The Telegraph’s LFC Journalist Chris Bascombe expects Raheem Sterling‘s contract situation to be sorted eventually, while Jon Flanagan, Martin Skrtel and Jordan Henderson will also agree new deals.
In an interview with Anfield HQ , Bascombe spoke about the contract situation involving Liverpool’s young star, Raheem Sterling.
“Liverpool have offered him at least £100,000 [a week], he’s 20, and I think that’s his value. I think if you’re the best 20-year-old in Europe, that £100,000 a week is what you’re worth.”
When asked how much Sterling was looking for in these contract negotiations, Bascombe claimed: “I know it’s north of £120,000 a week…[and] it would not surprise me if we’re talking higher rather than lower.
“How [Liverpool] got him from QPR, they can’t be that surprised—this was the game they played when he was at QPR. Liverpool got him because they paid more than anybody else for him, so the biter’s being bitten a bit.
“I think the kid himself, if you got him in a room and talked him through he’d probably just sign the paper but he’s always got to make that extra phone call,” Bascombe claimed, blaming Sterling’s agent for the current impasse.
“I think it will get sorted out eventually, but they will probably have the same thing again in two years.”
“FSG [seem to be] trying to create a new culture where you don’t just get a new contract when you’ve got two years left.
“But the danger is now Jordan Henderson goes on a run and scores three hattricks or gets five or six man-of-the-match performances, and then City want him, so therefore the contract that you were going to give him is going to be £10,000 a week more.
“That’s the roll of the dice and that’s the way they want to do it.”
Onto individual contracts, Bascombe confidently suggested: “Henderson will get a new deal eventually, I think Sterling’s will be resolved… I don’t think Jon Flanagan’s going to want to go anywhere else.
“I think they’ll all be Liverpool players at the start of next season.”
Should Raheem Sterling be asking for more than £120,000 a week at Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below.
.
The Telegraph’s LFC Journalist Chris Bascombe expects Raheem Sterling‘s contract situation to be sorted eventually, while Jon Flanagan, Martin Skrtel and Jordan Henderson will also agree new deals.
In an interview with Anfield HQ , Bascombe spoke about the contract situation involving Liverpool’s young star, Raheem Sterling.
“Liverpool have offered him at least £100,000 [a week], he’s 20, and I think that’s his value. I think if you’re the best 20-year-old in Europe, that £100,000 a week is what you’re worth.”
When asked how much Sterling was looking for in these contract negotiations, Bascombe claimed: “I know it’s north of £120,000 a week…[and] it would not surprise me if we’re talking higher rather than lower.
“How [Liverpool] got him from QPR, they can’t be that surprised—this was the game they played when he was at QPR. Liverpool got him because they paid more than anybody else for him, so the biter’s being bitten a bit.
“I think the kid himself, if you got him in a room and talked him through he’d probably just sign the paper but he’s always got to make that extra phone call,” Bascombe claimed, blaming Sterling’s agent for the current impasse.
“I think it will get sorted out eventually, but they will probably have the same thing again in two years.”
“FSG [seem to be] trying to create a new culture where you don’t just get a new contract when you’ve got two years left.
“But the danger is now Jordan Henderson goes on a run and scores three hattricks or gets five or six man-of-the-match performances, and then City want him, so therefore the contract that you were going to give him is going to be £10,000 a week more.
“That’s the roll of the dice and that’s the way they want to do it.”
Onto individual contracts, Bascombe confidently suggested: “Henderson will get a new deal eventually, I think Sterling’s will be resolved… I don’t think Jon Flanagan’s going to want to go anywhere else.
“I think they’ll all be Liverpool players at the start of next season.”
Should Raheem Sterling be asking for more than £120,000 a week at Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below.
.
The Telegraph‘s Liverpool correspondent Chris Bascombe gives his opinion on Liverpool’s planned summer arrivals and departures, with another overhaul on the agenda.
Bascombe was speaking to Anfield HQ , with host Graeme Kelly quizzing him on the futures of many of Liverpool’s current players.
Kelly asked Bascombe to indicate whether each player suggested would go or stay, added to the confirmed or assumed departures of Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson.
On Lucas Leiva: “He’s had interest in him for a while and I think he had his heart set on moving on. Things can change, and he can become part of team, but I’ll stick with ‘go’ for now.
Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert, Fabio Borini, Brad Jones, Jose Enrique and Kolo Toure all also made the ‘go’ list.
In terms of players that will stay, Bascombe hinted that both Dejan Lovren and Simon Mignolet can make themselves comfortable on Merseyside, before turning his attentions to Joe Allen.
“I think he’ll stay, but I don’t know where his contract situation is and I don’t think he’s on the top of the agenda for getting a new one at the minute.”
“[Danny] Ings, I would be surprised if he’s not a Liverpool player [next season] …certainly Liverpool would like Ings.
“[James] Milner, again, it’s a very difficult situation for him at Manchester City — he doesn’t play every week — and if he’s available I’m sure Liverpool will be in for him.
“[Mathew Ryan], there’s definitely interest in him but, as [Simon] Mignolet’s started to play quite well now, the difficulty for Liverpool will be for them to decide if they need a No. 1, or they need a young, up-and-coming No. 2.
“I think the original plan was [to sign] a No. 2.”
On suggestions that Liverpool are interested in Roma pair Miralem Pjanic and Radja Nainggolan, Bascombe continued: “They’re not names that I’ve had any confirmation one way or the other that there’s any actual interest in.”
