Fabinho at centre back

[Nineteenx]

I'd like to see him retain his place there, he showed a gulf in experience between himself and Gomez in the game on Sunday and it has to be remembered he is a player with greater experience as a defender than Gomez

I think the issue we have with Joe is very very difficult to resolve, without bringing in another defender and sending him out on loan.

There's a very obvious reason that Joe is found wanting so badly so frequently when there's real defending to do that isn't just a foot race and that reason is his lack of experience. He barely has any experience that the likes of Virgil, Fabinho, Matip have at actual real defending over several seasons in sides who didn't have a press like ours and restrict the opposition to so few chances to create or get on the ball in advanced positions in and around our box and the question and dilemma is how on earth is Joe going to get the experience he desperately needs of defending situations like that in our team?

Fabinho to continue at CB please

[Insidious]

I can't imagine Gomez being too happy with a loan in all truth - could easily push him out of the club and given that he is only 23 (which, in centre-back terms, means plenty in the tank) you would think he will continue to improve a fair bit yet.

As for Fabinho, he was great. He coped really well with the situations with Werner, though I would say that it's also easy to foresee situations where he gets beaten by a different player, so don't want to get too carried away with how good he was after one performance.

[skyebo]

It looked like he'd played there all his life the other day, my MOTM and i don't see any real urgency to replace Lovren, though i thought that anyway because, when fit, Gomez and Matip are options too. Taking Fab out of the midfield should make little difference now with the signing of Thiago because there isn't room for all 4 in there anyway.

[vin]

https://www.empireofthekop.com/2020/09/23/video-thiago-tells-fabinho-you-give-me-a-hard-job-to-play-in-midfield-then-play-cb-like-that-f/

Thiago having a word with Fab

[skyebo]

https://www.empireofthekop.com/2020/09/23/video-thiago-tells-fabinho-you-give-me-a-hard-job-to-play-in-midfield-then-play-cb-like-that-f/

Thiago having a word with Fab

Thanks for the link Vin, it was a good read.

[justme]

At the start of the season we have been taking a slightly higher line.Its been difficult for Fabihino in the sense hes had to do everything quicker. rather than keep the ball going at the back and around the sides. with a slower build up.
On Sunday he did great as Chelsea didnt press that much. Then times he had to deal with Werner he did well. because Fabhino is better on the floor with his feet than Gomez.I would keep Fab at centre back for now. But to me hes better at DM.

[skyebo]

Players who are comfortable in a few positions like Fabinho are priceless.

[faridtoxteth]

But before his big injury against Burnley, Joe was brilliant at centre back , and many were saying he was maybe as good as Virgil. So what has happened? I agree there has been a dip in his performances.

[CCTV]

https://www.empireofthekop.com/2020/09/23/video-thiago-tells-fabinho-you-give-me-a-hard-job-to-play-in-midfield-then-play-cb-like-that-f/

Thiago having a word with Fab

Very good to see, great support of a teammate.

[CCTV]

But before his big injury against Burnley, Joe was brilliant at centre back , and many were saying he was maybe as good as Virgil. So what has happened? I agree there has been a dip in his performances.

Hard to know, think he gets sacrificed/shafted a lot by our fans and theres southgate/yobling incident too.

Did brilliantly at rb for us and on the international stage with great 1v1 ability and his pre-injury stint at centreback was immense.

Imo its a bit like Matip, who was great in his first season, waivered a bit with injuries and reestablished his previous great from.

Think Joe just needs to get back to it and i hope and expect he will. Should get a lot of opportunities over the season.

[stevie harkness]

But before his big injury against Burnley, Joe was brilliant at centre back , and many were saying he was maybe as good as Virgil. So what has happened? I agree there has been a dip in his performances.

We rarely know what's really going on with players and it seems few fans really care. Just if they perform well or shite.

[scientificred]

I still think that Henderson may end up at CB. Maybe next season or after.
We have a little bit of history e.g. Tommy Smith, Emlyn Hughes, Jamie Carragher and for a different club Mascherrano.
Players from a different position transforming into great CBs.

[ianlfc]

I've said it before it's either or with Joel or Joe.If Joels fit it start him as he gets injured often so use him while he's fit.
Fabinho was outstanding on Sunday but weather he can play like that all the time is another thing.

[scientificred]

CB is specialist position. Do not want to see too much interchanging there!

[Nineteenx]

I think the problem we have with Joe is that he lacks the experience of games that all top CBs have had while rising through the ranks, games in which they're playing against much better sides, who dominate the ball in which they have a lot of real defending to do, to really hone and develop their decision making and positioning to develop into a top top centre back, and how we press the ball, Joe just isn't going to get that experience to develop as we need him to, to turn him into a top CB

Look at his wiki, barely any games at all, other than in the last 2 seasons for us, playing in a side whose press reduces the opposition into punting hopeful longish balls down the channels the majority of the time and when teams do get good possession and that time served positioning and decision making is needed from him, he's frequently found desperately wanting

I suggested a loan somewhere, because in our side I don't think he's going to get the experience Virgil, Fabinho, Matip and others had to develop

[dicko1969]

Joe Gomez clean sheet .

