Reds return in style... With my help!

"What would the LFC file do...?" Brendan wondered.

I don't have many readers to this blog. Around 300 at the last count and fortunately growing. I think it's pretty fair in content. Praise and criticism of the team, manager and players in unequal but fair measure. However, I think there's one important reader. A reader in the shadows. His participation unknown to others. His last name begins with 'R' and his christian name with 'B'.

No, I'm not talking about Boo Radley, the spooky guy from the Harper Lee novel "To Kill a Mocking Bird", or even "British Rail" the never ending story about a rickety old railway in England! I mean Brendan Rodgers of course, the current incumbent of the Manager's seat at Liverpool Football Club. A man who I have claimed on more than one occasion as the man to bring the good times back after the Reds' faltering recent fortunes. This is a claim I will stand by because not only is his team playing attractive football and on a more consistent basis, but also because the club has a manager with real passion and understanding of the club, it's values and the city it represents. Call me nostalgic but those are very similar traits to previous, successful manager who is charged with beginning the most fruitful era in the clubs history. 

This reader of mine, Brendan Rodgers, is clearly reading this blog because he made the very changes that I suggested yesterday. Ask yourselves, seriously. There can only two reasons for his team selection. The first could be that Rodgers woke yesterday morning and thought "Mmmmm... Let's have a look at what 'The LFC File' thinks. Maybe that'll give me a few pointers". And, duly noting my suggestions, and following a pre-match discussion with Colin Pascoe the plan was put in place. He opted to start with a back four, Philippe Coutinho on the left and the welcome return of Glen Johnson at right-back. Okay, I also suggested playing Daniel Sturridge or Luis Suarez wide as part of a front-three. Actually that was just a red-herring because I knew Martin Jol, devoid of any ideas as to how to improve his free-falling Fulham side, would also be reading to get a few "pointers" of his own. Needless to say, this literary dummy sold the poor bugger completely! And so it came to pass (for want of a better expression), The result... A crushing demolition of Jol's side.  

The second reason, one that some may say is slightly more plausible, would be based on what I mentioned earlier about Rodgers' suitability for the post. He has clearly learned from his mistakes and made the changes on the simple basis that, that's what anybody with an ounce of footballing nous would have done. Coupled with the fact that he understands the importance of returning to winning ways following the disappointment at Arsenal last week. Especially against the kind of team Liverpool should be beating easily with all due respect to Martin Jol and Fulham. Personally, I think this reason is boring and couldn't possibly be correct. I prefer the first one. 

I thought the game itself was as you've come to expect from Liverpool this season. Storming out of the blocks to burst into a two or three goal lead and then play more of a containing game in the secon half, once the opposition have realised what's going on and try to do something about it; Although I don't think Fulham made any such realisation yesterday. Jordan Henderson was again his hard-working and reliable self. Even if, again his finishing let him down. His work for the team and passing was spot on. Of course most of the plaudits goes to Suarez for his finishing. However, for me, Steven Gerrard was the stand out performer and God only knows how Rodgers will replace him when he finally hangs his boots up. It's a question worth pondering as much as it is difficult to answer. The return of Coutinho added a bit of urgency and invention that's been missing in recent games. Victor Moses has done ok in that position but he has some catching up to do, in my opinion, before he becomes an automatic option in that role. Martin Skrtel's goal underlined the improvement in his form and showed that the defensive places are currently well contended in the squad. Only a good thing. 

So, all in all a good performance from the Reds and three valuable points to keep them in the hunt. The result between Chelsea and West Brom also done Liverpool a favor and opens up a small gap and at the time of writing, Tottenham are 1-0 down to Newcastle so long may that continue! The key for Liverpool is to build up some confidence over the next few fixtures. The festive season pits them against Manchester City and Chelsea so I think it's vital to keep the momentum for the next few matches. 

A last mention for John Barnes who turned 50 in the week. A total legend for Liverpool and the likes of whom are unlikely if ever to be found in a Liverpool shirt again. Probably the most technically gifted player I've ever had the pleasure of watching. 

Follow me on Twitter @Mrbengreen

Here we go again...

So game 11 of the 2013/14 premiership season kicks off this afternoon and there are some interesting fixtures to note. 

First things first though of course and Liverpool entertain Martin Jols Fulham side at the Anfield this afternoon. With The Cottagers languishing in 16th place on the league, one has to be optimistic for Bremdan Rodgers' men. Usually this is the type of match one would beat describe as a potential "banana skin" for the Reds. 