Are Liverpool right to let the nine players suggested leave the club in the summer? Let us know in the comments below.
.
The Telegraph‘s Liverpool correspondent Chris Bascombe gives his opinion on Liverpool’s planned summer arrivals and departures, with another overhaul on the agenda.
Bascombe was speaking to Anfield HQ , with host Graeme Kelly quizzing him on the futures of many of Liverpool’s current players.
Kelly asked Bascombe to indicate whether each player suggested would go or stay, added to the confirmed or assumed departures of Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson.
On Lucas Leiva: “He’s had interest in him for a while and I think he had his heart set on moving on. Things can change, and he can become part of team, but I’ll stick with ‘go’ for now.
Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert, Fabio Borini, Brad Jones, Jose Enrique and Kolo Toure all also made the ‘go’ list.
In terms of players that will stay, Bascombe hinted that both Dejan Lovren and Simon Mignolet can make themselves comfortable on Merseyside, before turning his attentions to Joe Allen.
“I think he’ll stay, but I don’t know where his contract situation is and I don’t think he’s on the top of the agenda for getting a new one at the minute.”
“[Danny] Ings, I would be surprised if he’s not a Liverpool player [next season] …certainly Liverpool would like Ings.
“[James] Milner, again, it’s a very difficult situation for him at Manchester City — he doesn’t play every week — and if he’s available I’m sure Liverpool will be in for him.
“[Mathew Ryan], there’s definitely interest in him but, as [Simon] Mignolet’s started to play quite well now, the difficulty for Liverpool will be for them to decide if they need a No. 1, or they need a young, up-and-coming No. 2.
“I think the original plan was [to sign] a No. 2.”
On suggestions that Liverpool are interested in Roma pair Miralem Pjanic and Radja Nainggolan, Bascombe continued: “They’re not names that I’ve had any confirmation one way or the other that there’s any actual interest in.”
Are Liverpool right to let the nine players suggested leave the club in the summer? Let us know in the comments below.
.
We are sorry the page you requested cannot be found at the moment.
If you use a bookmark to enter this site, please go to our home page, find the appropriate page and update your bookmark accordingly.
This may only be a temporary problem, so you can try hitting your browser's refresh button, however if the problem persists please get in touch by emailing us.
Thank you for using TEAMtalk!
We are sorry the page you requested cannot be found at the moment.
If you use a bookmark to enter this site, please go to our home page, find the appropriate page and update your bookmark accordingly.
This may only be a temporary problem, so you can try hitting your browser's refresh button, however if the problem persists please get in touch by emailing us.
Thank you for using TEAMtalk!
Striker Daniel Sturridge‘s return from injury may have been viewed as the cure for all Liverpool’s ills in front of goal but the England international insists the focus has to be on the team and not individuals.
The 25-year-old has scored twice in five appearances, only two of which have been starts, since coming back from a five-month lay-off.
He has undoubtedly added a greater cutting edge up front – evidenced by his brilliant strike in the FA Cup against Crystal Palace – but Sturridge stressed he is a team player who wants to improve the side’s all-round performance.
“It’s important to get a relationship with every player,” said the striker, whose return has coincided with the Reds’ best run of form this season. “I’ve been out for a while. I’ve come back into the set-up and I’m just doing my best to help the team.
“It’s a team game, so every relationship’s important, from my relationship with (goalkeeper) Simon Mignolet to the strikers.
“I look forward to continuing to play between now and the end of the season, and helping the team have positive results and a successful season.
“The manager’s implemented a system and a mentality in us that we’ll always have and it’s important to us as a team for what we’re trying to achieve.”
Much has been of a potential strike partnership with misfit Mario Balotelli. Sturridge has previously said he feels they can play together as a pair but he did not want to rule out other options.
“For me it’s easy to play with Mario – and not just Mario, but any of my team-mates,” he said. “I enjoy playing with Mario. He’s a great guy. I get along with him, and I feel we can have a successful partnership.
“It’s down to the manager and who he selects but from my point of view, I feel I can play with him or any player in the team because I get along with everybody.
“You have to adapt your game to each individual. It’s different playing with different players so whether it’s Mario or anyone else, I’ll do my best to make sure it works for the benefit of the team.”
Sturridge is likely to lead the line at home to Besiktas as Liverpool kick-off their Europa League programme, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas, in the last 32.
The Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
“Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport,” he said. “What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
“That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever.”
.
Striker Daniel Sturridge‘s return from injury may have been viewed as the cure for all Liverpool’s ills in front of goal but the England international insists the focus has to be on the team and not individuals.
The 25-year-old has scored twice in five appearances, only two of which have been starts, since coming back from a five-month lay-off.
He has undoubtedly added a greater cutting edge up front – evidenced by his brilliant strike in the FA Cup against Crystal Palace – but Sturridge stressed he is a team player who wants to improve the side’s all-round performance.
“It’s important to get a relationship with every player,” said the striker, whose return has coincided with the Reds’ best run of form this season. “I’ve been out for a while. I’ve come back into the set-up and I’m just doing my best to help the team.
“It’s a team game, so every relationship’s important, from my relationship with (goalkeeper) Simon Mignolet to the strikers.
“I look forward to continuing to play between now and the end of the season, and helping the team have positive results and a successful season.
“The manager’s implemented a system and a mentality in us that we’ll always have and it’s important to us as a team for what we’re trying to achieve.”
Much has been of a potential strike partnership with misfit Mario Balotelli. Sturridge has previously said he feels they can play together as a pair but he did not want to rule out other options.
