liverpool's number nine !
09 Dec 2011 21:55:59
I was looking at the predicted line-ups and I thought of this, want some thoughts:
1)
Reina
Johnson - Skrtel - Agger - Enrique
-------------------Adam------------
-------Henderson------Shelvey-----
Bellamy----------Suarez----------Maxi
Instead of having either Hendo or Shelvey play the DM position, why not have Adam? He can tackle, not as good as Lucas, but he sure can. He also has that killer of a pass. Having Shelvey and Henderson in their best and preferred positions could really help and bring out the best in their games. Thoughts?
RenegadeRed
I like the team mate. very much so. But i'm not sure shelvey will start personally.
Danny
Adam cannot play this role. He has very little defensive nous. I would say against QPR go for a simple 442. Play Adam and hendo, with downing and maxi wide. Luis and Bellamy up top. We are at home after all.
Dirs Engine Room
Best team available IMO...I named this exact team to my uncle earlier.
Let's hope so and go out all guns blazing!
I'll go for a 3-0/1 scoreline tomorrow :)
Chipkin9 (EIRE)
I like that team too, but highly doubt we will play it. Would love too see it tho. Would maybe like to see kelly instead of johnson (better defensively), adam for jonjo and have coady as holding.
Why not he has before?
Wow... Adam can NOT tackle
Didn't he tackle Mikel to win the ball that maxi eventually scored?
That was a tackle, so he can tackle!
09 Dec 2011 20:42:48
any chances of raiding celtic for hooper and forrest or getting lewandovski of dortmund
Hooper would be a great back up striker. He's the kind of poacher we need at the moment.
09 Dec 2011 20:11:24
Liverpool 1-2QPR.lfc fan
Hmm....... like Ive said before, that's the spirit! Unless you're still pissed about Basle.
Dirks Engine Room
LFC fan?
Sure! we beleive you.
Am gonna go lfc 8-53 QPR.
KT!
Obviously not
How do you work that out?
Older LFC Fan
Liverpool 1 qpr 2?
lfc fan? you miserable old goat..
merry christmas to you ebenezer!
3-0 LFC. Today it will click.
Fensh
I understand you but remember
LFC-Norwich 1-1
LFC-Swansea 1-1
Middlebrough-LFC 2-0(When whe finished 2nd)Last year we lost at Upton Park 3-1 at anfield 1-2 Blackpool etc.With these new promoted or relegated teams we are not so concentrated.sorry for my english.
Marius
09 Dec 2011 20:10:57
What would everyone prefer and why,
A redeveloped anfield?
Or a new stadium?
Thought it was time for a fresh topic I am a bit sick of Lucas is gone we are done for. (we will be fine)
And posts that quote 35million. (not your money so get over it)
Cheers
MIKEY
Ps. I am still very much undecided, maybe leaning towards a new stadium.
Redevelop if we can do it. Anfield is home and we don't want a soulless library as a ground. Imagine 60,000 plus......
Dirks Engine Room
Revamp of Anfield for me mikey, best outcome short to mid term while we rebuild our club. All the best.
KNEE JERK
P.S Topic is a welcome change ha.
New stadium. If we wish to compete with europe's best money-wise we need somewhere where we can expand. Anfield will never be bigger than 60K. That's simply not big enough.
New stadium all the way for me. Been a season ticket holder for 20 yrs now and i have loads of friends that just cant get tickets, there is a youner generation who have never been to Anfield and we are losing a generation of support. A new purpose built stadium with maybe even a kids pen/section at reduced cost would be great imo.
If we could get a 70k new stadium with a kop end still. Imagine that on a european night. It's not the stadium that's special it the fans that fill it afterall.
I can't see anfield being expanded an option unless we can go to 70k. And I can't see that happening unfortunately.
MIKEY
It matters not to me, just as long as it's liverpools homeground and we never lose our 12th man :)
Imagine a 70k seater. we'd have a 13th man an all.
Chipkin9 (EIRE)
I just want them to do what is best in the long run. I live in Canada and was in Liverpool last season and was hoping to go to the Tottenham game, but I was unable to get a ticket. I tried online, local support clubs, everything. It was disappointing to not be able to go because I don't know when I'll be able to make the trip again. The moral of the story is: more seats please so people like me can have the experience of watching the team we love so much!
Mark
My heart says new stadium, but my head says redeveloped.
I just believe a new stadium is too expensive over the long term.
Furthe, as no statement has been made on a 'naming rights deal', it does appear that redevelopment may be the way forward.
Shankly's Red Army.
Revamp of Anfield would be incredible! The owners revamped Fenway Park Stadium in Boston and they did a brilliant job. Granted its the smallest stadium in MLB but from what it was to what it is now they have the knowledge to create an even more epic Anfield without destroying or losing ANY of its heritage. Just my opinion
I think theyd like if possible to just revamp but it all is going to come down o how much each will cost and how much anfield can be expanded...
personally right now i might take a new stadium
ShaneK Lfc
Got to be a new stadium for me. It's not only about the seats but what else can be built around the ground to generate more money. A re-delevoped anfield would be just a higher capaicity ground. I todays money driven game external revenue is master.
Gazza
Anfield is located at the center of the Universe for football, why change it?
Especially for a coca-cola stadium?
09 Dec 2011 19:43:11
Kayal from Celtic would be a perfect replacement for Lucas.Not sure if we could get him in January though.Spearing Coady and Shelvey are no way near good enough at this present time.I think Kayal would be a great buy for us,and we have apparently been scouting him.
I like kayal alot and i know many celtic fans (moved to glasgow) who rate him very highly and he does look good but lacks the heart tbh what i mean is someone like carragher who will throw himself and take one in the face to prevent a shot
09 Dec 2011 19:07:58
Vs QPR
Reina
Johnson-Skrtel-Agger-Enrique
Maxi-Henderson-Adam-Bellamy
Suarez-Carroll
Doni,Carra,Kelly,Coady,Shelvey,Kuyt,Downing
Dano
Y.N.W.A
4-0 TOMORROW.
Hope so, Henderson with a double!