In recent times Rodgers has made a good job of focussing his side to step it up against the so-called lesser teams and I hope this continues today. One thing that concerns me is Liverpool's inability to keep a clean sheet and I have to say the flaws in the 3-5-2 the team have deployed this season were surely exposed against Arsenal. I'd like to see Rodger's return to four at the back for a fixture that needs to bear 3 points if Liverpool are going to be taken seriously as contenders this season. 

The return of Glen Johnson should go some way to providing some solidity at the back. Despite his clear defensive shortcomings, his experience is invaluable. Most if all, is like to see Philippe Coutinho make his first start since returning from injury and his creative flair and eye for a pass will do the home side no harm at all. A lot more effort from the whole team and better communication between Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez wouldn't go a miss either!

Away from that we have Chelsea at home to West Brom and "I'd luv it!" If Steve Clarke could get one over his old boss in his own back yard and do Liverpool a favour at the same time. With Tottenham, Arsenal and Man City all playing tomorrow, a nice win to show their credentials would do Liverpool no harm. 

Here's hoping the post-match review will be a positive one. 

Follow me on Twitter @Mrbengreen

To jinx or not to jinx

Let's hope you're laughing come May!

Contrary to what Billy Shakespeare wrote, this is actually the question. You see, no sooner had I revealed my superstitious fear of lauding Liverpool's start to the season, the wheels appeared to fall off the bandwagon of optimism. Yes, it was Arsenal and yes, they're top of the league and looking good value for it, but I can't bring myself to say that they're unbeatable In all fairness, games between these two are always impossible to call. Perhaps I just chose the wrong moment!

So, that said, I'm not overly disappointed with the result. I just see it as a reminder that there is still work for Brendan Rodgers and the whole team to do. I think the biggest undoing was playing three at the back. It seems to have worked well thus far this season, but against a top team I don't believe the manager should stray too far from the tried and trusted. Rodger's reasoning for playing this 3-5-2 is to accommodate both Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge in attack. For me, that's a feeble excuse and not one I expect to hear from someone who, not so long ago, was claiming the players "Will play where they're told to".

The point I'm making is that if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I'd like to see Rodgers be bold enough to play one of them in a wider position, the other in the middle and simply have them swapping positions now and again. Surely that's got to pull the opposition defences all over the place trying to manage the two of them. When all is said and done though, the players are the ones who should stand up for the occasion and be counted and I don't think that happened until it was too late. Suarez reverted to his old self and missed a glorious chance to play Sturridge in for a near dead cert finish in the closing stages. Instead going it alone and pushing it wide. That has to stop. Aaron Ramsey's finish is definitely worth a mention.

A look at the next few fixtures provides, what I would say, is a chance for Liverpool to consolidate their place as a front runner this season. Fulham and Norwich at home either side of away fixtures at Everton and Hull respectively have got to be games that Liverpool should be looking to pick up maximum points. With the exception of the derby - which is always a bit of a lottery - you've got to fancy the Reds to do the business going into the Christmas shakeup. The festive season brings away games at Tottenham, Man City and Chelsea and the team needs the confidence going into that period. Ahead of that, a testing encounter at Upton Park to visit West Ham will also test LFC's "top-four" credentials.

I'm a believer that the season can be won and lost over Christmas so this is a time I'm really looking forward to. Will Rodgers' men build on what can only be described as surprisingly good start to the season? Or will they peter out like Newcastle, West Brom, or (more likely than not) Southampton have done in recent times? I don't do predictions but I'd suggest a two-goal margin in Liverpool's favour on Saturday against Fulham.

Where the league is concerned, time of course, will tell but - optimistically, I believe the top four is in reach and should be expected by all Liverpool fans. Realistically, I'd be happy with fifth because it means qualification for European competition and still represents an improvement on the previous season's effort. Improvement is all Liverpool fans can ask for given the shambles that the club became under Tom Hicks and George Gillet. Two that definitely weren't the best that Liverpool could get.

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So far so good...?



Yes - He loves himself!

 Again, it's been a while since I've written on here. Sad but true. Not that I haven't wanted to. There's one particular reason... I've been shit scared at the strength with which Liverpool have started the season! Call me superstitious but I've been careful not to write too positively for fear of jinxing the whole thing. I mean let's face it, even my arch nemesis Luis Suarez is passing the ball more in the final third. Now this is something I never thought I'd see. Not while he wears the red of Liverpool anyway.

Witchcraft aside, I think most Liverpool fans with the exception of the foolhardy would admit surprise at the start to the season Liverpool have made. The new additions over the summer have not disappointed when they've played and this speaks volumes for Brendan Rodgers' eye for a player. His only utter failing in the transfer market has been Fabio Borini and he's been banished on loan Somewhere or Sunderland (either name will do), which kind of absolves him of the crime he committed in signing Borini in the first place. "It's a fair kop guv'nor!"

