Possession is key if Liverpool are to keep their dreams of a top-four finish alive, according to manager Brendan Rodgers.
Liverpool were on a run of 13 Premier League wins until they suffered defeat at the hands of Manchester United, leaving them five points adrift of the Champions League qualification places.
Defeat at third-placed Arsenal on Saturday would be a huge blow to their aspirations of returning to Europe's elite for a second successive season.
"We've made it difficult for ourselves because of our last performance and result, but it's certainly achievable," Rodgers said of their top-four chances.
"Over the course of the last three months, apart from the last game, we've performed very well and we have got results.
"I think people might look at it (the trip to Arsenal) as a must-win game. For me, it is a must-perform game, we want to perform well and we know that when we do that we've got every chance of winning, whether that's at home or away.
"We've had a long two weeks, it's probably one of the few games where after the international break we've had to suffer a little bit, because we didn't perform and lost, but there is extra motivation there to get something from the game and that is something that we clearly want to achieve.
"These final eight games are going to be exciting games and there is still every possibility for us to make the top four."
An inability to keep possession against United was a key factor in their loss, and Rodgers has spent the international break assessing why his side could not hold the ball.
"The key for us in the first half against Manchester United was that we didn't keep the ball well enough and, positionally, we were never in position to receive the ball and press the ball," he said.
"We've talked about that, we've analysed that and we've worked on that; in order for us to maximise how we've been working we need to keep the ball better and be technically better.
"That's a huge part of our game, and it's Arsenal's game. But for us, we'll go there and tactically we are very clear on the idea of the game and we need to get something from the game, that's clear.
"We'll be going there looking forward to the game and really motivated to get back to winning again."
Liverpool have been boosted by striker Daniel Sturridge's return to training after a hip injury, while fellow England international Adam Lallana is also expected to be fit despite pulling out of the national squad.
However, they will be missing centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard who are both suspended for three matches.
Possession is key if Liverpool are to keep their dreams of a top-four finish alive, according to manager Brendan Rodgers.
Liverpool were on a run of 13 Premier League wins until they suffered defeat at the hands of Manchester United, leaving them five points adrift of the Champions League qualification places.
Defeat at third-placed Arsenal on Saturday would be a huge blow to their aspirations of returning to Europe's elite for a second successive season.
"We've made it difficult for ourselves because of our last performance and result, but it's certainly achievable," Rodgers said of their top-four chances.
"Over the course of the last three months, apart from the last game, we've performed very well and we have got results.
"I think people might look at it (the trip to Arsenal) as a must-win game. For me, it is a must-perform game, we want to perform well and we know that when we do that we've got every chance of winning, whether that's at home or away.
"We've had a long two weeks, it's probably one of the few games where after the international break we've had to suffer a little bit, because we didn't perform and lost, but there is extra motivation there to get something from the game and that is something that we clearly want to achieve.
"These final eight games are going to be exciting games and there is still every possibility for us to make the top four."
An inability to keep possession against United was a key factor in their loss, and Rodgers has spent the international break assessing why his side could not hold the ball.
"The key for us in the first half against Manchester United was that we didn't keep the ball well enough and, positionally, we were never in position to receive the ball and press the ball," he said.
"We've talked about that, we've analysed that and we've worked on that; in order for us to maximise how we've been working we need to keep the ball better and be technically better.
"That's a huge part of our game, and it's Arsenal's game. But for us, we'll go there and tactically we are very clear on the idea of the game and we need to get something from the game, that's clear.
"We'll be going there looking forward to the game and really motivated to get back to winning again."
Liverpool have been boosted by striker Daniel Sturridge's return to training after a hip injury, while fellow England international Adam Lallana is also expected to be fit despite pulling out of the national squad.
However, they will be missing centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard who are both suspended for three matches.
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Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck faces a fitness test on the knee injury picked up on international duty ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Liverpool at Emieates Stadium.
Club captain Mikel Arteta, full-back Mathieu Debuchy, midfielders Abou Diaby and Jack Wilshere all stepped up their rehabilitation in a friendly match on Tuesday, so will also be assessed ahead of the game.
However, England midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (hamstring) remains unavailable.
Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is expected to have recovered from a hip injury to feature.
The 25-year-old, along with midfielder Adam Lallana (groin), withdrew from the England squad last week, but both are likely to be in contention to face the Gunners.
Centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard begin three-match suspensions with Dejan Lovren favourite to replace the former in defence.
Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck faces a fitness test on the knee injury picked up on international duty ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Liverpool at Emieates Stadium.
Club captain Mikel Arteta, full-back Mathieu Debuchy, midfielders Abou Diaby and Jack Wilshere all stepped up their rehabilitation in a friendly match on Tuesday, so will also be assessed ahead of the game.
However, England midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (hamstring) remains unavailable.
Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is expected to have recovered from a hip injury to feature.
The 25-year-old, along with midfielder Adam Lallana (groin), withdrew from the England squad last week, but both are likely to be in contention to face the Gunners.
Centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard begin three-match suspensions with Dejan Lovren favourite to replace the former in defence.
PJ Vaughan shares his thoughts on the Raheem Sterling situation, and why supporters should be patient with him.
In the last few days I have read lots of articles and tweets suggesting we should cash in on Raheem Sterling. While I think we can all agree that his interview with the BBC was ill-advised. I don’t think the fans should get on his back, just yet.