[fiordearg]

Rhys Williams is very competent and Phillips too

[Kev0909]

Joe Gomez clean sheet .

Stepped up tonight, very mature performance and helped Williams

[CCTV]

Joe Gomez clean sheet .

Clean sheet & an assist

[dicko1969]

Rhys Williams is very competent and Phillips too

Williams really not been tested , really too soon. Just doing the basic stuff.
Good as the 6th back up CB.

Phillips very nervy first 20mins.
Then settled down.
Good as the 7th back up CB.

[Nineteenx]

Miles better at CB than Joe and miles better at CB than in midfield

[teesred]

Miles better at CB than Joe and miles better at CB than in midfield

Cant help yourself can you.
Hes still better than most midfielders in any league too despite not being any good according to you.

[Kev0909]

Miles better at CB than Joe and miles better at CB than in midfield

Thought we wouldn't cope without the best midfielder in the world Henderson

Thoughts?

[Nineteenx]

Thought we wouldn't cope without the best midfielder in the world Henderson

Thoughts?

First game in about 80 games we've managed a good midfield performance without him, Gini at No6 was absolutely integral to that, still missed the switches and crossing though, really please for Bobby to shut you up too

[miller0863]

Fabinho is our second best CB, Gomez is nowhere near as good a CB as him.

[Nineteenx]

Fabinho is our second best CB, Gomez is nowhere near as good a CB as him.

Third best for me, Matip's our second best, not much between them though, Matip's better in the air and with the ball, that crossfield he hit for Robbo today was class, we should have scored from that.

I watched a bit of the UAE FC game yesterday with a wry smile as Bacon face and a couple of his millionaire's plaything chums hit numerous of those Hendo trademark switches some knobs here say are easy disastrously wrong, Bacon face got 4 or 5 disastrously wrong on his own, they're not easy, I see players attempt the easier ones he plays every game and fail miserably. Jones chipped in with a switch today, it wasn't the best to be fair, in the air for far too long, just Leicester were sitting off, it worked brilliantly because the defender was sitting off, then it was in the air so long thought he might have a chance to get it, making the decision to try too late and Robbo did him, like an old hoe

[miller0863]

Yeah I thought the same, the ball being in the air so long drew the defender out and made it easier for Robbo to touch it past him and play an absolutely killer cross for Jota to run onto.
Klopp is an absolute genius of a manager.

[Balinkay]

Cant help yourself can you.
Hes still better than most midfielders in any league too despite not being any good according to you.

He's the best DM in the league if Kante doesn't count (and he shouldn't anymore I guess).

[skyebo]

He's the best DM in the league if Kante doesn't count (and he shouldn't anymore I guess).

He can also play in a few positions, something Kante can't do. Great to see him back, played well too like they all did.

[ianlfc]

He reads the game so well and sniffs out the danger brilliantly. Very much in the mold
Of Masherano and Fernandinino .

[teesred]

He's the best DM in the league if Kante doesn't count (and he shouldn't anymore I guess).

"Anno".

[Insidious]

Slotted in so, so well.

Hopefully can remain fit.

[Nineteenx]

Some players can apparently dine out for a very long based on how they played a position 2 years ago and as the team has evolved that position doesn't exist anymore, it's actually just CM now

Oh and we'll conveniently forget he got found out playing that position in the last third of the 18-19 season

Kante's been used in 4 different midfield positions, he's a midfielder, Fabinho is a defender converted to play at DM, he is not a midfielder, our No6 role has evolved with the rest of the team and it is not a DM role, it's a CM role

Anyway Fab's making CB spot his own, so all good

[faridtoxteth]

I think i read that he actually prefers playing at centre back.
Do you think we will be in for someone like Upamecano in january?

[miller0863]

I worry that we’ll bring someone in who’s not as good and move Fab back into the midfield

[scientificred]

Since the onset of our injury problems our defence has been surprisingly good.
Credit to everyone involved for playing their part!

[skyebo]

Since the onset of our injury problems our defence has been surprisingly good.
Credit to everyone involved for playing their part!

Agree with all that.

[ianlfc]

Big Joel and Fabinho wouldn't of let 7 past them 😃😃

[Nineteenx]

Absolutely immense at CB comfortably our third choice, every bit as good as Matip positionally, on the deck and at stepping into midfield to win things, but Matip has a considerable edge in the air and in his passing and driving the ball forward when it's on

[Nineteenx]

I think we've definitely found Fab's best position now we no longer have/need a DM position, he is a HUGE step up from Gomez at CB, although, that isn't difficult to be fair, Rhys Williams and Nate Phillips are also, although obviously nowhere approaching Fab's quality there

[LEGS]

Im not sure what you have against Gomez but Williams & Phillips are not in his class at all.

If those two at Red Bull are worth £50m then Gomez is in the same bracket in fact what ive seen id say Gomez is better and plays in a harder league.

[dicko1969]

Konaté 6ft4 mountain beast!