Liverpool have adopted a distinct strategy in the transfer market which seems to be paying off. The acquisition of Victor Moses, Mamadou Sakho, Aly Cissokho and Luis Alberto all indicate that the club are looking not just for youth, ability, potential blah blah blah... But hunger. Obviously not in the same sense as in Jan Molby or Neil Ruddock, but as in the desire to succeed where others had written them off. This is true in the case of Daniel Sturridge. Living proof that one man's muck is another man's brass! After Manchester City and Chelsea, he's taken the opportunity at Liverpool with both hands and this is paying dividends for both him and the club. Moses is another example. Although one has to wonder why he ever went to Chelsea from Wigan in the first place. Anyone that's even heard of football could have told the lad he'd struggle to get a run of games there. I hope the move becomes permanent next year. 

Of all the summer signings, I've been most impressed with Kolo Touré.  I'd even say Rodgers has replaced Jamie Carragher with a better player. The guy can do it all. Tackle, positions himself well,  and brings the ball forward out of defence without just "hoofing" it upfield. Touré didn't have anything to prove other than what mugs Man City were for letting him go for free. Liverpool missed him in the Man United game for sure and he's already proving to be a vital part of the first eleven. In fact, the entire current back three of Touré, Sakho and Martin Skrtel or Daniel Agger looks to be the strongest central defence the team has had since the days of Sami Hyypia and Stéphane Henchoz. Yes, the formation is different but in terms of confidence. Confidence that they won't leak a goal or two each match.

The midfield is looking good and although we've not seen much of them, Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto both look to be good buys. I think the latter isn't quite ready yet, and he'll need this season to get used to things but he his technical ability is as good as I've seen. It's fair to say that Aspas too, still has some work to do but the boy does bring some more invention to the side. I won't call him the next Bruno Cheyrou just yet! But with the Jordan Henderson as the next Ray Kennedy and Philippe Coutinho being the next, well... Philippe Coutinho, it's looking like back to the future. The team is playing well, and thus far, my impression of Rodgers has been spot on. He hasn't delivered totally but he's heading in the right direction.

Rodgers is a man who really knows what Liverpool Football Club is about, and the owners have made the right choice in his appointment. His tactical knowledge is solid, he knows how to motivate the players and most importantly, he learns from his mistakes (enter Borini and Oussama Assaidi). That said the team is still not quite where it should be. I thought there were lapses in defence on Saturday which, against a better side would have been surely punished and the team also needs to improve their concentration and consistency in the second half of games when leading. 

Having said that, a top four finish should be achievable given the start they've made to this campaign. I still believe Liverpool need to seek out a replacement for Luis Suarez in the event that he gets itchy feet again. Am I glad he stayed? I can't say I am really. I am glad that he's playing more for the team now and not being guilty of breaking down the attacking phase of play. But I still don't have much time for the guy.

He's like Marmite. You either love it or you don't. Personally I can't stand the stuff!

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Let the games begin!

Once it was "The Twist", now do "The Sturridge"!

After a gap of a couple of weeks focussing on the day job, I've made a welcome return to the keyboard this weekend. As well as casting a more than beady eye over Liverpool's performance yesterday it's worth having a look at the noteworthy from the first week of the 2013/14 Premiership season. To say a scoreline can be deceiving is a massive understatement if we look at some of yesterday's results. The two most contrasting being Liverpool's opening 1-0 win against Stoke and Manchester United's 1-4 "drubbing" of Stoke.

I watched the Liverpool match with a Manyoo supporter as it happens which, apart from sacrilege, was actually very good fun so thanks to him for that. You know who you are! I thought Liverpool were impressive and Jordan Henderson and Kole Toure hitting the post makes me begin to think that the woodwork at Anfield is due for a trimming seeing as it's been getting in the way so much this last couple of seasons. The United-ite was actually impressed by what he saw of Brendan Rodgers' men and I have to say so was I although not surprised. The understanding between Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho is as good as any I've seen since John Barnes and Peter Beardsley and that can't do the reds any harm. Add to that the inventive Iago Aspas and it seems that Rodgers may well have struck gold with these guys. On this showing, they can ban Luis Suarez for another ten games for me. I'm not entirely sure why he's still there but that's another discussion for another time.