Firstly, Sterling’s performances this season have been very good. Especially early in the season when Daniel Sturridge was injured and we struggled to cope without Luis Suarez. While his performances have dropped off somewhat recently, he is far from the worst Liverpool player on the pitch. Secondly he is young and it doesn’t take an expert to see his not getting the best advice from his agent.
Keep your best players
Ever since Rafa Benitez left Liverpool, we have struggled to hold onto our better players. Liverpool can’t afford to keep losing good players. No amount of money compensated for the loss of Javier Mascherano, Fernando Torres or Luis Suarez. Raul Meireles, Andy Carroll, and the plethora of players we bought last summer pays testimony to this.
I have heard plenty of fans say we have Jordon Ibe and Sheyi Ojo, therefore it won’t be a huge loss if we lose Sterling. Ibe is still a novice in the Premier League, and while he has been very impressive in his brief spell in the team, he has yet to demonstrate he has the same ability as Sterling. Also it is an undue pressure for a kid. All Ibe should have to do currently is try and keep his place in the first team and not be someone’s replacement.
Ojo has only played a handful games in the Football League and while he has huge potential it is far too early to say where he will end up as a player.
Inflated sense of self worth
Sterling is only 20 and his world has dramatically changed in a short space of time. He has gone from an academy player to one of Liverpool’s best first team players and a regular international. Because he is so young he probably believes his own hype and he is receiving poor advice off the field.
In England, players get hyped up way beyond their true value far too soon. This very week Rodney Marsh described Harry Kane as better than Angel Di Maria and worth £100m. This is frankly nonsense. Kane has had a better season than Di Maria, no question. Its Kane’s first full top flight season. Di Maria has being a consistent performer for some of the biggest clubs in the world for years and is one of Argentina’s top players. Di Maria is coping with a new league and a new culture. I’m sure he will show his qualities again even if it is not in England. Kane has to prove his consistency over a number of seasons before he’s worth anything close to £100m.
Another example of this is former Liverpool academy player Thomas Ince, last summer he had the chance to sign for Monaco but his representative (Paul Ince) believed that his son was worth parity with the departing James Rodriguez. Only last week Thomas Ince turned down playing for his country in the U21 European championship in the summer, so he could concentrate on his club career. Thomas Ince has yet to play more than a handful of top flight games.
What happens in the summer?
So what will happen this summer with regards Sterling? I see three scenarios.
1. He leaves for a big fee and a big wage and he will struggle to justify the fee and invariably be a squad player for one of the super powers of European football. To justify a huge transfer fee you need to be the finished article. While Sterling is a very exciting talent it’s clear that his finishing is the weakest part of his game.
2. Clubs will not bid for his services this summer as he will be worth a lot less next summer. It will be less of a risk for them. So what happens to Sterling in the meantime, Liverpool are less likely to depend on a player they know is leaving so his progression is likely to suffer.
3. The club and Sterling sit down and get the contract situation sorted out. Most disputes can be settled with compromise. Both sides will need to reach an agreement, whether this is an incremental salary or a performance related salary I’m sure some solution can be reached.
Far away hills are not green
I for one would like him to stay. I believe he can keep developing into a world class footballer in the right environment. I have watched him develop since he scored on his u18 debut v Everton in March 2010 as a 15-year-old. I watched him dribble past defenders for fun at U18 level. I recall when the world took notice after his 5 goals v Southend in the FA Youth Cup. His brief U21 career. His step up to the first team, a short period of struggle, before becoming part of a very exciting front three with Suarez and Sturridge that almost won the league. I saw him develop into a regular international and was impressed with him for Liverpool this season when the club went through a tough spell.
I don’t want to see him kissing Chelsea’s badge or sitting miserably on the Manchester City bench. I don’t want to hear how he’s not technically good enough in Spain. I want to see him become the player he should be at Liverpool. If Liverpool don’t progress and he wants to go abroad in his mid to late twenties I don’t think anyone will give him too much abuse. For now I want to see him stay. So let’s all lay of Sterling and see what happens in the summer.
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PJ Vaughan shares his thoughts on the Raheem Sterling situation, and why supporters should be patient with him.
In the last few days I have read lots of articles and tweets suggesting we should cash in on Raheem Sterling. While I think we can all agree that his interview with the BBC was ill-advised. I don’t think the fans should get on his back, just yet.
Firstly, Sterling’s performances this season have been very good. Especially early in the season when Daniel Sturridge was injured and we struggled to cope without Luis Suarez. While his performances have dropped off somewhat recently, he is far from the worst Liverpool player on the pitch. Secondly he is young and it doesn’t take an expert to see his not getting the best advice from his agent.
Keep your best players
Ever since Rafa Benitez left Liverpool, we have struggled to hold onto our better players. Liverpool can’t afford to keep losing good players. No amount of money compensated for the loss of Javier Mascherano, Fernando Torres or Luis Suarez. Raul Meireles, Andy Carroll, and the plethora of players we bought last summer pays testimony to this.
I have heard plenty of fans say we have Jordon Ibe and Sheyi Ojo, therefore it won’t be a huge loss if we lose Sterling. Ibe is still a novice in the Premier League, and while he has been very impressive in his brief spell in the team, he has yet to demonstrate he has the same ability as Sterling. Also it is an undue pressure for a kid. All Ibe should have to do currently is try and keep his place in the first team and not be someone’s replacement.