Dano
Y.N.W.A
REINA
JOHNSON AGGER SKERTEL ENRIQUE
DOWNING ADAM SHELVEY MAXI
SUAREZ BELLAMY
I agree apart suarez and bellamy upfront and coady in the middle with adam henderson wide
Reina
Skrtel Coates Agger
Johnson Adams Enrique
Henderson Shelvey Bellamy
Carroll
My first ever live game at anfield 1987 v QPR. Liverpool had a slow start to the season but won 4-0 with Craig Johnston getting the first and John Barnes going on a run from his own half to grab the 4th. LFC went on to win the title. A repeat of that scoreline tomorrow would be great.
The Liver Bird
Reina
Johnson Skrtel Aggger Enrique
Maxi Adam Hendo Downing
Suarez Bellamy
I predict a 2-0 to Liverpool. Ive predicted the last 6 Liverpool results correctly. Win lose or draw. I just went with my gut feeling. Prior to that i hadnt got a prediction right for about a yr! Haha. Fingers crossed my run can continue with a win of course!! COME ON YOU REDS!! YNWA
Reina
johnson-skrtel-agger-enrique
kuyt-henderson-adam-downing
suarez-bellamy
The Liver Bird
It was a great game that mate, I was in the Kop that day. But your memory is playing tricks with you - that match was our 8th win out of 9, the other being a draw. Not exactly a slow start !
The Real KB
09 Dec 2011 18:48:24
Stop this ear flicking its getting boring..Are they doing any ball work or just messing about?
They do ear flicking if the person loses the ball in a game of keep ball.
You must be a right barrel of laughs.
KT!
Banter post of the day? !!!!!!!!!!!!
09 Dec 2011 18:29:23
Joff
Gerrard is pictured in training on LFC online. He is doing light training pictured laughing and joking.
Mighty reds
...and so he is. Excellent news, not to sound paranoid but i was beginning to worry his injury/condition wasn't something more sinister.
Injury must be such a horrible thing for a sports person and it seems we are kind of entering that part of the season huh - sad that people like Taylor from NUFC and Vidic from ManU and of course our Lucas are out for the season. I guess its part of the game - its just not a fun part.
Ho hum.
Cheers chaps, here's to a good weekend!
Joff
09 Dec 2011 18:16:09
i no it is unlikely but if we was to get torres back how much would he cost ed? {Ed001's Note - it won't happen, move on.}
He would cost team morale and worsen our scoring record. No thanks
cozinoz
Optimism is brilliant...! Haha
Myk
09 Dec 2011 17:16:20
Can I ask - a few comments are saying "its good to see Gerrard back in training" - how do you know? I can't see him on the www.LFC Melwood photos unless i am missing something (stranger things have happened at sea). I'd love it if he was back but i thought there was murmurings of further delays (or to put it another way slower rehab).
The indispensable Macca seemed to make such comments only a few days ago. Anyone got any thing clear ish?
Ta
Joff
I'll second that. Can't seem him there.
Getty images mate he's been doing light training and havin a laugh with Kenny
MJ
If you "like" gerrard Liverpool legend on Facebook you can see the pictures there
Square tomato
09 Dec 2011 17:06:08
do you think that maybe a spell in the reserves may help carroll as he could gain confidence for his finishing
I don't think any player should be above playing for the reserves. Andy needs games to find form - so it could be beneficial for him. Maybe he could pick up a few tips from Adam Morgan on how to find the back of the net!
RedSG
Didnt Liverpool used to do this to new players back in the day so they learn how to play the LFC way??
MJ
Has any1 got an answer to this question?
Our reserves are usually in the age group of 17 to 19 yr olds. We don't have older players anymore, we sold them all. Most of our players train as one group. Carroll would not improve with the reserves.
I think a prolonged run in the first team to let him find his feet is the answer, not the reserves. Him and Suarez were starting to gel. He will come good.
Ed001, do you think that Kenny's policy of constantly changing his teams and formations based on the opposition is perhaps the reason the team is taking so long to gel? Since he has settled on a stable back 4 we much better defensively, perhaps the prob upfront?
Fensh {Ed001's Note - yes I do.}
Give Carroll the service in the box and he will score!
Not sure about that. Would probably dent his confidence, especially when the media get hold of it. If Jay hadn't got sent off, and we didn't go on to lose that game, I'm sure the outlook on Andy's performance (as a whole) wouldn't be so negative. Sometimes I feel as though, the tactics are one game off. I think if we expect the partnership to blossom we need to afford Andy the same affection we afford Luis. He's a young lad with a massive challenge. We all know the burden our players carry, its one of the hardest places to play because every game is scrutinised, not only for the game but sometimes for all the past failings.
When you lose touch of titles at a club the size of Liverpool early on in the season players tend to struggle, it's almost like even of we win it's not enough. I know it's the wrong attitude, but it's a natural attitude. When Chelsea lost touch, you'll see it. The Mancs will go through it soon enough.
D-Day (1892)
This season Adam Morgan has scored six goals in eleven games for the Reserves and four goals in eleven games for the Academy.
Dutchmal
Nooooooo!
When Liverpool bought Rush, he had to start off learning his trade in the reserves.
In those days this was the way things were. I think it would be benifical for Andy to spend some time playing in the reserves.
Carroll doesnt seem to work hard enough on the tactical side of his game and spends to long on the ball sometimes. I know he doesnt have the pace to keep up with our counter attacking play as he is rarely in the box when we break. But even when we are pressing the opposition high he is rarely going into the box aswell unless its near the end of a match. His hold up play isnt great either. He needs to do some serious work on these areas of his game to shine. Some people are complaining about him getting a lack of service which isnt true. He is just found too deep or too wide during games too often.
Carroll with prob mess up the reserves as they play quick pass and move also ball on the ground. much like how ngoo sometimes takes the flow away. but mostly he's good. suso and eccleston deserve a call up surely they have been in fine form. even if its a week training with the first team
Have you seen Ngoo in the reserves mate? How will Carroll stuff it up?
09 Dec 2011 17:04:19
The top 10 most expensive footballers in the history of world football...