The scoreline definitely didn't do Liverpool justice but I think it was a good result seeing as they haven't won an opening league game for the last five seasons. The passing was neat, the movement was inventive and the intensity was high. The only thing missing was clinical finishing and this is something the guys definitely need to work on in they want to improve on last season's finish. With the exception of Robert Huth hitting the crossbar early doors and Lucas Leiva clearing off the line shortly afterwards, the Liverpool goal wasn't really under threat for much of the 90 minutes. Simon Mignolet's late penalty save gave more food for thought that Rodgers is definitely building something worthwhile at Anfield. Despite that numpty Daniel Agger needlesly committing the hand ball to concede said penalty in the first place. Asmir Begovic picked up the Man of the Match award. Need I say more?

In total contrast to Liverpool's efforts, that from those at the other end of the East Lancs road can best be described as scant. Having turned up at the Liberty Stadium 35 minutes late, Robin van Persie spectacularly volleyed them into the lead. This was, it had to be said, against the run of play and curbed the clear annoyance of Manyoo fan who was glad to see something positive from his side at last. Most would agree David Moyes was a good choice to take over from Sir Alex Ferguson and it seems the style of football under Moyes hasn't really changed from what I saw. In view of what he's inherited though, I believe the phrase if it aint broke don't fix it is appropriate. Swansea were unlucky to go behind and but for a little more guile from Nathan - Soul singer look-alike - Dyer, Swansea could and should have snatched a lead early on. Save to say, if's but's and maybe's... It didn't happen and Manyoo went on to win at a canter as the Swans had clearly given up the ghost once Danny Welbeck's second put the game out of reach. They were probably thinking about next week's potential beating at Tottenham by the end.

Away from those matches, Arsenal were done 1-3 at home to Aston Villa to put more pressure on Arsene Wenger. He now needs to seriously contemplate opening that hefty wallet he's sitting on at the Emirates Stadium and bring some steel into the side. The Norwich Everton 2-2 was no real surprise and Roberto Martinez is evidently going to continue the Everton tradition of doing not very much. Cardiff went down 0-2 to West Ham which was harsh. Having to go to Upton Park for their first game in the Premiership is a baptism of fire putting it mildly, and hope goes against hope that Cardiff can resist more beatings this season. Sunderland, Fulham and West Brom, Southampton both 0-1 away wins respectively seemed pretty boring from what I saw so I won't bother with them. Like I said in the beginning noteworthy.

All in all a good start to the new campaign. Hopes are high for Liverpool who have made a good start. With the next match being at home to Manchester United, I think it was important for Liverpool to get some points on the board before what is definitely going to be a stern test.

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Fighting a losing battle

Forget Usain Bolt... I'm a superstar!

Without giving too much away, I'm not exactly a spring chicken in terms of age. I watched the recent documentary about James Hunt and Nikki Lauda during their battle for the 1976 Formula 1 World Championship and it surprised me how I could easily recall watching the coverage at the time. Lauda, literally going up in smoke, James Hunt the morning after a typically well done night before... Those were the days... The epitome of an era that has long passed. There was a different mindset then, as there is now. Whether better or worse.

Hunt and Lauda were described as the first superstars of their sport. Listen to Sebastian Vettel and his sadly unconvincing congratulations to "the team"..., "great job guys!" then disobeying the team to overtake his team mate in order to win, and you see how bad things have become. Football also, has sadly changed to follow suit. Gone are the days when the expression that "No player is bigger than the team" was actually true. It has since left the building along with Sir Alex Ferguson.  

At the time of writing, there are at least three managers who, sadly didn't notice the departure. For whatever reason, probably their own ego and to confirm their status they've inadvertently created a situation where some players, do appear to be, bigger than the clubs. I'm talking about Manchester United's David Moyes, Paul Lambert at Aston Villa and Liverpool's own Brendan Rodgers. All of whom are fighting, often very public but losing, battles with those who have frankly become too big for their boots. In each case, they're letting players dictate to them - even when the exact opposite is apparent. Moyes is showing that this approach with Wayne Rooney obviously isn't working. 

In one of Sir Alex Ferguson's last interviews after his final match at Old Trafford, he was asked how he would handle the Rooney situation. He diplomatically used words to the effect that it's not his problem now. Quite rightly in the circumstances, but anyone that has watched his team go from strength to strength since their crunch game against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup back in 1989 will know exactly what he'd have done with Rooney. Ask Jaap Stam, Paul Ince or David Beckham. He'd have sold him quicker than Rooney's Range Rover Sport does the 0-100KPH sprint. The fact is he wouldn't have stood for it. 

