So, Liverpool’s record was broken and In the wake of the celebrations at Old Trafford, I read club captain, Steven Gerrard vowing to be at his best to challenge the Red Devils to even the score on 19 titles. I am sure those are sentiments that a lot of scouser fans are praying for. The truth of the matter is, I see Liverpool being a team to be taken seriously this coming season, but there is too much to do to be considered challengers.
There is no squad depth there yet, but what there is, is something that cannot be bought... pride and passion. With a couple signings, I can see the scousers challenging for a champions league spot, and maybe a little more.
Liverpool are very much a work in progress, and under Kenny, the team look revitalized and up for the challenge. Liverpool were arguably the best team in the league in the 2nd half of the season after an awful start. Onto the new season and a new challenge. All with a fresh start and fresh expectations. The truth is that Liverpool’s current players are just not up to the challenge...
The new owners, however, have shown their intent in January with the captures of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll for 50 odd million. Those are obviously the quality signings that will change the club, give Liverpool’s squad longevity and class. Liverpool were also 1st out the blocks in the summer transfer window with the 20 million pound signing of the exciting Jordan Henderson. I am sure he will be a great signing. There is intent that the owners mean business.
Liverpool will continue to sign players, but they differently have to get rid of dead wood in the squad 1st...Konchesky, Aurelio (might be ok if he actually stayed fit), Jovanovic, Kyrgiakos, Ngog, Poulsen, El Zar and Degan have go, and be replaced by quality. The physical nature of the premier League proves that more is needed than a strong first XI.
I respect what Kenny is doing at Anfield though. Not only have he got the players to believe in the cause, he is bringing in British players and he has started to recruit young players for the future of Liverpool. He is also pushing through youngsters from the academy. Although they were not 1st choice, youngsters Kelly, Flanagan, Robinson, Shelvey and Wilson were good when called upon. There is a decent midfield at Anfield with Gerrard, Meireles, Lucas (his performances could be Kenny's biggest achievement), Henderson and even Maxi, who found form at the end of the season. Who knew the former drift wood had it in him to score more goals than Torres in the 2nd half of the season...
Width is also a major concern for Kenny going into the new season as he cannot rely solely on Glen Johnson to deliver crosses into the box for Andy Carroll next season.
The signing of Charlie Adam is reported to be imminent and Liverpool are also linked with Stewert Downing from Villa for their left wing problem. Personally, If I was Kenny, I would try sign Matt Jarvis from Wolves. He is English, has just gotten his 1st full English cap, he can play on either flank and has Premier League experience. I would also attempt to sign Charles N’Zogbia from Wigan. They are realistic, have class, and might not cost an arm and a leg.
Liverpool also need a quality left back. Suggestions that Gael Clichy could favor a move north from the Emirates is a sign that Liverpool’s ambition is clear for people to see. Liverpool have also been linked to Jose Enrique at Newcastle (they too are signing players and showing the ambition that a club’s fans expect). A solid centre back wouldn’t hurt, because their centre backs don’t ooze confidence in front of the (after van Der Sar’s retirement) best ‘keeper in the league.
Should Liverpool sign the players mentioned, bring in some depth, we might be looking at an attractive team capable of competing for the league in 2 years, but then they could be further in Man United's shadow...
Over & Out
Fletch
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