[Kev0909]

Im not sure what you have against Gomez but Williams & Phillips are not in his class at all.

If those two at Red Bull are worth £50m then Gomez is in the same bracket in fact what ive seen id say Gomez is better and plays in a harder league.

Same as i'm not sure how fabinho is so bad in midfield when there was plenty of games he was a boss in there, and somewhat helped towards winning the league by a clear margain

Same as gomez been a beast at times, gutted he picked up the injury as he was looking his best again the pace, strength power...

Fabinho is class in CB, but some games it's obvious he's missed in midfield, but needs must, he's better than henderson in the tackle./winning the ball, he's not bad at passing either ** note i'm not saying he's better as henderson is better in other areas too, just my opinion

He's the only player that gets "stuck in"

[Nineteenx]

Same as i'm not sure how fabinho is so bad in midfield when there was plenty of games he was a boss in there, and somewhat helped towards winning the league by a clear margain

Same as gomez been a beast at times, gutted he picked up the injury as he was looking his best again the pace, strength power...

Fabinho is class in CB, but some games it's obvious he's missed in midfield, but needs must, he's better than henderson in the tackle./winning the ball, he's not bad at passing either ** note i'm not saying he's better as henderson is better in other areas too, just my opinion

He's the only player that gets "stuck in"

He's class at CB, he's class as an out and out sitting DM but severely lacking in his distribution, when the play is in front of him and he can be reactive and doesn't have to worry about specific players or what he's leaving behind him if he goes forward he's a class act

The point re tackling is one you're really missing, when our press is at a high level, we don't need to make tackles like Fabs, most show reels of him making them aren't favourable to him, because he's running back making a tackle because he let the press get broken, looks good, but if he's doing his job properly, they wouldn't be necessary and that right there is, with his distribution, my issue

[Nineteenx]

Konaté 6ft4 mountain beast!

I wanted him 2 summers ago, he's had a lot of injuries since and isn't the player he was, i'd prefer Schuurs

[Nineteenx]

Miles better than Gomez, not quite Matip's level on aerial ability and distribution, but a far FAR better defender than Gomez and available a lot more than Matip

[Insidious]

Just wanted to heap praise on Fabinho for his professionalism and his capacity to play multiple roles.

He is one of our most important players right now, make no mistake about it. His transfer fee looks an absolute steal in the context of the big picture too.

[Steveo]

All true..

..choice of words might be a tad sketchy...?

Probably best to give any reference to - big pictures - a wide berth.

[justme]

Its easy to look great when you have nothing to do..Most teams defend very deep against us. So our centre backs who ever they are get a free ride.Fabinho best position is DM. Henderson+ another in front

[LEGS]

Its easy to look great when you have nothing to do..Most teams defend very deep against us. So our centre backs who ever they are get a free ride.Fabinho best position is DM. Henderson+ another in front

This is why our defence is not conceeding too many teams are shit scared of us.

I hope teams see our defence and think lets have a go that opens up more space for us.

I dont think that is going to happen though and at this minute if Fabinho gets injured we arent getting CL football.

[Insidious]

i'd prefer Schuurs

That recent extension takes him up to 2025.

He won't be cheap and it does back up his comments about wanting to stay at Ajax and develop for a few more seasons.

We had him on trial when he was 17 apparently!

[Nineteenx]

I think he's be absolutely immense at CB, but he absolutely needs to cut out this trying to leave one on a player crap he's been getting involved in, he doesn't need to do that, it's stupid and he'll get himself and us in bother.

V Burnley he shouldn't have pulled at Barnes or kicked out at him, if he doesn't pull at Barnes I think Alisson probably gets to him in a different position and makes a save rather than give away a penalty and if Alisson doesn't give away a penalty fabinho doesn't play today because there's no way VAR don't have a look at send him off for pulling Barnes back

he got involved in a few things today trying to leave one on a player that were stupid and one of them gave away the free kick they won the game from

He needs to cut it out, he's been excellent, just stick to defending brilliantly

[TheDOC1979]

He needs to go back to where he was. Not because he hasn’t done a great job, but because we miss his presence and protection in midfield.

[LEGS]

He is not a CB even if he has done a good job.

He never has been better than Matip/Gomez we need him in midfield.

He is a unit and helps us dominate the midfield this needs addressing next season.

[justme]

Fabinho tries to make challenges like hes at DM.. he can get away with errors in that role. theres always DF behind to clear up. You make an error at DF your stuffed and hes made two of them in the last 2 games.

[TheDOC1979]

He is not a CB even if he has done a good job.

He never has been better than Matip/Gomez we need him in midfield.

He is a unit and helps us dominate the midfield this needs addressing next season.

We need it addressing now or we’re going to have nothing next season! Top four is a must. Nothing less is acceptable

[LEGS]

We need it addressing now or we’re going to have nothing next season! Top four is a must. Nothing less is acceptable

I agree we need one now even if its a loan.

[teesred]

Agree. Needs sorting now!

[Steveo]

A continuation of the make do and mend philosophy.

