View Full Version : Current squad, player by player overview.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 11:02
Goalkeepers
Pepe Reina - I was over the moon when Pepe committed his future to the club, for a second i thought he was going to leave us for Utd or Arsenal. In Pepe, we have the best 'keeper in the Premiership.
Brad Jones - Brought in last summer as back up to Reina and made his debut in that carling cup game. Spent a period of last season on loan at Derby County. I would be happy to keep him as back up, but i feel he will be moved on if we signed another experienced 'keeper.
Peter Gulacsi - I don't know much about this lad, Kenny was happy enough to put him on the bench when he took over and send Jones out on loan. From what i've heard Peter's good enough, but will go out on loan for next season.
Verdict - Not much to be done here, we also have Hansen and Belford in reserve. Maybe a new number 2?
Defenders
Jamie Carragher - Carra's 33 now, but still a starting 11 player for me. Not only is he a great defender, he's a great leader and all round inspiration to players and fans. True legend.
Daniel Agger - There's no doubt, that when Agger's fully fit he's one of our best defenders, proberly the the best. However Daniel's never made more than 27 league appearences for us in one season, and has only managed 57 league games for us in the last 3 seasons. Big decision to be made here.
Martin Skrtel - Since coming to the club Skrtel's been a bit inconsistent. However he played every minute of every league game last season, and since Steve Clarke has arrived, Skrtel has improved a lot. Hopefully he will carry his for from the end of last season into the new one.
Glen Johnson - I rate Glen highly, very good at going forward and chips in with the odd goal. He can be a bit suspect in defense, although, like Skrtel he improved a lot under Kenny and Clarke defensively. He played at left back for a bit last season, but i expect him to return to right back next season.
Sotirios Kyrgiakos - Not the best defender in the world but does a job. Great aerial presence at both ends of the pitch, but struggles against tricky, pacy players in my opinion, tends to give a few penaltys away aswell. A squad player at most.
Fabio Aurelio - I like Fabio, good set-piece taker and a decent enough defender. Though theres is a problem, a big one at that, Aurelio's fitness record is appalling. In the last two seasons Fabio's only played in a combined total of 28 league games, and a total of 85 leagues games out of 190. Time to move him on i think.
Paul Konchesky - A bit of a safe puchase on a shoe string budget from last summer. It has not gone well at all for Paul, a string of very poor performances saw him shipped out to Nottingham Forest on loan when Kenny took over. His mum made more of an impact, sorry but not good enough.
Martin Kelly - In my opinion, he's our brightest young star. I've been so impressed with Kelly since he broke into the first team. Great prospect and will only get better. The future of Liverpool and maybe a future captain?
Danny Wilson - Another young defender with a lot of potential, we saw less of him than Kelly, but still impressed when he was called upon. I think a loan move to another Premiership club would help his development.
Verdict - Work to be done here, a new leftback is a must, Fabio and Konchesky are not good enough for Liverpool. We could do with another centerback too but only if the likes of Agger and Soto are sold. Players like Degan, Insua and Darby, i feel will be released. Good news though, we have a glutch of young players like Ayala, Flanagan, Robinson and Wisdom coming through.
Midfielders
Steven Gerrard - Captain, Hero, Legend. Everything Liverpool is about is embodied by Gerrard. Recently he stated that he will be back, fitter than ever for the new season. Music to my ears. My favourite player of all time. Enough said.
Raul Meireles - Of all Roy Hodgson's purchases, Raul is the only one who looked any good. Played much better under Kenny and went on an amazing scoring run. His all round play is great, though rumours of him being sold do concern me, and not just because his name is on the back of my new Liverpool away shirt. Please keep.
Alberto Aquilani - Well, well, well. It looks as if the prince is staying. You know what, i'm glad he is. He has unfinished buisness here and wasn't given a fair crack at the Premiership last time round. Quality, is one word i would use to describe him, although IF a decent offer came in for him, i think he could be sold.
Lucas Leiva - Liverpool's player of the season, and rightly so. He's gone from being a bit part boo boy, to unsung hero and fan favourite. He's improved so much over the last couple of seasons and will get better. Never moans, just gets on with it. Fantastic pro, more like him please.
Jordan Henderon - The new boy, and he's divided opinions on these boards. I'm from Coventry and remember when he was loaned here a couple of seasons ago. You see Coventry play a pass and move game, a bit like how Kenny does, and Henderson thrived in that Coventry side. He helped them to a FA cup 1/4 final, where City were beaten by Chelsea. A very clever signing by Kenny, he will be a big sucess here, i just know it.