1 - Cristiano Ronaldo - £80m
2 - Zlatan Ibrahimovic - £56.5 m
3 - Kaká £56m
4 - Fernando Torres £50m
5 - Zinedine Zidane £45m
6 - LuÃs Figo £37m
7 - Hernán Crespo £35.5m
8 - Andy Carroll £35m
9 - David Villa £34.2m
10 - Gianluigi Buffon £32.6m
Among that list there's:
5 World Cup winners
5 World Players of the Year
5 Champions League Winners
3 European Cup Winners
5 Players who have won the golden boot in either Serie A/La Liga/The Premiership..
...and Andy Carroll, the 6th most prolific forward in the Championship last season..
{Ed001's Note - he wasn't playing in the Championship last season.}
What's your point then lad? So Andy Carroll cost £35m? Was Fernando Torres worth £50m when we sold him? Here are some stats for you:
Since Torres went to Chelsea and Carroll has joined us, these are their records in all competitions as at 9/12/11:
Torres: 35 appearances/5 goals
Carroll: 23 appearances/5 goals
Also, Carroll has been out injured longer than Torres, by about 2 months. And Carroll is 5 YEARS younger than Torres. What will Torres re-sale value be in 2 years time? What would Andy Carroll be worth once he starts banging the goals in eventually? I know who I would have my investment on...
I firmly believe that Carroll will come good in time...
Carroll the youngest by miles, give the lad a couple of years and he will be worth double. Why are you lot so fickle? How long did Drogba take to settle when he first arrived? Look at Dzeko last year, couldnt kick a ball - now he is awesome. Carroll is a powerhouse with a sweet left foot and when he gets going will score plenty and dominate games.
Just a tiny little detail your missing you jumped up mug, INFLATION. its what happens in the economy, it has effects on transfer fees, read paul tomkins transfer statistics which take into account the inflation over a period of time. you may be surprised by andy carroll's position, or you may continue to be a pedantic pessimistic unknowledgeable toe rag
Red Maverick
A 6ft 3" Geordie with :
A medieval weapon for a left leg &and the greatest standing leap of any target man in the history of the game .
A 21 Century Target Man for a 21 Century Team .
Take all the time you need Andy - Here's to you and the rest of the LFC players .
1977
Greatest standing leap in the history of the game? don't think so mate where have you been the last 30 yrs or so i can name 3 players who he will never be as good as.Its not andy's fault but we don't want to be playing the type of football he needs he would be much better at a bolton or wolves type of team its not going to work out for him the way we are playing.
If Andy cuts his hair, he will be Great player, trust me , I dreamed about it.
You can't argue with dreams...
Myk
Yeah i know what fool would pay £ 45 million for Zidane! Some one has got to tell him he looks like a cockney gangster from the 80's. All he needs is a white suit with his sleeve rolled up,a massive mobile phone with a gold medallion around his neck. All the best Andy lad.
KNEE JERK
The question you need to ask is was torres worth 20m when we got him and i think you'll find the answer to be hell yes. andy is worth 15m, 20m if you add 5m for over priced homegrown players.
Aguero- 38m
09 Dec 2011 16:43:39
is coady training with the 1st squad just for the week or is there now all the time tanx
Will be on bench for QPR game. Might get on.
The club usually picks a few of the young lads to train with the squad. It is good for their confidence and integration. Coady is a very good player, he may get on the bench sometime this season. I hope so.
I think they should do a arsenal and have to reserves train with the first team
09 Dec 2011 16:43:10
Its great to see stevie g back in training. Hopefully will be in the first team in about three weeks time.
Also glad that lucas op was a success and i wish him a speedy recovery.
is there any reason why Aurelio as not been involved at alll? He is fit and available isnt he?
Mighty reds
Is Aurelio ever really fit and available? We have Enrique, where must Aurelio play?
09 Dec 2011 16:40:49
eds wat do u think is going to happen now regarding the stadium??and have liverpool had any new sponsorship in the last year to improve the revenue coming in? tanx {Ed002's Note - With a feeling of deja vu, there are five options as I see it: (1) New build to an existing “approved” design commissioned by the previous owners. This has the benefit of being the quickest and most economic way forward as far as a new build goes and I recall the fans being impressed with the designs. (2) New build to the design of an existing stadium (e.g. the Allianz Arena). This would save considerably on architects fees but may prove problematic in other areas – but may be more viable than folks realise. (3) New build to a completely new design. It will cost considerably more and take much longer to go down this route. This has to be a high-risk option. (4) Redevelopment of Anfield to add 12-15k seats that FSG would like to see. Economically this would seem to be the option that would give the best return on investment, but this is the option that is hampered by local planning regulations. My feeling is that this is seemingly the option that most fans would prefer. (5) A phased improvement and redevelopment of Anfield to bring the stadium up to code and to perhaps add some additional seating. This would provide a medium term solution that only moves the real issue to the right, but it would possibly facilitate the inclusion of the full quota of additional seating at a later date. My assumption was always that any naming right deal would be for a new build and not for a redeveloped Anfield. I don't know if anything has changed in respect of that. I also don't know if FSG are actively trying to find a way to overcome planning regulation restrictions that would allow them to eventually add the additional seating at Anfield that they desire. Building a new stadium is going to mean a very large loan being taken on and even though sponsorship will cover much of the cost year on year, it can possibly be seen as an albatross that FSG may not want hanging around their neck. My own view at this time is that the club will look at a phased improvement of Anfield hoping that a way can be found to add the additional seating in the not too distant future. Sponsorship wise both the incumbent and previous did a great job of putting Liverpool in a good position.}
Thanks ED.
Could you repeat that please Ed, I wasn't listening, sorry
cozinoz {Ed001's Note - this explains why Ed002 is currently banging her head against the wall and screaming 'no, no, no!'}
Hi ED02, great post, most informative indeed.
I see the option of phased redevelopment as the best option for the club (financially speaking).
Sure, we fans can all dream of a wonder stadium of 80k, but truly the cost of financing this would be astronomical over 20 years or more.
Its all about 'economies of scale', the London teams tickets are generally more expensive, so to compensate for this the teams in the North have to attract more fans.