“For me it’s easy to play with Mario – and not just Mario, but any of my team-mates,” he said. “I enjoy playing with Mario. He’s a great guy. I get along with him, and I feel we can have a successful partnership.
“It’s down to the manager and who he selects but from my point of view, I feel I can play with him or any player in the team because I get along with everybody.
“You have to adapt your game to each individual. It’s different playing with different players so whether it’s Mario or anyone else, I’ll do my best to make sure it works for the benefit of the team.”
Sturridge is likely to lead the line at home to Besiktas as Liverpool kick-off their Europa League programme, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas, in the last 32.
The Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
“Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport,” he said. “What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
“That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever.”
.
Brendan Rodgers believes that his current Liverpool side could have won the Champions League if they had not been knocked out in December.
Rodgers' Reds picked up just five points in the group stages of the competition - failing to beat Basel at home in their final, must-win match - but after winning six of their last ten Premier League games, the Northern Irishman is bullish once again.
Liverpool now face Besiktas in the Europa League with Rodgers now suggesting that they would have competed in the knock-out stages of the premier competition.
"You just never know with the Champions League because sometimes it’s not the best teams that win it. I think if you’re in a cup competition that’s sometimes the case, especially in those big European competitions," said Rodgers.
"I felt if we were maybe the team we had (last year) or were further down the road with this team then we’d have had a chance with the Champions League, that's the reality.
"If we were in it now with this group and the confidence we’re showing and the way of working then we would have had a chance. Of course there’s maybe other teams that are more experienced and better equipped with their squads.
"Certainly it wasn’t the real Liverpool earlier on in the season. I was obviously hopeful that we could still be in the Champions League at this stage but it’s not to be.
"We’re still in a very good competition, we’ll attack these games in this competition like we have those in the last few months.
"We’d put in two years of work building to get through to that stage and our objectives from me personally were very clear, we wanted to make the Champions League.
"Of course to arrive in there not having the team and the way of working to go and play that way, it was frustrating.
"But it’s a great learning curve for us and I hope we can be in it for other years to come consistently and hopefully we can be a lot more stable and consistent with our performance."
Brendan Rodgers believes that his current Liverpool side could have won the Champions League if they had not been knocked out in December.
Rodgers' Reds picked up just five points in the group stages of the competition - failing to beat Basel at home in their final, must-win match - but after winning six of their last ten Premier League games, the Northern Irishman is bullish once again.
Liverpool now face Besiktas in the Europa League with Rodgers now suggesting that they would have competed in the knock-out stages of the premier competition.
"You just never know with the Champions League because sometimes it’s not the best teams that win it. I think if you’re in a cup competition that’s sometimes the case, especially in those big European competitions," said Rodgers.
"I felt if we were maybe the team we had (last year) or were further down the road with this team then we’d have had a chance with the Champions League, that's the reality.
"If we were in it now with this group and the confidence we’re showing and the way of working then we would have had a chance. Of course there’s maybe other teams that are more experienced and better equipped with their squads.
"Certainly it wasn’t the real Liverpool earlier on in the season. I was obviously hopeful that we could still be in the Champions League at this stage but it’s not to be.
"We’re still in a very good competition, we’ll attack these games in this competition like we have those in the last few months.
"We’d put in two years of work building to get through to that stage and our objectives from me personally were very clear, we wanted to make the Champions League.
"Of course to arrive in there not having the team and the way of working to go and play that way, it was frustrating.
"But it’s a great learning curve for us and I hope we can be in it for other years to come consistently and hopefully we can be a lot more stable and consistent with our performance."
Daniel Sturridge admits he 'can't wait' to make his European debut after injury ruled him out of Liverpool's last two campaigns on the continent.
Brendan Rodgers' side face Turkish leaders Besiktas in the Europa League last-32 tie this evening, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas.
Calf and thigh injuries kept the England striker out for nearly five months, injuries which required treament in the United States forcing him to watch Liverpool’s unsuccessful stint in the premier competition from the sidelines.
But the 25-year-old has returned to full fitness and is looking forward to an “exciting” European debut at Anfield.
"I can't wait to finally get out there and actually have my debut with Liverpool in Europe,” he said.
"I've waited such a long time to play this game, it has been very difficult for myself to sit out and watch all those games we have played in the Champions League without being part of it, very, very hard.
"But it doesn't make us any less determined because it's the Europa League. It is not a joke to us, believe me, it doesn't mean we are any less serious. We want to win it, we want success.
"I've sat in the stands and seen Anfield on a European night, and I am looking forward to tasting that atmosphere - I am looking forward to the game so much and it is going to be exciting for me. I can't wait."
Besiktas, the Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
"Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport," Bilic said. "What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
"That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever."
Daniel Sturridge admits he 'can't wait' to make his European debut after injury ruled him out of Liverpool's last two campaigns on the continent.
Brendan Rodgers' side face Turkish leaders Besiktas in the Europa League last-32 tie this evening, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas.
Calf and thigh injuries kept the England striker out for nearly five months, injuries which required treament in the United States forcing him to watch Liverpool’s unsuccessful stint in the premier competition from the sidelines.
But the 25-year-old has returned to full fitness and is looking forward to an “exciting” European debut at Anfield.
"I can't wait to finally get out there and actually have my debut with Liverpool in Europe,” he said.
"I've waited such a long time to play this game, it has been very difficult for myself to sit out and watch all those games we have played in the Champions League without being part of it, very, very hard.