Ojo has only played a handful games in the Football League and while he has huge potential it is far too early to say where he will end up as a player.
Inflated sense of self worth
Sterling is only 20 and his world has dramatically changed in a short space of time. He has gone from an academy player to one of Liverpool’s best first team players and a regular international. Because he is so young he probably believes his own hype and he is receiving poor advice off the field.
In England, players get hyped up way beyond their true value far too soon. This very week Rodney Marsh described Harry Kane as better than Angel Di Maria and worth £100m. This is frankly nonsense. Kane has had a better season than Di Maria, no question. Its Kane’s first full top flight season. Di Maria has being a consistent performer for some of the biggest clubs in the world for years and is one of Argentina’s top players. Di Maria is coping with a new league and a new culture. I’m sure he will show his qualities again even if it is not in England. Kane has to prove his consistency over a number of seasons before he’s worth anything close to £100m.
Another example of this is former Liverpool academy player Thomas Ince, last summer he had the chance to sign for Monaco but his representative (Paul Ince) believed that his son was worth parity with the departing James Rodriguez. Only last week Thomas Ince turned down playing for his country in the U21 European championship in the summer, so he could concentrate on his club career. Thomas Ince has yet to play more than a handful of top flight games.
What happens in the summer?
So what will happen this summer with regards Sterling? I see three scenarios.
1. He leaves for a big fee and a big wage and he will struggle to justify the fee and invariably be a squad player for one of the super powers of European football. To justify a huge transfer fee you need to be the finished article. While Sterling is a very exciting talent it’s clear that his finishing is the weakest part of his game.
2. Clubs will not bid for his services this summer as he will be worth a lot less next summer. It will be less of a risk for them. So what happens to Sterling in the meantime, Liverpool are less likely to depend on a player they know is leaving so his progression is likely to suffer.
3. The club and Sterling sit down and get the contract situation sorted out. Most disputes can be settled with compromise. Both sides will need to reach an agreement, whether this is an incremental salary or a performance related salary I’m sure some solution can be reached.
Far away hills are not green
I for one would like him to stay. I believe he can keep developing into a world class footballer in the right environment. I have watched him develop since he scored on his u18 debut v Everton in March 2010 as a 15-year-old. I watched him dribble past defenders for fun at U18 level. I recall when the world took notice after his 5 goals v Southend in the FA Youth Cup. His brief U21 career. His step up to the first team, a short period of struggle, before becoming part of a very exciting front three with Suarez and Sturridge that almost won the league. I saw him develop into a regular international and was impressed with him for Liverpool this season when the club went through a tough spell.
I don’t want to see him kissing Chelsea’s badge or sitting miserably on the Manchester City bench. I don’t want to hear how he’s not technically good enough in Spain. I want to see him become the player he should be at Liverpool. If Liverpool don’t progress and he wants to go abroad in his mid to late twenties I don’t think anyone will give him too much abuse. For now I want to see him stay. So let’s all lay of Sterling and see what happens in the summer.
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Keith Jowett takes a look at five high profile moves that saw players move to supposedly ‘bigger’ clubs – but didn’t quite play out the way they’d have hoped.
Not only are there numerous examples of young English players moving too soon and ruining their careers, here are 5 European players whose career’s nosedived after a big money move to a ‘bigger’ club.
Ricardo Quaresma Porto to Inter Milan
This Portuguese winger was on fire between the years 2004 and 2008. He Scored 30 goals in 156 appearances. Quaresma was then bought by Inter Milan for a massive $33 million. With a fee that large expectations were high. Over two painful seasons Quaresma only managed to score 1 goal (On loan at Chelsea). He later joined Be?ikta?.
Juan Sebastián Verón Lazio to Manchester United
This particular Argentinian midfielder was quite successful in Italy winning multiple domestic cups, the UEFA cup in 1999, and the Serie A title. United bought Verón for a whopping $46.1 million in 2001. He only managed 7 goals in 51 games. Chelsea decided to attain his services in 2003 for $23 million. Things didn’t work out again. Chelsea then soon realized they hadn’t got what they were looking for.
Roberto Soldado Valencia to Tottenham
When Gareth Bale left for Real Madrid in the summer of 2013, Daniel Levy and co. wanted a player that could fill the new goal scoring hole in their squad. He cost the North London club $38 Million. Simply put, things just haven’t clicked. Soldado scored 30 goals in 46 appearances for Valencia before signing. However he has only scored 15 goals in 68 appearances for Tottenham so far. With Harry Kane firing on all cylinders things aren’t looking good for dear Roberto.
Fernando Torres Liverpool to Chelsea
In the January transfer window of 2011 Liverpool sold El Nino for $82 Million to Chelsea. After scoring 82 goals in 142 appearances for the Reds, it looked as if he would produce at Chelsea. From the miss at United to the one against Olimpija Ljubijana form two yards things have never really been the same. Currently on loan at Atletico Torres is regaining some of his old form. Hopefully things get better for the Spaniard.
Kaka AC Milan to Real Madrid
Before his big move to Real Madrid, Kaka was fantastic at Milan. Scoring 95 goals in 270 appearances, he made quite a name for himself. However after winning the Ballon D’Or the Spanish
giants came calling with a previous record fee of $94 million. After the move kaka could never get back to his best. Only scoring 29 goals in 120 appearances Kaka was plagued by injury throughout his time at the Bernabéu.