Maxi Rodriquez - There's times when you wouldn't even know he was playing, then there's times when he scores 7 goals in 3 games. I like Maxi, good player and if he's happy to be a squad player then i'm happy to keep him on board.
Joe Cole - Promised so much, delivered so, so little. Being sent off in his first game for us set the tone for the rest of his season. Scored the winner against Bolton at Anfield, but that was it. Looks out of shape, and with his huge wages, i expect him to be sold this summer. Such a shame.
Christian Poulsen - Another signing from last summer who didn't cut it. He's so one paced it's scary, his tackling is rash and his positioning is pretty poor. Poulsen has said he would like to stay and fight for his place, good attitude, but i don't think he's in Kenny's plans.
Jay Spearing - Local boy who would run infront of a train for the cause. No doubt about it, Jay played his best football under Kenny (there seems to be a trend here). A menace to other players, snapping away, refusing to give up, tidy passer. I think we should keep hold of him. Good little player.
Jonjo Shelvey - Young lad signed from Charlton last summer, he's been impressive at times. No doubting his raw talent, his passing and deliveries from set-pieces are very good. He also has a decent engine. Like Danny Wilson however, i feel a loan move would help his development.
Verdict - We have Henderson in the bag, i feel we just need another winger, one who can add that bit of pace and creativity to the side. With Aquilani staying, do we still need Charlie Adam? Theres one or two that need moving on aswell, Joe Cole and Poulsen are likely to leave. We also have the likes of Raheem Sterling, Conor Coady and Suso coming through, all look very, very promising.
Forwards
Luis Suarez - Yes. What a great signing, he's been so impressive since signing in January, weighed in with goals and assists. I can't wait to see him tear the league apart next season. Those who are moaning about Damien Comolli will do well to remember who bought this gem of a player to Anfield.
Andy Carroll - The most expensive English player ever, Liverpool's record signing of £35 million. Forget all that and lets focus on whats really important, Andy's ability. Fantastic in the air and has a sledge hammer of a left foot, as he demomstrated against Man City. He's not been 100% fit since we have signed him, good to see him in pre-season training early. Once he's 100% fit he will be a force.
Dirk Kuyt - Sensational energy levels and work rate, he also bagged 12 league goals last season which is impressive, cosidering he spends a lot of the time out wide. Important player for Liverpool, another unsung hero for the club.
Milan Jovanovic - Similar to Joe Cole, promised much but did little. Milan didn't even feature under the King. I was looking forward to see him play for the club, but was let down when he arrived. Massive wages means he will be off loaded this summer, if we can find a club that want him.
David Ngog - Young striker with ability, but not much. You never feel confident David will score when he plays and i don't think he will get much better. It also sounds like he could be close to moving on.
Daniel Pacheco - A lot of hype around Pacheco, but no manager has really given him a chance. Why is that? Abilty? Attitude? I'm not sure but i don't know if he has a future at Liverpool. Hopefully im wrong but another loan moved could be on the cards for Daniel.
Verdict - Do we need another striker? Sergio Aguero has said he want's to leave Athletico Madrid this summer, but im not sure if that would be possible. Milan Jovanovic and David Ngog could well leave this summer freeing up space in the striker departmant. Youngsters like Eccleston and Amoo don't really seem to have what it takes, same can be said for El Zhar. We have young Adam Morgan coming through aswell.
If i've missed anyone or you guys would like to add your input feel free to do so.
Brad Jones is one of the poorest professional keepers I have seen, he made Derby fans pine for Bywater, he needs binning off a quick.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 11:22
Brad Jones is one of the poorest professional keepers I have seen, he made Derby fans pine for Bywater, he needs binning off a quick.
No, he is poor. I'm pretty sure we will bring in someone else.
I watched him in a few reserve games and I wasn't too impress with him and then he went to Derby and he looked awul
TheBuckStopsWithRodgers
2-7-11, 11:26
Why not include Rafa's duds who are returning from loan in the squad
1.Ecclesstone
2.Amoo
3.Degen
4. Ayala
5.Darby
6.El zahr
I'd like to know your thoughts on these.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 11:28
Why not include Rafa's duds who are returning from loan in the squad
1.Ecclesstone
2.Amoo
3.Degen
4. Ayala
5.Darby
6.El zahr
I'd like to know your thoughts on these.
I did briefly mention, Ayala, Degan and Darby. I will add Eccleston, Amoo and El Zhar for you mate.
TwoFeetOneHeart
2-7-11, 12:04
I did briefly mention, Ayala, Degan and Darby. I will add Eccleston, Amoo and El Zhar for you mate.
i thought that Eccleston just signed a new contract and he was wanted by Everton and Manchester United, why would he be a dud?