"But it doesn't make us any less determined because it's the Europa League. It is not a joke to us, believe me, it doesn't mean we are any less serious. We want to win it, we want success.
"I've sat in the stands and seen Anfield on a European night, and I am looking forward to tasting that atmosphere - I am looking forward to the game so much and it is going to be exciting for me. I can't wait."
Besiktas, the Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
"Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport," Bilic said. "What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
"That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever."
Daniel Sturridge admits he 'can't wait' to make his European debut after injury ruled him out of Liverpool's last two campaigns on the continent.
Brendan Rodgers' side face Turkish leaders Besiktas in the Europa League last-32 tie this evening, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas.
Calf and thigh injuries kept the England striker out for nearly five months, injuries which required treament in the United States forcing him to watch Liverpool’s unsuccessful stint in the premier competition from the sidelines.
But the 25-year-old has returned to full fitness and is looking forward to an “exciting” European debut at Anfield.
"I can't wait to finally get out there and actually have my debut with Liverpool in Europe,” he said.
"I've waited such a long time to play this game, it has been very difficult for myself to sit out and watch all those games we have played in the Champions League without being part of it, very, very hard.
"But it doesn't make us any less determined because it's the Europa League. It is not a joke to us, believe me, it doesn't mean we are any less serious. We want to win it, we want success.
"I've sat in the stands and seen Anfield on a European night, and I am looking forward to tasting that atmosphere - I am looking forward to the game so much and it is going to be exciting for me. I can't wait."
Besiktas, the Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
"Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport," Bilic said. "What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
"That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever."
Daniel Sturridge admits he 'can't wait' to make his European debut after injury ruled him out of Liverpool's last two campaigns on the continent.
Brendan Rodgers' side face Turkish leaders Besiktas in the Europa League last-32 tie this evening, the consolation prize for failing in the Champions League before Christmas.
Calf and thigh injuries kept the England striker out for nearly five months, injuries which required treament in the United States forcing him to watch Liverpool’s unsuccessful stint in the premier competition from the sidelines.
But the 25-year-old has returned to full fitness and is looking forward to an “exciting” European debut at Anfield.
"I can't wait to finally get out there and actually have my debut with Liverpool in Europe,” he said.
"I've waited such a long time to play this game, it has been very difficult for myself to sit out and watch all those games we have played in the Champions League without being part of it, very, very hard.
"But it doesn't make us any less determined because it's the Europa League. It is not a joke to us, believe me, it doesn't mean we are any less serious. We want to win it, we want success.
"I've sat in the stands and seen Anfield on a European night, and I am looking forward to tasting that atmosphere - I am looking forward to the game so much and it is going to be exciting for me. I can't wait."
Besiktas, the Turkish Super Lig leaders arrive at Anfield looking to make up for their 8-0 Champions League hammering on the ground in 2007 but manager Slaven Bilic insists that is not their motivating factor.
"Revenge is not a word which should be used in football or sport," Bilic said. "What happened was written in the records but even then, and this is where football is magnificent, a couple of weeks before that Besiktas beat Liverpool 2-1 in Istanbul.
"That is in the past. Most of our players were kids then so there is no pressure whatsoever."
We are sorry the page you requested cannot be found at the moment.
If you use a bookmark to enter this site, please go to our home page, find the appropriate page and update your bookmark accordingly.
This may only be a temporary problem, so you can try hitting your browser's refresh button, however if the problem persists please get in touch by emailing us.
Thank you for using TEAMtalk!
We are sorry the page you requested cannot be found at the moment.
If you use a bookmark to enter this site, please go to our home page, find the appropriate page and update your bookmark accordingly.
This may only be a temporary problem, so you can try hitting your browser's refresh button, however if the problem persists please get in touch by emailing us.
Thank you for using TEAMtalk!
Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett feels Brendan Rodgers' side are adapting well to life without two huge names and a big change in formation.
It only seems like yesterday that Brendan Rodgers was found guilty of losing the plot with his Liverpool side that came so close to ending the club's league title drought last season.
Fast forward a couple of months and that self appointed football jury looks to have come to a premature conclusion. Welcome to modern football.
The loss of talisman Luis Suarez and prolonged injury to Daniel Sturridge would be a serious problem for any side and so it proved for Rodgers as his new signings failed to live up to expectations and hopes of replicating the form and charisma of the last campaign eroded at lightening speed.
But Rodgers made a change to his formation that brought confidence back to the side and since then, slowly but surely, Liverpool have started to return to the performance levels of last season, without Suarez.
More significantly though, Rodgers' evolving team is also now reaching those heights without another key Kop influencer - Steve Gerrard.
Since Gerrard announced his intention to leave the club for LA Galaxy at the end of the season it is like the shackles have been lifted off the young players in his shadow.
He may have been the backbone of Liverpool's successes over the past decade and a half but he is not the future.
In Phillipe Coutinho, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson, Jordan Ibe and Sturridge, Rodgers has the talent and attitude at his disposal to rebuild a side that can dazzle and compete for the title in years to come.
He also has a diamond in Emre Can who, eventually, could fill the midfield void vacated by the club's departing captain.
The young German may be part of a defensive trio that has brought stability back to Liverpool's game, but it is surely only a matter of time before he is pushed into the engine room where his stunning potential will be ultimately realised.
With only one defeat in their last 16 matches in all competitions, the reds are in a good moment.