If Sterling does decide to leave it may not be the best choice. He is developing well at Anfield and it would be a shame to see him fail elsewhere. However if his demands remain this high things could get messy. With heavy backlash from media around the globe, perhaps his stance on the contract can be changed. One thing that must be remembered throughout is that no player is bigger than the club.
Keith Jowett
Comments are retrospectively moderated. Some could be subject to delays before publication. They must obey the
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Keith Jowett takes a look at five high profile moves that saw players move to supposedly ‘bigger’ clubs – but didn’t quite play out the way they’d have hoped.
Not only are there numerous examples of young English players moving too soon and ruining their careers, here are 5 European players whose career’s nosedived after a big money move to a ‘bigger’ club.
Ricardo Quaresma Porto to Inter Milan
This Portuguese winger was on fire between the years 2004 and 2008. He Scored 30 goals in 156 appearances. Quaresma was then bought by Inter Milan for a massive $33 million. With a fee that large expectations were high. Over two painful seasons Quaresma only managed to score 1 goal (On loan at Chelsea). He later joined Be?ikta?.
Juan Sebastián Verón Lazio to Manchester United
This particular Argentinian midfielder was quite successful in Italy winning multiple domestic cups, the UEFA cup in 1999, and the Serie A title. United bought Verón for a whopping $46.1 million in 2001. He only managed 7 goals in 51 games. Chelsea decided to attain his services in 2003 for $23 million. Things didn’t work out again. Chelsea then soon realized they hadn’t got what they were looking for.
Roberto Soldado Valencia to Tottenham
When Gareth Bale left for Real Madrid in the summer of 2013, Daniel Levy and co. wanted a player that could fill the new goal scoring hole in their squad. He cost the North London club $38 Million. Simply put, things just haven’t clicked. Soldado scored 30 goals in 46 appearances for Valencia before signing. However he has only scored 15 goals in 68 appearances for Tottenham so far. With Harry Kane firing on all cylinders things aren’t looking good for dear Roberto.
Fernando Torres Liverpool to Chelsea
In the January transfer window of 2011 Liverpool sold El Nino for $82 Million to Chelsea. After scoring 82 goals in 142 appearances for the Reds, it looked as if he would produce at Chelsea. From the miss at United to the one against Olimpija Ljubijana form two yards things have never really been the same. Currently on loan at Atletico Torres is regaining some of his old form. Hopefully things get better for the Spaniard.
Kaka AC Milan to Real Madrid
Before his big move to Real Madrid, Kaka was fantastic at Milan. Scoring 95 goals in 270 appearances, he made quite a name for himself. However after winning the Ballon D’Or the Spanish
giants came calling with a previous record fee of $94 million. After the move kaka could never get back to his best. Only scoring 29 goals in 120 appearances Kaka was plagued by injury throughout his time at the Bernabéu.
If Sterling does decide to leave it may not be the best choice. He is developing well at Anfield and it would be a shame to see him fail elsewhere. However if his demands remain this high things could get messy. With heavy backlash from media around the globe, perhaps his stance on the contract can be changed. One thing that must be remembered throughout is that no player is bigger than the club.
Keith Jowett
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Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon, when they take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Ben Twelves takes a look at the team selection options ahead of the clash.
The Reds now face a sizeable uphill task to achieve their aim of finishing in the top four as they currently trail United by five points – a gap that could be extended to eight if the worst case scenario of results pan out this weekend – and a huge challenge awaits Rodgers and his young squad over the remaining games of the season.
![LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Tuesday, February 10, 2015: Liverpool's Mario Balotelli [hidden] celebrates scoring the third goal against Tottenham Hotspur with team-mates during the Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_s95_1rv5IyM8n3Dvq58LXaXXnUUfCadv30NstR08McuSPCfuwRqArHvJcEFstE6K-h3VYHgDmnBw=s0-d)
With the genuine possibility of a further increased gap materialising after this weekend’s round of matches – something that could signal the end of the Champions League battle with only seven games left to play after – Saturday’s fixture represents somewhat of a win-or-bust clash for the Reds with their need to keep pressure up on top four chasing rivals.
Three points is therefore of even more importance to Liverpool, who need to recapture the spirit that dragged them back into contention for a top four finish on Saturday afternoon, but an extremely tough task lies ahead at an unhappy hunting ground against Wenger’s in-form side, who have won nine of their last 10 matches including six successive wins.
The Team
Suspensions to Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel mean the experienced duo will miss the next three matches, and while Adam Lallana is touch and go for the clash and Rodgers hopes to have the 26-year-old available, the Reds boss been boosted by news that Daniel Sturridge has been passed fit to face the Gunners.
The Liverpool manager could still be forced into and opt to make more than one change however – the most pressing of which comes in having to decide between Dejan Lovren and Kolo Toure as to who takes up Skrtel’s central role in the back three.
Another alteration could see Lucas Leiva come back into the starting XI with the Brazilian having made a welcome return from injury, though Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson may be the preferred choice to once again make up the midfield partnership after both returned from international duty unscathed.
The problematic right wing-back position will need to be addressed by Rodgers with it proving a real hindrance to the team currently, and with Jordon Ibe still side-lined, Lallana struggling for form in both positions deployed, and Raheem Sterling completely wasted out wide, Rodgers has a few choices to pick from.