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 12:08
i thought that Eccleston just signed a new contract and he was wanted by Everton and Manchester United, why would he be a dud?
First i've heard. He was hardly impressive for Charlton last season. Just 3 goals in 21 games.
Very well put together that
With so many players returning next week from loan spells, it could be possible that the reason we're not being overly aggressive in the transfer window is simply because we can perhaps fill some squad needs with players who are returning.
It is accepted by most that we need a new LB, CB, 2 wingers, centre midfielder and perhaps another striker. With Henderson added that's one need filled (though what position he's to fill remains to be seen) Most of these returning players will never play for us again, but perhaps Kenny can salvage something from certain players, thus saving us a fortune on transfer fees and also getting us some value in return for the massive contracts some of these guys are on.
For example, we have Insua returning. He put in some decent performances when he first broke into the team, but in his last full season he struggled to maintain his form and due to injuries we couldn't rest him. Both he and Aurelio have one year left, and it's unlikely we'll find a buyer to cover Insua's contract, so maybe we could use both of them, along with Robinson, in this position. After another season Robinson will possibly be ready to assume the role of first choice left back.
Daniel Ayala is another who could be given a chance. We have 4 centre backs (5 if you include Kelly) but with Carra aging, Agger injury prone and the Greek being, well, the Greek, maybe Ayala could be ready to be a useful squad player. Same age as Phil Jones I think, and about £19 million cheaper, so it could be worth giving him a shot.
I know the Aqua situation has been done to death, but if he's happy to return he adds creativity to the midfield, and saves us forking out on Adam. And if Pacheco is as good as he's been made out to be, surely it's time for him to step up this season and show he has a future here. And with Suso Sterling et al coming through we look to be well covered in certain areas, IF these guys fulfil their undoubted potential.
So come Monday (or whenever these guys return) we will hopefully see players returning to us who might well save us a fortune and give us the chance to spend big on one or two players who can make the difference. I'd love to see us go out and buy the names we're being linked with, but if Kenny and the coaching staff can take some of our 'deadwood' and give them some restorative treatment, then it would make any success at the end of the season that little bit sweeter.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 12:44
With so many players returning next week from loan spells, it could be possible that the reason we're not being overly aggressive in the transfer window is simply because we can perhaps fill some squad needs with players who are returning.
It is accepted by most that we need a new LB, CB, 2 wingers, centre midfielder and perhaps another striker. With Henderson added that's one need filled (though what position he's to fill remains to be seen) Most of these returning players will never play for us again, but perhaps Kenny can salvage something from certain players, thus saving us a fortune on transfer fees and also getting us some value in return for the massive contracts some of these guys are on.
For example, we have Insua returning. He put in some decent performances when he first broke into the team, but in his last full season he struggled to maintain his form and due to injuries we couldn't rest him. Both he and Aurelio have one year left, and it's unlikely we'll find a buyer to cover Insua's contract, so maybe we could use both of them, along with Robinson, in this position. After another season Robinson will possibly be ready to assume the role of first choice left back.
Daniel Ayala is another who could be given a chance. We have 4 centre backs (5 if you include Kelly) but with Carra aging, Agger injury prone and the Greek being, well, the Greek, maybe Ayala could be ready to be a useful squad player. Same age as Phil Jones I think, and about £19 million cheaper, so it could be worth giving him a shot.
I know the Aqua situation has been done to death, but if he's happy to return he adds creativity to the midfield, and saves us forking out on Adam. And if Pacheco is as good as he's been made out to be, surely it's time for him to step up this season and show he has a future here. And with Suso Sterling et al coming through we look to be well covered in certain areas, IF these guys fulfil their undoubted potential.
So come Monday (or whenever these guys return) we will hopefully see players returning to us who might well save us a fortune and give us the chance to spend big on one or two players who can make the difference. I'd love to see us go out and buy the names we're being linked with, but if Kenny and the coaching staff can take some of our 'deadwood' and give them some restorative treatment, then it would make any success at the end of the season that little bit sweeter.
Nicely done.
Nicely done.
MIGHT explain our relatively quiet transfer window thus far. It won't take Kenny long to weed out most of the slackers, but given that it's his first full pre season everyone deserves the chance to stake their claim. Up to the players to prove their worth, hopefully we'll be pleasantly surprised by a few of them!
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 13:03
MIGHT explain our relatively quiet transfer window thus far. It won't take Kenny long to weed out most of the slackers, but given that it's his first full pre season everyone deserves the chance to stake their claim. Up to the players to prove their worth, hopefully we'll be pleasantly surprised by a few of them!
