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24 Jun 2017 19:25:16
Hey ed01, could I please ask you for an update in the CM situation, and what are the expectations for next season?

It would seem that we are fairly serious in targetting Naby Keita, and I am all for that, because he seems an exceptional talent, and sometimes you just need to make room in the squad for such.

However, I am a little confused whether we are pushing for Keita specifically, or will an alternative CM be sought.

We seem surprisingly well-stocked in that position, even with Lucas leaving, we could keep Stewart as a utility player - it seems he did not make the next step in his development, but for me he is no worse than, say, Cocquelen.

The Oxlade-Chamberlain interest also confuses me. The lad needs to be a starter, and he won't be with us. Gini and Emre should be ahead of him.
One last thing - what are the expectations for Gini next year? Does he remain a regular starter, were Klopp and the training staff pleased with him? Personally, I liked him very much, but another of the eds pointed out that he went missing too often, so I am curious how does the club view him?

Cheers, have a good one!

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - Keita is not looking for the move, Oxlade-Chamberlain is the alternative. Wijnaldum is expected to be a regular.}


1.) 24 Jun 2017 19:51:43
Thing is that Ox isn't a centre midfielder, I can't understand the interest in him, as he's never looked much more than a one dimensional wide player with delusions of being a centre midfielder. I'd be disappointed if we went from Keita to Ox as the gap in ability between the two is huge. We'd be better off giving Stewart a chance than wasting money on Ox if we couldn't get a really top player like Keita.


2.) 24 Jun 2017 19:56:00
This may be stupid ed but I'm going to ask anyway. Say if we sign the Oxs would the club keep trying to get Keita?

{Ed001's Note - keep trying? We are no longer trying already.}


3.) 24 Jun 2017 20:32:38
Ed can you say or not please if there has been contact between us and Arsenal, or even talks between representatives and were talks are at currently.

Appreciate if i've asked to much and you don't want to say, but you do normally advise us of contact.

Thanks again mate.

I really hope we get him tbh.

{Ed001's Note - he has been told he can leave if he wants and a bid comes in that meets Arsenal's valuation. As far as I am aware that is as far as things have gone, but Klopp really does want to sign him, he wants to join Liverpool, so I expect a deal to be done.}


4.) 24 Jun 2017 20:37:01
oh dear. not a good alternative.


5.) 24 Jun 2017 20:48:14
So, across the whole of the world, what we are expecting to believe is that Ox is the best we can come up with for centre midfield? And this is the reason why we fail to ever really compete at the highest level and will continue to fail.


6.) 24 Jun 2017 20:49:06
More average English over hyped players. Just what we need, not.


7.) 24 Jun 2017 20:58:40
Wow. Cheers ed. Spot on again mate. didn't expect that reply. I hope we get a deal done. Have a good evening mate.


8.) 24 Jun 2017 21:01:23
How is that the different option tho.

Just don't understand it. Same as sanchez to ballotelli.

Keita, cyprian, seri, gueye and kante should be the targets.

Obv two of them are not avaliable but there all pretty much the same mold.

How you get from kieta to oxlade is beyond me.


9.) 24 Jun 2017 21:11:48
Why go for ox when today in the papers they are saying renato sanches has been made available for 23m down from 30m. I know he didn't play much for Bayern last season but at benfica he looked like a really promising young CM. I feel he moved to early in his career but he still has time to fulfil his immense potential. Another one we were linked with (to what degree I'm unsure) Gabriel Barbosa another that moved a little early and it didn't work out for him. But remember the last Brazilian Liverpool bought from inter and how that turned out?


10.) 24 Jun 2017 21:17:08
I think everybody's over reacting to Ox coming in.
Everybody was quite upset with Mane and Wiji, I believe at arsenal, Arsene never made any progress with them, he's taken Ox, as far as he can, I believe he'll thrive under Klopp, especially if he's so keen on him to join, that'll install some confidence in Ox. I believed he'll surprise us all and I reckon he'll fulfill his abilities with us.
After the mane and wiji fieasco I think we should judge what they do on the field.


11.) 24 Jun 2017 21:17:49
I remember when everybody on here was saying Mane and Wijnaldum weren't good enough.

Not saying Ox is perfect, but people forget he is 23 years old. He finally seems free of his injuries and just had his best season in terms of end product despite it being his first season playing from deeper. He has been historically an attacking midfielder or a winger. Yet last season he played in central midfield due to Cazorla being injured, Coquelin being the French Cattermole, and Xhaka being a thug with no ability. Then he was pushed deeper still to play as a wing back!

I have my doubts over him as part of a midfield 2. He is a bit of a headless chicken. However I'm intrigued to see him off the side of our midfield 3. He could be very good there in my opinion because he has the pace and power to get up and down, he can tackle, he has a good end product for a young player, and he is also comfortable in both central and wide situations.

Nowhere near as negative as some people make out. With Gini it was his fault Newcastle got relegated, and Mane was supposedly some dressing room distraction. Yet last season they were probably level with Coutinho for player of the season. Klopp likes rough diamonds with a point to prove. So we really should stop moaning and let him get on with it!


12.) 24 Jun 2017 21:23:44
I'm surprised Ox being looked at for centre mid, but he's definitely streets ahead of Stewart, Stewart offers nothing going forward. Though Klopp seemed to like him, I think he called him the best tackler at the club.

Shame about Keita, fella looks the real deal.

Ox would give us the option of a further wide player, and considering we sold Ibe for 15m, if the ox was available for 20/ 25 that wouldn't be a bad bit of business imo.