Fab at CB is a disaster. It will have detrimental consequences on his midfield play - if and when he is ever afforded that again - as he will have spent most of a season learning the art being a CB.

It’s all a bit crazy to be honest. Klopp again paying for his honesty and willingness to make any situation workable. Owners more interested in being frugal than staying at the top. A position they clearly seem to think has cost factors outweighing any financial benefit.

Classic franchise situation.

[Balinkay]

It's a bit annoying that possibly the best DM in the league is stuck playing CB for a season...

[Nineteenx]

I think he's be absolutely immense at CB, but he absolutely needs to cut out this trying to leave one on a player crap he's been getting involved in, he doesn't need to do that, it's stupid and he'll get himself and us in bother.

V Burnley he shouldn't have pulled at Barnes or kicked out at him, if he doesn't pull at Barnes I think Alisson probably gets to him in a different position and makes a save rather than give away a penalty and if Alisson doesn't give away a penalty fabinho doesn't play today because there's no way VAR don't have a look at send him off for pulling Barnes back

he got involved in a few things today trying to leave one on a player that were stupid and one of them gave away the free kick they won the game from

He needs to cut it out, he's been excellent, just stick to defending brilliantly

I know a thing or two about this game Steveo, called this one before it happened too

[ianlfc]

I know a thing or two about this game Steveo, called this one before it happened too

You also said Lucas was brilliant 😂😂

[Kev0909]

If you say enough shit you're going to get something right eventually ;)

It's quite simple really, fabinho is clearly not a CB same as henderson, both been at faults indirectly for goals due to marking or silly mistakes, but what do you expect when you ask players to suddenly fill in to a "specialist" role.

[Nineteenx]

I actually remembered the other day that when Fab came back in last season practically all the posters having a go at me for my views on him posted in several match threads about him 'being a long way short of his best' 'needing to get back to the form before he was injured' etc etc, can one of you please tell me when for you the point was when he did that? I haven't seen it yet, I'd just like to know when it was so I can look it up and see the run of games it continued in

[Nineteenx]

If you say enough shit you're going to get something right eventually ;)

It's quite simple really, fabinho is clearly not a CB same as henderson, both been at faults indirectly for goals due to marking or silly mistakes, but what do you expect when you ask players to suddenly fill in to a "specialist" role.

I've called everything right this season

[ianlfc]

I actually remembered the other day that when Fab came back in last season practically all the posters having a go at me for my views on him posted in several match threads about him 'being a long way short of his best' 'needing to get back to the form before he was injured' etc etc, can one of you please tell me when for you the point was when he did that? I haven't seen it yet, I'd just like to know when it was so I can look it up and see the run of games it continued in

Was he playing centrehalf those games ?

[Nineteenx]

Was he playing centrehalf those games ?

I meant the games he played at CM after he came back in, pretty much every single poster who has slated me for my opinions was saying those things in my post you quoted about him when he came back in a CM regularly in match thread, so again, when was the point he rediscovered his best form and put together a run of games as such? Or are we all basing our arguments against anything I said on his first season and a quarter and forgetting about all that?

[ianlfc]

I meant the games he played at CM after he came back in, pretty much every single poster who has slated me for my opinions was saying those things in my post you quoted about him when he came back in a CM regularly in match thread, so again, when was the point he rediscovered his best form and put together a run of games as such? Or are we all basing our arguments against anything I said on his first season and a quarter and forgetting about all that?

which one ? The one we won the Champions league and got 90+ points in the league or the one were we only won the league by February?

[skyebo]

I meant the games he played at CM after he came back in, pretty much every single poster who has slated me for my opinions was saying those things in my post you quoted about him when he came back in a CM regularly in match thread, so again, when was the point he rediscovered his best form and put together a run of games as such? Or are we all basing our arguments against anything I said on his first season and a quarter and forgetting about all that?

He played 28 league games in his first season, which was when City pipped us to the title, we only lost one game, and he didn't start in that one. He also played 28 league games last season, we only lost one again that counted, the other two were after we had clinched the league. So by him coming back doesn't seem to have disrupted things going by the amount of defeats.

[Nineteenx]

which one ? The one we won the Champions league and got 90+ points in the league or the one were we only won the league by February?

No, we've accepted Fabinho was the best DM who ever wore the Liverpool red prior to his injury last season, but almost everyone slated his form when he returned after his injury last season, WHEN, was the point we played him at CM after his return from injury when he put a run of games together demonstrating he recovered his form prior to his injury, I just want to look it up and view highlights of the game it happened, and the following 6 or 7 games he continued it

[eggy81]

Why have we stopped pushing the fullbacks way forward and cbs out to the touch lines when ball goes to the keeper this season.

[ohcampione]

because we playing with make shift Centre Backs all year

[Nineteenx]

Why have we stopped pushing the fullbacks way forward and cbs out to the touch lines when ball goes to the keeper this season.