Of the players who were out on loan last season, i would like to see Aquilani, Pacheco, Ayala and maybe Insua given a chance.
Of the players who were out on loan last season, i would like to see Aquilani, Pacheco, Ayala and maybe Insua given a chance.
If that lot worked out we'd save an awful lot of money to be used elsewhere.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 13:13
If that lot worked out we'd save an awful lot of money to be used elsewhere.
Indeed, i would really like to see Pacheco given a few games. If anything, just to see what the all the hype is about.
Indeed, i would really like to see Pacheco given a few games. If anything, just to see what the all the hype is about.
The clamour for him to be given playing time last season was almost Bieber-esque in it's infatuation. Time for him to live up to the hype...
m a r t i n s k r t e l < 3
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 16:22
m a r t i n s k r t e l < 3
A fan of Skrtel then?
A fan of Skrtel then?
#1 fan of skrtel
Why does Eccleston get dismissed by so many posters? A couple of years ago he was thought of as a potential star, then he got his chance in a few games under Hodgson and seemed to do pretty well. He has pace, the ability to beat a defender one on one and a good work ethic from what I saw in the Europa League, and he was only 19 years old in those games. I feel like he's getting tarred with the same brush as Amoo who is all pace and no skill.
Gulacsi is better than jones, however for Gulacsi to improve he needs to play some games and it would be better for to go out on loan.
Hansen is a big no
Aurelio is good enough for liverpool however his injury problems is the problem with him
Most like like soto and jay are ok players that can do a job and aren't to bother about sitting on the bench every week and I doubt both players have big wages too
nice topic,
I want a just want to improve upon it in my way
Goalkeepers
Pepe Reina - easily in the top five of all great Liverpool goalkeeper's , should have won more at this club which is a shame.
Brad Jones-Middlesbrough fans were laughing their socks off when they knew he was joining us, absolutely shocking keeper
can't even get into the reserve team.
Peter Gulacsi -has the potential to be a good premiership goalkeeper needs experience as keepers don't mature till late in their careers,
2 to 3 years of being on loan should help, when should be ready to push the number one,
Hansen-kept Jones out the reserve but I can't see him being more than championship player,
Belford definitely to young to be classed as second choice left alone third choice
Definitely need experienced backup
Defenders Fullbacks
right side
Glen Johnson-easily top 10 attacking fullbacks in the world, and the myth that a poor defender is not true, yes he's not fantastic but he can defend but his best qualities are attack
Flanagan-reminds me of a young Finnan with pace, good at defending as well as good going forward
we have plenty of options to cover this side no need to strengthen
Left side
Insúa-prior to his debut season you could see the potential, though thrust into a side with no proper competition, no regular player playing in front of him, a brand-new tactics the team was struggling with,
Fans moaning and criticising him all the time, Carragher ridicule and constant bully on the pitch destroyed the young kid confidence,
But he's lone in Turkey you could see there is potential still there, the likelihood of him still be around is slim.
Aurélio one of the best technical players to play in the premiership, but way too injury prone lacks pace
Robinson-if we rely upon him as number one choice be just another Insúa all over again, ideal rotation and covering injuries and bans, very similar to Johnson
Left full-back position is the weakest in the defence
Defenders Fullbacks
right side
Glen Johnson-easily top 10 attacking fullbacks in the world, and the myth that a poor defender is not true, yes he's not fantastic but he can defend but his best qualities are attack
Flanagan-reminds me of a young Finnan with pace, good at defending as well as good going forward
we have plenty of options to cover this side no need to strengthen
Left side
Insúa-prior to his debut season you could see the potential, though thrust into a side with no proper competition, no regular player playing in front of him, a brand-new tactics the team was struggling with,
Fans moaning and criticising him all the time, Carragher ridicule and constant bully on the pitch destroyed the young kid confidence,
But he's lone in Turkey you could see there is potential still there, the likelihood of him still be around is slim.
Aurélio one of the best technical players to play in the premiership, but way too injury prone lacks pace
Robinson-if we rely upon him as number one choice be just another Insúa all over again, ideal rotation and covering injuries and bans, very similar to Johnson
Left full-back position is the weakest in the defence
If Insua does stay do you think in the next couple of years he will be able to mature and become a good LB? Like Lucas has done in CM.
Personally wouldn't mind him being backup, plus hes homegrown.