13.) 24 Jun 2017 21:44:34
If we do get Ox i think there will be a few suprised on here. I think what Klopp is looking for is pace in the side, with Mane Salah and Ox we have 3 options who all can play either left or right and all have amazing pace to break teams down. Ox may even be an option for a wing back if we go to 3 at the back, which is my thinking of the way we will play next season (hence trying for VVD) .

I for one hope we do get him,


14.) 24 Jun 2017 22:00:07
Thing is that Ox isn't and never has been a centre midfielder! He's simply not up to it, it was obvious against Scotland and even more so against France that he isn't. He chased shadows and looked like he didn't have a clue with the ball at his feet, you cannot coach intelligence, it's either there or it's not.


15.) 24 Jun 2017 21:37:23
Jesus ed im sorry your info has attracted so much abuse to us so called fans. I for one am happy if we get him.


16.) 24 Jun 2017 21:54:04
Ox is poor in every position he plays and is severely injury prone, end of. He is a jack of all trade and master of none who lacks intelligence or any technical ability. He is a good athlete, which is code for, "he is crap at football itself" cos a good athletedoes not make a good footballer.

That said, if Klopp wants him then I will differ to him as this is his baby but those trying to sell us the Ox as some kind of good player need to stop cos they are failing miserable at it.


17.) 24 Jun 2017 22:22:58
I agree with MK, the Ox is a good player and will surprise many played in a midfield 3 - however, he is a HUGE step down from Keita, who looks like a world talent. Who knows, it might turn out to be reversed.
What worries me is that I do not, (or rather, wouldn't want) to see the Ox as a regular starter. I like what Gini offers to the table. He would be a perfect understudy for Lallana though, since Adam would at some point start to lose his stamina and dynamism. but would he be happy with that?


18.) 24 Jun 2017 22:32:38
'Will surprise many in a midfield three'? Like he did against Scotland and France? Or the humpings that Arsenal got when he played there for them? He was all at sea in those games, and looked like didn't know what to do. And why? He simply doesn't have the brains to play there so doesn't know where to be at the right time. He's a very average winger on a par with Andros Townsend, nothing more than that.


19.) 24 Jun 2017 22:34:06
Also agree with mk. So many people were asking where does Gini fit it in and say how he is nowhere near good enough. Last season he was almost ever present and was a key player for us. The I'd could do the same.


20.) 24 Jun 2017 22:38:16
£30m apparently. Far too much for someone of such limited ability.


21.) 24 Jun 2017 22:39:39
This it a bit like an old western movie where the Indians say the white man speaks with two tongues, out of one side of the mouth people say they "trust Klopp and he is the best manager" blah blah blah, out of the other they say "what is he doing this player is no good, that player is no good, what is he thinking". BEFORE A PLAYER IS SIGNED!
Either you trust Klopp or you don't. #hesnotlisteninganyway.


22.) 24 Jun 2017 22:46:35
Embarrassing we are berating a player for being linked with us. Agree with MK on Wijnaldum and mane being frowned upon and look how that turned out. I don't think ox is anywhere near as bad as he's being made to be above, plus even if I did I would support he managers decision him to get the best out of him. I was ready to say bye bye to lallana before Klopp came in now he's one of our best players.


23.) 24 Jun 2017 22:51:08
I was one of those who was doubtful about Wijnaldum, and Klopp basically took skills that he saw in him and put them to far better use for the tactical structure he wanted the team to play in. And it worked. Klopp took a supposedly lazy midfielder with a powerful long shot and turned him into a multi-faceted player who plays with far more skills, in many ways, than he ever did at Newcastle.

So why can't it happen with Oxlade-Chamberlain? Klopp has a plan. Trust the man and trust the plan!


24.) 24 Jun 2017 23:26:03
Firstly, the Ox is young and English and will still have a lot of sell on value if it comes to that in a few years time. If we do manage to get him for 25M or so, that's actually at a cut price as he only has 1 year left on his contract. Secondly, he can play in CM or on the wing which will be a massive bonus when the afcon comes around, aswell as our fixture schedule looking a lot more congested this year with the CL games. Lastly, we need a top class squad to compete with the likes of Chelsea for the prem, which is ultimately klopps goal. Forget the other cups, the prem is the most important. Players like stewart can't even be mentioned in the same breathe as the ox. The ox has played at the highest level against the highest teams in the world and they're both the same age. I agree he's not in the same league as Keita, but i still think its a total no brainer for us to buy him, we'll have genuine options next year and players on the bench that can actually effect games.


25.) 24 Jun 2017 23:34:36
Is there a better way to throw £25m away?


26.) 24 Jun 2017 23:51:01
Have some faith in Klopp, we had the same doubts about Gini and Mane, and nobody mentions their transfer fee anymore, if Klopp thinks he can improve a player then there must be reason for it, he's not English and does not give a carp about 'English talent', your man is looking to add players he think will improve our team regardless of where they come from, and he hasn't given us a reason to doubt him so far.


27.) 25 Jun 2017 00:10:10
First Milner is a better full back than Alves. Now Stewart is better than the ox. Silly season.


28.) 25 Jun 2017 01:25:22
I cannot understand the negativity around ox. Seems like he's been about forever. Regular for england and arsenal for 5/ 6 years. That's not the career of a journeyman. I agree with the post that said he may surprise many fans. I'm excited by the interest and eager for it to happen. Another talented, attacking player heading for liverpool.


29.) 25 Jun 2017 01:56:12
Gini and Mane were both starters and in Manes case considered one of their best players in the team. 25 million seems ridiculous for a squad player in his last year.


30.) 25 Jun 2017 02:24:23
Jonny.