We've stopped doing a great many things that won us 4 trophies, while UAE FC have adopted them and look like and play like I expected us to with a bit more creativity in midfield

Trent's recent interview with Sky Sports was very revealing, this might not be exactly correct, but to my recollection he said "We've changed quite a lot of things this season, probably too many" That's coming from one of our best players, one of Europe's best right backs of the last 3 seasons on how he's fairing having been asked to abandon a lot of what made him that in how we play this season reading between the lines

[teesred]

which one ? The one we won the Champions league and got 90+ points in the league or the one were we only won the league by February?

Haha.

[LEGS]

We've stopped doing a great many things that won us 4 trophies, while UAE FC have adopted them and look like and play like I expected us to with a bit more creativity in midfield

Trent's recent interview with Sky Sports was very revealing, this might not be exactly correct, but to my recollection he said "We've changed quite a lot of things this season, probably too many" That's coming from one of our best players, one of Europe's best right backs of the last 3 seasons on how he's fairing having been asked to abandon a lot of what made him that in how we play this season reading between the lines

I dont think we can play the way we have done last 2 years.

The games are thick and fast this season plus we cant/havent been able to rotate to stay fresh.

City are the best team and this shorter season is why I backed them to win it they are the best in EPL at keeping the ball.

City have also signed Dias who is very good and Stones is also playing very well, it helps getting Walker out the team too.

[skyebo]

I dont think we can play the way we have done last 2 years.

The games are thick and fast this season plus we cant/havent been able to rotate to stay fresh.

City are the best team and this shorter season is why I backed them to win it they are the best in EPL at keeping the ball.

City have also signed Dias who is very good and Stones is also playing very well, it helps getting Walker out the team too.

They weren't that much better than us today, playing about near our own area and Alisson gifting them two goals is what cost us. I would rather see them win it now than United.

[LEGS]

They weren't that much better than us today, playing about near our own area and Alisson gifting them two goals is what cost us. I would rather see them win it now than United.

City over the season are the better team nobody can deny that.

For 70 mins we held our own but we fell apart and we shouldnt have.

I dont like all this messing around at the back its asking for trouble and today it cost us.

Yeah we all would prefer City to win it and they will do.

[ohcampione]

Midfield was poor today as been last few games. Can't wait to see Hendo/Fabinho/Thiago play together. Disappointed Klopp didn't give Kabak game time or was Robertson injured reason Tsimaskas came on

[Nineteenx]

City over the season are the better team nobody can deny that.

For 70 mins we held our own but we fell apart and we shouldnt have.

I dont like all this messing around at the back its asking for trouble and today it cost us.

Yeah we all would prefer City to win it and they will do.

there needs to be some serious work done on that, the mindset should be "It's a mistake, reset, get back to our game plan and get ourselves level through that" we should and must remain calm, not let it affect our game plan or confidence or how we play or go all out gung ho completely forgetting the game plan as we did against Villa and Atletico second leg

[Nineteenx]

Midfield was poor today as been last few games. Can't wait to see Hendo/Fabinho/Thiago play together. Disappointed Klopp didn't give Kabak game time or was Robertson injured reason Tsimaskas came on

We've been well below our best all season, not because of the enforced absentees, but because we've completely ditched our directness tha twon us four trophies and have bizarrely tried to turn ourselves into City of last season, overpassing, overplaying and struggling to break sides down, while they have changed their game to play a lot more like us last season and alarmingly it looks like the players are doing that and not playing as direct, the one time we did leading to our equaliser, under instruction from the manager and coaching staff

Look at these 2 instances:

Ederson hits the ball straight to Mane, basically presented him with a 2v2 with both their Cbs split side and Mo for support, we've all watched Mane for 4 seasons and prior to this season, presented with such a glorious opportunity in that position, the Mane we all know who is one of the most feared and respected forwards in Europe would drive directly at the heart of that defence inbetween both CBs looking to drill it past the keeper or trusting Mo will make the right run for him to slip him in with an easy angled ball, he instead passes it wide to Trent, story of our season and our current fall from grace and the reason for it, wrong pass, not being devastatingly direct when the opportunity is there to do so and yet again a needless pass too many

Alisson hits the ball straight to Foden, he drives straight at our defence (as you would have always expected Mane to do) trusts their lad will make the right supporting run, then plays him in with a simple pass

[CCTV]

I've called everything right this season

Like when you were saying jota was only good enough to make the bench and cameo appearances....

[CCTV]

He played 28 league games in his first season, which was when City pipped us to the title, we only lost one game, and he didn't start in that one. He also played 28 league games last season, we only lost one again that counted, the other two were after we had clinched the league. So by him coming back doesn't seem to have disrupted things going by the amount of defeats.

Aye, 19 just can't accept that the 18/19 season was our best season under Klopp. One where Fab got his role as the 6 and one where hendo got his role as the rcm.

Our meanest defensive record in the PL under Klopp, scoring more goals than 19/20 and progressing deep enough in the CL to win it.

In that season both players played in their preferred and best positions.

[Nineteenx]

Like when you were saying jota was only good enough to make the bench and cameo appearances....

I didn't say that, I am Jota's biggest fan, I watched a lot of Wolves games that didn't clash with our for 2 season for that reason so expect I know a fucking damned site more about Jota than anyone else here, I was made up we signed him and strongly pointed out that he was Wolves best forward/attacking midfielder when most here were having a wank fest over that useless lump, one trick pony Traore.

I said I wouldn't keep fucking about with the forward line and that it was great he had been scoring, but the team hadn't been playing as well with him playing except for that one game v Atalanta

[CCTV]

City over the season are the better team nobody can deny that.

For 70 mins we held our own but we fell apart and we shouldnt have.

I dont like all this messing around at the back its asking for trouble and today it cost us.

Yeah we all would prefer City to win it and they will do.

We've conceded twice as many goals as them (and one more goal), their defensive record is what has set them apart and should see them win the league.

35/39 points in their last 13 games built on a plethora of clean sheets.

[Nineteenx]

Aye, 19 just can't accept that the 18/19 season was our best season under Klopp. One where Fab got his role as the 6 and one where hendo got his role as the rcm.

Our meanest defensive record in the PL under Klopp, scoring more goals than 19/20 and progressing deep enough in the CL to win it.

In that season both players played in their preferred and best positions.

None of you will accept that half way through that season, Fab got found out and teams were successfully setting up to counter down our right because he doesn't play right across the line, look at any heatmap of Fab and that is abundantly clear, that saw us draw too many games which ultimately cost us the title and Jurgen had to bring Hendo in at RCM to do half of the job the DM (Fab) was supposed to be doing

Again, that isn't opinion, it happened

I'm talking specifically about Fab at CM since his return from injury, he's not at any point been anywhere near to his level of performance or influence since he came back, he's been a very long way fucking short of it, our record in games with Fab at CM since he returned is absolutely appalling

[teesred]

None of you will accept that half way through that season, Fab got found out and teams were successfully setting up to counter down our right because he doesn't play right across the line, look at any heatmap of Fab and that is abundantly clear, that saw us draw too many games which ultimately cost us the title and Jurgen had to bring Hendo in at RCM to do half of the job the DM (Fab) was supposed to be doing

Again, that isn't opinion, it happened

I'm talking specifically about Fab at CM since his return from injury, he's not at any point been anywhere near to his level of performance or influence since he came back, he's been a very long way fucking short of it, our record in games with Fab at CM since he returned is absolutely appalling

Nobody will accept it because its total horseshit and you are the only person on this forum or probably in the UK who says so.
Repeating something constantly or shouting it louder doesn't make it any less wrong so just stop. We are fed up hearing it.

[eggy81]

None of you will accept that half way through that season, Fab got found out and teams were successfully setting up to counter down our right because he doesn't play right across the line, look at any heatmap of Fab and that is abundantly clear, that saw us draw too many games which ultimately cost us the title and Jurgen had to bring Hendo in at RCM to do half of the job the DM (Fab) was supposed to be doing

Again, that isn't opinion, it happened

I'm talking specifically about Fab at CM since his return from injury, he's not at any point been anywhere near to his level of performance or influence since he came back, he's been a very long way fucking short of it, our record in games with Fab at CM since he returned is absolutely appalling
Teams counter down our right because Trent can’t defend as well as robbo. It’s one of the reasons I’m baffled that even when klopp finally decided to play both Henderson and Fabinho at cb today he somehow played hendo as left cb when fab played there all year and Henderson and Trent already have that relationship where hendo knows trents inclinations. Mad shit.

[ianlfc]

None of you will accept that half way through that season, Fab got found out and teams were successfully setting up to counter down our right because he doesn't play right across the line, look at any heatmap of Fab and that is abundantly clear, that saw us draw too many games which ultimately cost us the title and Jurgen had to bring Hendo in at RCM to do half of the job the DM (Fab) was supposed to be doing

Again, that isn't opinion, it happened

I'm talking specifically about Fab at CM since his return from injury, he's not at any point been anywhere near to his level of performance or influence since he came back, he's been a very long way fucking short of it, our record in games with Fab at CM since he returned is absolutely appalling

What period are you talking about?

[CCTV]

I didn't say that, I am Jota's biggest fan, I watched a lot of Wolves games that didn't clash with our for 2 season for that reason so expect I know a fucking damned site more about Jota than anyone else here, I was made up we signed him and strongly pointed out that he was Wolves best forward/attacking midfielder when most here were having a wank fest over that useless lump, one trick pony Traore.

I said I wouldn't keep fucking about with the forward line and that it was great he had been scoring, but the team hadn't been playing as well with him playing except for that one game v Atalanta

I can't be arsed looking through threads for your posts.
But I think most of the forum would remember you posting something along the lines of...

WE HAVE TO PLAY THE BEST 11 IN THEIR EXACT POSITIONS IN THE EXACT SAME WAY AND SYSTEM AS WE HAVE DONE FOR THE LAST 2 SEASONS.

Yet you wouldn't have Jota on the bench and making cameo appearances.

I remember you having him in the vein of...

I rate fabinho just ................
I rate kota just.............