Hollywood-Rose
2-7-11, 17:51
Why does Eccleston get dismissed by so many posters? A couple of years ago he was thought of as a potential star, then he got his chance in a few games under Hodgson and seemed to do pretty well. He has pace, the ability to beat a defender one on one and a good work ethic from what I saw in the Europa League, and he was only 19 years old in those games. I feel like he's getting tarred with the same brush as Amoo who is all pace and no skill.
He may have a future at the club, it's just my opinion. I have a mate who's a big Charlton fan, and he say's that Eccleston has been pretty poor for them. He has pace and skill but goes missing from games too easily.
Thanks for your input though.
If Insua does stay do you think in the next couple of years he will be able to mature and become a good LB? Like Lucas has done in CM.
Personally wouldn't mind him being backup, plus hes homegrown.
When he was at Galatasaray Frank Rijkaard played him regularly and would had brought him it was only when Hagi was appointed that he is lone at the club dip a bit but still played quite well,
Don't know if a player can come back from the abuse he got from the fans and certain teammates, with his contract up the likelihood properly won't get a new contract
Indeed, i would really like to see Pacheco given a few games. If anything, just to see what the all the hype is about.
You have to wonder why he was never the chance.Kenny had seen plenty of him?
AnfieldSensation
2-7-11, 18:03
Goalkeepers
Pepe Reina - I was over the moon when Pepe committed his future to the club, for a second i thought he was going to leave us for Utd or Arsenal. In Pepe, we have the best 'keeper in the Premiership.
Brad Jones - Brought in last summer as back up to Reina and made his debut in that carling cup game. Spent a period of last season on loan at Derby County. I would be happy to keep him as back up, but i feel he will be moved on if we signed another experienced 'keeper.
Peter Gulacsi - I don't know much about this lad, Kenny was happy enough to put him on the bench when he took over and send Jones out on loan. From what i've heard Peter's good enough, but will go out on loan for next season.
Verdict - Not much to be done here, we also have Hansen and Belford in reserve. Maybe a new number 2?
Defenders
Jamie Carragher - Carra's 33 now, but still a starting 11 player for me. Not only is he a great defender, he's a great leader and all round inspiration to players and fans. True legend.
Daniel Agger - There's no doubt, that when Agger's fully fit he's one of our best defenders, proberly the the best. However Daniel's never made more than 27 league appearences for us in one season, and has only managed 57 league games for us in the last 3 seasons. Big decision to be made here.
Martin Skrtel - Since coming to the club Skrtel's been a bit inconsistent. However he played every minute of every league game last season, and since Steve Clarke has arrived, Skrtel has improved a lot. Hopefully he will carry his for from the end of last season into the new one.
Glen Johnson - I rate Glen highly, very good at going forward and chips in with the odd goal. He can be a bit suspect in defense, although, like Skrtel he improved a lot under Kenny and Clarke defensively. He played at left back for a bit last season, but i expect him to return to right back next season.
Sotirios Kyrgiakos - Not the best defender in the world but does a job. Great aerial presence at both ends of the pitch, but struggles against tricky, pacy players in my opinion, tends to give a few penaltys away aswell. A squad player at most.
Fabio Aurelio - I like Fabio, good set-piece taker and a decent enough defender. Though theres is a problem, a big one at that, Aurelio's fitness record is appalling. In the last two seasons Fabio's only played in a combined total of 28 league games, and a total of 85 leagues games out of 190. Time to move him on i think.
Paul Konchesky - A bit of a safe puchase on a shoe string budget from last summer. It has not gone well at all for Paul, a string of very poor performances saw him shipped out to Nottingham Forest on loan when Kenny took over. His mum made more of an impact, sorry but not good enough.
Martin Kelly - In my opinion, he's our brightest young star. I've been so impressed with Kelly since he broke into the first team. Great prospect and will only get better. The future of Liverpool and maybe a future captain?
Danny Wilson - Another young defender with a lot of potential, we saw less of him than Kelly, but still impressed when he was called upon. I think a loan move to another Premiership club would help his development.
Verdict - Work to be done here, a new leftback is a must, Fabio and Konchesky are not good enough for Liverpool. We could do with another centerback too but only if the likes of Agger and Soto are sold. Players like Degan, Insua and Darby, i feel will be released. Good news though, we have a glutch of young players like Ayala, Flanagan, Robinson and Wisdom coming through.
Midfielders
Steven Gerrard - Captain, Hero, Legend. Everything Liverpool is about is embodied by Gerrard. Recently he stated that he will be back, fitter than ever for the new season. Music to my ears. My favourite player of all time. Enough said.