Simon Mignolet has found his confidence and looks a different player to the confidence-sapped bag of nerves at Turf Moor on Boxing Day. Even Mario Balotelli smiles now.
The five times champions of Europe may have feebly dropped out of the continent's premier competition in the group stage but unlike other seasons, the carrot of Champions League qualification for the eventual winners of the Europa League ensures that the tournament will be taken very seriously by all at Anfield.
The visit of Besiktas will be no easy obstacle to overcome and chances of a repeat of the 8-0 landslide inflicted on the visitors the last time they came to Anfield is next to none.
Jordan Ibe was cup tied for last week's trip to Selhurst Park but is eligible this time round and could hold the key to unlocking the Turkish defence.
His pace and direct approach will be problematic for Besiktas' slow fullbacks and one would hope that Liverpool could build an advantage before they head to Istanbul where they will find the task significantly tougher.
The club has a number of important fixtures at its door that will go some way to determining whether Liverpool's resurrection stays on course, including league games against Southampton and Manchester City.
But Rodgers' reds are showing character and togetherness that suggests they are ready to tackle whatever is thrown at them.
There is much hyperbole about Liverpool winning the FA Cup for Steven Gerrard. As nice as that would be, the reality is that the players should really look to land silverware to lay the foundations for a new period of success without him.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett feels Brendan Rodgers' side are adapting well to life without two huge names and a big change in formation.
It only seems like yesterday that Brendan Rodgers was found guilty of losing the plot with his Liverpool side that came so close to ending the club's league title drought last season.
Fast forward a couple of months and that self appointed football jury looks to have come to a premature conclusion. Welcome to modern football.
The loss of talisman Luis Suarez and prolonged injury to Daniel Sturridge would be a serious problem for any side and so it proved for Rodgers as his new signings failed to live up to expectations and hopes of replicating the form and charisma of the last campaign eroded at lightening speed.
But Rodgers made a change to his formation that brought confidence back to the side and since then, slowly but surely, Liverpool have started to return to the performance levels of last season, without Suarez.
More significantly though, Rodgers' evolving team is also now reaching those heights without another key Kop influencer - Steve Gerrard.
Since Gerrard announced his intention to leave the club for LA Galaxy at the end of the season it is like the shackles have been lifted off the young players in his shadow.
He may have been the backbone of Liverpool's successes over the past decade and a half but he is not the future.
In Phillipe Coutinho, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson, Jordan Ibe and Sturridge, Rodgers has the talent and attitude at his disposal to rebuild a side that can dazzle and compete for the title in years to come.
He also has a diamond in Emre Can who, eventually, could fill the midfield void vacated by the club's departing captain.
The young German may be part of a defensive trio that has brought stability back to Liverpool's game, but it is surely only a matter of time before he is pushed into the engine room where his stunning potential will be ultimately realised.
With only one defeat in their last 16 matches in all competitions, the reds are in a good moment.
Simon Mignolet has found his confidence and looks a different player to the confidence-sapped bag of nerves at Turf Moor on Boxing Day. Even Mario Balotelli smiles now.
The five times champions of Europe may have feebly dropped out of the continent's premier competition in the group stage but unlike other seasons, the carrot of Champions League qualification for the eventual winners of the Europa League ensures that the tournament will be taken very seriously by all at Anfield.
The visit of Besiktas will be no easy obstacle to overcome and chances of a repeat of the 8-0 landslide inflicted on the visitors the last time they came to Anfield is next to none.
Jordan Ibe was cup tied for last week's trip to Selhurst Park but is eligible this time round and could hold the key to unlocking the Turkish defence.
His pace and direct approach will be problematic for Besiktas' slow fullbacks and one would hope that Liverpool could build an advantage before they head to Istanbul where they will find the task significantly tougher.
The club has a number of important fixtures at its door that will go some way to determining whether Liverpool's resurrection stays on course, including league games against Southampton and Manchester City.
But Rodgers' reds are showing character and togetherness that suggests they are ready to tackle whatever is thrown at them.
There is much hyperbole about Liverpool winning the FA Cup for Steven Gerrard. As nice as that would be, the reality is that the players should really look to land silverware to lay the foundations for a new period of success without him.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
Liverpool begin Europa League action on Thursday night when they host Turkish league leaders Besiktas at Anfield. Ben Twelves takes a look at the team selection options available to Brendan Rodgers ahead of the clash.
Having continued their impressive form with another strong performance and result at bogey ground Selhurst Park, Rodgers’ Reds return to Anfield for the opening of an extremely important Europa League campaign.
The competition has an extra incentive with the prize of Champions League football alongside the handy £5 million jackpot, and with Liverpool needing to fully explore every avenue possible in order to return to Europe’s elite tournament, the Europa League certainly has to be taken seriously with only the Premier League of more importance.
Rodgers’ men enter at the last-32 stage – the place they were knocked out at in their last Europa adventure two years ago after an away goal defeat to Zenit St Petersburg – and the Reds face a tough challenge to improve on that feat against Slaven Bilic’s team, who are unbeaten in the tournament and sit at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table with 15 wins from 20 matches.
The commencing of the demanding European schedule and potential impact on Premier League form makes the juggling act in front of the Liverpool boss a tough task, and with testing matches against Southampton and Manchester City either side of the Europa games, Rodgers has some difficult decisions to make with his team over the two legs.