9 goals in 129 apperances. from a winger.

3 bad knee injuries.

Atleast 6 weeks out every season.

Got no actual position.

Average wherever he plays.

Cant play cm.

Abd how in any way is he next after keita. How. How does that happen.


31.) 25 Jun 2017 02:31:49
What say you, Ed1, what's your view of The Ox?

{Ed001's Note - I have given my opinion a number of times, there is no point just repeating myself mate. He is not my choice but Klopp likes him.}


32.) 25 Jun 2017 08:21:28
My initial reaction is fairly underwhelmed by the suggestion that Ox might join Liverpool. However.
I'm old enough to remember Shank's signing of Ray Kennedy from Arsenal. That didn't make much sense to any of us either. A complete waste of 200,000 on an aging striker, we thought.
That turned out pretty well though.
Maybe some of us don't know as much as we think we do.


33.) 25 Jun 2017 08:48:08
Ed001 summed it up quite nicely actually.

"{Ed001's Note - I like Salah, he is lightning, maybe even quicker than Mane, plus he is excellent technically. If he can settle in ok and build a partnership with the other players, he will be an excellent signing.

I do not see any reason to think the same of Oxlade-Chamberlain. He is big and strong, but lacks intelligence, which is why he has yet to play well (when I have watched him) when he starts. Like most that lack intelligence, he does his best work when used as an impact sub. Technically I remain to be convinced he is that good, he is all about physical over technical for me. That is not even mentioning the injury problem. }"


34.) 25 Jun 2017 08:50:16
Difference was that Ray Kennedy was a very clever and intelligent footballer. You can't accuse Ox of being either of those.


35.) 25 Jun 2017 09:05:09
I have liked the Ox as a player for a while and think he could do a job for us if we sign him. Klopp must have something in mind for him, so will wait and see. Though, my personal opinion is he is a luxury and not something we need, I would like us to sign a midfield enforcer (tough in the tackle), a CB and LB. But there is a reason I am not the manager and Klopp is, I trust Klopp to get it right.

SA.


36.) 25 Jun 2017 09:10:31
Ox is a good player but not great. When it was first announced that he was going to be available Klopp said he was not interested so I do not expect Ox to arrive at LFC.


37.) 25 Jun 2017 09:16:53
Do you still need a certain number of English players or players who have played in England for s certain amount of time for a champions league squad? Is this possibly the thinking with the Ox?


38.) 25 Jun 2017 10:51:51
Ox and VVD. 90m wasted if we get both. Just go all out for Mendy and prepare for next season.


39.) 25 Jun 2017 11:02:43
The Ox is just not good enough to be a starter for Liverpool. That being said if we can get him for £20m then I would be happy as he would add good squad dept. But you should not be spending £30m on squad dept.


40.) 25 Jun 2017 11:12:26
Brussels red you say people need to stop saying he's a good player, yet you're allowed to say he's a bad player? It's called an opinion and I for one would much rather side with Klopp at this point, seeing his track record, than sit here and proclaim a player isn't good enough for a shirt he's yet to wear. Wenger has struggled to develop players the way he used to, regardless of how Ox has played I think there's a strong argument that Klopp could improve him significantly. Do I personally think there's better midfield options, yes. But this constant 'I'm right you're wrong' from people on here is getting a little draining!


41.) 25 Jun 2017 11:18:25
Better off ignoring people like Brussels, TIA. Been here for years now and you see his kind all the time, but they only last a few months. Some people just cannot respect the opinions of others and attack them instead of their argument. He'll go after Ed002 eventually and get banned 😂.


42.) 25 Jun 2017 13:19:53
I think Ox is a decent player. I also think he'd surprise a lot of doubters if he did come. I think when it comes to signings most of Klopps have been successful and we just have to trust him on this one too.


43.) 26 Jun 2017 17:30:56
Killinghome your memory is playing tricks on you, far from being an ageing striker Ray Kennedy was 23 when he signed.


 

 

31 May 2017 11:33:20
Salah rumours in Egyptian media, at least according to red fans that can read arabic - so, nothing concrete. Ed02, have you heard something on this front?
Also, there was another mirky rumour that Fosberg has asked to be sold from Red Bull, though I am not too sure if we would be interested.

Drigan

{Ed002's Note - Salah is very similar to Mane - it would be an odd choice - particularly given he did not settle culturally and for another reason before.}


1.) 31 May 2017 18:59:16
Both salah and mane don't specifically play on the right wing, they drift inside and often end up on the left, with klopps attacking system it's clearly apparent that the forward players have licence to move out of position. Just think of a forward line of Coutinho in the 8 position mane wide right, salah wide left and firmino/ Sturridge through the middle. Huge amounts of pace and clever movement for Phil to pick out.


2.) 31 May 2017 19:14:09
Whether we are interested in Salah or not, I really do not see the point in signing a player who made it clear why he never wanted to join Liverpool in the first place? People have short memories.

Will Liverpool now go ahead and sell their soul to the devil?


3.) 31 May 2017 19:37:51
You must remember max it was us who failed to complete the transfer, we were negotiating for several months and refused to meet the the asking price, then chelsea came in and bought him.


4.) 31 May 2017 20:05:12
Sakho, we wasted the players time as well as his agents time. Irrespective of what stalled the deal.

Why would we want to pursue him again or even think that he would want to join us after making ourselves look like a laughing stock chasing him? His agent will be very thick skinned this time round and only one thing in mind, payback. Very expensive payback.

Do you understand that?