Raul Meireles - Of all Roy Hodgson's purchases, Raul is the only one who looked any good. Played much better under Kenny and went on an amazing scoring run. His all round play is great, though rumours of him being sold do concern me, and not just because his name is on the back of my new Liverpool away shirt. Please keep.
Alberto Aquilani - Well, well, well. It looks as if the prince is staying. You know what, i'm glad he is. He has unfinished buisness here and wasn't given a fair crack at the Premiership last time round. Quality, is one word i would use to describe him, although IF a decent offer came in for him, i think he could be sold.
Lucas Leiva - Liverpool's player of the season, and rightly so. He's gone from being a bit part boo boy, to unsung hero and fan favourite. He's improved so much over the last couple of seasons and will get better. Never moans, just gets on with it. Fantastic pro, more like him please.
Jordan Henderon - The new boy, and he's divided opinions on these boards. I'm from Coventry and remember when he was loaned here a couple of seasons ago. You see Coventry play a pass and move game, a bit like how Kenny does, and Henderson thrived in that Coventry side. He helped them to a FA cup 1/4 final, where City were beaten by Chelsea. A very clever signing by Kenny, he will be a big sucess here, i just know it.
Maxi Rodriquez - There's times when you wouldn't even know he was playing, then there's times when he scores 7 goals in 3 games. I like Maxi, good player and if he's happy to be a squad player then i'm happy to keep him on board.
Joe Cole - Promised so much, delivered so, so little. Being sent off in his first game for us set the tone for the rest of his season. Scored the winner against Bolton at Anfield, but that was it. Looks out of shape, and with his huge wages, i expect him to be sold this summer. Such a shame.
Christian Poulsen - Another signing from last summer who didn't cut it. He's so one paced it's scary, his tackling is rash and his positioning is pretty poor. Poulsen has said he would like to stay and fight for his place, good attitude, but i don't think he's in Kenny's plans.
Jay Spearing - Local boy who would run infront of a train for the cause. No doubt about it, Jay played his best football under Kenny (there seems to be a trend here). A menace to other players, snapping away, refusing to give up, tidy passer. I think we should keep hold of him. Good little player.
Jonjo Shelvey - Young lad signed from Charlton last summer, he's been impressive at times. No doubting his raw talent, his passing and deliveries from set-pieces are very good. He also has a decent engine. Like Danny Wilson however, i feel a loan move would help his development.
Verdict - We have Henderson in the bag, i feel we just need another winger, one who can add that bit of pace and creativity to the side. With Aquilani staying, do we still need Charlie Adam? Theres one or two that need moving on aswell, Joe Cole and Poulsen are likely to leave. We also have the likes of Raheem Sterling, Conor Coady and Suso coming through, all look very, very promising.
Forwards
Luis Suarez - Yes. What a great signing, he's been so impressive since signing in January, weighed in with goals and assists. I can't wait to see him tear the league apart next season. Those who are moaning about Damien Comolli will do well to remember who bought this gem of a player to Anfield.
Andy Carroll - The most expensive English player ever, Liverpool's record signing of £35 million. Forget all that and lets focus on whats really important, Andy's ability. Fantastic in the air and has a sledge hammer of a left foot, as he demomstrated against Man City. He's not been 100% fit since we have signed him, good to see him in pre-season training early. Once he's 100% fit he will be a force.
Dirk Kuyt - Sensational energy levels and work rate, he also bagged 12 league goals last season which is impressive, cosidering he spends a lot of the time out wide. Important player for Liverpool, another unsung hero for the club.
Milan Jovanovic - Similar to Joe Cole, promised much but did little. Milan didn't even feature under the King. I was looking forward to see him play for the club, but was let down when he arrived. Massive wages means he will be off loaded this summer, if we can find a club that want him.
David Ngog - Young striker with ability, but not much. You never feel confident David will score when he plays and i don't think he will get much better. It also sounds like he could be close to moving on.
Daniel Pacheco - A lot of hype around Pacheco, but no manager has really given him a chance. Why is that? Abilty? Attitude? I'm not sure but i don't know if he has a future at Liverpool. Hopefully im wrong but another loan moved could be on the cards for Daniel.
Verdict - Do we need another striker? Sergio Aguero has said he want's to leave Athletico Madrid this summer, but im not sure if that would be possible. Milan Jovanovic and David Ngog could well leave this summer freeing up space in the striker departmant. Youngsters like Eccleston and Amoo don't really seem to have what it takes, same can be said for El Zhar. We have young Adam Morgan coming through aswell.
If i've missed anyone or you guys would like to add your input feel free to do so.