The Team
Lazar Markovic is now suspended for the clash having been handed a “very, very harsh” four game ban – in the words of the disappointed Liverpool manager – for his red card against Basel in the earlier Champions League campaign, and the Serbian – who will at least remain fresh for upcoming Premier League fixtures – joins Lucas Leiva and Steven Gerrard as the latest absentees from the Liverpool squad.
Raheem Sterling is also touch-and-go for the match as he continues to struggle with a foot injury, and he will undergo a late fitness test ahead of the match with Rodgers set to make a late decision on the 20-year-old’s inclusion.
However, the Reds welcome Jordon Ibe back to match-day involvement after the youngster missed the weekend victory against Crystal Palace due to being cup-tied, and Kolo Toure too, with the Ivorian available again having returned to training on Monday following a hugely successful African Nations Cup trip.
Despite options wearing thin, an element of rotation is undeniably needed with the most important fixture of the league season to date coming up on Sunday.
A small dip in performance level over the last two fixtures following 17 consecutive starts could see Philippe Coutinho considered for a rest, along with Liverpool’s second most used outfield player, Martin Skrtel, but Daniel Sturridge is fit and in line for his third consecutive start.
Should the Brazilian magician be given the night off, Adam Lallana could be handed the chance to build on his assist and goal in the last two matches and Mario Balotelli, who looks to have turned a corner, will be hopeful his increased productivity in the last two matches persuades the Reds boss to play him from the start on Thursday.
Liverpool Lineup
Rodgers could make two changes to his side and that should see Jordon Ibe re-enter the starting XI for the suspended Markovic and Coutinho rested, allowing for Sterling – should he bit fit to play – to regain his place in the attacking midfield duo alongside Adam Lallana.
Those switches could see the Reds line up like this come kick-off time at Anfield:
Alternatively, the Liverpool boss could choose to rest Skrtel and select Toure to replace the Slovakian for the evening. Should Sterling fail to recover to in time, the match does present the perfect chance to reignite the much anticipated Sturridge-Balotelli striking partnership.
In a slightly adjusted shape, those changes would see Liverpool’s XI look like this:
It will be a tricky challenge over the two legs against the Turkish giants for Liverpool and with the competition of significant importance for obvious reasons, the Reds will have to translate their upturn in form domestically to the European stage to stand any chance of progressing, starting on Thursday night.
Pick your XI below:
.
Liverpool begin Europa League action on Thursday night when they host Turkish league leaders Besiktas at Anfield. Ben Twelves takes a look at the team selection options available to Brendan Rodgers ahead of the clash.
Having continued their impressive form with another strong performance and result at bogey ground Selhurst Park, Rodgers’ Reds return to Anfield for the opening of an extremely important Europa League campaign.
The competition has an extra incentive with the prize of Champions League football alongside the handy £5 million jackpot, and with Liverpool needing to fully explore every avenue possible in order to return to Europe’s elite tournament, the Europa League certainly has to be taken seriously with only the Premier League of more importance.
Rodgers’ men enter at the last-32 stage – the place they were knocked out at in their last Europa adventure two years ago after an away goal defeat to Zenit St Petersburg – and the Reds face a tough challenge to improve on that feat against Slaven Bilic’s team, who are unbeaten in the tournament and sit at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table with 15 wins from 20 matches.
The commencing of the demanding European schedule and potential impact on Premier League form makes the juggling act in front of the Liverpool boss a tough task, and with testing matches against Southampton and Manchester City either side of the Europa games, Rodgers has some difficult decisions to make with his team over the two legs.
The Team
Lazar Markovic is now suspended for the clash having been handed a “very, very harsh” four game ban – in the words of the disappointed Liverpool manager – for his red card against Basel in the earlier Champions League campaign, and the Serbian – who will at least remain fresh for upcoming Premier League fixtures – joins Lucas Leiva and Steven Gerrard as the latest absentees from the Liverpool squad.
Raheem Sterling is also touch-and-go for the match as he continues to struggle with a foot injury, and he will undergo a late fitness test ahead of the match with Rodgers set to make a late decision on the 20-year-old’s inclusion.
However, the Reds welcome Jordon Ibe back to match-day involvement after the youngster missed the weekend victory against Crystal Palace due to being cup-tied, and Kolo Toure too, with the Ivorian available again having returned to training on Monday following a hugely successful African Nations Cup trip.
Despite options wearing thin, an element of rotation is undeniably needed with the most important fixture of the league season to date coming up on Sunday.
A small dip in performance level over the last two fixtures following 17 consecutive starts could see Philippe Coutinho considered for a rest, along with Liverpool’s second most used outfield player, Martin Skrtel, but Daniel Sturridge is fit and in line for his third consecutive start.
Should the Brazilian magician be given the night off, Adam Lallana could be handed the chance to build on his assist and goal in the last two matches and Mario Balotelli, who looks to have turned a corner, will be hopeful his increased productivity in the last two matches persuades the Reds boss to play him from the start on Thursday.
Liverpool Lineup
Rodgers could make two changes to his side and that should see Jordon Ibe re-enter the starting XI for the suspended Markovic and Coutinho rested, allowing for Sterling – should he bit fit to play – to regain his place in the attacking midfield duo alongside Adam Lallana.
Those switches could see the Reds line up like this come kick-off time at Anfield:
Alternatively, the Liverpool boss could choose to rest Skrtel and select Toure to replace the Slovakian for the evening. Should Sterling fail to recover to in time, the match does present the perfect chance to reignite the much anticipated Sturridge-Balotelli striking partnership.