5.) 31 May 2017 21:11:41
Max football is a ruthless game, there is no loyalty in football and I hope you are aware of that, salah's agent is employed to get him the best deal possible. I really couldn't care less if we wasted his time, he got a better deal at Chelsea and now after two very impressive seasons we're interested again, he'll benefit the first 11 hugely so honestly I couldn't care less if the agent is seemingly out for revenge as you have put it. Also max just wondering is it your money that we're using to fund this rumoured new deal if so I can understand why you're so irate?


6.) 31 May 2017 21:33:06
Because there is a reason why Liverpool just about end up spending more on agents fees than any other club each season. I am not being irate, I am just pointing out that Liverpool cannot be some cash cow anymore for fans who want the likes of Van Dijk to be signed hemorrhaging club finances in the process. If we sign VVD then so be it but it comes at a massive cost to the club.

Signing Salah will just be a bottomless pit for Liverpool. Especially when we have already burnt bridges with the player and his agent. Why on earth would anyone in their right mind want to indulge in such madness?

Fans really need to wake up. Liverpool's bank account is not an open tap, well at this point it is actually. Especially if we continue to do business of oversized marquees.


7.) 31 May 2017 21:54:49
Hmmm. Arabic papers need to sell copy just like English ones.


8.) 31 May 2017 22:14:00
You really think Klopp and co would put the club into financial risk, obviously this has been thought through. Klopp is being backed significantly this Summer to compete with the likes of city united and chelsea. They are going to improve their squads but you mate are having a panic attack at the thought of improving the first 11 so we can compete. What do you want us to do, just buy some more average players like we did under Rodgers or the king or go out and buy proven talent.


 

 

30 Apr 2017 21:12:20
Hey ed02, ya smooth peach! A little bit of a MOTD fever, but any updates on Pereira from Nice? Also, is he seen as an alternative of Ryan Sessegnon or are both transfers unrelated?

Cheers and a nice evening!

Drigan

{Ed002's Note - Pereira is still of interest to Liverpool but certainly not an alternative to RS.}


1.) 30 Apr 2017 21:50:27
He was excellent tonight vs PSG scored a beauty and got an assist. Would be a huge upgrade on Clyne, who is so average.


2.) 01 May 2017 01:45:26
Perriera and Sessegnon as our full backs next season would be huge improvement on CLyne and Milner. Both can cross the ball, very pacy and just imagine the link up with Couts and Mane.

{Ed007's Note - They'll be some passes to reach Coutinho over in Spain.}


3.) 01 May 2017 01:58:36
As long as we get champions league football Coutinho ain't going anywhere, I'd be worried if were a Celtic fan, dembele, teirney and Roberts all getting a lot of interest.

{Ed007's Note - Roberts is only on loan and Dembele and KT aren't going anywhere unless there is crazy money offered and even at that KT would probably turn down a move right now. He's green and white to the core and has made it clear he's no interest in going anywhere for a few years yet. Dembele will leave before KT, probably next summer but as Ed002 has said we have put an unrealistic pricetag - in her opinion lol - on him which is just us saying hands off for now imo.


4.) 01 May 2017 08:56:27
If Fulham do decide to sell Sessegnon to us then they will make us pay big time. Clearly we want him, as well as other clubs. First team football will be his demands so I think we stand a good chance pending Fulham agreeing to sell him to us with previous incidents like Dempsey being our stumbling block.

{Ed002's Note - He won't be making any such demands, he is a 16 year old child who has to attend school and can only train part time.}


5.) 01 May 2017 11:09:53
Sahko. Never saw him play before today but MY GOSH, he is amazing. He would send Clyne and any other RB in the PL into retirement.


6.) 01 May 2017 13:23:31
Yep, watched him closely after ed002 said we're interested. He's quality, very good off both feet. Going forward he is dynamic, he attacks the space and his final ball is very good. He doesn't slow down the play unlike Clyne who needs at least 20 seconds to think of where to pass before playing the same 5 yard pass backwards every f***ing time. Defensively he's also quite solid, may need to bulk up a bit though.


7.) 01 May 2017 02:43:19
Sorry totally forgot about Roberts, don't think he's even played a game for city. KT may well be a huge a Celtic fan but by the time the season finishes he'll have won every honour possible. If an offer from a top club comes in which suits the player and the club then he'll be off. He'll want to test himself in a top league against better players. No point in him staying in Scotland as he will only stagnate his development as he is rarely tested bar in the European games. Similar story to Dembele although I do agree the rumoured price tag of 40 mil may well scare off potential buyers. Really like Simunovic, proper defender. Nearly positive that he failed a medical with Torino last Summer. One to keep an eye on, very talented.

{Ed007's Note - Honestly bud I know for a fact KT has no intention of leaving Celtic in the foreseeable. He's not even 20 yet and is living his own personal dream, when he was out injured he was travelling all over with our Ultras and in the standing section at Celtic Park. At 19 years old and playing for Liverpool, winning trophies and seeing your career progress would you have left? KT still can't get his head round where he is just now and knows he's in the best place.
KT still stays with his parents but has said his dig money as went up this year.
Simunovic is an absolute monster in the making, if he wasn't playing football he's be arranging smashing England fans at next year's World Cup! You're right, he did fail a medical at Torino, I think he caught it off Joe Hart on the flight over though lol It was a niggling back injury (might be wrong there) and Torino decided they wanted him on loan after the medical and Celtic weren't having it which turned out to be fantastic from our point of view.
Stuart Armstrong is another player that has came on leaps and bounds and is thriving under Rodgers, I know it's the old 'it's only Scottish football' but Armstrong reminds me of Stan Petrov back in the day under St Martin of The O'Neill.}


 

 

26 Mar 2017 22:19:53
Hey ed, a question about a youth transfer - saw a rumour we are tracking Mikkel Duelund from the cold shores. Any chance he will be joining the Academy?