Lazar Markovic, who did an underrated and underappreciated job in filling the unnatural role could be the chosen man to compliment Alberto Moreno on the opposite side making up the four man midfield, though forgotten man Javi Manquillo will also be hopeful of a long overdue recall to the team.
The Reds face a wait over Lallana’s fitness though Sturridge is set to be fit to feature, and the creative midfielder’s potential absence could open a space for Sterling to move back into the Liverpool attack alongside Philippe Coutinho and the man he deputised for earlier this season.
The Line Up
Rodgers will have to eagerly await news of Lallana’s availability – though he is set to train before the trip south – and should good news materialise over the ex-Saint’s fitness like with Sturridge, a strong looking team is set to line up at the Emirates despite the likelihood of changes.
Skrtel’s ban should result in Toure coming in alongside Emre Can and Mamadou Sakho to face his old club with his leadership a valuable asset, however Markovic should come into the side for Lallana to regain his place at right-wing back, allowing for Sterling to move into an explosive front three alongside the Brazilian magician and Sturridge.
Those two changes from the side that started against United last time out would see Liverpool line up like this on Saturday early afternoon:
However, Rodgers could choose to make two slightly different changes to his team.
While Toure should definitely be the pick over Lovren, Lallana could keep his shirt in the attacking three with Allen instead being the man to make way for the returning Lucas, who could recommence his partnership with Henderson and to add some physicality to the middle of the park.
That switch in midfield resulting in Lallana staying in the attack alongside Coutinho and Sturridge would mean Sterling once more operates in an ineffective wide role, but those changes would see the Reds look like this come 12:45 kick-off time:
The Reds face a big challenge to return to winning ways at the first attempt, but with Champions League aspirations already slipping away and the possibility of becoming even more distant, a positive result, though tough, really is a must if the aim of a top four finish is to be kept alive for the final seven games.
Comments are retrospectively moderated. Some could be subject to delays before publication. They must obey the
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Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon, when they take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Ben Twelves takes a look at the team selection options ahead of the clash.
The Reds now face a sizeable uphill task to achieve their aim of finishing in the top four as they currently trail United by five points – a gap that could be extended to eight if the worst case scenario of results pan out this weekend – and a huge challenge awaits Rodgers and his young squad over the remaining games of the season.
With the genuine possibility of a further increased gap materialising after this weekend’s round of matches – something that could signal the end of the Champions League battle with only seven games left to play after – Saturday’s fixture represents somewhat of a win-or-bust clash for the Reds with their need to keep pressure up on top four chasing rivals.
Three points is therefore of even more importance to Liverpool, who need to recapture the spirit that dragged them back into contention for a top four finish on Saturday afternoon, but an extremely tough task lies ahead at an unhappy hunting ground against Wenger’s in-form side, who have won nine of their last 10 matches including six successive wins.
The Team
Suspensions to Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel mean the experienced duo will miss the next three matches, and while Adam Lallana is touch and go for the clash and Rodgers hopes to have the 26-year-old available, the Reds boss been boosted by news that Daniel Sturridge has been passed fit to face the Gunners.
The Liverpool manager could still be forced into and opt to make more than one change however – the most pressing of which comes in having to decide between Dejan Lovren and Kolo Toure as to who takes up Skrtel’s central role in the back three.
Another alteration could see Lucas Leiva come back into the starting XI with the Brazilian having made a welcome return from injury, though Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson may be the preferred choice to once again make up the midfield partnership after both returned from international duty unscathed.
The problematic right wing-back position will need to be addressed by Rodgers with it proving a real hindrance to the team currently, and with Jordon Ibe still side-lined, Lallana struggling for form in both positions deployed, and Raheem Sterling completely wasted out wide, Rodgers has a few choices to pick from.
Lazar Markovic, who did an underrated and underappreciated job in filling the unnatural role could be the chosen man to compliment Alberto Moreno on the opposite side making up the four man midfield, though forgotten man Javi Manquillo will also be hopeful of a long overdue recall to the team.
The Reds face a wait over Lallana’s fitness though Sturridge is set to be fit to feature, and the creative midfielder’s potential absence could open a space for Sterling to move back into the Liverpool attack alongside Philippe Coutinho and the man he deputised for earlier this season.
The Line Up
Rodgers will have to eagerly await news of Lallana’s availability – though he is set to train before the trip south – and should good news materialise over the ex-Saint’s fitness like with Sturridge, a strong looking team is set to line up at the Emirates despite the likelihood of changes.
Skrtel’s ban should result in Toure coming in alongside Emre Can and Mamadou Sakho to face his old club with his leadership a valuable asset, however Markovic should come into the side for Lallana to regain his place at right-wing back, allowing for Sterling to move into an explosive front three alongside the Brazilian magician and Sturridge.
Those two changes from the side that started against United last time out would see Liverpool line up like this on Saturday early afternoon:
However, Rodgers could choose to make two slightly different changes to his team.
While Toure should definitely be the pick over Lovren, Lallana could keep his shirt in the attacking three with Allen instead being the man to make way for the returning Lucas, who could recommence his partnership with Henderson and to add some physicality to the middle of the park.
That switch in midfield resulting in Lallana staying in the attack alongside Coutinho and Sturridge would mean Sterling once more operates in an ineffective wide role, but those changes would see the Reds look like this come 12:45 kick-off time:
The Reds face a big challenge to return to winning ways at the first attempt, but with Champions League aspirations already slipping away and the possibility of becoming even more distant, a positive result, though tough, really is a must if the aim of a top four finish is to be kept alive for the final seven games.