Great post mate, very detailed and informed :) Repped
Centre backs
Carragher- prior to Benítez using him in his twilight years as a central defender was our own John O'Shea, average player who gave it all to the team, could play in any position without being outstanding,
There's no question about his desire for the club and his throwing his body on the line,
But as an overall defender he has quite a lot of weaknesses and doesn't really benefit the team because we have to play much deeper because he has no pace, and another thing what really is annoying is that he will always lump it forward rather than play it simple
Kyrgiakos- has one advantage above Carragher and that is he is very good in the air but way too inconsistent and prone to making mistakes, we all know Carragher is slow but with the big Greek he would lose a race with a turtle snail that's how slow he is and again with him in the team we had to play deep which is in good as it invites pressure on the team.
Agger-without doubt the best defender we've got people will always say he is easily bullied because of the Chelsea game, but he has shown though he can cope with the physical side it was just that he was recovering from yet another setback with injuries, at the age of 26 should be at his prime but with three years or so messing from his career he hasn't progressed to the level he should be
Centre backs
Carragher- prior to Benítez using him in his twilight years as a central defender was our own John O'Shea, average player who gave it all to the team, could play in any position without being outstanding,
There's no question about his desire for the club and his throwing his body on the line,
But as an overall defender he has quite a lot of weaknesses and doesn't really benefit the team because we have to play much deeper because he has no pace, and another thing what really is annoying is that he will always lump it forward rather than play it simple
Kyrgiakos- has one advantage above Carragher and that is he is very good in the air but way too inconsistent and prone to making mistakes, we all know Carragher is slow but with the big Greek he would lose a race with a turtle snail that's how slow he is and again with him in the team we had to play deep which is in good as it invites pressure on the team.
Agger-without doubt the best defender we've got people will always say he is easily bullied because of the Chelsea game, but he has shown though he can cope with the physical side it was just that he was recovering from yet another setback with injuries, at the age of 26 should be at his prime but with three years or so messing from his career he hasn't progressed to the level he should be
what happend to skrtel
Why not include Rafa's duds who are returning from loan in the squad
1.Ecclesstone
2.Amoo
3.Degen
4. Ayala
5.Darby
6.El zahr
I'd like to know your thoughts on these.
Why have you such an anger problem towards benitez.
Its 12 months now since he left the club and your still wont give it up.
We are all here to discuss liverpool football club as it stands today and how we can improve so if you dont want to do discuss then go back to redcafe..
Škrtel
made his debut against an amateur team it looked like he was the amateur which was alarming,
Since then he's been hot and cold and like Agger has received quite a few injuries what has hampered his progress
specially with a head injury with Carragher, after recovering from the injury there were periods when he was frightened to evening head the ball which was worrying central defender,
Under Hodgson he really suffered badly as we went back to old English style defending where you defenders of virtually shaking hands with the goalkeeper, throwing your body on the line, blooding glory type defending which suited Carragher down to a tee but the rest of the team struggled with this philosophy,
Under Dalglish he started to regain his confidence, not blistering pace but has adequate turn of speed okay in the air and not bad with the ball, the only major worry about him is he can be bullied
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Kelly
I just hope that his career doesn't go like Carragher being labelled utility player and then later in his career people realise that he is a central defender.
He has all the qualities to be a very good central defender, good in the air, has the physical strength to cope, reasonable pace, okay on the deck,
The only concerns would be is a lack of experience, now I've said this before and I'll say it again this club in the last 10 years or so has been very reluctant to allow players to develop by playing,
A lot of managers take the chance on the young players and give them the support needed as well as the fans, we've really got to believe in these kids as it will benefit the club long-term and the fans have to understand that as well.
And the second concern would be out his development he has picked up quite a few injuries hopefully he won't turn into another Agger
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Ayala
everyone remembers his debut when he was a young player just breaking through and looked out his depth, since that debut he's had a few other games for the first team and didn't struggle that badly. With his loan spells he's starting to look like he could feel out his potential,
Again another defender with okay pace, good in the air, needs to work on bit more on physically but okay in that department and finally okay on the ball
------------------------------------------------------------------
Not quite sure how Dalglish is going to use his defenders as it stands,
In my opinion this is how he will look at it Agger might keep might not, Kyrgiakos as backup
Carragher & Škrtel first choice defenders and Kelly used as a utility player, then selling Ayala
He will then look to buy another central defender to replace Jamie eventually.