Take Arsenal for example, the corporate boxes, and top end seats (tiers 2 and 3), which probably accounts for only 10-15% of all seats, contibutes as much as revenues from the entire 38k seats at Highbury (this over the entire season).
Man U, realised that in order to be financially competitive, they had to redevelop (currently 76k) due to their average ticket price costing 20% or so less, so make up the revenue shortfall in numbers.
Old trafford can still be developed to 90k, as the one stand is at least a tier lower than the 3 others. This redevelopment took place over a number of years.
For LFC to remain competitive (financially, optimise revenues, and gain max return on investment), the only option will be to redevelop, and that over a few years, increasing capacity( and looking at the sustainable number of suites, and high value seats).
One could go 'dilly' applying all the financial models and formulas to this.
In conclusion, a redeveloped Anfield with 100-160 suites (holding 10-20 people each), and 6-8k high value seats, and 55-60k normal seating, giving a capacity of 70k or so, it most likely the best combination.
Thinking Red.
09 Dec 2011 16:35:06
I would like to congratulate the F.A. They have defended a player who attacked another from behind and they won the appeal. Best of all - it's not going to cost them a penny. How? They drag another club up before them because several players protested to the 'referee' about a red card he gave to a player whose tackle was more accidental than deliberate. They can now fine Liverpool and the costs of the trip to Nyon are paid for (and we think that they are incompetent).
Dutchmal
09 Dec 2011 16:24:35
im tired of people slamming the money spent on carroll saying that it couldve been spent on someone "world class" firstly what world class player would you have expected to come to a club in the state of liverpool at that time and secondly liverpool fc cannot pay the wages that other big clubs ie Manchester clubs and chelsea can
People are constantly arguing for some reason that Carroll was the only realistic striking option we had I strongly disagree
Other players that I believe Liverpool could realistically have bought with the Carroll money
Fernando Llorente
Lucas Barrios
Darren Bent
Jermaine Defoe
Any one of these players would have been a better buy in my opinion
Chris in Tamworth
Realistically? Really now?
Ok, let's recap:
Llorente - there are rumours that an attempt was made, but the 35 mln price tag was not accepted. Besides, from what I've seen of him he seems a little similar to AC.
Barrios - swapping a team fighting for first place playing in front of a 80 000 filled stadium for Post-Hodgson Liverpool? Do you have any idea what WAGES it would take to lure him? besides, he slipped into mediocry right after January, and was replaced by Lewandowski - I think an injury aided him.
Darren Bent and Jermain Defoe - cheaper - and OLDER. Both are good, but in a specific setup. Bent isn't in the best of forms now too, and never really cut it for a top-flight team. Defoe - do you remember his zero-season? Both are short-term solutions - and there was NO guarantee whether they would work even in the short-term!
If you wish to slant Carrol and theorize about "better strikers", at least throw some other names into the mix!
Drigan
Plus Darren Bent moved to Villa about a week to ten days before Torres left.
JRG
There are a few other names I could have thrown in but I kept to targets I believed to be realistic
Llorente, yes there were rumours of a bid but I don't believe it was as big as 35 and I believe a bid of 30 or more would have been too good to ignore. Also you haven't seen much of him if you think he is similar to Carroll!
Barrios, has suffered a little this season due to an injury but is lethal in the box a quality finisher and again despite the club doing well 35 million would have been hard to ignore
Bent, you suggest he hasnt done it at a big club? You'd better check his stats. No he isn't doing much at the moment but that's due entirely to the team he's in and the formation they play
Defoe, if you can't admit that he is a quality goalscorer then I'm banging my head against a brick wall
Simple question for you, if asked last season what striker you would like us to buy would Carroll have been in your top ten, be honest with yourself
Chris in Tamworth
I still rate Carroll and think he will come good. Give him a season.
Fensh
Don't forget Spurs offered £30m, so it was going to have to be a higher bid than that to get him.
It's not his fault that the fee was so high.
If he came through from the youth/reserves, we would be raving about this talent we had, yet all people see if the money spent and then start playing fantsy football manager about who we should have bought - all the while forgetting that the supposed world class players that they want would not and most of them did not want to come to LFC. Then there is the wages etc it would have cost to actually have them here at the club.
I'm not sayng that the fee for Andy was too much, just that we paid the asking price and it isn't his fault.
Don't forget all transfers fees are relative and have a knock-on effect to the fees for other players.
Andy was and is a future prospect, had sone well up to that point in his career and another team had bid for him.
We wanted him (I fully trsut the judgement of the staff at LFC over most (if not all) so called pundits/fans/ex-players etc.
Give him time, get of his back, cheer him on, give him some confidence and you will see a beast of a player.
Don't forget as well, this is the same situation these same people put Lucas through (admittedly he had a lower transfer fee) when he was getting game after game and not playing well enough or was not good enough to deserve to pull the famous red short on. Now he is probably the first name on the teamsheet and is seen as a very valuable first team player.
Would loved to have seen Llorente at 21,22,bet he klooked raw as feck,a bit like Carroll does. Barrios,watched him in the Copa,looked more then ordinary in that tourney and hasn't done much since. Bent,his lack of goals is down to the way his team plays,or Villa's formation. Do me a favour,if only football was as simplistic as just changing a formation or altering the way you play to get a guy not just scoring goals but playing well in generally,something which Bent ain't doing either of. Defoe,a quality player when it suits him,blows hot and cold on a regular basis. That's why he's not been a certain starter for Spurs in a longtime. Carroll wouldn't of been the number one player or forward i would've gone for,but we did and while he's a Liverpool player he'll get the same support as the next player. I'll wait until he's been here a while longer before passing judgement on a player who didn't ask to go for the price he did. Constant sniping at a player after each and every game won't get the team or player anywhere.
Jonson
I still rate Carroll and think he will come good. Give him a season.
he's had a season
How many games has he played moran. He was injured last season. A season is 38 games, when Carroll has had 38 games (starts), lets see how many goals he has. You all want that stupid spaniard back who didnt do sh1t for 18 months? Support your players!
09 Dec 2011 16:24:14
glad to see stevie g back at training hope he stays fit and what ever hes had is well rid
09 Dec 2011 16:12:11
I am getting sick of seeing fans saying all these tin pot players they want us to sign if we want to win cups we need spend big as all rest top teams have,not crappy albrighton or faurlin etc playes like these we need Ganso,neyma,hamsik players like that maybe not them but that class.
plus we need striker for january as suarez our best player be suspended and we need one anyway as carroll not hit form as yet.
We need Downing to cross better so andy can do what he was bought for, We need a right/left winger depending where downing is put so the crosses keep coming I cant see LFC spending big on a Striker maybe £20 million on that lad Shaqiri from FC Basel if our interest is real. Is it ED?
MJ
09 Dec 2011 16:11:03
i'm just wondering if there is any reason why a player in the form of rodrigues doesnt even make the panel week in and week out perhaps as well we could try one of our young reserve players up front like ecclestone because you saw how playing shelvy and kelly last season benefited the team
Obviously Kenny doesn't rate him.
Fensh
09 Dec 2011 16:07:13
Team I hope to see vs. QPR: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Agger, Enrique, Adam, Henderson, Shelvey, Maxi, Bellamy, Suarez.
Bench:Doni, Kelly, Carragher, Coady, Downing, Kuyt, Carroll
I hope we go with Shelvey as he has been in fine form for Blackpool and his confidence must be up with his recent performances. I would have Adam playing slightly deeper, he has shown a improved defensive game and his passing can quickly turn defence to attack (a la Xabi Alonso) Henderson and Shelvey provide legs and further creativity. Maxi, Bellamy and Suarez have been in good form so should hopefully start.
We're only 5 points off 4th spot, which could easily be made up if we start to convert even a tenth of the chances we create.
RedSG
09 Dec 2011 15:35:31
Eds, I actually have no clue why Kenny recalled Jonjo Shelvey from his loan on Blackpool if he is not going to be played.
I personally think he should be given a starting berth in some of our home games and we shall see how he handles it. Honestly, I think it was a bad move recalling him because we have Spearing to cover, and well as Henderson to drop into the centre of midfield with Charlie Adam playing a deeper role if he has to.
What is your opinion on this?
SirFluffysworth {Ed002's Note - He is a Liverpool player and the squad needs beefing up to provide cover. It seems an obvious move to me.}
Did you see how badly Spearing played in the CDM position he left holes every time fulham attacked his defending was awful and if spearing can do a 10% better job than spearing he's worth a shot
MJ
If Shelvey can do a 10% better job than spearing he's worth a shot...Sorry blonde moment
MJ
Why a DM at Anfield anyway? You guys are obsessed with this 'Lucas' role. Play a 4-4-2 at home and pick your 2 best CM's. We will score more goals.
Fensh
09 Dec 2011 15:30:45
Interesting to see Coady training with the first team. I'd like to see him given his chance in the holding midfield role this weekend.
I think this is where Lucas becoming indispensible has affected us. Against a team like QPR at home we shouldnt even be thinking of a DM. Prob why we battle to put small teams away at home. Extra attacking player is a must. 4-4-2
09 Dec 2011 15:26:23
Good man Neil Warnock for sticking up for players and specifically Suarez. He's absolutely right about the fact that players and managers receive endless amounts of abuse from fans and the media, but once they respond they get charged with improper conduct.
Please don't tell me that you couldn't see yourself reacting with a simple gesture like Suarez did, given the amount of stick he gets (rightly or wrongly) and how frustrating the Fulham game must have been to play in?
ChrisMiz
So Gary Neville was getting dogs abuse from you at OT and celebrated by running to the away end kissing his united badge and subsequently got reprimanded by the fa! Im sure you were saying that it was unfair on Gary Neville! Listen Suarez needs to accept he is responsible for his own actions ... getting abuse isnt nice for any player but it takes a bigger man not to react!
CRAIGY!
Gary Neville ran the length of the pitch when he should of been celebrating with his own fans and players. Saurez flipped off the fans as he was leaving the pitch after a completely undeserved defeat. As far as I am concerned there is a big difference.
Wavertree red
Warnock knows how the games played, if qpr were not playing liverpool this week he wouldn't have even mentioned suarez....
Like Cantona
Bobbinred
Craigy your right getting abuse is not nice and is part of a footballers career Suarez should not have give the finger to the fulham fans, but you know what else is not nice a false accusation of racism which has placed a big black mark over suarez
MJ
Agreed MJ on the racism front as there is no place in football for it or life for that matter! If he hasnt said anything racist to Evra then i feel for him and am disgusted in someone making false accusations. However if found guilty then i think its disgraceful and the boy needs to have a good long hard look at himself and realise what effect his actions / remarks can have on people!
CRAIGY!
Exactly Bobbinred , just like Cantona , who stepped out of line and had to face the consequences! If you are going to react to fans then be prepared to accept the punishment!
CRAIGY!
Craigy; I was reacting to your statement...getting abuse isnt nice for any player but it takes a bigger man not to react! hence I mentioned Cantona. Bobbinred
09 Dec 2011 15:25:36
I hope he starts Coady!
Corkpoolred
Dont get your hopes up.
09 Dec 2011 14:54:33
Glad to see that Lucas had a successful op today. I'm sure you will join me in wishing him a speedy and full recovery. YNWA Lucas Leiva.
D-Day (1892)
09 Dec 2011 14:33:48
Heard today from a friend who claims his source is legitimate(i have no idea though) that we are actively seeking Xherdan Shaqiri. Any truth to this as i cant really take his word for it. I think he would be one of the best possible signings for lfc in the transfer window besides getting a clinical striker. Thanks, love the site keep up the good work {Ed002's Note - Not as far as we know.}
09 Dec 2011 14:13:58
Just a quick one, most likely already been discussed here, just remind me, why do we do our pre-match conferences on Thursdays?
Cheers.
I have wondered this . I reckon it is just a simple decision to be consistent with the press conference scheduling , whether the game is at Anfield or Away .
1977
1977
09 Dec 2011 14:04:36
Haven't posted on here for a while as I find it all too frustrating reading some of the endless criticism of our players and even KK. It beggers belief sometimes.
Anyway some of you would do well to take time out and read this blog to remind us all of the state we were in 12months ago to where we are now..............
thekop.liverpoolfc.tv/_Why-LFC-are-on-the-right-track/blog/5614722/173471.html
The Goatherder
JFT96
09 Dec 2011 14:00:15
Hi Ed's do you have an idea who's going to play defensive midfield? I've heard that flannagan is going to be tried out, isit true he can play midfield? {Ed002's Note - No idea.}
Hendo will sit with Adam IMO! Shelvey off the striker
Even then you could give coady a chance but its likely that hendo will sit hes better in the center
Yes, its been trialed over the past few months, he has been palying in midfield in training games quite frequently.
Adzii
09 Dec 2011 14:00:00
Barring any injuries, i would presume we'll form like so:-
Reina, Johnson, Agger, Skrtel, Enrique
Henderson, Adam
Downing, Kuyt, Bellamy
Suarez.
My only worry is that Bellamy played a longer than planned game on Monday night. If Bellamy is rested then it's a straight choice between Maxi/Kuyt for that wide berth with Carroll coming in up top.
It's about now that the squad starts to get tested. With injuries to Lucas and Gerrard we look very short for options in the middle. If Adam was to get injured for a period of time now we would struggle.
I watched the reserves in midweek verses Wigan. If ever there was a clear example of how going on loan and playing consistent first team football at a high standard improves and develops a player then look no further than Jonjo Shelvey.
Suddenly he looked head and shoulders above anyone on Tuesday on that pitch. Oozed confidence and looked a class player. This time last year he was much of a muchness with everyone and it was only his bald head that made him stick out!
Whilst it is probably disappointing for his development to be cut short, he may have shown enough to be a part of the first team set up from now on in. If he can make this much improvement in a few short months whilst on loan at Blackpool, i wonder what would have happened with a whole season under his belt?
Remember everyone who goes to the match. Do not allow the atmosphere to fall to the flat levels of the Swansea game but to keep it at the levels it was against City. If you can do that, the players will do likewise.
Looking forward again excitedly to the match
Bob the Red
Great write up bob and that's the team I'd go for too.what I like most about shelvey is that he brings real aggression in his play.I've always loved what the sounness,macmahon type players bring to a team and I hope he will do that for u's in the years to come.Yosser
09 Dec 2011 13:45:10
any1 think g.johnson and a.johnson are similar players yet one plays rb and the other rw, we dont need a winger if we play g.johnson there. and stick kelly rb and buy and get a decent backup for kelly or play carragher or coates if kelly gets injured. henderson has been useless on the wing so stick him cm for the next games. would solve so many peoples problems. i read kenny says it hard keeping everyone happy but hes making it harder for himself, he doesnt make enough substitutions when we need them. bloody hell, whats it gonna be like when gerrard and lucas are back and we have new signings, he talks about having a squad but that seems to be letting us down when he cant pick his best team or play them in the right position
Glen Johnson will only play RB, it's part of a clause in his contract, like the Eds have told us recently! He's worried about his position in the England side, a bit like a certain Michael Owen!
Keith
So he can play LB and thats not a problem? Common lads, we all love the local lad Kelly, but Johnson is forst choice RB for now. Deal with it.
Have you ever thought that there is a difference between coming onto the ball from RB to getting the ball and turning being a RM? Being an attacking RB doesnt gaurantee you will make a great RW.
09 Dec 2011 13:29:47
(Sung to the tune of Mambo number 5)
A little bit of Chico's broken toes. A little bit of Fergies whìskey nose. A little a bit of Evra crying 'race'. A little bit of giggsy's pixie face. A little bit of Vidic seeing red. A little bit of Rooney's baldy head. A little bit of Nani taking a dive ...you can see it all on Channel Five.
Don't no if anyone has already posted this but wouldn't do any harm to read it twice.
Wavertree red
09 Dec 2011 13:21:29
Maybe it's juz me but with wee jay suspended, wldn't it make sense to play kelly at RB, Johnson at RM and hendo at CM?
Solves our probs. Johnson should do well on the right wing, prob better than hendo or kuyt. Kelly has been superb when he plays and hendo's natural position is CM.
Seems like the obvious thing to do but what do I know? :-)
Come on you Reds! We want that win tmr!
YNWA
Singapore Red
Becauae then we wont have backup for those positions and thats all kennys assed about
I agree but for some stupid contract he supposedly cant play right wing which I find stupid
The Dark Knight
Why what you mean some stupid contract he cant play right wing????????
I do find this alleged Johnson contract all a bit bizarre. Are we to believe that, except in emergencies, we have to play him at right back? That he can't be played as right mid-field for the good of the team? Who on earth, on behalf of the club, would agree to something as daft as that? LFC players should be pleased to play anywhere the Manager wants them to play FOR THE GOOD OF THE TEAM. But Johnson has his own special contract? Really?
ND {Ed001's Note - hardly that special, they are fairly common, Joe Cole had a similar thing, which caused a few problems last season as Kenny had no intention of playing him.}
Thanks Ed - I had no idea that such clauses existed in players' contacts - I'm gobsmacked. Cheers.
ND
09 Dec 2011 12:53:19
Team i'd play vs QPR (although its very unlikely):
-----------------Reina----------------------
Kelly------Skrtel--------Agger-------Enrique
--------Henderson------Adam--------------
Johnson----------Shelvey----------Downing
------------------Suarez-------------------
Glen Johnson needs to be given a chance to show what he can do in the final third, without having to worry about covering for himself because our right midfielder has dissapeared into the centre. Shelvey has proved he is devastating in behind the striker both for us and in particualr for Blackpool this year, just give him a chance, he can't score less than Carroll. I'd swap Suarez and Shelvey on the 60th minute and bring Carroll on for Shelvey so Carroll gets a chance with two proper wingers on the proper sides of the pitch for a change.
YNWA! (Adam)
Bellamy?
No Maximus Decimus Rodriguez, possessor of a sweet right foot, intelligence of a cultured No.10, unwarranted warmer of a bench...? he will score goals for this club or the next!!