In a slightly adjusted shape, those changes would see Liverpool’s XI look like this:
It will be a tricky challenge over the two legs against the Turkish giants for Liverpool and with the competition of significant importance for obvious reasons, the Reds will have to translate their upturn in form domestically to the European stage to stand any chance of progressing, starting on Thursday night.
Pick your XI below:
.
A second-tier competition it may be, but the UEFA Cup / Europa League has always been part of our great European history, writes Simon Collings.
Memorable victories for the Reds in 1973 and 1976 began an era of dominance on the continent, as four European Cups followed. This natural progression of success seemed to continue with the turn of the millennium, as victory in 2001 was then also followed by Istanbul.
It seems Liverpool have had a connection with Europe’s secondary cup competition – success in one, inevitably leads to success in the other.
For this reason alone I believe we should take this year’s participation seriously – as it could pay dividends for Brendan Rodgers in the future.
A good run this time around would certainly allow the likes of Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho to gain valuable experience. Steven Gerrard aside, we desperately lack playing time on the continent – as this year’s Champions League group stage painfully highlighted.
There are still some decent sides left in the competition – including Tottenham and Everton – but a semi-final appearance could be possible. Besiktas will be tricky opponents, but if Rodgers really focussed on it we could be looking at some memorable encounters along the way.
However, since its inception in 1971, which moments have stood out? Which games or goals still have the Kop talking? Let’s take a look…
In what was a pulsating night at Anfield, Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over the Belgian outfit is up there with the likes of St. Etienne in 1977 and Olympiacos 2005. Going 2-0 down, the reds fought back in a seven-minute onslaught in front of the kop – giving the reds the edge ahead of the return leg.
Ray Kennedy got the first with a sweet left-foot strike from the edge of the box, Jimmy Case bobbled in a second, and then Kevin Keegan tucked away the third from the spot.
Keegan’s vital equaliser over in Belgium swung the two-legged final further in Liverpool’s favour, yet it was that second half response which inevitably won us our second title. As a consequence, this result begun a series of great comebacks over the coming years; making the kop even more notorious throughout the continent.
Auxerre Comeback, 1991
After a six year ban from European competition, Liverpool entered the UEFA Cup with something to prove. Dispatching with ease Finnish side Kuusysi Lahti in the first round, French outfit Auxerre were the reds’ first major test.
Losing the first leg 2-0, Liverpool were left with an uphill struggle as their long absence away from the continent seemed all the more apparent.
However, goals from Jan Molby, Mike Marsh, and Mark Walters ensured a memorable Liverpool comeback – evoking memories gone by. Liverpool eventually lost in the latter stages to Genoa but the significance of being back competing on a European stage was all the more important. A new chapter in Liverpool’s European history was being written.
McManaman’s Wonder Goal vs Celtic, 1997
Although the 1990’s was a painful decade for Liverpool supporters (at home and abroad), there were still some moments to savour. Steve McManaman’s wonder goal at Celtic Park was one of them.
In the dying minutes, and 2-1 down, Macca picked up the ball deep in his own half and glided towards goal. As he rode a few tired challenges the Celtic defence opened up and he placed a beautifully curled shot in off the post.
In what was a fantastic European tie, the return leg at Anfield was a bit of a let-down. McManaman’s late goal in Glasgow however, ensured a safe passage through to the next round.
Semi-Final vs Barcelona, 2001
At the time, this was the biggest game for Liverpool in a long while. Not since 1985 had a European tie had so much riding on it – as a straightforward victory over the Catalan giants would put the reds into their first final in sixteen years.
After a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the Nou Camp, Gerard Houllier’s side knew what had to be done, and a Gary McAllister penalty saw us home. With the great Rivaldo in their ranks, Barca at times looked shell-shocked as the kop was in full voice.
Phil Thompson’s reaction at the final whistle said it all, as Liverpool were back once again in a European final.
Gerrard’s Hat-trick vs Napoli, 2010
Since the Europa League re-formed, Liverpool have not had much to shout about in recent years. A semi-final appearance against Athletico Madrid in 2010 was perhaps a decent achievement. Yet the following season in the group stage, Steven Gerrard came off the bench against Napoli and turned what was a seemingly dour team performance into a one-man show.
As soon as Gerrard entered the fray the Italians couldn’t cope with his power and aggression – they looked terrified. He guided Liverpool to a 3-1 victory, taking home the match-ball.
This was one of Roy Hodgson’s better nights in charge at Liverpool, yet it was solely down to captain-fantastic once again that saw us through! Oh how Liverpool will miss him!
.
A second-tier competition it may be, but the UEFA Cup / Europa League has always been part of our great European history, writes Simon Collings.
Memorable victories for the Reds in 1973 and 1976 began an era of dominance on the continent, as four European Cups followed. This natural progression of success seemed to continue with the turn of the millennium, as victory in 2001 was then also followed by Istanbul.
It seems Liverpool have had a connection with Europe’s secondary cup competition – success in one, inevitably leads to success in the other.
For this reason alone I believe we should take this year’s participation seriously – as it could pay dividends for Brendan Rodgers in the future.
A good run this time around would certainly allow the likes of Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho to gain valuable experience. Steven Gerrard aside, we desperately lack playing time on the continent – as this year’s Champions League group stage painfully highlighted.
There are still some decent sides left in the competition – including Tottenham and Everton – but a semi-final appearance could be possible. Besiktas will be tricky opponents, but if Rodgers really focussed on it we could be looking at some memorable encounters along the way.