Now if it was up to me Kelly & Škrtel should be rotated depending on their form Carragher & Ayala as backup then buy real good central defender to play at number one choice,
Then selling Agger & Kyrgiakos
Hollywood-Rose
3-7-11, 12:34
Škrtel
made his debut against an amateur team it looked like he was the amateur which was alarming,
Since then he's been hot and cold and like Agger has received quite a few injuries what has hampered his progress
specially with a head injury with Carragher, after recovering from the injury there were periods when he was frightened to evening head the ball which was worrying central defender,
Under Hodgson he really suffered badly as we went back to old English style defending where you defenders of virtually shaking hands with the goalkeeper, throwing your body on the line, blooding glory type defending which suited Carragher down to a tee but the rest of the team struggled with this philosophy,
Under Dalglish he started to regain his confidence, not blistering pace but has adequate turn of speed okay in the air and not bad with the ball, the only major worry about him is he can be bullied
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Kelly
I just hope that his career doesn't go like Carragher being labelled utility player and then later in his career people realise that he is a central defender.
He has all the qualities to be a very good central defender, good in the air, has the physical strength to cope, reasonable pace, okay on the deck,
The only concerns would be is a lack of experience, now I've said this before and I'll say it again this club in the last 10 years or so has been very reluctant to allow players to develop by playing,
A lot of managers take the chance on the young players and give them the support needed as well as the fans, we've really got to believe in these kids as it will benefit the club long-term and the fans have to understand that as well.
And the second concern would be out his development he has picked up quite a few injuries hopefully he won't turn into another Agger
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Ayala
everyone remembers his debut when he was a young player just breaking through and looked out his depth, since that debut he's had a few other games for the first team and didn't struggle that badly. With his loan spells he's starting to look like he could feel out his potential,
Again another defender with okay pace, good in the air, needs to work on bit more on physically but okay in that department and finally okay on the ball
------------------------------------------------------------------
Not quite sure how Dalglish is going to use his defenders as it stands,
In my opinion this is how he will look at it Agger might keep might not, Kyrgiakos as backup
Carragher & Škrtel first choice defenders and Kelly used as a utility player, then selling Ayala
He will then look to buy another central defender to replace Jamie eventually.
Now if it was up to me Kelly & Škrtel should be rotated depending on their form Carragher & Ayala as backup then buy real good central defender to play at number one choice,
Then selling Agger & Kyrgiakos
Thanks for your input dude.
The hardest area that Dalglish has to get right and the biggest headache for him in my opinion is midfield
1st up
Defensive midfielder
Spearing
at youth level Steve Heighway rated him very highly and if I remember correctly had a little dig at Benitez stating that he should be pushing hard in the first team,
When Spearing moved into the reserve team basically he was out his depth even though he was playing with better players he couldn't make transition from youth player to reserve player,
With his loan at Leicester if I remember correctly before Benitez was sacked I think there was an agreement for it to be permanent deal,
Has performed reasonably well last year under Dalglish but for me is lacking that final bit to make him in my opinion a top four player,
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Coady
what I can hear from other people is that maybe he won't make it after all I'm not all familiar with our youth players nowadays so can't really comment,
Definitely needs experience a year's loan and I think we can see where he's going
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Definitely an area that we might be looking to improve, now like I said on different topics there is different types of defensive midfielders,
Myself personally I prefer the Alonso/Busquets/Schweinsteiger type who basically control the rhythm of the team by playing as a deep playmaker/defensive player their job to protect the back 4 while at the same time technically keeping everything ticking
Maybe that's why we're going for Adam
Hollywood-Rose
5-7-11, 17:43
The hardest area that Dalglish has to get right and the biggest headache for him in my opinion is midfield
1st up
Defensive midfielder
Spearing
at youth level Steve Heighway rated him very highly and if I remember correctly had a little dig at Benitez stating that he should be pushing hard in the first team,
When Spearing moved into the reserve team basically he was out his depth even though he was playing with better players he couldn't make transition from youth player to reserve player,
With his loan at Leicester if I remember correctly before Benitez was sacked I think there was an agreement for it to be permanent deal,
Has performed reasonably well last year under Dalglish but for me is lacking that final bit to make him in my opinion a top four player,
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Coady
what I can hear from other people is that maybe he won't make it after all I'm not all familiar with our youth players nowadays so can't really comment,
Definitely needs experience a year's loan and I think we can see where he's going
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Definitely an area that we might be looking to improve, now like I said on different topics there is different types of defensive midfielders,
Myself personally I prefer the Alonso/Busquets/Schweinsteiger type who basically control the rhythm of the team by playing as a deep playmaker/defensive player their job to protect the back 4 while at the same time technically keeping everything ticking
Maybe that's why we're going for Adam
I've heard quite the opposite, and when ever i've watched him myself he's always impressed. Maybe not the next Gerrard, but he has a big future no doubt.