So whilst many will be hoping we sign a big name striker in January, it seems to be more beneficial to try and get one of either Walcott or Sturridge, and - depending on what’s left in the budget - either buying a proven goal scoring midfielder or pushing Gerrard further on than how he’s being deployed at the moment. Rodgers himself has said that it could take him “6 or 7” transfer windows to shape the squad to his liking, so hopefully FSG will get behind their man and back him come January.
Showing posts with label Blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blog. Show all posts
There’s an on-going argument as to where Suarez best operates, with many suggesting buying an out an out finisher and moving Suarez away from the centre of a front three. Personally, I feel moving our little Uruguayan onto one of the flanks would be detrimental to his and our performances. He’s the type of player who is constantly involved in an attack, one minute he’ll have the ball down the left wing and the next he’s nutmegging the left back on the other side of the pitch. If he’s placed on the wing you lose his movement, his constant harrying of centre backs and his influence. It appears Brendan Rodgers has the same thoughts – with rumours being bandied about regarding players like Tom Ince, Daniel Sturridge and Theo Walcott. All of these players play out wide for their respective teams, with Sturridge and Walcott both publicly voicing the fact they would much rather be played as the main striker. All three of these players would be an improvement on the squad and add a much needed versatility. In the Summer we sold three of our biggest attacking threats in Bellamy, Kuyt and Maxi whilst loaning out Andy Carroll; the aforementioned players scored a total of 16 in the league between themselves. It was clear to see that we hadn’t replaced these players at the end of the window, bringing in Italian youngster Fabio Borini (who has been out through injury since mid-October) and largely unknown winger Oussama Assaidi. Of course, Raheem Sterling and Suso have been brought into the first team; playing relatively well – but neither should be expected to pick up the goal tallies of Kuyt, Bellamy or Maxi.
Another problem lies in the midfield. It’s not a midfield that you could be confident of hitting 20 goals between them. Manchester City’s scored 27 last season, whilst United’s totted up 31. Lucas has scored just once for Liverpool in the league since signing back in 2007, whilst Henderson, Allen and Sahin have all averaged low scoring seasons with previous clubs. Adding the fact that Gerrard hasn’t looked close to his best this season - managing just the one goal in 14 appearances - it’s really hard to see where the goals will come from.
Jordan Francis
I recently watched a film called “Semi-Pro”, starring ‘funny guy’ Will Ferrell. After watching it I decided to write a short blog post comparing it to Liverpool FC. You’re probably all thinking, “Will Ferrell?” “Liverpool?” “What’s this got to do with a football team?” Read on.
The film’s about the Flint Michigan Tropics, a basketball franchise who learn about a merger with the NBA from their current board. But to progress to the big stage they had to finish the season in the top four.
Getting familiar now?
The sticky situation for this team is that they are not favourites, rock bottom of the league and don’t seem to be propelling up it fast.
Skip forward an hour, with the help of an ex champion amusingly traded for a washing machine, the Tropics put together an unbelievable string of victories and achieve the coveted fourth spot. The under dogs had done it. Written off by everyone, including themselves. They had achieved the impossible.
This film reflected Liverpool’s current situation, a team’s fight for fourth. An achievement, which will ensure The Reds Champions League football.
Obviously this is of course, just a film, but it put a grand smile on my face. We are in the same position, the outsiders fighting for that 4th spot.
There is no doubt that Kenny Dalglish’s ultimate aim for this season is to return Liverpool to the elite European competition. Financially, It will give the club a return on the investment they made in the summer. Adding to this, qualification to Champions League football will enable Liverpool to attract top European talents.
Much has been criticised of new additions in the first team, with many calling for ‘better quality’ replacements. But, this wouldn’t be possible unless that fourth place target is achieved. If it were, a chance to play with one of the most decorated clubs in Europe’s elite competition would be a positive attraction for potential targets.
What are Liverpool’s current chances of ending the season in fourth? Slim to say the least.
With one win in their last six, including a last gasp defeat at home to contending rivals Arsenal, Liverpool are in a slump in the Premier League. All of this while Arsenal have won their last four fixtures and are 10 points ahead of Kenny Dalglish’s men. The Reds sit in 7th with 39 points, three points ahead of in form Fulham, but five points behind Newcastle with a game in hand.
It will take a monumental effort into the back end of the season for them to clinch that fourth spot.
But, if anyone can pull off a miracle with their backs turned to the wall, it’s Liverpool Football Club. Just look at 25th may 2005.
Sikander Najib @AttackoftheKop