However, since its inception in 1971, which moments have stood out? Which games or goals still have the Kop talking? Let’s take a look…
In what was a pulsating night at Anfield, Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over the Belgian outfit is up there with the likes of St. Etienne in 1977 and Olympiacos 2005. Going 2-0 down, the reds fought back in a seven-minute onslaught in front of the kop – giving the reds the edge ahead of the return leg.
Ray Kennedy got the first with a sweet left-foot strike from the edge of the box, Jimmy Case bobbled in a second, and then Kevin Keegan tucked away the third from the spot.
Keegan’s vital equaliser over in Belgium swung the two-legged final further in Liverpool’s favour, yet it was that second half response which inevitably won us our second title. As a consequence, this result begun a series of great comebacks over the coming years; making the kop even more notorious throughout the continent.
Auxerre Comeback, 1991
After a six year ban from European competition, Liverpool entered the UEFA Cup with something to prove. Dispatching with ease Finnish side Kuusysi Lahti in the first round, French outfit Auxerre were the reds’ first major test.
Losing the first leg 2-0, Liverpool were left with an uphill struggle as their long absence away from the continent seemed all the more apparent.
However, goals from Jan Molby, Mike Marsh, and Mark Walters ensured a memorable Liverpool comeback – evoking memories gone by. Liverpool eventually lost in the latter stages to Genoa but the significance of being back competing on a European stage was all the more important. A new chapter in Liverpool’s European history was being written.
McManaman’s Wonder Goal vs Celtic, 1997
Although the 1990’s was a painful decade for Liverpool supporters (at home and abroad), there were still some moments to savour. Steve McManaman’s wonder goal at Celtic Park was one of them.
In the dying minutes, and 2-1 down, Macca picked up the ball deep in his own half and glided towards goal. As he rode a few tired challenges the Celtic defence opened up and he placed a beautifully curled shot in off the post.
In what was a fantastic European tie, the return leg at Anfield was a bit of a let-down. McManaman’s late goal in Glasgow however, ensured a safe passage through to the next round.
Semi-Final vs Barcelona, 2001
At the time, this was the biggest game for Liverpool in a long while. Not since 1985 had a European tie had so much riding on it – as a straightforward victory over the Catalan giants would put the reds into their first final in sixteen years.
After a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the Nou Camp, Gerard Houllier’s side knew what had to be done, and a Gary McAllister penalty saw us home. With the great Rivaldo in their ranks, Barca at times looked shell-shocked as the kop was in full voice.
Phil Thompson’s reaction at the final whistle said it all, as Liverpool were back once again in a European final.
Gerrard’s Hat-trick vs Napoli, 2010
Since the Europa League re-formed, Liverpool have not had much to shout about in recent years. A semi-final appearance against Athletico Madrid in 2010 was perhaps a decent achievement. Yet the following season in the group stage, Steven Gerrard came off the bench against Napoli and turned what was a seemingly dour team performance into a one-man show.
As soon as Gerrard entered the fray the Italians couldn’t cope with his power and aggression – they looked terrified. He guided Liverpool to a 3-1 victory, taking home the match-ball.
This was one of Roy Hodgson’s better nights in charge at Liverpool, yet it was solely down to captain-fantastic once again that saw us through! Oh how Liverpool will miss him!
.
Daniel Sturridge is convinced he can form a "successful partnership" with Mario Balotelli if the pair are selected together at Liverpool.
The England striker's return to fitness has been a major boost to Liverpool’s hopes of creeping back into the top four and securing some silverware this season.
Despite not starting a game since returning from thigh and calf issues, Sturridge has scored twice and supplied another.
Balotelli has been less of a hit since arriving at Anfield, with just one league goal to his name, but Sturridge admitted that if required, he feels he can work alongside the enigmatic Italian.
“I enjoy playing with Mario," Sturridge told Sky Sports News HQ. “He is a great guy and I get along with him. I feel we can have a successful partnership.
“It is down to the manager who he picks, but for me, I can play with Mario or any of my team-mates.
“You have to adapt your game to each individual, and whoever it is, I will make sure it works for the better of my team.”
Liverpool fans will be worried that the former Chelsea forward will suffer a recurrence of his injury problems with the Reds’ fixtures coming thick and fast, but Sturridge insisted he feels fit and healthy.
“I’ve got no worries, no stresses at all,” Sturridge added. “I am enjoying my football at the moment.”
Daniel Sturridge is convinced he can form a "successful partnership" with Mario Balotelli if the pair are selected together at Liverpool.
The England striker's return to fitness has been a major boost to Liverpool’s hopes of creeping back into the top four and securing some silverware this season.
Despite not starting a game since returning from thigh and calf issues, Sturridge has scored twice and supplied another.
Balotelli has been less of a hit since arriving at Anfield, with just one league goal to his name, but Sturridge admitted that if required, he feels he can work alongside the enigmatic Italian.
“I enjoy playing with Mario," Sturridge told Sky Sports News HQ. “He is a great guy and I get along with him. I feel we can have a successful partnership.
“It is down to the manager who he picks, but for me, I can play with Mario or any of my team-mates.
“You have to adapt your game to each individual, and whoever it is, I will make sure it works for the better of my team.”
Liverpool fans will be worried that the former Chelsea forward will suffer a recurrence of his injury problems with the Reds’ fixtures coming thick and fast, but Sturridge insisted he feels fit and healthy.
“I’ve got no worries, no stresses at all,” Sturridge added. “I am enjoying my football at the moment.”
0 comments: