View Full Version : The Official Liverpool FC Thread - 09/10 - Hello Roy, Number 19 please!
Its been all over for a while now. The league don't lie and they are by far the better side.
Maybe next year Benitez will play a more expansive game from the start of the season instead of waiting until we are 10 points off the pace.
AdamBrunt
13-05-2009, 23:21
So if it's been over for a while ... why won't Man U receive the trophy until after their penultimate game at the earliest ? Sure they've been good since January but then they've had to be to stay ahead of us. If they were "by far the better side" they would have had their hands on the trophy, literally, weeks and weeks ago.
I also don't understand this idea that Benitez had some sort of epithany a couple of months ago and decided to play a different style of game. IMO we have been pretty much playing in the same style all season - we just weren't getting the results our play deserved sometimes earlier in the season.
I'm tempted not to ask how we managed to close this 10 point gap despite getting similar, or even worse, results than them ;)
Fever Dawg
13-05-2009, 23:26
Tbh, I think you may have missed your big chance this season. United haven't been as good as they were last season and both Chelsea & Arsenal seem to have gone through some kind of transitional period.
Plus, surely next season you won't score as many late scrawny goals :D
Fever Dawg
13-05-2009, 23:28
PS Starting a new thread before the old one has been closed?
:nono:
So if it's been over for a while ... why won't Man U receive the trophy until after their penultimate game at the earliest ? Sure they've been good since January but then they've had to be to stay ahead of us. If they were "by far the better side" they would have had their hands on the trophy, literally, weeks and weeks ago.
There was no doubt once we threw away our lead that manu would be strong in the run in. I said it back in Jan and you wouldn't have it then. Oh look what happened.
I also don't understand this idea that Benitez had some sort of epithany a couple of months ago and decided to play a different style of game. IMO we have been pretty much playing in the same style all season - we just weren't getting the results our play deserved sometimes earlier in the season.
Lol, sure we were.
I'm tempted not to ask how we managed to close this 10 point gap despite getting similar, or even worse, results than them ;)
Now they have cought up in games it is 6. Only our win at OT and their loss at Fulham shrunk the gap. Otherwise it would be double figures. Its only seemed closer because they were lagging behind in games played. Don't delude yourself. ;)
AdamBrunt
13-05-2009, 23:32
I have no great compulsion to rehash the same old "X cost £10m", "no he didn't he only cost £9m" crap ...
Why's that ? Cos you know your argument is on shaky ground ?
but players like Lucas, Keane, Ngog, El Zahr, Dossena, Degan, Voronin, Pennant must have an average transfer fee well in excess of £8m and are all distinctly mediocre (or Keane who didn't fit in/wasn't given a chance).
Keane = overall conservative estimates say he 'cost' overall about £5M
Lucas = undisclosed
Ngog = £1.5M
El Zhar = undisclosed
Dossena = £7M
Degen = £0
Voronin = £0
Pennant = £6.7M
Now my degree level maths may be shaky but that looks like a average of well BELOW £8M to me :shrug:
Tbh, I think you may have missed your big chance this season. United haven't been as good as they were last season and both Chelsea & Arsenal seem to have gone through some kind of transitional period.
Plus, surely next season you won't score as many late scrawny goals :D
Yep. We haven't really improved that much, I think in the first 6 months of the season the level of the top 3 came down closer to our level - look at our record this season against the top 4. But still we were the same old Liverpool against lesser teams and for once so were the rest of the top 3 - that helped us up the division.
Assuming Chelsea get their manager sorted for next season I fully expect them and manu to be out in front again.
AdamBrunt
13-05-2009, 23:38
Tbh, I think you may have missed your big chance this season. United haven't been as good as they were last season and both Chelsea & Arsenal seem to have gone through some kind of transitional period.
So ... next season of the Top 4 only Man U, Chelse and Arsenal are going to get better / recover from this year's 'blip' (so to speak) ? And Liverpool will somehow get worse ? Is that it.
Maybe you could also explain to me how Man U have been worse this season than last year and yet have 5 more points than they had at the same point 12 months ago ?
AdamBrunt
13-05-2009, 23:45
There was no doubt once we threw away our lead that manu would be strong in the run in. I said it back in Jan and you wouldn't have it then. Oh look what happened.
You and saltysam were also saying stuff like Man U would "win it at a canter", etc, etc. I'm sorry but taking at least 37 games to win it is nothing like winning it at a canter.
But if you want to think despite getting, what looks like being, our best League points total since Benitez arrived (and almost 30 points more than the 1st year he came) its only because everyone else has been rubbish this year (and they won't that mistake again next time) then that's up to you
You and saltysam were also saying stuff like Man U would "win it at a canter", etc, etc. I'm sorry but taking at least 37 games to win it is nothing like winning it at a canter.
I don't remember using the word "canter" but if you say so.
But if you want to think despite getting, what looks like being, our best League points total since Benitez arrived (and almost 30 points more than the 1st year he came) its only because everyone else has been rubbish this year (and they won't that mistake again next time) then that's up to you
Who said anything about rubbish? I simply pointed out the level the top teams have been playing at has dropped off this season. And yet we still didn't win.
So Adam, do you expect us to win the PL next year? And if not should Benitez be fired. After all he is nearing your fabled 7 year Fergie masterplan timeframe.
Fever Dawg
13-05-2009, 23:58
So ... next season of the Top 4 only Man U, Chelse and Arsenal are going to get better ? And Liverpool will somehow get worse ? Is that it.
Where did I say Liverpool would get worse? :?:
Maybe you could also explain to me how Man U have been worse this season than last year and yet have 5 more points than they had at the same point 12 months ago ?
Because the competition has been weaker ... like I pointed out in my last post? :nuts:
So if it's been over for a while ... why won't Man U receive the trophy until after their penultimate game at the earliest ?
It wasn't officially over but it's very hard to make up that kind of ground so it was pretty unlikely ManU wouldn't win, they were even saying it on MOTD. I think most people expected ManU to end up winning for a long time now, they seemed to have it.
That doesn't mean the other teams should give up, ManU stumbled a few times after christmas but managed to keep getting results even though they weren't convincing. If Liverpool hadn't beaten them twice, they'd be 15 points clear of Chelsea and would have won the title 10 days ago.
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 00:49
I simply pointed out the level the top teams have been playing at has dropped off this season. And yet we still didn't win.
Neither did Arsenal and Chelsea ... we managed to overtake them with as much apparent ease as Man U are going to win the league
So Adam, do you expect us to win the PL next year? And if not should Benitez be fired. After all he is nearing your fabled 7 year Fergie masterplan timeframe.
I don't expect us to win it no - I leave that to the "We're LFC FFS" brigade, the people who seem to think LFC have some God given right to win everything every year. But based on this year's performances we certainly have just as good a chance as anyone else - and probably better chance than almost everyone else.
Where did I say Liverpool would get worse? :?:
You didn't in so many words but your post certainly implied that Man U, Chelsea and Arsenal but not Liverpool would all improve next year.
I'm bagging this one.
Next time please wait until one has closed (and feel free to report that it needs locking) before starting another one or we will have people using both as has happened here.
Darth Sidious
14-05-2009, 07:07
If Man Utd fans want To come into another teams forum, and comment about how weak the league was this year, then maybe those said united fans should campaign for the TV Money to be divided equally amongst all 20 Clubs?
1st = 70 million
20th = 35 million
= disgusting.
horseflesh
14-05-2009, 07:17
Why's that ? Cos you know your argument is on shaky ground ?
Keane = overall conservative estimates say he 'cost' overall about £5M
Lucas = undisclosed
Ngog = £1.5M
El Zhar = undisclosed
Dossena = £7M
Degen = £0
Voronin = £0
Pennant = £6.7M
Now my degree level maths may be shaky but that looks like a average of well BELOW £8M to me :shrug:
That's it, lop £15m+ off Keane's transfer fee (which is what I said I was specifically talking about; transfer fees) because it suits your argument.
Same old Adam.
And since when did "undisclosed" = 0??
But as I was saying, the absolute numerical accuracy isn't the point. A bad buy is a bad buy.
If Benitez (or any other manager) buys a player for £10m and then sells him for £8m, it doesn't mean a loss of £2m is the only impact on the club (bad enough as that is). If the player lasts a year, there's a couple of million in wages down the drain. Plus the fact that the "bad" player is taking up a squad space, and their transfer costs are tied up.
rustybin
14-05-2009, 07:42
If Man Utd fans want To come into another teams forum, and comment about how weak the league was this year, then maybe those said united fans should campaign for the TV Money to be divided equally amongst all 20 Clubs?
1st = 70 million
20th = 35 million
= disgusting.
I was under the impression that a good proportion of the TV Money WAS divided up equally?
You're commenting on the distribution of PRIZE money. Surely you're not suggesting that 1st place prize money should be the same as last? It's a competition, not a socialist commune.
I reckon at this rate we'll get through another thread by the end of the season....
rustybin
14-05-2009, 07:53
So Adam, do you expect us to win the PL next year? And if not should Benitez be fired. After all he is nearing your fabled 7 year Fergie masterplan timeframe.
The difference is that every year Manchester United FC got stronger under Fergie, not just on the pitch, but off it as well.
Liverpool have made great inroads this season on the pitch, but why is Anfield no bigger now than it was when the PL started?
The commercial opportunities which were missed during Liverpool's domination in the 80s are still being missed today.
Arsenal are having a dip on the pitch because of the money spent in building a stadium - longer-term they'll be able to outspend Liverpool.
Same **** different day...
In proper news...
As reported before but probably lost in the endless arguments:
We're in the Youth Cup Final against Arsenal.
22 May, 2009 Arsenal FA Youth Cup final (1st leg) A 20:00
26 May, 2009 Arsenal FA Youth Cup final (2nd leg) H 19:45
Alonso doesn't want to go anywhere according to his agent and himself.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/may/14/xabi-alonso-liverpool-premier-league
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 08:06
That's it, lop £15m+ off Keane's transfer fee (which is what I said I was specifically talking about; transfer fees) because it suits your argument.
Same old Adam.
And since when did "undisclosed" = 0??
Oh, ok ... so in the transfer market its irrelevant how much money you receive when you sell a player. How much they cost is the only thing that matters :lol:
But for the sake of argument, let's use £20M for Keane. Even doing that, Lucas and El Zhar's "undisclosed" would have to had far exceeded a total of £40M in order for the average to far exceed £8M. Either way your argument is ***** ;)
But then again that £25M Benitez spent in January 08 was, according to you, a complete waste ;)
Liverpool have made great inroads this season on the pitch, but why is Anfield no bigger now than it was when the PL started?
The main reason is that, unlike Man U, up until recently we have not been able to expand their stadium at will without moving out of the city.
Arsenal are having a dip on the pitch because of the money spent in building a stadium - longer-term they'll be able to outspend Liverpool.
By all accounts, the money is there if Wenger wants to spend it but ... he doesn't. Unless Wenger changes his philosophy that is not going to change "long term".
Its been all over for a while now. The league don't lie and they are by far the better side.
Maybe next year Benitez will play a more expansive game from the start of the season instead of waiting until we are 10 points off the pace.
go and support manc will you. you're desperate to. whenever we get a bad result/they get a good one your bounding in their thread with good ol' verbal pats on the back. "well done guys, it's all yours" as if they've just come off the ******* field and you're all pleased as punch it hasn't gone liverpools way.
by far the better side? talk *****. we beat them twice and scored more goals this season. the draws cost us. better maybe, they've twice the squad due to having twice the resources, practically an unfair comparison in terms of financial sizes of each club- yet we competed with them... far better!? we took it to the 2nd last game of the season on limited resources and with the issues we've had within the club and the fact we've only had our 2 talismen together on the field 12 times this season shows what a brilliant league performance we have had this year. oh aye, they were bloody miles better than us.
Yep. We haven't really improved that much, I think in the first 6 months of the season the level of the top 3 came down closer to our level - look at our record this season against the top 4. But still we were the same old Liverpool against lesser teams and for once so were the rest of the top 3 - that helped us up the division.
Assuming Chelsea get their manager sorted for next season I fully expect them and manu to be out in front again.
this is ridiculously negative. so the other big 3 haven't improved their squads... we have improved its clear as day. how can this season not be viewed as a indication of improvement looking at the results we have got over the big 3, look at the late winning goals so typical of manc which indicates our teams desire to win, look at how many goals we have been scoring recently. so the big 3 are just poorer and we've stayed the same. ********.
Who said anything about rubbish? I simply pointed out the level the top teams have been playing at has dropped off this season. And yet we still didn't win.
clearly the class of the big 3 have dropped off and we have remained the same... i mean it must have- look at us, in the mix in may and thus they have gotten worse- so they must be struggling in the CL then. but wait the big 3 were only in the semi finals of the CL and one of them was robbed out of the final by a dodgy norweigian... a-ha! the rest of europes elite levels of playing must have dropped off too. thats it! how silly of me... we're liverpool! we don't improve! the other teams drop off.
please rafa get that 'expansive' gameplay sorted from the start and all our woes will be over... an expansive game: the key to sucess.
but players like Lucas, Keane, Ngog, El Zahr, Dossena, Degan, Voronin, Pennant must have an average transfer fee well in excess of £8m and are all distinctly mediocre (or Keane who didn't fit in/wasn't given a chance).
Out of all of those players the only one whom I would class as mediocre would be Degen and that's only because he has managed to be fit for 3 minutes but he was free.
El Zhar cost about £200,000 from what I read and as he is only 11 we can give him a few years. Plus he is on about £50 a week.
Lucas cost £5m. He has had some bad games but lately has shown some signs of improvement. He is a decent player maybe not for Liverpool but he is not mediocre.
Dossena cost £7m and all in all has been a bit of a disappointment but he did score against Manu.
Ngog cost £1.5m and again I don't think he is mediocre, he is young and has only played as a sub.
Voronin was free, scored a couple of nice goals and is now top scorer in the Bundesliga (or thereabouts). Mediocre?
Pennant cost £6.7m and had a couple of decent seasons. He is a complete bellend but he is not mediocre. Stupidly getting sent of against Porto and his reaction was what did in his LFC career. He should have been moved on to get rid of his wages but is that Rafa's fault?
And Keane cost £20m (estimate) and scored 7 goals in 28 games. His fee to Tottenham with add ons is estimated at £16m so he cost £3m which is not too shabby for 7 goals. We can debate the whole "Did Rafa want him" fiasco all day but at the end of the day he didn't work out and was moved on quickly. His is not a mediocre player (he hasn't exactly set the world alight back down at Tottenham though).
What exactly is your problem with Benitez? If you don't like him or Liverpool come out at say don't keep spouting off this "Rafa's rubbish transfer buys" ****.
Rafa has made mistakes and spent a good deal of money but he has also bought some gems, arguably the best striker in the premiership, managed to keep Gerrard at the club and get him to resign a new deal. He has also shipped out the dross at a minimal losses and in some cases made some good money.
Next time please wait until one has closed (and feel free to report that it needs locking) before starting another one or we will have people using both as has happened here.
Sorry boss
go and support manc will you. you're desperate to. whenever we get a bad result/they get a good one your bounding in their thread with good ol' verbal pats on the back. "well done guys, it's all yours" as if they've just come off the ******* field and you're all pleased as punch it hasn't gone liverpools way.
Nice to know you follow my posting habits so closely. :wave: I'll ignore the schoolyard jibes. :thumbs:
by far the better side? talk *****. we beat them twice and scored more goals this season. the draws cost us. better maybe, they've twice the squad due to having twice the resources, practically an unfair comparison in terms of financial sizes of each club- yet we competed with them... far better!? we took it to the 2nd last game of the season on limited resources and with the issues we've had within the club and the fact we've only had our 2 talismen together on the field 12 times this season shows what a brilliant league performance we have had this year. oh aye, they were bloody miles better than us.
Manu outspent us in the 80s, had bigger attendences etc etc. What is your point
this is ridiculously negative. so the other big 3 haven't improved their squads... we have improved its clear as day. how can this season not be viewed as a indication of improvement looking at the results we have got over the big 3, look at the late winning goals so typical of manc which indicates our teams desire to win, look at how many goals we have been scoring recently. so the big 3 are just poorer and we've stayed the same. ********.
I didn't say we hadn't improved, just not as much as some on here say. Sorry for having my own opinion.
clearly the class of the big 3 have dropped off and we have remained the same... i mean it must have- look at us, in the mix in may and thus they have gotten worse- so they must be struggling in the CL then. but wait the big 3 were only in the semi finals of the CL and one of them was robbed out of the final by a dodgy norweigian... a-ha! the rest of europes elite levels of playing must have dropped off too. thats it! how silly of me... we're liverpool! we don't improve! the other teams drop off.
I don't know what you are ranting about here. Sorry.
please rafa get that 'expansive' gameplay sorted from the start and all our woes will be over... an expansive game: the key to sucess.
Well you said yourself that the draws cost us. So you don't want us to play like we have since Feb this year where we have drawn less games. What do you want???
Nice write up on Gerrard here: Stevie wonder makes it to No 1 (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/stevie-wonder-makes-it-to-no-1-1684463.html)
And a bit here on the credit crunches effect on the value of premiership clubs. [=urlhttp://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/credit-crunch-hits-value-of-premier-clubs-1684467.html]Credit crunch hits value of Premier clubs[/url]
Harris, chairman of investment bank Seymour Pierce, also believes that there is far greater chance of Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Wachovia – with whom Hicks and Gillett rescheduled their loans in January – agreeing to a further rescheduling in July. The awaited decision of the banks is a source of profound uncertainty at Anfield but Harris suggested that Stephen Hester, RBS's new chief executive, may not wish to put himself "out on the left wing" by generating a crisis at Liverpool. A negotiated settlement of the debt is a more likely outcome, Harris believes, though he also declared that the financial crisis means the age of the leveraged buy-out of football clubs is in the past. "It is over," he said.
Looks like we will be stuck with those two for a while yet.
campdave
14-05-2009, 10:55
we took it to the 2nd last game of the season on limited resources
Limited resources? Stoke and Bolton have limited resources.
horseflesh
14-05-2009, 11:00
Limited resources? Stoke and Bolton have limited resources.
According to some here, in the last few years Liverpool have spent only A FRACTION of what United have spent!
:lol:
Nice to know you follow my posting habits so closely. :wave: I'll ignore the schoolyard jibes. :thumbs:
not following just perusing the manc thread but was a little bit :eek: and :thinking: at why a rival supporter would leave such a post.
Manu outspent us in the 80s, had bigger attendences etc etc. What is your point
no comparison about player spending of then and now. they have far more £20m+ players than us and they had the good fortune of having a crop of excellent players come through the academy 10 year ago we all know this. they should be winning the league, yet if liverpool had thier two big £20m players on the pitch together this season for the majority of games it would be a different story this season.
I didn't say we hadn't improved, just not as much as some on here say. Sorry for having my own opinion.
ok my mistake you said 'we haven't really improved.' thats the other end of the spectrum of 'not improved' i do apologise.
I don't know what you are ranting about here. Sorry.
basically saying what you said about the other big 3 playing levels had dropped off was ***** because all 3 of the other managed to get to penultimate stage of the cl.
Well you said yourself that the draws cost us. So you don't want us to play like we have since Feb this year where we have drawn less games. What do you want???
do i want "expansive"-ness? no i just want to continue the good play and plenty of goals which is what rafa is getting out of his team just now.
moving on do not want argue support for my club with a fellow supporter.
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 11:40
Benitez on SSN is again reiterating how much we missed Gerrard and Torres.
The problem this summer is finding someone who either (a) can play alongside them AND deputise for either of them or (b) someone who can deputise for either of them when needed but is happy to sit on the bench when not
Hmmmmm .....
not following just perusing the manc thread but was a little bit :eek: and :thinking: at why a rival supporter would leave such a post.
A few years ago I was a very bitter manc hating LFC supporter. I guess I have just matured a bit. I still want them to lose every game they play. But I can now see what a fine team they are and that they are worthy champions.
ok my mistake you said 'we haven't really improved.' thats the other end of the spectrum of 'not improved' i do apologise.
I actually said: "We haven't really improved that much". Maybe I wasn't being clear enough but although we have improved this year I think we still have some way to go.
do i want "expansive"-ness? no i just want to continue the good play and plenty of goals which is what rafa is getting out of his team just now.
Well whatever you want to call it, we'll agree that we both would like more of it next season. :)
moving on do not want argue support for my club with a fellow supporter.
Just debating sir :) Although the manu comment was a little out of order I felt. :)
Benitez on SSN is again reiterating how much we missed Gerrard and Torres.
The problem this summer is finding someone who either (a) can play alongside them AND deputise for either of them or (b) someone who can deputise for either of them when needed but is happy to sit on the bench when not
Hmmmmm .....
I agree that with our system its gonna be difficult. I would like Villa based on his performances with Torres last year. I suppose he could play behind and stick Gerrard back in midfield. Sure I read some where that Benitez himself mentioned Gerrard moving back into midfield at some point.
We're in the Youth Cup Final against Arsenal.
22 May, 2009 Arsenal FA Youth Cup final (1st leg) A 20:00
26 May, 2009 Arsenal FA Youth Cup final (2nd leg) H 19:45
Will be watching this. Enjoyed the semi final games, two very fine performances.
Citysmith
14-05-2009, 11:53
Well done lads on a good run this season. I believe that your starting 11 is as good (or as near as) as Manchester Uniteds. The problem at Liverpool is that your squad is fundemenatlly weaker.
At least your lot have played well, scored some great goals, entertained and kept going to the end. Liverpool have improved a hell of a lot, a lot of people on this forum are fed up at the Manchester United basically killed off the league last night and understandable so.
But to point another spin on it, at least you challenged this year, it's been a while since you kept the pace. As a club, you have to take pride in that and learn and move on, if you take another stride forward, who knows what will happen next season
horseflesh
14-05-2009, 11:56
Oh, ok ... so in the transfer market its irrelevant how much money you receive when you sell a player. How much they cost is the only thing that matters :lol:
But for the sake of argument, let's use £20M for Keane. Even doing that, Lucas and El Zhar's "undisclosed" would have to had far exceeded a total of £40M in order for the average to far exceed £8M. Either way your argument is ***** ;)
But then again that £25M Benitez spent in January 08 was, according to you, a complete waste ;)
Conveniently ignoring the underlying point of my post as usual......
Every bad buy is not just a transfer fee related drain on a club's finances. As much as anything else it's a missed opportunity. Benitez has bought a lot of average players. They become part of his squad and even when he decides to get rid of them and "only" loses a couple of million (or whatever), the point is their time at the club was essentially wasted time. Even if Benitez broke even on his mediocre buys, they would still be bad buys.
Out of all of those players the only one whom I would class as mediocre would be Degen and that's only because he has managed to be fit for 3 minutes but he was free.
I disagree. For a big club like Liverpool they are mediocre
El Zhar cost about £200,000 from what I read and as he is only 11 we can give him a few years. Plus he is on about £50 a week.
I expect those "few years" will be a waste of time
Lucas cost £5m. He has had some bad games but lately has shown some signs of improvement. He is a decent player maybe not for Liverpool but he is not mediocre.
He's terrible
Dossena cost £7m and all in all has been a bit of a disappointment but he did score against Manu.
Forlan scored against Liverpool, doesn't mean his time at United wasn't a failure
Ngog cost £1.5m and again I don't think he is mediocre, he is young and has only played as a sub.
Hasn't proved anything yet
Voronin was free, scored a couple of nice goals and is now top scorer in the Bundesliga (or thereabouts). Mediocre?
Yes, mediocre during his time playing for Liverpool. Maybe his success in Germany is a poor reflection on Benitez
Pennant cost £6.7m and had a couple of decent seasons. He is a complete bellend but he is not mediocre. Stupidly getting sent of against Porto and his reaction was what did in his LFC career. He should have been moved on to get rid of his wages but is that Rafa's fault?
"Rafa" is the manager, so yes it is his fault as much as anyone's
And Keane cost £20m (estimate) and scored 7 goals in 28 games. His fee to Tottenham with add ons is estimated at £16m so he cost £3m which is not too shabby for 7 goals. We can debate the whole "Did Rafa want him" fiasco all day but at the end of the day he didn't work out and was moved on quickly. His is not a mediocre player (he hasn't exactly set the world alight back down at Tottenham though).
The Keane fiasco was an inmitigated disaster for Liverpool, I don't know how you can try to paint it like it's something it's not. He "cost" £3m plus at least £1m in wages, so I definitely would call 7 goals for £4m VERY shabby
What exactly is your problem with Benitez? If you don't like him or Liverpool come out at say don't keep spouting off this "Rafa's rubbish transfer buys" ****.
Rafa has made mistakes and spent a good deal of money but he has also bought some gems, arguably the best striker in the premiership, managed to keep Gerrard at the club and get him to resign a new deal. He has also shipped out the dross at a minimal losses and in some cases made some good money.
I don't have a "problem" with Benitez. He's a good manager, his record speaks for itself. Like many others though (including plenty of Liverpool fans), I do question his transfer record with Liverpool, his man-management skills and sometimes dubious team selections/substitutions.
basically saying what you said about the other big 3 playing levels had dropped off was ***** because all 3 of the other managed to get to penultimate stage of the cl.
I am talking about PL. CL is a different bag. Look at Arsenal, rubbish for the first half of the season yet progressed in the CL. The PL is so much stronger than other leagues now that even if the top four suffer a bit in the PL they can still get through to the latter stages of the CL without much fuss.
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 12:19
I agree that with our system its gonna be difficult. I would like Villa based on his performances with Torres last year. I suppose he could play behind and stick Gerrard back in midfield. Sure I read some where that Benitez himself mentioned Gerrard moving back into midfield at some point.
It is a dilemna. If we restrict ourselves to playing the same formation then we're restricted in terms of the players we can go for. However, as was pointed out last summer and throughout the season, our squad can easily be fitted into 3-5-1 or even 4-3-3 (which I believe would have been the formation of choice had Keane AND Barry arrived) which increases our transfer options considerably.
Conveniently ignoring the underlying point of my post as usual......
I didn't ignore your underlying point at all. You listed 8 players claiming they were all mediocre and their transfer fee "far exceeded £8M". I replied pointing out their average transfer fee was nowhere near that high.
In other matters it looks like the title is definitely gone but as someone at work was just saying ... had Man U's two remaining fixtures been reversed (ie Hull then Arsenal rather than Arsenal then Hull) I might have still had some hope.
Conveniently ignoring the underlying point of my post as usual......
Every bad buy is not just a transfer fee related drain on a club's finances. As much as anything else it's a missed opportunity. Benitez has bought a lot of average players. They become part of his squad and even when he decides to get rid of them and "only" loses a couple of million (or whatever), the point is their time at the club was essentially wasted time. Even if Benitez broke even on his mediocre buys, they would still be bad buys.
Out of all of those players the only one whom I would class as mediocre would be Degen and that's only because he has managed to be fit for 3 minutes but he was free.
I disagree. For a big club like Liverpool they are mediocre. Says you.
El Zhar cost about £200,000 from what I read and as he is only 11 we can give him a few years. Plus he is on about £50 a week.
I expect those "few years" will be a waste of time Again, Says you. We shall have to revisit this one in a few years
Lucas cost £5m. He has had some bad games but lately has shown some signs of improvement. He is a decent player maybe not for Liverpool but he is not mediocre.
He's terrible Personally I don't think he is terrible. He has shown some skill and looks a better attacking MF than a DM
Dossena cost £7m and all in all has been a bit of a disappointment but he did score against Manu.
Forlan scored against Liverpool, doesn't mean his time at United wasn't a failure Your point being?
Ngog cost £1.5m and again I don't think he is mediocre, he is young and has only played as a sub.
Hasn't proved anything yet So hasn't proved anything yet means he is mediocre?
Voronin was free, scored a couple of nice goals and is now top scorer in the Bundesliga (or thereabouts). Mediocre?
Yes, mediocre during his time playing for Liverpool. Maybe his success in Germany is a poor reflection on Benitez How is his time in Germany any reflection on Benitez? He didn't work in the Premiership, lots of players don't work in the Premiership but flourish elsewhere (Forlan).
Pennant cost £6.7m and had a couple of decent seasons. He is a complete bellend but he is not mediocre. Stupidly getting sent of against Porto and his reaction was what did in his LFC career. He should have been moved on to get rid of his wages but is that Rafa's fault?
"Rafa" is the manager, so yes it is his fault as much as anyone's As Rafa wasn't in control of contracts or transfer policy I don't think he can be blamed. Also the player was offered the chance to go to Real Madrid and turned it down as they were not offering what he wanted in wages. Unless Rafa actually kicks him out the door there is not a lot else he can do.
And Keane cost £20m (estimate) and scored 7 goals in 28 games. His fee to Tottenham with add ons is estimated at £16m so he cost £3m which is not too shabby for 7 goals. We can debate the whole "Did Rafa want him" fiasco all day but at the end of the day he didn't work out and was moved on quickly. His is not a mediocre player (he hasn't exactly set the world alight back down at Tottenham though).
The Keane fiasco was an inmitigated disaster for Liverpool, I don't know how you can try to paint it like it's something it's not. He "cost" £3m plus at least £1m in wages, so I definitely would call 7 goals for £4m VERY shabby Where did I say it wasn't a fiasco? I was appalled at what happened to Keane, I wanted him to work at Liverpool. I always liked Keane and he is great as the Ireland captain but it didn't work out. It happens in football.
I don't have a "problem" with Benitez. He's a good manager, his record speaks for itself. Like many others though (including plenty of Liverpool fans), I do question his transfer record with Liverpool, his man-management skills and sometimes dubious team selections/substitutions. Why do you question them? What interest is there in Rafa team selection for you?
Can you point out the missed opportunities for the players above? Who did we miss out on buying Ngog? You seem to be in the know on the transfer dealings of LFC.
I support Rafa, I think we can wing the league with him as manager, it hopefully wont take another 5 years. Throughout this season I have questioned his team selections and his substitutions but I have always supported him. There are probably 3/4 Liverpool fans on this forum who have stuck by Rafa all through this season and we have been belittled and mocked by all (including our own supporters). I might not be as vocal as John and Adam but I always believe in supporting the team and manager at the time. Interestingly a lot of the naysayers are back on board with Rafa now ;)
What I don't get is you.
I might not be as vocal as John and Adam but I always believe in supporting the team and manager at the time. Interestingly a lot of the naysayers are back on board with Rafa now ;)
Well I am sure you are including me in your lot of naysayers so for the record:
I was totally baffled by Benitez during the mid part of this season and still feel various actions on his part caused us to throw away a decent new year advantage.
However our performances over recent weeks has shown to me a team that could well challenge seriously for the title on a regular basis and I support him for those reasons.
I would also add that Houllier delivered a second place a few season back and what a false dawn that turned out to be. Lets hope there is no repeat.
Well I am sure you are including me in your lot of naysayers so for the record:
I was totally baffled by Benitez during the mid part of this season and still feel various actions on his part caused us to throw away a decent new year advantage.
However our performances over recent weeks has shown to me a team that could well challenge seriously for the title on a regular basis and I support him for those reasons.
I would also add that Houllier delivered a second place a few season back and what a false dawn that turned out to be. Lets hope there is no repeat.
Fair enough. And I don't for any minute think we are definitely going to win the league next season. I can see a marked improvement from the team that finished last season, not just the personnel but the way the team plays and the attitude of the players.
There is a debate as to when we "lost the league", the draws against stoke and west ham are always thrown out. Personally I think we lost the league the night we drew with Arsenal. That night we let Manu off the hook.
I think the biggest problem is going to be bringing in players who compliment the current team setup. In a perfect world Rafa could go out and buy the best players for all the positions that need strengthening but that's not going to happen. Silva for example slots into Gerrards role so Gerrard would have to move back into MF where he wouldn't be as "effective" as he has been this season. But that move means dropping either Alonso or Masher (probably Alonso) both of whom would not be happy bench warming. Silva can play out on the left but he doesn't like it but Rafa has previous of buying players to play them out of position. Also is Rafa going to get a right winger? What happens to Kuyt? Rafa loves Kuyt and I can't see anyway he would be dropped so therefore he would have to be moved up front with torres which hasn't worked in the past.
So this summer will probably be Rafa's toughest yet I think, he is going to have a hard time balancing the team.
Luckily we won't have to go into the qualifiers for the CL so there should be ample time for the team to settle before the start of the new season.
LouBarlow
14-05-2009, 14:27
Neither did Arsenal and Chelsea ... we managed to overtake them with as much apparent ease as Man U are going to win the league
As things stand now you are 6 behind United, we are only 3 behind you.
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 14:30
I was totally baffled by Benitez during the mid part of this season and still feel various actions on his part caused us to throw away a decent new year advantage.
However our performances over recent weeks has shown to me a team that could well challenge seriously for the title on a regular basis and I support him for those reasons.
Personally, I think we had a very dodgy January whilst Man U had a very good one (and played 2 more games than us). I think the Rafa 'rant' was coincidental. Over than that ... our best ever Premiership start (which went on for months) and our usual strong finish ... not bad at all.
I would also add that Houllier delivered a second place a few season back and what a false dawn that turned out to be. Lets hope there is no repeat.
Houllier followed up finishing 2nd with buying the wrong players during the summer. Hopefully Rafa won't make the same mistake again.
AdamBrunt
14-05-2009, 14:34
Luckily we won't have to go into the qualifiers for the CL so there should be ample time for the team to settle before the start of the new season.
But unluckily, Torres is currently scheduled to play in the Confederation Cup this summer so no break for him.
If Man U get a point on Saturday and we beat West Brom, I'd be tempted to leave Torres out of the last game citing a niggling injury which needs complete rest :)
saltysam
14-05-2009, 16:32
You and saltysam were also saying stuff like Man U would "win it at a canter", etc, etc. I'm sorry but taking at least 37 games to win it is nothing like winning it at a canter.
They are 6 points clear with 2 games left-we've took them to the wire & no mistake :lol: if they clinch it Saturday they've won it in quicker fashion than last season,which went to the last game
saltysam
14-05-2009, 16:45
Benitez has made some mistakes this season that's probably cost us...ie settling for 1-0 vs Everton & Wigan arguably cost us 4 points in the space of 3 days alone. however i believe he has learnt some lessons from this,when we go 1-0 up now we continue to go for the jugular and usually achieve it :thumbs: i've been to 90% of home games this season and the contrast now between games like those dull home draws against the likes of Fulham & West Ham and the goal laden wins vs teams like Villa,Blackburn etc is a joy to behold :thumbs:
Anyone watching the leg-ends on ITV4? The allstars are being co-managed by a "person who didn't quite make it in football, but decided to stay in the game" - Jamie Carragher :lol:
Should be a good game this I reckon.
Leg-ends lineup has Dalglish, Aldridge, and Rush upfront.
Anyone watching the leg-ends on ITV4? The allstars are being co-managed by a "person who didn't quite make it in football, but decided to stay in the game" - Jamie Carragher :lol:
Should be a good game this I reckon.
Leg-ends lineup has Dalglish, Aldridge, and Rush upfront.
Thanks for the heads up...
Had completely forgotten about this.
Thought some might have done :)
The wife is putting her foot down and is refusing to allow me to watch this one. I will have to watch it later.
Divorce!
It's an amazing game. I haven't seen anything so exciting in my life.
And those eight naked gorgeous cheerleaders doing their routine before the game? Christ that was so erotic. Never thought you could do that with a Pom Pom though! :eek:
Not our season but big improvement finishing second, has to be, without our two main players for 2/3rds of the season! If we only they were available with those poor games against Fulham, Stoke and West Ham at Anfield then league would be a different story.
Need a quality right back as I think Insua is going to get better as the years progress so no need for a left back! Glen Johnson would be a great signing! Hope Agger gets more games next year to, maybe reduce Carragher's role like we did with Hyppia.
Just a shame that Man United will equal our record come Saturday!
The wife is putting her foot down and is refusing to allow me to watch this one. I will have to watch it later.
You can watch it online at itv.com
You can watch it online at itv.com
Thanks for that.
Kenny looks like is going to have a heart attack.
McMahon is still can pass a ball.
Chief Brody
14-05-2009, 20:47
"Benitez has made some mistakes this season that's probably cost us...ie settling for 1-0 vs Everton & Wigan arguably cost us 4 points in the space of 3 days alone. "
Clumsy challenges from Benayoun and Lucas repsectively cost us those four points, nothing Rafa could do about those.
The time we lost the league? It was the weekend in February when United played Blackburn, with us playing Man City the following day, and the tale of two clear penalties that were not given. In the first game, Pedersen was all but wrestled to the ground in the area at OT - no penalty given, and United went on to win 2-1. In our game, Richard Dunne made a flying save from Benayoun's header in injury time - no penalty given, and the game finished 1-1. Had the correct decisions been made, the gap at the end of that weekend would probably have been 3 points. Instead it was 7 points, and i knew then that there was no going back.....
Odd that our best league performance for ages should still be so frustrating...
saltysam
14-05-2009, 21:30
"Benitez has made some mistakes this season that's probably cost us...ie settling for 1-0 vs Everton & Wigan arguably cost us 4 points in the space of 3 days alone. "
Clumsy challenges from Benayoun and Lucas repsectively cost us those four points, nothing Rafa could do about those. after getting ahead in those games Rafa set the team up to defend what they had,i wager if those 2 games were played today we'd run out 2 or 3 goal winners because the mindset's changed.
Odd that our best league performance for ages should still be so frustrating... Agreed,it's a case of what might have been really.
saltysam
14-05-2009, 21:49
Went to tonight's charity game courtesy of work,nice to see some of the old favourites a few of who have kept in shape and some who clearly haven't :p Never thought i'd see Sheringham line up in a circle in front of the kop for a singalong of YNWA :lol:
Went to tonight's charity game courtesy of work,nice to see some of the old favourites a few of who have kept in shape and some who clearly haven't :p Never thought i'd see Sheringham line up in a circle in front of the kop for a singalong of YNWA :lol:
Is there an envy smilie.
Smiler
Best ITV coverage I've seen for a footie match this year :D
"Benitez has made some mistakes this season that's probably cost us...ie settling for 1-0 vs Everton & Wigan arguably cost us 4 points in the space of 3 days alone. "
Clumsy challenges from Benayoun and Lucas repsectively cost us those four points, nothing Rafa could do about those.
The time we lost the league? It was the weekend in February when United played Blackburn, with us playing Man City the following day, and the tale of two clear penalties that were not given. In the first game, Pedersen was all but wrestled to the ground in the area at OT - no penalty given, and United went on to win 2-1. In our game, Richard Dunne made a flying save from Benayoun's header in injury time - no penalty given, and the game finished 1-1. Had the correct decisions been made, the gap at the end of that weekend would probably have been 3 points. Instead it was 7 points, and i knew then that there was no going back.....
Odd that our best league performance for ages should still be so frustrating...
Jeez, here we go again. Do fans seriously believe stuff like this?
Im a United fan so am hardly in the least bias position, but I remember the seasons where Arsenal won the league and Chelsea won two in a row- I never sat back come the end of the season and thought oh it was all because of such and such a weekend and this decision going this way and that decision going that way. I simply took it on the chin and accepted that my team didnt do enough over the 38 league games to be crowned champions. It wasnt because of other teams, or referees or even particularly injuries- the team and manager just werent good enough and didnt get the results needed.
Like it or not I struggle to see how any football fan can begrudge United winning this title (if they do that is ;)). We have had our own injuries and had to make use of the players at our disposal- yet this is a team that is top of the league by 6 points, in the final of the Champions League, took the semi final of the FA Cup to penaltys and won the Carling Cup. On top of a trip to Tokyo for the World Club Championship! To claim that one weekends results and refereeing decisions amidst all this decided the title is just ridiculous.
For all Liverpools injuries they have had arguably a fresher squad of players than us when you look at the amount of games played. Its certainly benifitted you in this run in, where your players look full of energy while Uniteds are grinding out results. I would also say that United leading the league has actually helped, changing Benitez mindset to a more reckless and attacking playing style.
I read something the other day that said if we lose the league by three points it will be down to the disallowed goal against Stoke. Which is all very well, but what about (for just one example) the free kick that wasn't which lead to Gerrard's winner against Villa.
Things even themselves out.
Which is all very well, but what about (for just one example) the free kick that wasn't which lead to Gerrard's winner against Villa.
Things even themselves out.
Eh?
We drew away 0-0 and smashed them 5-0 at home...
Is this last season you're talking about?
rustybin
15-05-2009, 07:43
Eh?
We drew away 0-0 and smashed them 5-0 at home...
Is this last season you're talking about?
Regardless, the principle is correct.
Liverpool fans who say "If we'd only won those 3 game we drew....etc" - well maybe in that parallel universe, Utd would've also won 3 of their drawn games, or Chelsea might have run away with it.
AdamBrunt
15-05-2009, 07:46
Indeed - there's not much point playing the "if that draw had been a win" game (in most cases) as all teams can say that.
Stoke, arguably, is different since Liverpool were clearly robbed of 2 points that day ;)
I read something the other day that said if we lose the league by three points it will be down to the disallowed goal against Stoke. Which is all very well, but what about (for just one example) the free kick that wasn't which lead to Gerrard's winner against Villa.
Things even themselves out.
You made that up :razz:
Regardless, the principle is correct.
Liverpool fans who say "If we'd only won those 3 game we drew....etc" - well maybe in that parallel universe, Utd would've also won 3 of their drawn games, or Chelsea might have run away with it.
Exactly it's a pointless argument. What's the point?
As you say if a butterfly had batted it's wings in a different direction Bolton could have won all their games.
In other news:
Sponsor eyes Anfield name deal (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/sponsor-eyes-anfield-name-deal-1685119.html)
Bit of a flaky story but there have been rumours for a while that Liverpool want a lot more money from Carlsberg as they currently pay about £2m a season which is pretty low in the Premiership.
AdamBrunt
15-05-2009, 09:14
In other news:
Sponsor eyes Anfield name deal (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/sponsor-eyes-anfield-name-deal-1685119.html)
Bit of a flaky story but there have been rumours for a while that Liverpool want a lot more money from Carlsberg as they currently pay about £2m a season which is pretty low in the Premiership.
There has been lots of talk recently about how Carlsberg will be asked to up their current deal (the current contract ends at the end of the season I think)
And whilst we all would love the new stadium, when it finally arrives, to be called Anfield with the huge costs involved naming rights were going to be inevitable.
horseflesh
15-05-2009, 10:07
There has been lots of talk recently about how Carlsberg will be asked to up their current deal (the current contract ends at the end of the season I think)
And whilst we all would love the new stadium, when it finally arrives, to be called Anfield with the huge costs involved naming rights were going to be inevitable.
In the "current economic climate" I can't see Carlsberg (or anyone else) upping sponsorship payments.
Personally (not a dig at Liverpool, just a general observation) I don't think drinks companies should be allowed sponsor football teams. I'd even stop the practice of giving a bottle of champagne for man-of-the-match.
In the "current economic climate" I can't see Carlsberg (or anyone else) upping sponsorship payments.
Personally (not a dig at Liverpool, just a general observation) I don't think drinks companies should be allowed sponsor football teams. I'd even stop the practice of giving a bottle of champagne for man-of-the-match.
I don't Liverpool will have any trouble getting more money out of Carlsberg even in the "current economic climate".
You are the bastion of righteous at the moment. What about betting companies? Or should all "vices" be banned from advertising? Anyway without drinks companies sponsorship other sports like Rugby for one would be nowhere.
Personally (not a dig at Liverpool, just a general observation) I don't think drinks companies should be allowed sponsor football teams. I'd even stop the practice of giving a bottle of champagne for man-of-the-match.
I disagree.
AdamBrunt
15-05-2009, 10:45
In the "current economic climate" I can't see Carlsberg (or anyone else) upping sponsorship payments.
As stu_69 says, LFC's current deal with Carlsberg is allegedly so bad it shouldn't be that difficult to get a better from someone.
Personally (not a dig at Liverpool, just a general observation) I don't think drinks companies should be allowed sponsor football teams
The only problem I have with it is that they're potentially worth less than non-drinks companies as alcohol sponsorship isn't allowed in many European countries (which is why the Carlsberg isn't always on LFC shirts in CL games)
(which is why the Carlsberg isn't always on LFC shirts in CL games)
I'd never noticed that - I'll look out for it next season. Thanks for that - its the sort of snippet that goes down well in the pub. :)
AdamBrunt
15-05-2009, 11:35
Can't remember which countries they are exactly but it certainly 'disappears' off the shirt occasionally.
Isn't France one of them ?
horseflesh
15-05-2009, 11:43
I don't Liverpool will have any trouble getting more money out of Carlsberg even in the "current economic climate".
As stu_69 says, LFC's current deal with Carlsberg is allegedly so bad it shouldn't be that difficult to get a better from someone.
They're sure to play the poor mouth though, so I wouldn't get my hopes up. When Parry (or whoever) says to Diageo "We need you to pay us an extra 20% to get your name on our shirts", they won't just roll over and say yes. In terms of sports sponsorship it's a seller's market today.
You are the bastion of righteous at the moment. What about betting companies? Or should all "vices" be banned from advertising? Anyway without drinks companies sponsorship other sports like Rugby for one would be nowhere.
Someone has to be.
Just because I don't think having alcoholic drink companies advertising on footballers' shirts is the right signal to be sending to our kids, doesn't make me Mary Whitehouse.
I'm sure rugby would find other sponsors. People said the same about snooker and Formula One when they had to give up tobacco sponsorship.
The only problem I have with it is that they're potentially worth less than non-drinks companies as alcohol sponsorship isn't allowed in many European countries (which is why the Carlsberg isn't always on LFC shirts in CL games)
Yeah, I remember noticing that in one of Liverpool's CL group games this season, against a French team. It's probably only a matter of time before it's banned EU-wide.
AdamBrunt
15-05-2009, 11:53
They're sure to play the poor mouth though, so I wouldn't get my hopes up. When Parry (or whoever) says to Diageo "We need you to pay us an extra 20% to get your name on our shirts", they won't just roll over and say yes. In terms of sports sponsorship it's a seller's market today.
We're not talking Man U and AIG proportions here. LFC's current shirt deal (which was agreed IIRC after - or just before - the 2005 CL Final) is pitiful compared to say the AIG deal as it was all done last minute.
There is no reason why LFC can't get a lot better than what they currently have ... not AIG / Spurs Mansion (which was all very :nono: apparently) amounts but still better than what we have.
welshmatt
15-05-2009, 11:55
Someone has to be.
Just because I don't think having alcoholic drink companies advertising on footballers' shirts is the right signal to be sending to our kids, doesn't make me Mary Whitehouse.
Where do you stop though? Shall we ban food sponsers too, so Leicester have to get rid of Walkers because some people can't control their eating?
They're sure to play the poor mouth though, so I wouldn't get my hopes up. When Parry (or whoever) says to Diageo "We need you to pay us an extra 20% to get your name on our shirts", they won't just roll over and say yes. In terms of sports sponsorship it's a seller's market today.
There will be no trouble getting a sponsor on a Liverpool shirt. I'm sure if Carlsberg don't stump up the money there will be a line of others waiting to take the opportunity. And considering what they pay I think Liverpool will be asking for a lot more than 20%. Football is still a lucrative sport and Liverpool are one of the biggest names which means there is more chance of live televised games (especially as Liverpool get to the latter end of the CL most seasons). If a club like Liverpool, Manu, Arsenal come to the market looking for a sponsor it's a buyers market.
Parry won't be negioation the new contracts as he will be out of the job by then.
Diageo don't own Carlsberg they are an independent company and are the 4th largest brewery in the world. They can afford to pay a bit more to continue the longest sponsorship in the premiership.
Someone has to be.
Just because I don't think having alcoholic drink companies advertising on footballers' shirts is the right signal to be sending to our kids, doesn't make me Mary Whitehouse.
I'm sure rugby would find other sponsors. People said the same about snooker and Formula One when they had to give up tobacco sponsorship.
Do you have children?
Alcohol is illegal to sell to anyone under 18, do you think under 18's not seeing advertising makes a difference? I was a child in the 80's when everything was sponsored by drinks companies and tobacco companies. I didn't drink till I was 17 when my dad gave me a beer and other than trying ciggies when I was a teenager I have never smoked. Carlsberg, or Guinness or Fosters are just names.
Should McDonalds be allowed to sponsor football teams considering the effects of junk food on children?
This Telegraph description of Kuyt made me laugh...
TRANSFER TIP Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool) - TFF Value: £5.9m
Liverpool's title ambitions may be disappearing, but do you think that will stop their loveable workhorse Dirk Kuyt? He's the closest thing to the Energizer Bunny that the Premier League will ever see, and he offers hope to the millions of fans who aren't very good at football but will happily run around like madmen for 90 minutes. Dirk travels to West Brom this weekend, where his hard work can be rewarded with a shedload of TFF points.
Bit insulting really to Dirk - only 2 goals less than super man Rooney this season and 10 assists also as well. His overall form for us this season probably sees him as one of our top 5 performers this season.
Bit insulting really to Dirk - only 2 goals less than super man Rooney this season and 10 assists also as well. His overall form for us this season probably sees him as one of our top 5 performers this season.
I don't think anyone can slag him off this season...
His league stats on goals alone stand up well...
Barclays Premier League Top Scorers
Team TOT
Ronaldo Man Utd 18
Anelka Chelsea 17
Gerrard Liverpool 15
Robinho Man City 14
Torres Liverpool 13
Agbonlahor Aston Villa 12
Bent Tottenham 12
Davies Bolton 12
Lampard Chelsea 12
Rooney Man Utd 12
Crouch Portsmouth 11
Kuyt Liverpool 11
Adebayor Arsenal 10
Carew Aston Villa 10
Cisse Sunderland 10
To be one behind Lampard and Rooney is excellent...
Fever Dawg
16-05-2009, 10:20
I read something the other day that said if we lose the league by three points it will be down to the disallowed goal against Stoke.
:nuts:
Erm, if the disallowed goal had been given then surely you would still have lost the league by a point?
AdamBrunt
16-05-2009, 10:37
I did wonder about that one ;)
Well, in around 3 hours it will either all be over or "game on" :) If it's the former I just hope our boys keep going and finish on a high (if only to make sure we finish 2nd). If it's the later then I dread to think what the papers are going to be like all week (should Liverpool beat WBA).
I'd never noticed that - I'll look out for it next season. Thanks for that - its the sort of snippet that goes down well in the pub. :)
Yep, France is one of them, as they don't allow alcohol, tobacco or energy drinks to be advertised in any sports, check out the GP too
Up the Arse!
Was planning to sit down and watch the game today, but just got a call from a mate who is stuck at Luton airport and his car is in Bristol so I have to drive all the way to Luton, pick him up, drop him at Bristol, and then back to Norwich - a round trip of ten hours :( So that's my Saturday buggered.
Will be listening on the radio though.
Citysmith
16-05-2009, 11:04
Up the Arse!
Was planning to sit down and watch the game today, but just got a call from a mate who is stuck at Luton airport and his car is in Bristol so I have to drive all the way to Luton, pick him up, drop him at Bristol, and then back to Norwich - a round trip of ten hours :( So that's my Saturday buggered.
Will be listening on the radio though.
Bloody hell off topic I know, but what a Top Mate you are!! :notworthy
What is Dwight Dorke wearing :lol:
Arsenal did win it at Old Trafford a few years back maybe they can save it there this time :nuts:
Grasping at straws but it would be nice - that said I really dont think there are enough players at Arsenal with the bottle to pull that off. :(
Should be a good match though.
Smiler.
What is Dwight Dorke wearing :lol:
Yean neither the shirt, tie or hankerchief match :lol:
andybhoy
16-05-2009, 11:49
Up the Arse!
:( So that's my Saturday buggered.
hmmmm.
Well, hopefully it'll be all over today. I don't think anyone can argue with Utd's form since boxing day (so far 54 points out of 60). Next season will be interesting, for sure.
Yean neither the shirt, tie or hankerchief match :lol:
I think I have a migraine coming on from looking at them :lol:
AdamBrunt
16-05-2009, 12:45
So, Rooney calls the linesman a **** and nothing happens (no change there though I suppose, you'd think Rooney thinks **** is every official's first name the amount of times he says it per game), whilst Arshavin (Arsenal's best player so far) is now nullified to an extent as he gets booked for doing absolutely NOTHING wrong :nuts:
LouBarlow
16-05-2009, 12:47
I think you are lost - this is the Liverpol thread :nuts:
So, Rooney calls the linesman a **** and nothing happens (no change there though I suppose, you'd think Rooney thinks **** is every official's first name the amount of times he says it per game), whilst Arshavin (Arsenal's best player so far) is now nullified to an extent as he gets booked for doing absolutely NOTHING wrong :nuts:
and that's why Liverpool have not won the league this season.....
AdamBrunt
16-05-2009, 12:57
Did I say that ??
Just making a point about how once again Rooney escapes a straight red card (since that is the punishment for foul and abusive language) whilst opponents get booked for nothing.
LouBarlow
16-05-2009, 13:09
...in the Liverpool thread.
Did I say that ??
Just making a point about how once again Rooney escapes a straight red card (since that is the punishment for foul and abusive language) whilst opponents get booked for nothing.
We don't really care about it in here though Adam.
We don't really care about it in here though Adam.
Nor in the United thread:thumbs:
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N164417090516-1319.htm
Jose Segura appointed Academy Technical Manager so King Kenny isn't getting that role now.
Looks like Adam has managed to get himself banned from the sports forums today. :cuckoo:
unrealnils
16-05-2009, 15:37
lol
Looks like Adam has managed to get himself banned from the sports forums today. :cuckoo:
He is a fool to himself. The mods made it clear yesterday that they wouldn't tolerate those types of posts.
Well Tevez came off like a man saying goodbye...
I think he's worth 20 million...
Our squad needs a couple of buys to strengthen it. Our first 11 can compete with anybody, but as we've seen this season, key players get injured and we struggle.
cheeseypuffs
16-05-2009, 17:02
I wouldn't mind if we got Tevez for £20m, technically he wouldn't be bought from manu so no money in their coffers ;) but would he mind being a second fiddle to Torres or would Rafa play him ahead of Kuyt on the right?
Darth Sidious
16-05-2009, 18:49
unlucky guys united are afraid of you again, that is a fact.
Darth Sidious
16-05-2009, 18:56
I was under the impression that a good proportion of the TV Money WAS divided up equally?
You're commenting on the distribution of PRIZE money. Surely you're not suggesting that 1st place prize money should be the same as last? It's a competition, not a socialist commune.
typical manc always the money.
The Prize is the Trophy, and champions league qualification.
And only the Asian money is shared better,not the sky money.
Good season, we (United) got pushed to the wire and it got squeaky at times. Kudos to all the Liverpool fans in the United thread that aren't the usual suspects :thumbs:
See you next season :D
BlueDwarf
17-05-2009, 12:42
Looks like we're just going through the motions.
slideymoo
17-05-2009, 13:20
Shouldve been a penalty then, the guy had no inention of trying to get the ball and just barged gerrard over.
Until we get a second West Brom will continue to be dangerous.
Smiler
Nicely done by Kuyt :thumbs:
Lucas you plonker!
TigaSefi
17-05-2009, 13:56
West Brom are gone.
Darth Sidious
17-05-2009, 14:00
Torres is sooo lazy at times, and his ball control goes from the sublime to the rediculous
Darth Sidious
17-05-2009, 14:03
See you next season :D (without Ronaldo)
FYP
That incident with Carra shows we're not goin easy in this match. :D
Darth Sidious
17-05-2009, 14:18
That miss by babel should signal the end of his stay at anfield, he has been easy into the Team, rather then thrown in at the deepend, 12 million my ballz
A good match, enjoyable to watch. :thumbs:
Its a pity West Brom had to go down though, especially as the Blues go up.
Smiler
Did Alonso say "Calm Down, Calm Down" to Carra. :D
Torres is sooo lazy at times, and his ball control goes from the sublime to the rediculous
Who are you?
Darth Sidious
17-05-2009, 14:58
Who are you?
who are you?
Honestly - some of the posters from this thread are prize plonkers!
Swanny is in the Manu thread trying to curry favour by slagging off rafa saying he wastes money on mediocre players. He then goes on and quotes the example of Degen - a free transfer.
Priceless muppetry :lol:
TigaSefi
17-05-2009, 17:44
I think Swanny turning into a wannabe ManU supporter!!!
Honestly - some of the posters from this thread are prize plonkers!
Swanny is in the Manu thread trying to curry favour by slagging off rafa saying he wastes money on mediocre players. He then goes on and quotes the example of Degen - a free transfer.
Priceless muppetry :lol:
What an odd post. :thinking:
I think Swanny turning into a wannabe ManU supporter!!!
Some LFc fans are not so blind to see things as they are. If you think that makes me a "wannabe Manu supporter" then there really is little I can do to change your mind.
Fever Dawg
17-05-2009, 17:58
Priceless muppetry :lol:
Not as bad as the guy who goes on about 'limited budgets' and United outspending Liverpool, completely ignoring the actual facts posted in the same thread about both clubs' net spending.
And, don't forget, this is the very same guy who said that if LFC finish 3 points behind United then the decision that cost you 2 points against Stoke cost you the title. :nuts:
Yeah, what a plonker! :lol:
Pisces Iscariot
17-05-2009, 18:20
...slagging off rafa saying he wastes money on mediocre players. He then goes on and quotes the example of Degen - a free transfer.
Well I imagine Degen still collected his wages and happily accepted a signing on fee. That lot may have only totalled £1m but given Rafa's limited funds...
This made me laugh today
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKuDqxlE0Vo
Well I imagine Degen still collected his wages and happily accepted a signing on fee. That lot may have only totalled £1m but given Rafa's limited funds...
I was going to edit my post but thought better of it. Anyone who thinks a player goes to and plays for a club for nothing obviously knows little about football.
Carra explained on the radio that they're desperate for Reina to retain his golden gloves and he felt people were being lax...
Reina is now 1 behind VDS who probably won't be around next game so he can draw level and be joint winner...
Arbeola never backed down though...!
^ :lol::notworthy
It's bad enough slagging of your own fans in another thread but to come in here and stir the pot is a bit much.
I have got no problem congratulating Manu on winning the title and I can't be arsed to get involved in the "we are paupers" debate but you are in the manu thread celebrating like you are one of them and your team won the league.
Good luck to you fella :thumbs:
We heard you the first time stu.
How about we get this thread back on topic and stop nit picking at other members about what they might or might not have said. If it doesn't stop then we will just continue to ban more members until it does.
It's bad enough slagging of your own fans in another thread but to come in here and stir the pot is a bit much.
I have got no problem congratulating Manu on winning the title and I can't be arsed to get involved in the "we are paupers" debate but you are in the manu thread celebrating like you are one of them and your team won the league.
Good luck to you fella :thumbs:
I posted one message saying congratulations :shrug:
And the mud was thrown at me first. I'll just sit and take it shall I?
I'm getting a bit sick of having my support questioned just for debating issues in another teams thread. Some of you lot in here are priceless.
Not as bad as the guy who goes on about 'limited budgets' and United outspending Liverpool, completely ignoring the actual facts posted in the same thread about both clubs' net spending.
And, don't forget, this is the very same guy who said that if LFC finish 3 points behind United then the decision that cost you 2 points against Stoke cost you the title. :nuts:
Yeah, what a plonker! :lol:
Could you find the quote where I said that for me? Or are you just **** stirring again?
Come back when you've learnt to read.
Carra explained on the radio that they're desperate for Reina to retain his golden gloves and he felt people were being lax...
Reina is now 1 behind VDS who probably won't be around next game so he can draw level and be joint winner...
Arbeola never backed down though...!
Arbeloa didn't - which was brave :lol:
But Carragher is starting to push his luck a bit IMHO. First refusing to play right back against Middlesborough, and now this.
Not impressed.
I am wondering whether maybe our first choice center back pairing next season should be Skirtel and Agger.
Come back when you've learnt to read.
Perhaps you can come back when you have learned to read or do you think my post above doesn't apply to you. The next time you ignore such a request will be the last time you post in this forum.
I posted one message saying congratulations :shrug:
And the mud was thrown at me first. I'll just sit and take it shall I?
I'm getting a bit sick of having my support questioned just for debating issues in another teams thread. Some of you lot in here are priceless.
Hey, do as you please mate. I will leave it there, lets get back to supporting Liverpool.
Anyway back on topic.
Fair play to Arbeloa for not backing down. Carragher looked like he was going to knock him out.
unrealnils
17-05-2009, 22:21
what was Carraghers problem???
Alonso to Arsenal please !
saltysam
17-05-2009, 22:42
Alonso to Arsenal please ! in your dreams :lol: only caught the first half today,had to leave for work,i thought we were pretty shoddy and lacklustre and got lucky with the goal-a good team wins when playing badly though so suppose it's a good sign. don't understand Rafa's unwillingness to congratulate Ferguson,it just comes off as being small-minded. As far as i understood they always got on pretty well so something must've gone on we don't know about,even before his pre Stoke game rant.
Looks like we should finish 2nd,the first time Utd/Chelsea have been split for a while,and to finish there from 4th last season is real progress. hopefully Benitez will get the right couple of players in next season to make us even stronger. We've played some top stuff this season,memorable hammerings of Utd & Madrid,unbeaten in the league against the top 4 but ultimately trophiless again,a situation that has to be rectified next season.
Panavision
18-05-2009, 07:37
We dropped too many points just after Christmas at a time when ManU were beginning their winning streak.
Arbeloa didn't - which was brave :lol:
But Carragher is starting to push his luck a bit IMHO. First refusing to play right back against Middlesborough, and now this.
Not impressed.
I am wondering whether maybe our first choice center back pairing next season should be Skirtel and Agger.
disgusting by carra yesterday... sure he may think he has authority over the defence but to show that sort of venom and disdain for his fellow player when we were already two up is bang out.
i didnt see any of the team shouting in his face after he giftwrapped the ball for di michele last week after that air shot.
getting old, getting slow, getting crabbit. an absolute stellar liverpool player over the years but hoping he will soon be willing to step down and let skrtel and agger form a central defence partnership.
Fever Dawg
18-05-2009, 10:36
what was Carraghers problem???
Well forget about this clean sheet record nonsense. He's a born and bred scouser - he'll be hurting more than anybody in the Liverpool team at the moment and obviously let his emotions get the better of him yesterday.
I think that was the long and short of it and how I saw it as well. He wants to maintain the momentum all the way to end.
disgusting by carra yesterday... sure he may think he has authority over the defence but to show that sort of venom and disdain for his fellow player when we were already two up is bang out.
i didnt see any of the team shouting in his face after he giftwrapped the ball for di michele last week after that air shot.
getting old, getting slow, getting crabbit. an absolute stellar liverpool player over the years but hoping he will soon be willing to step down and let skrtel and agger form a central defence partnership.
My thoughts exactly. (http://www.andrew*******.me.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=65:carraghers-future&catid=42:liverpool-fc)
LouBarlow
18-05-2009, 15:26
Reminded me of Grobbelar and McManaman (neither of those spelt right lol) all those years back :lol:
Skrtel has done nothing to show he can replace Carra. Poor ball control, suspect distribution and some reckless ill-timed challenges.
hmmmmmm.
saltysam
18-05-2009, 16:22
Skrtel has done nothing to show he can replace Carra. Poor ball control, suspect distribution and some reckless ill-timed challenges.
hmmmmmm.He's gone off the boil...let's keep Sami...:nuts:
He may well improve but I think he needs more time to see if he can be relied on.
Sami (Legend) is still better than the rest of them put together :)
Which reminds me...
Is he having a testimonial?
Skrtel has done nothing to show he can replace Carra. Poor ball control, suspect distribution and some reckless ill-timed challenges.
hmmmmmm.
Carragher was **** in his first few seasons. Personally I think Skrtel has put in some pretty impressive performances during the season. The international break seemed to mess up his season. Maybe he felt guilty after body checking Crouch.
Skrtel is still a young man - I think he just looks older than he actually is. People soon forget how abysmal Vidic was at the beginning of his Utd days. Took him over 12 months to really get going. The way he managed to return from his nasty looking injury was impressive to me.
^ agreed guys, I hope he does improve as he gets age and experience.
No idea on Sami's testimonial Deron. Surely though its a given isn't it?
saltysam
18-05-2009, 19:02
People soon forget how abysmal Vidic was at the beginning of his Utd days.Are you sure? he's always looked the part as far as i remember,they've won the league each season he's been there haven't they?
campdave
18-05-2009, 19:14
Are you sure? he's always looked the part as far as i remember,they've won the league each season he's been there haven't they?
Both he and Evra were **** for the first 6 months.
Fever Dawg
19-05-2009, 06:10
'Abysmal' & '****' is a bit of an exaggeration imo. They both joined mid-season in January and took 6 months to settle. Evra in particular having an infamous 'mare in a Derby at Eastlands.
By the start of the following season they were looking the part though.
Skrtel looks pretty decent to me - just not at right back :D
It's never easy to join midseason, although Skrtel seemed to do pretty well last season after joining in January. I don't think he has looked as solid this season, he does seem to have taken a step backwards. With Sami going, it will be interesting what Rafa does with adding another centre half in the summer.
LFC have accepted a 6 figure bid for Anderson from Swansea...
According to SSN...:suspect:
Although can't find it on our website.
'Abysmal' & '****' is a bit of an exaggeration imo. They both joined mid-season in January and took 6 months to settle. Evra in particular having an infamous 'mare in a Derby at Eastlands.
By the start of the following season they were looking the part though.
Skrtel looks pretty decent to me - just not at right back :D
the derby was Evra's first match, and he wasn't helped by tweety playing in the centre because 'he spoke french'
LFC have accepted a 6 figure bid for Anderson from Swansea...
According to SSN...:suspect:
Although can't find it on our website.
Yeah agreed in princiapl but down to swansea management if they want to finalise it.
He is 21 soon and not had 1 game so obviously the management at Liverpool don't think he will make the step up.
It seems that Hammil may be called into the 1st team squad this year and El Zhar will be leaving.
Who is Anderson? And I'm surprised at El Zahr leaving. He has seemed ok the few times I have seen him.
El Zhar isn't good enough and at almost 23 should have made it by now. The player is Paul Anderson, we got him from Hull a few years ago. He has mainly been out on loan for the past few years. Plays right midfield
El-Zhar was way off the standard needed - our problem has been our fringe players leave for nominal amounts. Utd and Arsenal fringe players leave for big 7 figure amounts :(
campdave
19-05-2009, 18:45
El-Zhar was way off the standard needed - our problem has been our fringe players leave for nominal amounts. Utd and Arsenal fringe players leave for big 7 figure amounts :(
To be fair, you got £15-odd million for a fringe player in January :lol:
Wasn't Paul Anderson the player who was scoring for fun in the reserves a couple of seasons ago and everyone wanted him to be given a chance in the seniors?
A nice montage of some of our up and coming strikers...
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Nemeth is the one I really wanna see, and he should get games as he's ~ same age as Ngog but been injured a lot this season.
Dalla Valle has been with us just 1 year and the same for Vitor Flora, I think (may be 1). Pacheco is younger but Rafa had him, like Nemeth, playing in some friendlies last summer.
Rafa seems reluctant, typically, to play youngsters. Once they hit 20 he'll consider them...
Nemeth is the one I really wanna see, and he should get games as he's ~ same age as Ngog but been injured a lot this season.
Dalla Valle has been with us just 1 year and the same for Vitor Flora, I think (may be 1). Pacheco is younger but Rafa had him, like Nemeth, playing in some friendlies last summer.
Rafa seems reluctant, typically, to play youngsters. Once they hit 20 he'll consider them...
We've got some German left back who I've never heard of who's been named in the 10 up and coming stars from the u17 finals...
Christopher Buchtmann (Germany)
Why did Liverpool FC sign this left-winger (who can also play at full-back) a year ago? Watching him in the finals, it was obvious. He scored in the opening 3-1 win against Turkey and also set up a goal in that match as well as three in the 4-0 defeat of England and the first in the 2-0 semi-final victory over Italy. His free-kick also led to the equaliser in the final. Buchtmann has plenty of skill, can switch flanks and does not shirk defensive duties.
http://www.uefa.com/competitions/under17/news/kind=1/newsid=830804.html
What I want to know is how can Wigan go out and find Palacious, Valencia and Rodallega for nothing from the far corners of the world yet we end up with Degen?
Agger or Insua (and he wasn't unknown) are the last really good unknown the club has found in my opinion.
We need a better scouting setup.
Rafa needs to play FM some!
TigaSefi
20-05-2009, 08:30
£50 million for Tevez..... :eek:
horseflesh
20-05-2009, 08:36
£50 million for Tevez..... :eek:
What?!!?!???
Where did you hear that? :eek:
And Adam (RIP) thinks that third party ownership is not a bad thing.....:cuckoo:
TigaSefi
20-05-2009, 08:41
It was in the paper we don't read. Someone told me about it - It's on their website.
EDIT: Someone pasted me the text. £26million fee and 3 year contract for £160,000 a week or something ridiculous like that! Tottenham sanctioned a £18 million bid.
Fever Dawg
20-05-2009, 08:46
:nuts:
I can believe people still fall for the media hyped-up figure that includes the players wages over the length of his contract!
And Adam (RIP) thinks that third party ownership is not a bad thing.....:cuckoo:
Is Adam banned again?
horseflesh
20-05-2009, 09:18
Is Adam banned again?
Permanently.
I do genuinely think he's a decent bloke (even though he came out with some outlandish stuff) but on the football threads he was his own worst enemy.
horseflesh
20-05-2009, 09:20
It was in the paper we don't read. Someone told me about it - It's on their website.
EDIT: Someone pasted me the text. £26million fee and 3 year contract for £160,000 a week or something ridiculous like that! Tottenham sanctioned a £18 million bid.
Gotcha.
Even £26m is way too much for him IMO.
And £160k a week is ridiculous.
TigaSefi
20-05-2009, 09:26
I can't see Gerrard and Torres being too chuffed about the wages. They'd want an increase as well. Leave well alone I'd say.
rustybin
20-05-2009, 09:35
I can't see Gerrard and Torres being too chuffed about the wages. They'd want an increase as well. Leave well alone I'd say.
Therein lies the problem - it's not affording the wages, it's having to match the wages for your other stars.
If Tevez joined Liverpool he'd be your 3rd best player but the highest paid.
It'd cause too much upset.
AND £50mill is a joke. There is no way Liverpool will spend their entire budget on one player - you're more than one player short to improve your squad to Utd's standard.
Kenwyne Jones might be worth a punt. He is a decent striker and would be cheap.
^ you forgot the ;) in your post.
I'd prefer Santa Cruz...
Really rate him.
As for Villa, Valencia got beat at the weekend by Athletico Madrid and are in 5th two points behind them with 2 games to play.
If they don't get in the Champs league spot, I'll expect he'll be moving on and so will Silva.
from Guillem:
it is true that Alonso is a target for Florentino Perez – the favourite candidate to win this summer`s elections at the Bernabeu – and yes, it is also true that Alonso has a price.
However, contrary to some reports that have surfaced recently, Xabi Alonso has not signed a pre-contract agreement with Florentino Perez – nor has he reached any kind of deal with the candidate. Nor have Alonso`s representatives held talks with Rafa Benitez to discuss a move. Any talk of a deal being done comes very much from the Florentino Perez camp, but at this moment in time, this talk has not manifest itself in action.
Darth Sidious
20-05-2009, 17:04
The player I would like Liverpool to sign the most is Diego from Bremmen, You need more creativity, cracking player
there's a deal in place for him to move elsewhere already iirc
slideymoo
20-05-2009, 17:24
Its a 50m package, the same way ronny was a 100m package last summer. The press put the wages, signon fees and in one number to make it a better headline. Theres no way he'd be given 160k a week either.
RobDickinson
20-05-2009, 20:46
Teves hasnt exactly impressed this season, he's not worth more than Torres & doesnt look like he's worth more than Kuyt.
horseflesh
20-05-2009, 21:48
Teves hasnt exactly impressed this season, he's not worth more than Torres & doesnt look like he's worth more than Kuyt.
He's worth about what Torres's hairband is worth.
Which is £15m, at an absolute maximum. He's a very good squad player for United (and would be for Liverpool) but I wouldn't want to be relying on him week in week out as my main striker.
I think he's a better player than Kuyt, even after the latter's much improved season. Some of the United fans moan about Berbatov in their thread, but I think he's far better than Tevez (bit of an attitude problem admittedly, but he's far more subtle throughout a game).
unrealnils
20-05-2009, 22:04
The player I would like Liverpool to sign the most is Diego from Bremmen, You need more creativity, cracking player
hes going to juve it seems
He's worth about what Torres's hairband is worth.
Which is £15m, at an absolute maximum. He's a very good squad player for United (and would be for Liverpool) but I wouldn't want to be relying on him week in week out as my main striker.
I think he's a better player than Kuyt, even after the latter's much improved season. Some of the United fans moan about Berbatov in their thread, but I think he's far better than Tevez (bit of an attitude problem admittedly, but he's far more subtle throughout a game).
no way. he's worth 20m deffo. if keane is 15m, mascherano 18m, carrick 18m, pavluchenko 14m, modric 16m i think its a bit low to say tevez is worth 15m at an absolute maximum.
he's been more than a squad player at times for united, when he has come on in some games he has been absolutely influential in getting them to raise their pace and sometimes get them ahead initially. we wouldnt be relying on him week in week out as our main striker anyway as there is fernando torres.
reservatov might be a better player than tevez... but you can replace 'subtle' with 'pedestrian' or just plain 'not interested'... thats why manc fans can get irritated with him- where he might have a deft touch or a piece of great ball play pne or two times per game, tevez gives his all for all of the match- i think over a season tevez would contribute more to a team if both were given same number of minutes.
...
in any case, as kia joorabchian is an advisor to the chairman of citeh and he himself saying tevez would consider a non-champions league team i wouldnt be suprised if he ended up there. certainly those wage demands and signing on figures seem out of liverpools budget.
He's worth about what Torres's hairband is worth.
What?
What?
there is diamonds woven in the back of it supposedly.
alonso to real for 23m... might sound :nuts: but i'd be tempted to take it even if he was our player of the season this year.
horseflesh
21-05-2009, 10:01
What?
Rob compared Tevez to Torres, that was just my hyperbolic way of saying that he is nowhere remotely near as good as Torres.
I'm sure he is actually worth more than Torres's hairbands, even the diamond encrusted ones :D
there is diamonds woven in the back of it supposedly.
alonso to real for 23m... might sound :nuts: but i'd be tempted to take it even if he was our player of the season this year.
I think the only reason to sell Alonso is if there is a like for like replacement coming in and I can't think of any at the moment.
What's Ribbery up to these days?
what if barry could be had for 12m... and we got 23 for alonso. would be an extra 11m for rafa to spend. yes alonso had an amazing season but the one prior he wasn't astounding. cant say i want barry but thinking he could serve in the middle ok.
ribery being tapped up by perez is he not? think if the ronaldo thing doesnt happen ribery will go there. was also some rumours about barca throwing their hat in for a bid to replace henry. tbh if both of these teams are involved i think we will be out priced.
rustybin
21-05-2009, 11:11
I think the only reason to sell Alonso is if there is a like for like replacement coming in and I can't think of any at the moment.
What's Ribbery up to these days?
Available for £65million apparently......crazy money.
If so, Tevez would be a steal at £30 million.
BlueDwarf
21-05-2009, 15:46
what if barry could be had for 12m... and we got 23 for alonso. would be an extra 11m for rafa to spend.
A weakened side, and Rafa having £11m to waste on a "bargain" player. No ta.
A like-for-like replacement will be ok, like stu_69 said.
The like for like replacements I can think of would be Fabregas, Ribery, maybe Carrick, and these would all cost in excess of £22m.
Barry is not a like for like replacement, he is a decent player but he doesn't not have the passing awareness of Alonso.
As much as Gerrard and Torres are brilliant when Alonso is on form he is the heart of the team, everything goes through him and as such when he is off form the team performance suffers.
The team has been better this season because Alonso has been playing well. If we sell him we will lose a lot of creativatey in the middle of the park. Mascherano is a brilliant DM but he is not great going forward he needs someone like Alonso alongside him to be able to cover his defence. Look at the difference when Lucas is play, Mascher is running all over the park trying to do two players jobs. When Alonso is alongside him and playing well Mascherano almost disapears (in a good way), he just gets on with what he does best.
Lucas is too weak to cover the DM role and his passing is rubbish to cover the CM role. He did OK in a more advanced role in the last couple of games he played.
Plus who else has Alonso's ability to score from his own half. :)
there's a player at AC Milan, who did it quite well once.
I thought Man U were sniffing around Ribbery too?
And weren't we considering that midfielder from France - Cana or something?
The like for like replacements I can think of would be Fabregas, Ribery, maybe Carrick, and these would all cost in excess of £22m.
Barry is not a like for like replacement, he is a decent player but he doesn't not have the passing awareness of Alonso.
As much as Gerrard and Torres are brilliant when Alonso is on form he is the heart of the team, everything goes through him and as such when he is off form the team performance suffers.
The team has been better this season because Alonso has been playing well. If we sell him we will lose a lot of creativatey in the middle of the park. Mascherano is a brilliant DM but he is not great going forward he needs someone like Alonso alongside him to be able to cover his defence. Look at the difference when Lucas is play, Mascher is running all over the park trying to do two players jobs. When Alonso is alongside him and playing well Mascherano almost disapears (in a good way), he just gets on with what he does best.
Lucas is too weak to cover the DM role and his passing is rubbish to cover the CM role. He did OK in a more advanced role in the last couple of games he played.
I always thought that Lucas was meant to be an offensive midfielder when he came to us.
Just a thought - maybe Rafa is planning to play two upfront next season and hence pull Gerrard back into midfield more negating the need for Alonso?
Also from the official Liverpool FC Facebook.
Hot on the heels of awarding a fan who covered up LFC mags in a shop their Fan of the Year, EFC have now named their new store Everton Two. In case you don't get it, EFC's website explains: "The new store in the city centre will be called Everton Two. That means it's address will be Everton 2, Liverpool 1!" You couldn't make it up!
saltysam
21-05-2009, 19:14
what if barry could be had for 12m... 12 million for a near 29 yr old player with a year left on his contract? no thanks,we shouldn't be looking to pay anywhere near that...Villa had their chance to sell him for around 16 million a year back,now we should be looking at half that maximum.
horseflesh
21-05-2009, 19:47
12 million for a near 29 yr old player with a year left on his contract? no thanks,we shouldn't be looking to pay anywhere near that...Villa had their chance to sell him for around 16 million a year back,now we should be looking at half that maximum.
There was a report on the radio here earlier saying that O'Neill said that Barry could leave on a free at the end of next season.
That alone should rapidly make his value plummet.
I thought Man U were sniffing around Ribbery too?
And weren't we considering that midfielder from France - Cana or something?
Gourcuff? He'd be great - taken Bordeux top single handed. Owned by Milan with Bordeux having first refusal tho...
Gourcuff? He'd be great - taken Bordeux top single handed. Owned by Milan with Bordeux having first refusal tho...
Bordeaux are doing well out of that deal. The agreed fee is something silly like £8m as he was doing ***** in Italy when they took him on.
Just notice on the BBC gossip page that both the Star and the Mail have Liverpool in for Glen Johnson at £8m to £15m.
Hmm not too sure about that one.
unrealnils
21-05-2009, 23:19
Bordeaux are doing well out of that deal. The agreed fee is something silly like £8m as he was doing ***** in Italy when they took him on.
13m , milan are bonkers to have him over ronaldinho
Just notice on the BBC gossip page that both the Star and the Mail have Liverpool in for Glen Johnson at £8m to £15m.
Hmm not too sure about that one.
Depends how much, 8 million is ok, 15 million is too much. Given Carra's reluctance to play right back and that Degen is never fit, some backup wouldn't go amiss there. Portsmouth probably need the cash and probably still owe a chunk of Crouch's fee.
Depends how much, 8 million is ok, 15 million is too much. Given Carra's reluctance to play right back and that Degen is never fit, some backup wouldn't go amiss there. Portsmouth probably need the cash and probably still owe a chunk of Crouch's fee.
I think anymore than £8m is too much. He's a good player and would be good cover but he's not that good.
Hangeland's value seems to be going up every day. £15m today apparently.
Johnson at £8-10m would be a good deal for me - he's stepped up this season and he'd overtake Arbeloa as the starting RB for us. He'd give us that pace from deep that we've lacked from the full back slot for a while now. I'm starting to get the impression that a £20m+ sale of Alonso to Madrid will fund Johnson and Barry to Anfield thus saving his main transfer budget for Tevez.
Is Perez the favourite for the job? His usual mental promises have come out again.
Perez is the clear favourite
which is the 'Ronaldo to stay at United' stories have been appearing a lot of late
slideymoo
22-05-2009, 22:36
Theyd be crazy to pay hugely for plastic, but I hope they do just so he's not in the prem next year.
Anyone watch the FA Youth cup final 1st leg yesterday?
Arsenal looked rather awesome, winning 4-1. Looks like the youth development still needs some work but getting to the final again (3 in 4 years)is no mean feat.
Valencia out of the champions league now...
I'm guessing their stars will be up for sale soon...
unrealnils
24-05-2009, 07:02
who else is good apart from the two david's?
Their centre half Albiol is pretty useful, there were rumours that Rafa was interested recently.
I doubt he still will be now Agger has signed.
O'neill is in dreamland if he thinks he is going to get £10m for barry.
Pisces Iscariot
24-05-2009, 11:54
who else is good apart from the two david's?
Juan Mata's a very good player.
Darth Sidious
24-05-2009, 13:42
david silva will give liverpool creativity, I would send Reira back or Sell Babel and Get Juaquin Too.
saltysam
24-05-2009, 14:20
Emotionally blackmailed into giving my daughter my ticket...she's been in love with Sami for years and wants to say farewell...not happy at all :(:cry:
Reina, Skrtel, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Alonso, Mascherano, Kuyt, Benayoun, Gerrard, Torres
Subs: Cavalieri, Degen, Ngog, Insua, Hyypia, Riera, Lucas.
Shame big Sami didn't get the start - doomed him though by dumping Skrtel for him in my fantasy league.
saltysam
24-05-2009, 15:56
Nice header by Torres-we are dominating without being convincing.need another because i think Spurs have a goal in them.
unrealnils
24-05-2009, 15:59
Ouch Salty, would have been nice to see his last game.
Figo, maldini and Nedved all playing there last games today too
Robbie Keane 2-1. Nice to see the Kop give him a round of applause.
Nice way to finish the season with a good win - just need to start again in August with the same attitude!
Darth Sidious
24-05-2009, 17:29
3 Cheers for Liverpool
Kings of the Big4 Mini League:thumbs:
Top Scorers in The EPL:thumbs:
Best Goal Difference:thumbs:
saltysam
24-05-2009, 18:00
We ended the season with just 5 defeats in all 4 competitions...and won nothing :( that must be some sort of (unwanted) record...just goes to show how narrow the margins between success and failure are these days....still league wise we've made giant strides this season,4th to 2nd is no mean feat but it could've been better still without those home draws :( still we've cut an 11 point gap on Utd to 4, turned a 9 point deficit on Chelsea into a 3 point advantage and had a 21 point turnaround on Arsenal.
As has been said we lost half the games of the Champions,scored more goals than anyone,stayed unbeaten against the top 4...(in the league at least),still all these impressive stats win us nothing (again) and it's imperative Benitez gets his signings right this summer,starting with giving Alonso an extension :thumbs:
BlueDwarf
24-05-2009, 18:57
2nd place, no trophies.
Whoopy-*******-do.
If anyone is interested, Sami's last game is on in it's entirety on Sky Sports at 8:25.
I have also been reading these last few days that we have had a 22m euro bid for Levezzi turned down. I see he has scored 7 goals this season - is he really worth that kind of money???
Seems a strange target to me...
We ended the season with just 5 defeats in all 4 competitions...and won nothing :( that must be some sort of (unwanted) record...just goes to show how narrow the margins between success and failure are these days....still league wise we've made giant strides this season,4th to 2nd is no mean feat but it could've been better still without those home draws :( still we've cut an 11 point gap on Utd to 4, turned a 9 point deficit on Chelsea into a 3 point advantage and had a 21 point turnaround on Arsenal.
As has been said we lost half the games of the Champions,scored more goals than anyone,stayed unbeaten against the top 4...(in the league at least),still all these impressive stats win us nothing (again) and it's imperative Benitez gets his signings right this summer,starting with giving Alonso an extension :thumbs:
:nuts::clap::n0rty: well what a post hahahahaah
if only aha :lol: luv you scousers :clap::clap:
saltysam
24-05-2009, 19:14
:nuts::clap::n0rty: well what a post hahahahaah
if only aha :lol: luv you scousers :clap::clap:Being an Arsenal fan considering the season you've had i'm surprised you've found much to laugh about ;) tell me,what positives have you taken from your teams season?
LouBarlow
24-05-2009, 19:17
Being an Arsenal fan considering the season you've had i'm surprised you've found much to laugh about ;) tell me,what positives have you taken from your teams season?
Well they have won as many trophies as your team and mine. :thinking:
salty your post is like a wounded dog ...which i can see and understand
as for arsenal no comment w can only go in the right direction ..and 1 of them might be your player ...hope so he is v good and would work well with cesc ....but hey ho
saltysam
24-05-2009, 19:28
Well they have won as many trophies as your team and mine. :thinking: i asked him could he find any positives in his team's season,what's your point? Despite our failure to win anything i can find some in my team's, what's wrong with that :shrug:
Fever Dawg
24-05-2009, 19:33
3 Cheers for Liverpool
Kings of the Big4 Mini League:thumbs:
Top Scorers in The EPL:thumbs:
Best Goal Difference:thumbs:
Woohoo!
LouBarlow
24-05-2009, 19:47
i asked him could he find any positives in his team's season,what's your point? Despite our failure to win anything i can find some in my team's, what's wrong with that :shrug:
I can find plenty of positives in the Arsenal team this term. As proved today, and as witnessed by the mental game where we hammered them a few weeks back, they have a young, naive side, which can produce breathtaking attacking football at times. That's as much a positive as any non-trophy winning side can attain this season.
saltysam
24-05-2009, 19:59
I can find plenty of positives in the Arsenal team this term. As proved today, and as witnessed by the mental game where we hammered them a few weeks back, they have a young, naive side, which can produce breathtaking attacking football at times. That's as much a positive as any non-trophy winning side can attain this season.They've dropped a place and finished 11 points short of last season.yet they've had a positive season and rival supporters keep telling us we haven't :lol: Adam was barking at times but his point that Wenger escapes the criticism that Benitez gets is accurate...4 years without a trophy is far too long for a club that size just like 3 years is for us.
LouBarlow
24-05-2009, 20:04
Benitez only gets criticism from his own fans though or when he has a melt-down at a press conference. Arsenal's fans are not quite so judgmental (emphasis on the mental ;) )
saltysam
24-05-2009, 20:08
Arsenal's fans are not quite so judgmental (emphasis on the mental ;) ) Are you sure :nuts:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10572724
Are you sure :nuts:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10572724
Ignore him salty, Lou is just on a windup as usual.
LouBarlow
24-05-2009, 20:17
wha? Who are you again?
Fair point Salty, but only Liverpool fans would call for the head of their manager during their most successful league performance in years.
3 Cheers for Liverpool
Kings of the Big4 Mini League:thumbs:
Top Scorers in The EPL:thumbs:
Best Goal Difference:thumbs:
wow very impressive, i imagine thats what your end of season dvd will be called.:p
saltysam
24-05-2009, 20:36
wow very impressive, i imagine thats what your end of season dvd will be called.:p Your? Darth isn't a LFC fan.
Darth Sidious
24-05-2009, 20:46
wow very impressive, i imagine thats what your end of season dvd will be called.:p
nope tonight I shall be watching "debbie does em all":n0rty:
fattyboombatty
25-05-2009, 08:41
Your? Darth isn't a LFC fan.
is he still sticking with that?:cuckoo:
is he ashamed or something? he's the most vocal non-liverpool liverpool fan, i've ever heard.:wave:
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/3472/n6792038257224917817564.jpg
http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/9093/47049959198757267920382v.jpg
http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/9181/47049959264257267920382.jpg
euqiddis
25-05-2009, 12:42
nice one from pepe (it had to be him).
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