It must be frustrating when so many misinterpret your posts.

[CCTV]

None of you will accept that half way through that season, Fab got found out and teams were successfully setting up to counter down our right because he doesn't play right across the line, look at any heatmap of Fab and that is abundantly clear, that saw us draw too many games which ultimately cost us the title and Jurgen had to bring Hendo in at RCM to do half of the job the DM (Fab) was supposed to be doing

Again, that isn't opinion, it happened

I'm talking specifically about Fab at CM since his return from injury, he's not at any point been anywhere near to his level of performance or influence since he came back, he's been a very long way fucking short of it, our record in games with Fab at CM since he returned is absolutely appalling

That season those draws came after we revered to a 433 setup too.
We went on to finish on an almighty number of points and win no6. It was our best season under Klopp. Involved till the death in the 2 big comps and won 1.

Fab Dm and Hendo rcm is the best basis for our midfield in a 433.
As Klopp said it is their preferred positions to play and I'd agree with Klopp their best positions too.

[CCTV]

Teams counter down our right because Trent can’t defend as well as robbo. It’s one of the reasons I’m baffled that even when klopp finally decided to play both Henderson and Fabinho at cb today he somehow played hendo as left cb when fab played there all year and Henderson and Trent already have that relationship where hendo knows trents inclinations. Mad shit.

Good point

[Nineteenx]

Teams counter down our right because Trent can’t defend as well as robbo. It’s one of the reasons I’m baffled that even when klopp finally decided to play both Henderson and Fabinho at cb today he somehow played hendo as left cb when fab played there all year and Henderson and Trent already have that relationship where hendo knows trents inclinations. Mad shit.

Ok devils advocate, when Hendo played CM and we had Oxlade, Keita, Milner and even Lallana at RCM in that run, why did it not happen there

@Tees the horseshit is that the alleged most knowledgable supporters have a complete inability to recognise that in fab's absence the dynamics and how we played changed, and that is why he and the team struggled when he came back in, no two ways about it, If you persist with your bullshizzery I'll post the results with him starting at CM since he returned and see what your excuse is for that

Look at the first leg v Atletico in which we created absolutely nothing, against a low block, primarily because Fab's distribution and passing at CM is far more limited than Henderson's but your universal solution to overcoming low blocks is to field a midfielder with very limited passing ability aside from the odd pearler at CM when in a far more advanced position, please tell me in your ultimate wisdom and understanding of the game, how is that a solution to overcoming low blocks? We're not getting outplayed or overrun in midfield, we're not conceding chances on the counter, we're making stupid mistakes or getting done by VAR to give away goals and our fundamental problem is breaking teams down

[eggy81]

It did happen but we had the defence to handle it and trents attacking output far outweighed his defensive frailty at the time. He’s not a good defender.

Sorry forgot to quote. @19.

[Nineteenx]

It did happen but we had the defence to handle it and trents attacking output far outweighed his defensive frailty at the time. He’s not a good defender.

Sorry forgot to quote. @19.

No, it didn't happen, we had that defence when Fab was playing CM too, so why was it a problem with him and on his return without hendo at RCM, but not s problem when Hendo played Cm and anyone of another 5 players played RCM and there just wasn't an issue. Look at some of the stats for the games we played against other sides who were absolutely flying at the tine during the run, zero, 1 or 2 shots only, never mind on target in about 8 of that 15 game run with the interceptions and blocked shots also being incredibly low, tells the story pf an incredibly press from the midfield, forwards and full backs and our defenders not having much defending to do in most of those games

[justme]

Fabinho was ok when he was asked to cover at centre back last season. in the very few he played in. Its not easy playing the role for most of a season. hes being found out now..Hes an outstanding DM. and should be back in that position when ever possible

[teesred]

Ok devils advocate, when Hendo played CM and we had Oxlade, Keita, Milner and even Lallana at RCM in that run, why did it not happen there

@Tees the horseshit is that the alleged most knowledgable supporters have a complete inability to recognise that in fab's absence the dynamics and how we played changed, and that is why he and the team struggled when he came back in, no two ways about it, If you persist with your bullshizzery I'll post the results with him starting at CM since he returned and see what your excuse is for that

Look at the first leg v Atletico in which we created absolutely nothing, against a low block, primarily because Fab's distribution and passing at CM is far more limited than Henderson's but your universal solution to overcoming low blocks is to field a midfielder with very limited passing ability aside from the odd pearler at CM when in a far more advanced position, please tell me in your ultimate wisdom and understanding of the game, how is that a solution to overcoming low blocks? We're not getting outplayed or overrun in midfield, we're not conceding chances on the counter, we're making stupid mistakes or getting done by VAR to give away goals and our fundamental problem is breaking teams down

You can post it all you want its not true and you're the only person on board with it.
You say Fabs a good player but if you go along with your own analysis he doesn't get a place in our starting 11. I don't know one LFC fan would agree with that. You can peddle it all you want, he was part of what made us so good not the part of whats made us go downhill.