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Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is expected to have recovered from a hip injury to face Arsenal on Saturday.
Centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard begin three-match suspensions with Dejan Lovren favourite to replace the former in defence.
Provisional squad: Mignolet, Can, Lovren, Sakho, Sterling, Henderson, Lucas, Moreno, Sterling, Coutinho, Sturridge, Jones, Johnson, Toure, Allen, Markovic, Balotelli, Borini, Lambert.
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Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge is expected to have recovered from a hip injury to face Arsenal on Saturday.
Centre-back Martin Skrtel and captain Steven Gerrard begin three-match suspensions with Dejan Lovren favourite to replace the former in defence.
Provisional squad: Mignolet, Can, Lovren, Sakho, Sterling, Henderson, Lucas, Moreno, Sterling, Coutinho, Sturridge, Jones, Johnson, Toure, Allen, Markovic, Balotelli, Borini, Lambert.
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Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers wants Raheem Sterling to concentrate on his football after telling the forward he will not be sold in the summer.
Rodgers said that would not be the case – for the foreseeable future at least as Sterling still has two years remaining on his £35,000-a-week deal – and would prefer the youngster to put all his efforts into helping the side secure a top-four spot.
“The concentration is to focus on his football, help him continue with his development in a place where he has made great strides – that is the only concentration over these remaining games,” said the Reds boss.
“That was the intention of the player, his representative and the club to put (talks) on hold. “Obviously Raheem has come out and made his feelings clear on that and hopefully now the focus will be on the football.
“He is not going anywhere in the summer so we will very much focus on trying to make him the best player we can.”
When it was suggested to Rodgers that money talks he pointed to recent history when Arsenal’s cheeky £40million plus £1 bid for Luis Suarez – in the mistaken belief it would trigger a release clause – was swiftly rebuffed by owner John W Henry.
“Liverpool are one of the superpowers of football and the owners have made it clear – and we’ve seen it before – that money does not come into it,” he added.
“The club is not going to sell and if it doesn’t want to sell it won’t sell, it is simple as that.
“Money has never been the objective for the club. Whatever player – Raheem or anyone – leaves here it will always be on the terms of the club.”
In his interview this week, which was not sanctioned by the club, Sterling spoke of his desire to play in his favoured position as an attacker rather than being asked to perform a role he has been tasked with a couple of times in recent weeks as a wide midfielder in a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Rodgers, however, stressed the importance of the player being able to operate in a variety of roles.
“He has played all over the field for me but he understands and respects that the opportunity he has had to play all over the field has been great for him in his career,” said the manager.
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Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers wants Raheem Sterling to concentrate on his football after telling the forward he will not be sold in the summer.
Rodgers said that would not be the case – for the foreseeable future at least as Sterling still has two years remaining on his £35,000-a-week deal – and would prefer the youngster to put all his efforts into helping the side secure a top-four spot.
“The concentration is to focus on his football, help him continue with his development in a place where he has made great strides – that is the only concentration over these remaining games,” said the Reds boss.
“That was the intention of the player, his representative and the club to put (talks) on hold. “Obviously Raheem has come out and made his feelings clear on that and hopefully now the focus will be on the football.
“He is not going anywhere in the summer so we will very much focus on trying to make him the best player we can.”
When it was suggested to Rodgers that money talks he pointed to recent history when Arsenal’s cheeky £40million plus £1 bid for Luis Suarez – in the mistaken belief it would trigger a release clause – was swiftly rebuffed by owner John W Henry.
“Liverpool are one of the superpowers of football and the owners have made it clear – and we’ve seen it before – that money does not come into it,” he added.
“The club is not going to sell and if it doesn’t want to sell it won’t sell, it is simple as that.
“Money has never been the objective for the club. Whatever player – Raheem or anyone – leaves here it will always be on the terms of the club.”
In his interview this week, which was not sanctioned by the club, Sterling spoke of his desire to play in his favoured position as an attacker rather than being asked to perform a role he has been tasked with a couple of times in recent weeks as a wide midfielder in a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Rodgers, however, stressed the importance of the player being able to operate in a variety of roles.
“He has played all over the field for me but he understands and respects that the opportunity he has had to play all over the field has been great for him in his career,” said the manager.
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Liverpool visit Arsenal in a pivotal Premier League clash at the Emirates on Saturday lunchtime. Henry Jackson selects his combined XI between the two sides based only on their 2014/15 form.
Both sides have enjoyed up and down seasons, with Liverpool recovering from a horrendous start and Arsenal enjoying their annual strong finish after a trademark blip.
There have been numerous players on either team who have shone throughout 2014/15, but who gets into a Combined XI? Here is ours, based entirely on this season’s form (an admittedly narrow and flawed 3-4-3 diamond formation):
Goalkeeper: Simon Mignolet
Having suffered a miserable time of things up until Christmas, in which he was dropped for Brad Jones, Mignolet has been superb in 2015.
The Belgian is on course to win the Golden Glove award, and his combination of good decision-making and outstanding shot-stopping have been a big reason for Liverpool’s improved form.
Wojciech Szczesny is a talented goalkeeper but makes too many mistakes, while David Ospina has also impressed and flattered to deceive in equal measure.