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - no idea. Very difficult to keep track of kids.}


 

 

02 Aug 2016 12:03:39
Hey ed02, hope you are having a good day! I remember that you mentioned a while ago that Kolasinac of Schalke was amongst the players scouted for LB. Have you heard anything new on this front recently?
Cheers!

Drigan

{Ed002's Note - There is nothing new in respect of Liverpool.}


 

 

 

Drigan's banter posts with other poster's replies to Drigan's banter posts

 

21 May 2017 22:02:31
Hey ed01! To commemorate the achievement of top 4 do we not deserve the shiny gift of a small transfer update from your side? Prrrrretty please?

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - I will work on that today, first need to check if anything has changed due to where we finished, so it will probably be this evening.}


 

 

08 May 2017 13:38:53
Hey ed01, can you share a little more inside info on what the plan is for both fullback positions next season? It would appear that in our system we are crying for more offensively competent players. The diffrence between Millner cutting inside on his right foot and charging forward for a direct cross is palpable - the most frustrating thing is that he has shown he has the potential to use his left foot, but prefers not to risk messing up the attack with a wayward cross - however, the enemy defense has time to spare in lining up for his right foot curler!

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - I am not sure what you mean by the plan? It is simple, we are looking for attacking fullbacks for both left and right. Pereira is particularly of interest because he can play on either side and so allow us more options. Moreno is likely to leave in the summer because, despite being a really hard worker and a trier, what is being asked of him just doesn't seem to sink in. The lad wants to learn, but the moment he steps out there in the heat of a game, all the things he has been working on just get thrown out of the window. Clyne is to be replaced, with TAA to get more game time. Pereira is intended to be there to allow TAA to be rested and rotated at need, by being able to play him at right back when TAA needs the break or is off form and play him on the left at other times.}


1.) 08 May 2017 14:33:13
One full back who could play either side won't be enough. We need a specialist LB. something the club ignored last summer!


2.) 08 May 2017 14:57:41
they tried to sign a left back remember ben chilwell?


3.) 08 May 2017 14:59:57
This may sound stupid but would Milner make a better rb than lb.


4.) 08 May 2017 15:07:32
Ed you must be tired of all the full back questions lol. Sorry mate I have another🤔. Do we know if Pereira is keen on a move to us, and has he got the usual demands?

{Ed001's Note - I don't know what he is keen of sorry.}


5.) 08 May 2017 15:18:47
No, Milner will not make a better RB than LB. He is a midfielder, not a full back. let's just sign two proper wing backs so the same problems do not arise next season.


6.) 08 May 2017 15:19:36
I think Milner would be great At RB in my opinion. The only problem I have with him on the left is the inability to cross with his left foot, as mentioned above. His delivery from his right foot is normally pretty decent. Think he is an important player to have on the pitch, but can't see him getting a game in his preferred midfield position.


7.) 08 May 2017 15:36:27
Not that i want him to go but has there been any interest by any club for Milner?


8.) 08 May 2017 15:41:21
Agree, think he'd make a decent RB.


9.) 08 May 2017 16:11:56
I like Milners professionalism and the fact that he rarely puts in a real stinker of a performance. You do need steady 7/ 10 players to balance out the mercurial talents.

I doubt we would get a bid for him as, given the above, he is on a very high wage and would therefore likely scare off most clubs not willing to pay £120k+ per week for a 30 year old.


10.) 08 May 2017 17:19:58
I would be fine with just one senior FB coming in, especially if TAA gets more chances; landing Sessegnon for a rotational role would be good too.
I actually like both Millner and Clyne as proffesionals (especialy compared to the calamity that used to be Glenn Jonson), the problem is that they are BOTH a little bit off being good, especially in the offensive department. Clyne has shown that he has the physique to bomb down the wing and deliver good crosses, but lacks both the technique and the footballing brains to use this ability on a consistent basis. What's worse, he seems to be regressing rather than addressing this weakness. With Milner the problem is more of a positional one. At times he is decisive and influencing game, but recently he has gotten predictable and repetitive.

Realistically, we can afford one fullback with said deficiencies, if he works hard towards addressing them. However, the two of them can be e little too much at the same time.


11.) 08 May 2017 18:06:05
ed002, sorry to ask, are you aware if Pereira is interested in joining us?

{Ed002's Note - I really have no idea what he wants.}


12.) 08 May 2017 18:11:42
Hi ed, about pereira, is he a left back who can play right or vice versa, ie what's his predominant foot?

{Ed002's Note - Right.}


13.) 08 May 2017 21:06:06
I really hope Perreira is brought in cos he is class. As for Milner, he would definitely offer more at the RB spot than Clyne as he as quality on his right foot to deliver a cross as he used to be a very good winger. As for Clyne, he needs to go, end of story.


14.) 08 May 2017 22:58:36
agreed N Red, every time Clyne gets into a good position to put in a cross, he has this fantastic ability to not get past the first man .


 

 

06 May 2017 11:59:48
Hey ed01, I would like to talk with you about Virgil van Dijk, since he is one of the hottest names in the mainstream media these days, linked with anybody and their dog (said dog lacking the street smarts of Sparky) .
I seem to recall you used to offer an extensive critique on his overall play during the autumn? I could not find the posts because the banter is overflowing with van Dijk sprache, but I think you spoke about his lack of concentration and tendency to wonder off?
I wonder if you could offer an updated summary on your views of his strengths and weaknesses, and how he would fit in the high line that Klopp favors if we signed him for some reason.
As a secondary question, what qualities should a CB possess to fit in said system, at least in your opinion?

Cheers!

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - the qualities a CB needs in Klopp's system are pace, positional sense, awareness and ability on the ball.

Van Dijk has the pace and ability on the ball certainly. He is strong and excellent in the air as well. Unfortunately he possesses a lack of real awareness, his positional sense is suspect as he usually throws himself into a needless tackle somewhere outside the box and then stands watching the rest of the play, rather than racing back into position like he should do. Worse is his tendency to go off on a wander, I like a centre back to take the ball out from the back, it is one of Matip's strengths for instance, but they have to know when to give the ball and get back into position. VVD just overruns it and then strolls back every time. It is telling that you can see him nowhere near his own box almost every time a goal is conceded, as he is usually busy watching the game, rather than taking part.

If his concentration improved and he made effort to get back (which a centre back has absolutely no excuse for strolling back considering they cover less distance than almost every other player on the pitch, so can't make the excuse of energy conservation) then he could be an excellent defender. Physically he is just about as good as it gets, damn near perfect. Technically he is excellent on the ball and in the air and a very good tackler. It is mentally that the problems are. He chooses the wrong places and times to make his tackles.

He is one of the most frustrating players to watch, in my opinion, as he could be the best defender in the world, but you can see he is letting himself down. As things stand, he is someone who would add to the problems we have, which have all come from individual errors. He is not even a vocal leader of a player, which is the thing we lack most right now.}


1.) 06 May 2017 12:35:04
This is my fear too, ed. A bit like the Lovren transfer, taking in a defender who undoubtfully has strengths, but his weaknesses are of the worst possible kind for our error-prone defense. That said, I do have hopes that with the proper motivation van Dijk can grow as a player, he is entering the right age bracket I believe. Now or never, so to say.
I do wonder how the long injury lay-off would affect him though.

Thanks for the detailed response, and have a nice day.

{Ed001's Note - if he was a cheap gamble, like Matip, then I would have no problem with it. However he is going to command a fee he will never be worth.}


2.) 06 May 2017 13:23:42
Ed don't think you think he would be good in a 3.

{Ed001's Note - god no. It would just allow him to be even less focused and lazy.}


3.) 06 May 2017 13:33:06
ED001, u actually think Saints will get the 50 million GBP they want for VVD? Its a stupid sum for an inconsistent defender and I just cannot think of nay club that would be foolish enough to part with so much money for an average defender. But then City did pay 50 million for John Stones so who knows!

{Ed001's Note - there are a lot of clubs, with a lot of money, desperately searching for a centre half, so they will get a ridiculous sum.}


4.) 06 May 2017 15:14:48
Its only one opinion that VVD is an average defender. Maybe other clubs rate him higher than Ed001? Personally i think he has all the attributes to be very good and any flaws in his game will be ironed out at a top club.


5.) 06 May 2017 16:41:54
For the right money, Ben Gibson of Boro would be a much better fit in our side, plus he is a leader, is vocal, still young, English, so ticks a lot of boxes, also the left back from Hull Andrew Robertson, he has a very good left foot, gets forward, and strong, price would be good too, that would be a really good improvement to our dodgy defence .

{Ed001's Note - I agree on Gibson but not Robertson, he has never impressed me at all.}


6.) 06 May 2017 19:56:40
Wouldn't David Luis have had the same criticisms earlier in his career as vvd, still don't think he's great but massive improvement on his first stint at chelsea?

{Ed001's Note - to a degree, but Luiz also had a magnificent range of passing, which VVD has not got at all. Luiz can play central midfield and has done numerous times. He was not as bad as the media like to make out. His lapses were always highlighted because of the way he looks he makes an easy target. The fact he is a nice guy means you can slag him off and know he is not going to get in your face if you bump into him, which is something you can't say about all players.}


 

 

28 Mar 2017 10:35:12
Hey ed01, a question for you: do you see Klopp's system evolving into the next season?
Let me elaborate. I have to admit that his switch to a kinda, sorta 4-3-3 this season caught me by surprise, mostly because of the way he changed Lallana's role and integrated Wijnaldum, whom I initially though would turn out to be an overly expensive sub for Mane (shows what I know, eh? ) .

Now then, our first choice front three have proven to be a match for anyone in the league, and to an extent the midfield can make similar boasts. However, it is expected that we will be bringing a left winger and perhaps a forward to replace Sturridge.

They might simply take a rotational role, especially during the initial acclimatization, but let us say for argument's sake that someone proves exceptionally good and breaks into the first team (or, worse case scenario, is forsed into it due to "promises") . How would you expect the system to change, and whom of our starting eleven would you drop to the bench?

A highly subjective question, of course, because noone can know what is happening in that mysterious mind of Klopp's :>.

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - Klopp has always evolved his system gradually. He used to favour two holding mids, now he uses a system which does not even feature one, in essence. I expect him to continue to evolve his tactics gradually to suit the players he has at his disposal.}


1.) 28 Mar 2017 14:15:39
11 outfield players then 😄.


 

 

22 Mar 2017 09:34:57
Hey ed01, I caught a fairly intiguing discussion between ed007 and united fans on their page (while browsing for ed02's gospel) - it was about youth players, how rarely they make it in big clubs, and that usually this is due to them not being of the necessary level.
It saddened me a little, because my sincere hope is that Liverpool will manage to integrate some of the academy graduates into the squad - and not only in the short term. However, reality does seem to point that most youth players from big clubs need to make a move to less sunny pastures to make progress as regulars, and then and only then SOME of them might make it in a bigger club.

With that in mind, would care to make a prognosis - an objective one, without the rose tint of fan glasses - about which of our youth players we will be seeing in Liverpool colors in 3 or 4 years time?
Of course, this is with the view that A LOT of things will change as they develop, so let us base it on the current level they are showing.

Sadly, I have a suspicion that the cold realities of football will push a lot of the kids out of the door - in most cases for their own good. If I have to be realistic, it is only TAA that I see as having a shot of taking a starting or rotational role in the long term.
Of course, I do hope that I would be wrong, because I am already a fan of Ben Woodburn, and do hope that Ojo OR Wilson will also manage to claim a rotation role (sadly, I do not see both of them making it) . Joe Gomez, also huge hopes he will make it, though CB is one of the most merciless positions in terms of youth chances - at least at the top levels.

Drigan

{Ed001's Note - it is nothing to do with ability, he was quite simply massively wide of the mark. Ability is never the key factor, there has always been hundreds of players with more than enough ability spread around club academies. The issue is that ability is not the main factor.

You have attitude. Most players fall down here, they give up because they don't see a route into the first team and they have had everything too easy up to then. The first hurdle will often kill off a player who just hasn't got the right fire. Sometimes it can be the opposite, that they waltz into the first team too easily and strut around thinking they have made it, so they stop working as hard, without even realising it most of the time. Attitude is the most cruicial thing though.

There is physique as well. We still have the idiotic notion in some places about size of players being more important than ability. So big lumps with no ability or lightning fast players with a terrible first touch get into the team ahead of a player with genuine touch and skill but little pace or size.

Then there is the problem of short-termism. Every manager knows they are only as good as their last result, so do not want to take a risk on developing a youth team player when they will not reap the benefits. They would rather put in a readymade player. Which also goes hand in hand with luck. Young players need luck, a forced sale or injury crisis, to get a proper chance to show what they can do. That often does not come along for them.

The academies themselves are a big part of the problem, in my opinion, as they hand everything on a plate to youngsters. That is why so many fall at the first hurdle, they have no idea how to cope with setbacks or having to earn something.}


1.) 22 Mar 2017 10:26:36
I really like the sound of Pepjin Linders though.

He has recently praised Woodburn and Arnold even referencing how much emphasis is put on size nowadays, but that these 2 debunk the myth that stature matters.

I am not sure how much Linders had to do with it but I also like that our academy lads are being made to take referee courses. Put the shoe on the other foot for them when they are the one getting hounded for decisions. I think we have some excellent players in the academy with the perfect attitude.

Gomez and Stewart for me are the 2 who have proven they can over come set backs and not let it phase them. Gomez's career was devastated by injury but he has come back fighting. Got himself a new long term contract and made a real impression with Klopp.

Stewart though has some real character; rejected by Tottenham, sent on loan by us as a wide/ defensive player, and then at 22/ 23 I think it was Beale put him in midfield and asked him to start the whole development process again, and he just accepted it, got on with it, and now works hard every day to learn this new role so he can make it at the top.

Restarting that development trail has probably set him back 3 years in terms of earning potential and first team readiness. Just listen to his interviews though. He is so determined to make it at the top that he would literally give up a good career at a West Brom to try and make a great career at the top.

It reminds me of the fighting mentality Henderson and Lucas have. He earned his new 4 year contract and I really hope he makes it at LFC long term.

We can only pray Arnold, Woodburn and Brewster bounce back from their first set backs as well.


2.) 22 Mar 2017 12:21:06
Great analysis, Ed. The more important issue for me is focusing more on a player's physical size and athleticism over raw skill and a great first touch. This is a fool's errand. This is how many academies not just in England fail. France has failed miserably in this regard since the 1998 World Cup, won by players who where physical monsters like Desailly, Blanc, Karembeau, Thuram and the like except Zidane who was technically gifted but still no slouch physically.

They started focusing more on physical specimens instead of raw skill and talent. This is how Griezmann was rejected by every French academy cos he was too frail and too small for them even tho, he was technically gifted and had the desire to become a professional football, to Ed's point regarding attitude. He then goes to Spain where they focus more on touch, skill, movement and now he is worth 100m.

The Dutch do the same thing which is why Dutch players have been known for their technical quality because like the Spanish, they know that they are not physical beasts naturally BUT can counter this "flaw" by being technically gifted which they are and their academies focus on that as well hence, the technically gifted players that have come out of Holland over the decades. Until academies in England learn this, they will continue to fail.


3.) 22 Mar 2017 15:30:22
Totally agree, look at Crewe a club with minuscule financial resources who give youth a chance and many of their young players have careers at a higher level - their managers are encouraged to give young players time and opportunities. I wish clubs would focus more on player development but it seems that managers are either unwilling or afraid to give young players a chance. Fans also play their part imo too, they expect 18 year olds to be fantastic on their debuts or being as consistent as 28 year olds. It's sad that young talents continue to disappear.


4.) 22 Mar 2017 16:00:20
It is a beautiful picture Thomo. sadly, I do not see it happening in the coming years. The fanbase is growing rather "toxic", as the eds say. They will be up in arms if the club is perceived to be underachieving due to giving youth a chance. However, some sort of balance should be achievable for Liverpool FC. Not all of the youth talents will break through, or even get a fair chance, but here is to hoping that in five years time, we will be singing songs for Woodburn and Trent and Joe :>.


5.) 22 Mar 2017 17:22:24
I agree with Ed on this, seems less to do with ability but more to do with
1) mental aptitude and ability to stay humble and work hard as they enter the spotlight
2) limited opportunities/ pitch time to be able to adapt to the higher level and prove yourself (especially tough ask considering how long it takes for even world class players to get back to form after time out)
3) limited appetite from PL managers to risk their careers by playing an unproven youngster on a regular basis instead of just dipping into the transfer market for a proven player
4) simple Maths. dozens of youngsters coming through each year but very very few first team spots for them to realistically challenge for

I also don't think it's helped by the notable difference in level between u23 and the PL. hard to step up without playing professional league elsewhere first, but loans are notoriously hit and miss

Eg. I personally can see Ojo, Wilson, Woodburn all having the ability to be very good PL standard forwards if they get playing time to develop properly, it's just very hard to see how you get enough pitch time for all of them when you probably only have a few games a year where Klopp is prepared to drop his regular front 3 (never mind Origi, Ings etc. also wanting to play) . how can he possibly develop all 3 without loans?

It's a tough game,


6.) 22 Mar 2017 23:10:54
Ed's points are all correct but realism has to be considered. Over the last 50 years how many great Liverpool players have come through the academy? 10, 15 maybe? Yet every year we look at the latest graduates and anoint them as future stars, we say they have to be better than player X but the reality is they don't, the worst Liverpool player is still a brilliant footballer and most graduates won't reach that level.

Every few years we can expect one or two to make the grade and we should be content with that. The sadness is the last one who was good enough thought he was bigger than the club and forced his way out. There's a chance that someone from the current crop will make it but I'll remain sceptical of that until they're in the first team.


 

 

 

Drigan's rumour replies

 

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14 Jul 2017 20:10:04
Macca, you great thing, ya better than sliced bread!

Drigan

 

 

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24 Jun 2017 22:22:58
I agree with MK, the Ox is a good player and will surprise many played in a midfield 3 - however, he is a HUGE step down from Keita, who looks like a world talent. Who knows, it might turn out to be reversed.
What worries me is that I do not, (or rather, wouldn't want) to see the Ox as a regular starter. I like what Gini offers to the table. He would be a perfect understudy for Lallana though, since Adam would at some point start to lose his stamina and dynamism. but would he be happy with that?

Drigan

 

 

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14 Jun 2017 22:04:46
Sssshhhh, reliable sources are suggesting he will be transfering out of said bed in the morning!

Drigan

 

 

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06 Jun 2017 14:21:33
Thus far, the reports of a report originate from a radio station I hadn't heard about, and seem to be based on the reports of other media about van Dijk choosing us, and Klopp selling his vision. we have no credible info what is happening whatsoever, but my bet would be on the Saints posturing to appease the fans. or they might be genuinely angry that we seem to have ruined a bidding war, who knows.

Drigan

 

 

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05 Jun 2017 13:45:22
De Sciglio has actually sorta regressed in the past few years. One of my best buds is a die hard Milan fan, and he says that De Sciglio has fallen behind some of their younger talents, and could be headed to Juve to bolster their rotation ranks.

Drigan

 

 

 

Drigan's banter replies

 

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01 Jun 2021 16:51:37
Hahahah, ed01, I haven't posted in a while, but cheers mate, your thoughts always cheer me up!
Do you have any blank check suggestions for midfield and attack (presuming none of the holy trio leave? )

Drigan

 

 

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06 Oct 2017 17:28:43
Ronaldo and Coutinho.

There are few pure wingers remaining nowadays, especially with all the position swapping. Henrikh and De Bruyne might be considered such, but I would take the little wizard over them. I prefer him to Hazard as well, though both are fairly similar in the way they can disappear from a game.
Mane, Dembele, Pulisic could all become mainsays on the wing position in the next stages of their development.

Drigan

 

 

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03 Oct 2017 00:29:59
Tough one, ed02 - this is one of the most curious positions in world football, because the requirements for it have been changing for quite a while, and it is getting harder and harder to distinguish between a DM and a CM.
"Speacialist" defensive midfielders are sought for less and less.

Personally, I would go for:

Toni Kroos - still don't understand why Bayern let him go. I think he can qualify for the position, even though he plays a bit forward for Real.
Saul Niguqes - love that one. Haven't seen him for a while, but I know he can cover a variety of positions in midfield.
Kante - this year he seems to play further forward, but I still consider him a primarily defensive player.

Honorable mention to Casemiro, and also to Henderson - he offers a unique skillset for the position in which he plays, it is a shame that his form has dipped after his injury, the previous autumn he was very good at cutting off the opposition in non-obvious ways. His intelligent play and great engine was the reason that we actually had a strong patch of form, by allowing fewer attacks against out defense.

Drigan

 

 

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01 Oct 2017 23:39:19
I am disappointed with the quality levels of this post. I am of the opinion that your arguments are laughable and you have not addressed their weakness over the summer.
There are other knee-jerkers out there with proven, champion licenses to fly planes - perhaps we should look to bring them over.

Drigan

 

 

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01 Oct 2017 23:36:28
Spot on, MK. We are in a rough patch, but we have to man up and go through it - but I have the strange feeling some of the fans are taking it harder than the footballers!
Klopp HAS failings - but all those calling for him to be sacked are genuinely clueless. Someone up the page asked whether Klopp monitors the supporters' opinions - I sure as hell hope he doesn't, because he could be packing up and heading to Bayern with the level of "support" we are getting right now.
I swear, some people won't be happy until we have Fat Sam for a coach! He got results, din't he?

Drigan

{Ed025's Note - the thing is drigan that these supporters are paying good hard earned money to travel to places like the north east and feel cheated when the team dont perform, and who can blame them when these multi million pound footballers seem to cruise through games and dont give a jot whether they win or lose mate..


 

 





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