Brendan Rodgers, like many a Liverpool fan seems to have this unconditional love affair with Luis Suarez, when the guy is clearly only interested in his own promotion. Suarez should be sold. Point. With the utterings coming from Liverpool that Rodgers is "on the phone to Suarez every day" in an effort to convince him to stay, being a prime example. What the hell for? Why behave like a mother who's last born is leaving for University? Rodgers should be on the phone to the Real Madrid, Arsenal and Chelsea to see if they're looking for a spare part! Suarez's behavior is absolutely not befitting of a Liverpool player, in the way that genuine fans would describe one. It's not just down to ability, but also attitude and Suarez's attitude stinks more than the browny-green stuff in a babies nappy! There should be no place for him. Liverpool Football Club has managed very well before Suarez and I'm sure they can do so after he's gone. His behavior is a smack in the face for the club that has stuck by him, even ill advisedly through thick and thin. LFC, literally, is bigger than that. 

Lastly, we have Christian Benteke at Aston Villa, again arrogance abounds. Not turning up for training,
threatening to strike as he did at his old club FC Genk. Totally unacceptable, and instead of "threatening" to fine him, Randy Lerner should have docked a sizeable sum from him already. Threatening is what powerless parents do with their spoilt and belligerent children. Action is what gets results be they pretty or ugly. Football, is a results game after all. The guy has played one season in the Premiership and thinks he's all that already. He has some ability, but lets hope the phrase "one season wonder" isn't his descriptive come May 2014. 

I don't know if these lads are just badly represented, misunderstood, or if what gets into the press is simple maneuvering, but it leaves a sour taste in the mouths of the fans and the public in general. Whatever it is, the teams, the managers and all associated with them need to take a stand. They need to send the right message. Nobody is irreplaceable and nobody is bigger than the club. 

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It was only a friendly!

The boy done good!

Now the dust has settled my inflated optimism at Liverpool's 0-4 drubbing of Preston North End has

turned more to caution. A feet on the ground approach to what was undoubtedly a very positive performance. No disrespect to Preston's players, but there wasn't much to establish the improvement, if any, that Brendan Rodger's summer signings have made to the squad.

That said, I was pleased with a number of the performances. Clearly most of the plaudits will go to Iago Aspas with his clever assist for Raheem Sterling to slot home Liverpool's third and his own top drawer finish to put the Reds clean out of sight with the fourth. Philippe Coutinho for some great individual moments and putting the visitors ahead from the penalty spot. And of course Sterling himself  who worked tirelessly and thoroughly deserved his goal. Also worth a mention is young Jordon Ibe. 

For the last couple of seasons now Ibe has been improving and improving since the sauff London lad joined Liverpool from Wycombe Wanderers and his outstanding promise is beginning to deliver. He took his goal extremely well. The other plus is that the performances of Coutinho, Aspas and Sterling actually took the limelight away from Ibe which can only be a good thing for him. I can't see him being a regular fixture for next season but he will get some chances to show what he can do. This is for sure. 

Equally impressive was Andre Wisdom and he showed that he can cope well in his preferred position at Centre Back. What I found most pleasing is that he can bring the ball forward from defence and distribute it intelligently, whilst also showing that he can provide some bite in the tackle. Martin Kelly didn't really have much game time, but I think he still showed he's on the way back to what we expect of him. Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson both had good games and another newbie Luis Alberto also put in a good performance and came close also with a couple of chances. He reminds me quite a bit of Xabi Alonso. He seems to have a good eye for a pass and I think he can be pleased with his debut.  

The only disappointment was Fabio Borini. He has yet to justify his inclusion in the side in my opinion. All industry and no end product. The one-on-one he had towards the end of the first half that he blazed wide was simply typical of his clear lack of composure and ability in front of goal. I hope he was watching when Sterling had an almost identical opportunity, rounded the keeper and slotted home. That's the way to do it!

Overall, as warm-ups go it was pleasing to watch. I didn't see Preston scoring and said so in my preview. All of the players that took part looked as if they enjoyed themselves and the team is developing a good understanding with the newcomers and this can only bode well for the coming season. I guess the fact that Simon Mignolet and Kolo Toure had very little to do, kind of sums up the level of threat from Preston. I therefore have to remind myself and all Liverpool fans, in case we forgot... It was only a friendly. 

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Preston North End vs Liverpool preview

A welcome return for Martin Kelly?

This afternoon at 3pm will see Brendan Rodgers' emerging Liverpool side take on Preston North End in the pre season curtain raiser an Deepdale. Perhaps fitting that both teams share a past employee as player and manager in one William "Bill" Shankly OBE.

Although this is by no means a competitive match, all Liverpool fans will be looking for three things. Firstly, a good performance all things considered, secondly, how the new recruits manage, and lastly - the nice to have - a win. 