Centre-Back: Laurent Koscielny
There can be no doubting that Koscielny is both one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League and one of Arsenal’s most important players.
The France international is the rock that holds the Gunners’ defence together, and he has very few flaws in his game. He was missed greatly during the 2-2 draw at Anfield in December, in which Arsenal were run ragged at times.
Per Mertesacker has struggled for consistency since his triumph at last summer’s World Cup, while new signing Gabriel has barely featured since his January move to the Emirates.
Centre-Back: Martin Skrtel
Like Mignolet, Skrtel has got better and better the more the season has progressed, and he is now a genuine contender for the club’s Player of the Year award.
The 30-year-old has thrived in a back-three, winning 63 per cent of his duels, and has shown his underrated quality on the ball with a 90 per cent passing accuracy. He’s not everyone’s favourite, but even his biggest detractors cannot deny how impressive he has been.
Centre-Back: Mamadou Sakho
Sakho is one of the most harshly, and incorrectly, criticised defenders in the league at present. Lazy critics claim he can’t pass the ball, but his 89 per cent passing accuracy would suggest otherwise.
His use of the ball is fantastic a lot of the time, he is dominant aerially and not many opponents get the better of him. The Reds have a real class act on their hands.
It’s worth stressing that this formation doesn’t really cater towards full-backs, but Hector Bellerin, Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs have all impressed for Arsenal. Alberto Moreno, meanwhile, has shown enough to suggest he will be a good signing for Liverpool in the coming years.
Defensive Midfield: Emre Can
Yes, Can has predominantly played in defence this season, and excelled, but his long-term role remains in the centre of midfield. The 21-year-old is a player with enormous potential, and has been Brendan Rodgers‘ best signing of last summer by a mile.
He is strong, skilful, creative and consistent, and if he continues to progress at the rate he is, he could become one of the most dominant midfielders in Europe.
Lucas Leiva and Joe Allen have both shone at different times, while Francis Coquelin has done very well sitting in front of Arsenal’s back four.
Centre Midfield (right): Jordan Henderson
Henderson is fully expected to replace Steven Gerrard as Liverpool captain in the summer, and he has shown this season why he is the right man for the job.
The England international hasn’t always been at his very best, but his supreme work-rate and never-say-die attitude have been admirable. Six goals and seven assists is a very respectable return, and shows that he is far more than just a worker in the middle of the park.
Aaron Ramsey has not hit the heights of last season, partly due to injury, but remains a top class player when in full flow. Steven Gerrard, Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini have all been inconsistent when they’ve featured.
Centre Midfield (left): Santi Cazorla
Cazorla is a fabulous footballer, and is enjoying arguably his finest season in an Arsenal shirt since moving from Malaga in 2012.
Spain’s two-time European Championship winner has run the show time and time again for his side, showing dazzling feet, terrific creativity and an eye for goal. Seven goals and 10 assists in all competitions outlines his influence.
Attacking midfield: Philippe Coutinho
Coutinho has been absolutely magical at times this season, and has been Liverpool’s standout player after a slightly below-par first few months.
The brilliant Brazilian has scored sensational goals against Bolton, Southampton and Manchester City, and his general touch and vision is on another level to virtually any other Reds player.
Mesut Ozil is an extremely talented player, but although he’s been more effective than some of his detractors will claim- he is a statistics-obsessed fan’s dream- he is still nowhere near the player he was at Real Madrid.
Right Forward: Raheem Sterling
Sterling isn’t exactly Mr Popular right now, given his current contract issues, but he has been one of the Reds’ most important players in 2014/15.
It’s very easy to take the 20-year-old for granted and assume he hasn’t been that impressive, but he has scored more goals (10) and provided more assists (8) than any other Liverpool star this season. He was particularly good as a lone striker, in a gamble that paid off handsomely for Rodgers.
Left Forward: Alexis Sanchez
Sanchez made a sensational start to life at Arsenal, and for a while looked like he may even be as influential as Luis Suarez was for Liverpool last season.
Although the Chilean’s form has dipped a little in recent months, he has still scored 19 goals and shown that he is a world-class footballer with magnificent attitude.
The likes of Danny Welbeck and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have not exactly set the world alight for Arsene Wenger’s team, and the same can be said of Adam Lallana since his big-money move to Anfield.
Striker: Olivier Giroud
Having been something of a laughing stock with rival fans over the years, Giroud has silenced the doubters and scored 17 times in just 26 matches.
The 28-year-old has an underrated touch and is a strong physical presence, and despite the fact he can sometimes go missing in the big games, he has been a very important player for Arsenal.
Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert and Fabio Borini have all been poor, while Daniel Sturridge has looked rusty since missing six months of action.
All statistics via Squawka and WhoScored
Who would make your Liverpool and Arsenal combined XI, based on this season’s form? Let us know in the comments below.
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Liverpool visit Arsenal in a pivotal Premier League clash at the Emirates on Saturday lunchtime. Henry Jackson selects his combined XI between the two sides based only on their 2014/15 form.
Both sides have enjoyed up and down seasons, with Liverpool recovering from a horrendous start and Arsenal enjoying their annual strong finish after a trademark blip.
There have been numerous players on either team who have shone throughout 2014/15, but who gets into a Combined XI? Here is ours, based entirely on this season’s form (an admittedly narrow and flawed 3-4-3 diamond formation):
Goalkeeper: Simon Mignolet
Having suffered a miserable time of things up until Christmas, in which he was dropped for Brad Jones, Mignolet has been superb in 2015.
The Belgian is on course to win the Golden Glove award, and his combination of good decision-making and outstanding shot-stopping have been a big reason for Liverpool’s improved form.
Wojciech Szczesny is a talented goalkeeper but makes too many mistakes, while David Ospina has also impressed and flattered to deceive in equal measure.
Centre-Back: Laurent Koscielny
There can be no doubting that Koscielny is both one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League and one of Arsenal’s most important players.
The France international is the rock that holds the Gunners’ defence together, and he has very few flaws in his game. He was missed greatly during the 2-2 draw at Anfield in December, in which Arsenal were run ragged at times.
Per Mertesacker has struggled for consistency since his triumph at last summer’s World Cup, while new signing Gabriel has barely featured since his January move to the Emirates.
Centre-Back: Martin Skrtel
Like Mignolet, Skrtel has got better and better the more the season has progressed, and he is now a genuine contender for the club’s Player of the Year award.
The 30-year-old has thrived in a back-three, winning 63 per cent of his duels, and has shown his underrated quality on the ball with a 90 per cent passing accuracy. He’s not everyone’s favourite, but even his biggest detractors cannot deny how impressive he has been.
Centre-Back: Mamadou Sakho
Sakho is one of the most harshly, and incorrectly, criticised defenders in the league at present. Lazy critics claim he can’t pass the ball, but his 89 per cent passing accuracy would suggest otherwise.
His use of the ball is fantastic a lot of the time, he is dominant aerially and not many opponents get the better of him. The Reds have a real class act on their hands.
It’s worth stressing that this formation doesn’t really cater towards full-backs, but Hector Bellerin, Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs have all impressed for Arsenal. Alberto Moreno, meanwhile, has shown enough to suggest he will be a good signing for Liverpool in the coming years.
Defensive Midfield: Emre Can
Yes, Can has predominantly played in defence this season, and excelled, but his long-term role remains in the centre of midfield. The 21-year-old is a player with enormous potential, and has been Brendan Rodgers‘ best signing of last summer by a mile.
He is strong, skilful, creative and consistent, and if he continues to progress at the rate he is, he could become one of the most dominant midfielders in Europe.
Lucas Leiva and Joe Allen have both shone at different times, while Francis Coquelin has done very well sitting in front of Arsenal’s back four.
Centre Midfield (right): Jordan Henderson
Henderson is fully expected to replace Steven Gerrard as Liverpool captain in the summer, and he has shown this season why he is the right man for the job.
The England international hasn’t always been at his very best, but his supreme work-rate and never-say-die attitude have been admirable. Six goals and seven assists is a very respectable return, and shows that he is far more than just a worker in the middle of the park.
Aaron Ramsey has not hit the heights of last season, partly due to injury, but remains a top class player when in full flow. Steven Gerrard, Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini have all been inconsistent when they’ve featured.
Centre Midfield (left): Santi Cazorla
Cazorla is a fabulous footballer, and is enjoying arguably his finest season in an Arsenal shirt since moving from Malaga in 2012.
Spain’s two-time European Championship winner has run the show time and time again for his side, showing dazzling feet, terrific creativity and an eye for goal. Seven goals and 10 assists in all competitions outlines his influence.
Attacking midfield: Philippe Coutinho
Coutinho has been absolutely magical at times this season, and has been Liverpool’s standout player after a slightly below-par first few months.
The brilliant Brazilian has scored sensational goals against Bolton, Southampton and Manchester City, and his general touch and vision is on another level to virtually any other Reds player.
Mesut Ozil is an extremely talented player, but although he’s been more effective than some of his detractors will claim- he is a statistics-obsessed fan’s dream- he is still nowhere near the player he was at Real Madrid.
Right Forward: Raheem Sterling
Sterling isn’t exactly Mr Popular right now, given his current contract issues, but he has been one of the Reds’ most important players in 2014/15.
It’s very easy to take the 20-year-old for granted and assume he hasn’t been that impressive, but he has scored more goals (10) and provided more assists (8) than any other Liverpool star this season. He was particularly good as a lone striker, in a gamble that paid off handsomely for Rodgers.
Left Forward: Alexis Sanchez
Sanchez made a sensational start to life at Arsenal, and for a while looked like he may even be as influential as Luis Suarez was for Liverpool last season.
Although the Chilean’s form has dipped a little in recent months, he has still scored 19 goals and shown that he is a world-class footballer with magnificent attitude.
The likes of Danny Welbeck and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have not exactly set the world alight for Arsene Wenger’s team, and the same can be said of Adam Lallana since his big-money move to Anfield.
Striker: Olivier Giroud
Having been something of a laughing stock with rival fans over the years, Giroud has silenced the doubters and scored 17 times in just 26 matches.
The 28-year-old has an underrated touch and is a strong physical presence, and despite the fact he can sometimes go missing in the big games, he has been a very important player for Arsenal.
Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert and Fabio Borini have all been poor, while Daniel Sturridge has looked rusty since missing six months of action.
All statistics via Squawka and WhoScored
Who would make your Liverpool and Arsenal combined XI, based on this season’s form? Let us know in the comments below.
Comments are retrospectively moderated. Some could be subject to delays before publication. They must obey the
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