Ahaa, Gladiator referance ;D Thats my favourite film ever.
"What we do in life, echoes in all of eternity".
Bellamy on the bench, he's better as an impact sub imho.
YNWA! (Adam)
1 striker at home? I can read the posts already after the game... "Kenny needs to be sacked, doesn't know what he's doing" etc etc.... sorry don't agree with the team.
Richards
Dont think Shelvey will start.
My team would be:
Reina
Johnson Skrtel Agger Enrique
Maxi Hendo Adam Downing
Suarez Carroll
But I think Kenny will play Kuyt instead of Maxi (who he obviously doesn't like for some reason) and possibly Bellamy instead of Downing.
09 Dec 2011 12:32:50
I'm fed up of all this carp that Johnson is gonna be sold. He is Englands No.1, Kelly claims he is learning a great deal from him, and as well as being an excellent defender, he can also be a match winner!
Jesus whats wrong with you people! I assume none of you watch the games? The papers say he's a shakey defender, so you all just go with it? If you actually watch him play, theres not a winger in the league who can beat him. The reason he is occasionally made to look fragile is because he is also the only decent right winger we have in the club. He goes forward to provide us with the width we need! The man is basically playing two positions better than imo two players could, and you just ridicule him, and copy and paste BS about him being for sale.
Rant Over.
Glen Johnson, YNWA!
YNWA! (Adam)
When Glenn makes his attacking runs, he just needs to be covered in defence by another player. I think Glenn is one of our best players.
He is a bad defender who gets done by average wingers
The Dark Knight
Dark Knight... You sure your not really a Red Knight? Johnson is a brilliant player and he'd walk into any team in the league.
YNWA! (Adam)
Defending is one of his weakest attributes, so why does he play rb when he gets skinned by d.murphy
I dont rate him at all especially at right back, much prefer kelly
The Dark Knight
That was a bad error for the Murphy shot but how many mistakes has he made since playing RB this season?
Seems like he's the latest scapegoat...
Richards
Wont get into Arsenal's as they have the best in the league with Bacary Sagna
He was always shakey defensively. But to be fair, his defensive game has improved a lot under Dalglish. I still think he should be on the right of our midfield though.
Kelly is already a better defender than Johnson - particularly in terms of aerial ability, and he is more willing to put his body on the line.
Not saying Glen is that bad a RB, just that Kelly is better. We're crying out for pace on the right. Have been for years. Two birds with one stone I say. Kelly and Johnson combining down the right-side could be awesome. I'd love to give it a try. If it works (which I'm sure it would) it'd save us a fortune on a right midfielder (I think Henderson's long-term future lies in CM).
BJH YNWA (Glen was excellent at RM for Portsmouth)
ps. Shelvey is gonna be some player! Watch this space! (So long as Kenny doesn't play him at LB that is.........)
Nobody remembers when Glen defends well (which is often), but 1 mistake or a slip and he is tripe. Has any actually seen when Enrique switches off and has lost his man a couple of times? No, but he is the signing of the season. Typical.
I rate Glen and always have - especially as we haven't had any threat on our right side for years. All players make mistakes but Glen more than makes up for his going fwd.
Fensh
Sagna is so overrated like Clichy was! Actually your whole defense is rubbish expect for Vermaelen.
09 Dec 2011 12:02:01
We may have a couple of injuries but we can stil atack QPR 3 ways
Reina
Johnson Carragher Skrtel Enrique
Henderson Adam Agger
Maxi Suarez Bellamy
Reina
Johnson Carragher Skrtel Enrique
Bellamy Adam Henderson Downing
Carroll Suarez
Reina
Johnson Carragher Skrtel Enrique
Adam henderson
Bellamy Suarez Downing
Carroll
Much needed win on Sat, come on the reds!!
CARRAGHER,CARRAGHER,CARRAGHER. You MUST be joking!!! Let's look forward. If you don't want Agger then bring in Coates. Carragher is a backward step but in my opinion he has always been over-rated.
Dutchmal
Carragher was a fantastic player, but as he is getting older, he is getting slower.
I think Agger and Skrtel should be played at the back, but having Carragher on the teamsheet gives a giant boost to everyone around him. But Agger is definitely our best defender at the club, so if anyone should be dropped for Carragher, it should be Skrtel.
09 Dec 2011 11:44:04
Alright ED.. this might just be the craziest post of the day. but i'm just gonna post it anyway.
A week back i was clearing out my book shelf and i found a magazine dated December 2010. It had a Chelsea FC advert on the back cover. The usual suspects were in the advert ala Terry, Lampard and Drogba.
With those 3, was a No. 9 jersey. Just a jersey with the no. 9 on it. It struck me as kinda odd that they would print a big advert like this with just a jersey no. that wasn't even occupied by ANY player let alone a big name player at that time.
So do u think that Chelsea had the Torres deal agreed with LFC even before the window started.? Or maybe they were just looking to bring a star No.9 regardless whether it was Torres or not?
S.G.L.
PS I love ED002 {Ed001's Note - bit of both I would say, they certainly expected the Torres deal to be done, but I am sure they would have had options just in case.}
Did u know anything about the Torres deal before January ED001?
S.G.L. {Ed002's Note - Sure, Chelsea were interested in Torres at the end of the summer 2010 window.}
I have it from a really good source that the Torres deal, along with Meireles deal were actually in place a long time before we found out. Also, Cahill is going to Chelsea in January.
Apparently Chelsea tried to sign Cahill in the Summer, as they want him to gain experience from Terry before Terry moves on.
They missed out at the last minute due to the transfer window closing.
I cant reveal my source on here as I would be betraying someones confidence in me. However, I can let the Eds know if required.
If you search the archives of this site at the start of january 2011 , you will see a post from me about Suarez being a replacement for Torres.
Thats why I never bought into this Torres let us down on the last day of the transfer window and the club should've been prepared for it , and not spend 35m in a panic buy.
Roy
It's well known Torres gave more than a weeks notice that he wanted out...
red snake
Sorry 'ROY' .
The archives only go back to 26th June 2011 .
1977
26th my birthday
gee man
09 Dec 2011 11:39:05
is there any deference be twin Andy Carroll and Rayan Babel ? both Tall and young one British another Dutch. but money £35m and we Sale Babel £5.5m
Id say ryan babel would of done better if hed chances carroll had.
I think bable and swarez would have done better.
Ryan had lots of chances with LFC, he did not improve enough, Andy still has time to improve. Ryan is not exactly setting his new club on fire, in fact he has faded away.
09 Dec 2011 10:37:21
Tell you what if Shelvey gets the nod this weekend he really has a chance to show what he could do for us for a few games. He's moved up the order due to Lucas being injured and Spearing being banned. He's had a few games at Blackpool and could feature in a home game against a newly promoted side in QPR. Could everything be falling into place for him?
Spriggo
Well for the short term
and its not like he hasnt started for us yet had 15 league appearances most sub
In an ideal world he could do with a full season on loan, starting most games and gaining lots more prem experience before he runs out as a starter for LFC- just as Sturridge and Clerverly have done, and they've become much better players for it.
But its an emergency- SG, LL and JS are all out for now, and he will be needed.
Fingers crossed he can step up now and deliver for his club.
I fear Shelvey will be targeted by QPR. He might have a nightmare or be brilliant. It will give us a chance to see if he has matured after short Blackpool loan.
09 Dec 2011 10:11:13
Ed, I know you don't like getting involved with team selections and formations, however, do you think its possible that we might go back to playing 5 at the back with 3 CB's with our lacking midfield somewhat lacking in defensive qualities? Cheers pal
ToonRed
{Ed002's Note - You would do better to ask the other posters such questions.}
09 Dec 2011 10:07:05
i was giving a man utd fan cooking tips the other day, i said "when your cooking foreign food there are lots of herbs and spices you can use, but you can't beat basel!".
huddz red
09 Dec 2011 09:18:04
Shaqiri this Shaqiri that. shut up. nobody taking about him, then you see him in one game and hes the messiah. give me a small break. thank God you are not the manager.
Dara D
To be fair people have been talking about him for some time now
It can't be match of the day fever after 3 years of good football. Not sure how consistent he is in a league season but against England and in champions league he has been impressive especially for his.age, he is built for the English.game.
I apologise, I was a bit grumpy this morning!
Dara D
Its a good thing when people arent talking about players it only increases the players value
Anyone who watched this lad the other night saw what he had to offer
Shaqiri working with Dalglish would be a god send
you obviously know your football mr Darra
and worked in football management
looking at your post why would you not sign this lad
i have observed this player for some time not just the united game
IN two years he will be in a world 11 team mark my words
Sorry to upset you but he is PURE CLASS
Google Shaqiri and see how often he has been linked to LFC. I know it's gossip but he has been on our radar for over 18 months.
Again......apologies!
Dara D
09 Dec 2011 07:56:17
Hi Eds, can you tell me who the realistic liverpool targets are? Great site keep it up :)
{Ed002's Note - Please read the posts.}
09 Dec 2011 05:33:41
kenny to go for david hoilett as he is a real quality player avalible at 8m-12m and the will give us an option on the right and has premier league experince
reckon he will try to sell skertl abroad most likely destinatio russia replace him with gary cahill as skertl rushes into tackles aswell as is a very hands on defender cahill is a clam defender and can handle the pressure he will also need to play for a bigger team if he wants to cement a place in capellos euro squad 4m-8m should see the deal through
Agree with you about Hoilett, however totally dis agree about Skretl, Cahill is not good enough he is just a good player in a poor bolton team, which makes him look world class.
When will some fans realise that Skrtel is not a bad player. Even if not first choice he is a brill squad player. Seems to have a great attitude as well.
Fensh
I dont like cahill. doesnt haver a trustworthy face.
And Skrytel looks so trustworthy! Agree though, prefer Skrytel to Cahill
Irish Red Dog
Been championing Hoilett for some time. I believe he has the makings of a very good player. Largely down to his willingness to beat a man, and ability to use both his feet. A talent lost in a lot of footballers these days.
D-Day (1892)
Cahill is rubbish, and so is Shawcross - I'd be gutted if we ever signed either of those two.
Skrtel looks hard and strong and has improved this season. He also rarely misses a game. Cahill plays like a atrt.
Skrtel seems to generally link up better with Agger in defence. The pair have been pretty solid this season when playing together. cahill just has a face on him like a burnt out sofa.
Cuchulainn's Hounds
09 Dec 2011 05:11:26
Ed, If we sell Glen in the summer, which i hopw we do, what would be the price approximately? {Ed002's Note - It would just be guesswork to say.}
Would not sell him, but if the eds are right then would only sell at £10m upwards.
09 Dec 2011 00:32:43
New Manchester Utd fragrance available for Xmas.... Channel No. 5
09 Dec 2011 00:20:19
with city crashing out of champions league surely they will go and spend another huge package on new players. this wud open the door to the 'fringe' players. One of Which being Johnson, please please please can we make at least an attempt, young english quick and creative, would be a great signing. What are the Eds vibes? RedTom {Ed001's Note - only if they get a replacement.}
Would A. Johnson want to come Ed? {Ed002's Note - I think there is a very good chance he would if the opportunity arises.}
I like Glen Johnson but I'd swap him for Adam Johnson and Micah Richards thanks!
08 Dec 2011 23:58:47
Not really a rumour ed's but just a thought of the liverpool youngster nathan eccleston, he seems a top finisher when getting good service, hence why he hasn't really shined on loan at charlton and rochdale! He would be worth a punt in my eyes, and could save us a lot of money! The chances we've made this season and every one keeps saying we need a finisher! Just a thought! Thanks ed's DHH L20 Kopite! Y..N..W..A * * * * * {Ed001's Note - I personally don't think he is anywhere near good enough to make it at Liverpool, I have yet to see anything to suggest he is good enough for the Championship either.}
08 Dec 2011 23:48:36
What are the chances of shaqiri or sturridge coming to liverpool in the near future
Negligible, to be polite.
Could prob get Shaqiri if we made a huge offer and paid nice wages. Chelsea won't sell Sturridge, AVB rates him.