Rodgers has said all of the new additions to the squad will play a part in the game so providing he doesn't mean the "part" of benchwarmers then it'll be an interesting match. It goes without saying that all eyes will be on them and my mince pies will be no exception. Having won every Premiership, Champions League, FA and League Cup since 1998 from the comfort of my sofa and with the help of Football Manager, I think my eye, is particularly keen.  I am interested to see if the manager has brought some real value to the team in terms of ability and, due to their ages, potential. Does "potential" translate into a challenge for a top-four slot? A discussion for another time. 

One position which will be of interest to supporters will be who plays in goal. Simon Mignolet is a keeper of undoubted ability, and Pepe Reina is proven. I think a half each would be fair. In the outfield, I'd like to see young Martin Kelly get a run out after his year-long absence through injury. Albeit not a competitive match I think Kelly will be looking to show the manager what he's missed last season, and put himself ahead of the equally impressive Andre Wisdom. Needless to say, Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto will be under scrutiny following much-lauded moves to Anfield.

In any case, it'll be a good run out for the team, a chance to get some fitness and for the new lads to integrate. Despite this being a "friendly" I'd like to see a Liverpool victory and ideally a good showing from the new boys. No pressure then!

Prediction... I don't do predictions but I'd suggest, 3-0 to Liverpool. 

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You'll win nothing with kids!

Button it chaps. You need me!

You've probably noticed I've not written much this last week or two. It's not because I've won the Lottery and now couldn't give a toss about Liverpool FC. Not that I can say I've been that busy I haven't had time. I can't even put it down to writer's block. The fact is that there isn't anything interesting to write about. The close season optimism is now as exciting as the proverbial damp squib!

I'm sick to the back teeth of Luis Suarez and its got to the point that I want him to go simply so that I can take a good look at the team Brendan Rodgers has assembled and propose a way forward with what's left. I'm not interested where he goes, just so long as he does. Do us all a favor. Same can be said for Pepe Reina. As much as I like Peps, I'd like to sacrifice him, just for something to write about. 

A quick look at the papers and what do I see? Steve McClaren has joined Harry Redknapp's mighty army at QPR... Big deal.  Manuel Pellegrini thinks Manchester City will win the league... Well he's hardly going to say "It's looking unlikely" is he? And to top it all, Lazio, Genoa and Lecce have been charged with match fixing... No shock there. A good Roma supporting friend of mine told me that months ago so it isn't really news. Apart from the fact that Lecce aren't being used to draw blood from boils anymore - Boom boom!

Side-splitting jokes apart, the one piece of news that has caught my interest is that Stewart Downing could be on his way to West Ham. Personally speaking, I think Rodgers would be making a mistake to sell him and this is for two reasons. Firstly, because along with Jordan Henderson he was one of our better players toward the end of last season. He finished with five assists, which although doesn't seem that many, I'm near on certain that all of those came in the second half of the season when he really picked things up. He even scored three goals which is his best tally for Liverpool so far considering he was out of favor for much of 2012/13. Surely something to build on.

Secondly, and more importantly, Liverpool need his experience. Rodgers has made four signings this close season, and only one, Kolo Toure has proven himself in the Premiership. Yes, Simon Mignolet comes with big expectations but he's not at the peak of his ability just yet. With the exception of Reina - for now anyway - Steven Gerrard and Glenda Johnson, Liverpool don't have many old heads in the squad. Martin Skrtel is 28 but he's not been much use of late. Looking at the "spine" of the team as it's called, there isn't any experience in attack. Between the sticks, defence and midfield yes, but in attack? Not that I can think of. 

Downing has not enjoyed the most convincing of times since moving to Liverpool, but one has to admit that he's been looking like a new player this last few months. Personally, I'd keep him at least until January so the newcomers can be brought in gradually. Arguably for the whole season. My concern is that Liverpool will be relying too much on potential and not enough on established ability going into the next campaign. I repeat, the Champions League is too far an expectation, but Rodgers should at least give himself a chance and be careful he doesn't make a rod for his own back. 

Alas, I fear that Liverpool will be relying on a young team that doesn't have the experience to fulfill the expectations placed upon them and the pressure that comes with it. For this reason, I'd say top five or six is realistic. Some bloke once said "You'll win nothing with kids" and although he ended up with a massive lump of egg on his face, I don't see that particular bolt of lightening striking twice. 

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Liverpool looking good value for money

The annual summer transfer frenzy is now officially up and running, and the papers are full of speculation and links based on insider contacts, hope and in some cases pure imagination. However, with that said, only half of the Premierships clubs have flexed any financial muscle thus far, with the usual moneybags suspects Manchester "hard-up" City leading the way with over £50m spent already.

What I've found surprising is that although Aston Villa have been the most busy, bringing in five players for a total of around £11m, I see the supposedly cash-strapped Liverpool currently running second to Citeh in the spending stakes. With the current acquisitions of Iago Aspas and Luis Alberto costing a reported £12m or thereabouts, and the imminent arrival of Simon Mignolet for £10m, the Liverpool Chief Financial Officer Andy Hughes is now sweating over the departure of £22m from the cash ledger. The perennial big spenders, Chelsea are yet to draw their wallet in anger, and Manchester United and Arsenal only have spent a massive £2.8m between them... With Arsenal contributing, er... zero.

You see, as far as I was aware, Liverpool are supposed to be skint. "We need to build a 700,000 seater stadium so we can keep up with the likes of Chelski and Manyoo" they say. "We can't compete anymore because we've been left behind financially". "We're poor..." they cry. Well, they don't seem to be doing that badly. 

On reflection, Liverpool's decline over the last few years is not, in my opinion down to a lack of funds. Lets face it, it's not as if they've been scratching around for a transfer kitty this last few years. The main reason is simply down to adopting a poor recruitment policy of picking up average players on massive salaries. Poor use of funds, rather than a lack of it. After all, the Reds are currently lying in 5th place in the current Premiership Rich List, and on the strength of that, not as poor as we'd imagine. Am I the only one that's noticed this?

In terms of revenues, Liverpool have, potentially, some large income from the departures of Luis Suarez - at least around £35m by all accounts (excuse the pun) but surely a profit on the £23m purchase price - and Jonjo Shelvey, who's lack of discipline, composure and overall poor form seems to have earned him a place on the sales ledger, so perhaps £7m for him as reported. I don't expect Liverpool to get anywhere near that amount for Jay Spearing who is allegedly being tracked by Stoke City and Bolton Wanderers, perhaps £3m at most. Add to that the possible sale of Pepe Reina and there is a likely healthy profit in the air. Surely a pleasant prospect for Mr. Hughes. 

It's near on certain that once the rest of the top four get their readies to hand, I think Liverpool will fall down the transfer spending table. However, it's clear to see that things are not as bleak as many Reds supporters would imagine. That coupled with the astute purchases made by Brendan Rodgers so far, don't paint too bad a picture for the club in the short to medium term, and especially so if that can be translated into results on the pitch. 

Follow me on Twitter @Mrbengreen

Build from the back

Oops!!

No cryptic start to the title of this blog. It is about what it says it's about. Liverpool remain in my view a team in transition, despite Brendan Rodgers telling The Mirror this week that he thinks he's solved Liverpool's "Top-four puzzle". Perhaps he knows something we don't? I hope so. Reported over the last couple of days has been the possible signing of Sunderland 'keeper Simon Mignolet.

If Rodgers can get Mignolet on board, then he may well be right. The finishing table from last season shows The Reds a creditable seventh, just two points away from the blue-noses across the way. In other words, a win or two draws short of sixth. You probably know where I'm going with this. Pepe Reina is rumored to be leaving for Barcelona this year, and I think that could be a good move for both Reina and Liverpool. Errors against Man City, Arsenal and Tottenham among others' individual mistakes cost the team dear and I think it's time for a change between the sticks. 

I checked some stats for both Mignolet and Reina and they make interesting reading. The shots faced to goals conceded is telling. According to thescore.com Reina's ratio shows that out of 292 shots he was  beaten 34 times. Or 11.6% of all shots bulging the net. On the other hand, Mignolet, played more games but let in 54 goals having faced 524 strikes. Remember, he was playing for Sunderland, bless him! These numbers give us a return of 10.3% which considering he was clearly overworked speaks volumes for his ability. 

There are another two areas I looked at which indicate that perhaps Reina has, quite literally, taken his eye off the ball. He's been at fault for at least, arguably six points this season. Against Citeh and the Gooners, valuable points were lost through errors. A glance at Reina's stats show a steady increase over the last three seasons to reach six howlers last term. If I wanted to be pedantic, I'd say that was six points right there. Not enough for European qualification but a place higher nonetheless. Mignolet on the other hand has an error count of just two. Notwithstanding the fact the poor lad didn't get a moment's rest! Add to that the fact that Reina has missed 32% or 10 of his 41 crosses compared to Mignolet's 6% or 3 of the 50 crosses he's had to intercept and you get the picture.

Unlike David James, who I believe Liverpool let go before his peak, it's probably time for Peps to move on. I wouldn't say he's past it, but I get the impression that he's not as happy at Liverpool these days as he has been in the past. Is it any coincidence that since the speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona, his form has steadily declined? I'd say, his heart is definitely not in it anymore. To be fair to him, he started out at Barcelona and the chance to return there as number one and follow in his old man's footsteps must be a hard one to resist. On the other hand, Mignolet at 25 has his best years ahead of him and is in the kind of form Reina was showing three or four seasons ago.

Pepe Reina will be sorely missed because he has been a relatively consistent performer over the time he's been at Liverpool but if Rodgers is intending to push for a top four spot next season, then he could do a lot worse than bringing Mignolet in to shore up the last line of defence. With the additions made to the attack, he still has work to do with the rest of the defence. Kolo "tree-trunk legs" Toure is a more than worthwhile signing in my opinion but we still need more cover. You know, build from the back, so to speak.

Follow me on Twitter @Mrbengreen

In Brendan I trust!

"I haven't done that badly, guys!"

It's been over a year since I last "blogged" about Liverpool . I recall the last piece was "Liverpool forward Suarez must leave following handshake fiasco". Nothing new there then! I still believe this to be the case. Maybe replace "handshake" with "bite"... Same old. Anyway I stop here where that particular liability is concerned, and focus on another. The average LFC fan. You know the one, crowing on about the "old days", and how Liverpool "should be challenging..." etc. The most bizarre one being that Brendan Rodgers "must go", whilst implying that he's out of his depth blah blah blah... Closet Newcastle supporters maybe?

Now I don't claim to be able to read the future or be a slave to the past, but one cannot deny that the two are directly correlated if applied correctly. Events from the past can and generally do indicate what the future holds. In the same way that a weather forecast is (for the most part) reasonably correct by looking at past data. Don't forget Bill Shankly didn't win anything at Liverpool, other than promotion for, what four or five seasons? I'm not sure what happened after that. It's all in the past now anyway!

If we apply that logic to Liverpool, I think Mr. L.F.C. Averagefan,  as we'll call him, may be pleasantly surprised. If you look back over the years, most successful teams have achieved that through two factors. Continuity and stability. It's not simply down to having the most money to buy the best players. Those things are important but they don't appear overnight. They come through giving everybody involved time to develop. Not just players, but perhaps more importantly, the manager and his staff. Take the Liverpool managers since Joe Fagan, those that done best were at the club for at least five years and had over 300 games in charge. The closest exception was Roy Evans but he had 226 or 244 if you include the 18 in his "partnership" with Gérard Houllier. Between Kenny Dalglish, Evans, Houllier and Rafa Benitez, the win ratio was around 55%. The other incumbents of the hot seat managed 43% from the same amount of managers. I haven't included "Caretakers". I know statistics can be bent in all manner of ways, but even Stevie Wonder (no disrespect to the musical legend) would see there is a clear pattern here.

In times of transition, which Liverpool obviously are, we all have to be grateful for small mercies. In this sense, Mr. L. F. C. Averagefan has to ask himself: Where did Liverpool finish in the 2011/12 season? And where did they finish in the 2012/13 season? Rodgers has most definitely improved the side. They're one position higher - as I said "...small mercies..." - they've scored almost twice as many goals whilst conceding only three more, and again our friend Mr. Wonder can observe that Rodgers' Liverpool side have played some of the most entertaining and attacking football we've seen since the Roy Evans' days. To confirm what I said about stats, Benitez may have been more successful but his brand of footie wasn't exactly the most enthralling you'll ever see.

Rodgers has managed to get remarkable improvements from at least a couple of players who many Liverpool fans, myself included and I won't deny it,  would have sold for two bob at the beginning of last season, namely Jordan Henderson who finished the term as arguably one of the most effective midfielders in the Premiership, let alone Liverpool and Stewart Downing who would himself admit, has played his best football since joining the club. Transfers in have been massively encouraging especially Daniel Sturridge and Phillippe Coutinho. The introduction and progress of the youngsters Andre Wisdom and Raheem Sterling among others - worthy of nothing less than praise and credit where it is definitely due.

As we embark on another close-season of transfer speculation, pre-season friendlies, (traditionally) over-inflated expectations of the season ahead, my words of advice to Mr. L.F.C. Averagefan is to get behind the team. Support the manager, the players and look at the wider picture. I'm not convinced Liverpool will qualify for the Champion's League next season either, but to be honest, another couple of places up the league, European qualification and some good entertaining football in doing so will be enough for me.

Follow me on Twitter @Mrbengreen