[eggy81]

No, it didn't happen, we had that defence when Fab was playing CM too, so why was it a problem with him and on his return without hendo at RCM, but not s problem when Hendo played Cm and anyone of another 5 players played RCM and there just wasn't an issue. Look at some of the stats for the games we played against other sides who were absolutely flying at the tine during the run, zero, 1 or 2 shots only, never mind on target in about 8 of that 15 game run with the interceptions and blocked shots also being incredibly low, tells the story pf an incredibly press from the midfield, forwards and full backs and our defenders not having much defending to do in most of those games

I agree the press suffers massively without hendo orchestrating it but even when playing cm he was biased towards the right side because trents our biggest threat out wide when we are swamping teams because his range and accuracy of passing are god like compared to robbos. Combine the injuries and losing hendo in midfield with a general small decline in trents and robbos form with our quality but workmanlike midfield and zero threat through the middle and it all amounts to where we are. I agree we’ve stopped doing some things which made us great but it’s not all down to just deciding to do it.

[teesred]

If he's not playing CM when our defence us back where do we have him in the team?
We don't have a midfield combination that ensures hes not in the team. And please don't say Keita as part of your midfield 3.
The upturn two years ago was when Henderson played on the right side.
You talk about Atletico because its basically the only game you have the evidence of it. They were at that time and probably still are one of the best sides in Europe, more than most have come unstuck against them.
You also don't acknowledge that this team has been playing the high octane game with the same players for 3 seasons. There was always going to be a drop off at some point. It started last season ( after we had pissed the title with Fab bring an integral piece) and carried on into this.

[Nineteenx]

You can post it all you want its not true and you're the only person on board with it.
You say Fabs a good player but if you go along with your own analysis he doesn't get a place in our starting 11. I don't know one LFC fan would agree with that. You can peddle it all you want, he was part of what made us so good not the part of whats made us go downhill.

Aston Villa 7-2 Liverpool :eek: Watford 3-0 Liverpool Atletico 1-0 Liverpool Man City 4-0 Liverpool Burnley 0-0 Liverpool nuff said and there's plenty more of those all WITH our first choice back four and all but one with our full first choice forward line with Mane missing just one of those games

[eggy81]

Aston Villa 7-2 Liverpool :eek: Watford 3-0 Liverpool Atletico 1-0 Liverpool Man City 4-0 Liverpool Burnley 0-0 Liverpool nuff said and there's plenty more of those all WITH our first choice back four and all but one with our full first choice forward line with Mane missing just one of those games

City are shitting all over us in recent meetings now. I hope that hurts klopp cos it’s becoming a trend

[teesred]

Aston Villa 7-2 Liverpool :eek: Watford 3-0 Liverpool Atletico 1-0 Liverpool Man City 4-0 Liverpool Burnley 0-0 Liverpool nuff said and there's plenty more of those all WITH our first choice back four and all but one with our full first choice forward line

So all those results were down to Fabinho?
Not really. Watford and City the league was win pretty much so no biggie really.
I'm interested to know where you have him in the side when we have everyone back.

[justme]

So all those results were down to Fabinho?
Not really. Watford and City the league was win pretty much so no biggie really.
I'm interested to know where you have him in the side when we have everyone back.

he even blamed Fab for our loss in the CL last season to A-Madrid

[teesred]

he even blamed Fab for our loss in the CL last season to A-Madrid

Exactly. Thats his go to piece when he wants to try and have a pop at him.

[CCTV]

So all those results were down to Fabinho?
Not really. Watford and City the league was win pretty much so no biggie really.
I'm interested to know where you have him in the side when we have everyone back.

19s stated its matip and virgil at cb, hendo thiago and Gini in midfield.

Gomez out on loan to a lowly club so he can learn how to defend and perhaps develop his game.
Fabinho a back up cb to Matip.
Jota on the bench and only ox to play lwf, so jota will come on to give Salah a rest (rarely happens) and Bobby a rest.

Can't deal with the fact Bobby has declined in most metrics. Goals, assists, tackles and intercepts the very basics of his game.
Today Bobby was bet easily by stones who ran off down the pitch. Bobby's pressing has been atrocious of late.

[Nineteenx]

Gomez isn't a top defender, he severely lacks experience of actual defending and has been found out and found wanting time and time again when he's needed to do so

Put him in our side with the press and counter press from the midfield forwards and full backs at or near its very best so the only defending he has to do involves heading attempted long balls and beating players in a foot race to attempted long balls and the opposition barely get any possession in our half and he's ok, he's been found wanting badly far too many times at real defending

[reddownunder]

Gomez isn't a top defender, he severely lacks experience of actual defending and has been found out and found wanting time and time again when he's needed to do so

Put him in our side with the press and counter press from the midfield forwards and full backs at or near its very best so the only defending he has to do involves heading attempted long balls and beating players in a foot race to attempted long balls and the opposition barely get any possession in our half and he's ok, he's been found wanting badly far too many times at real defending

Hard to argue with that. He's good on the ball but his positioning leaves a lot to be desired and he's not particularly strong in the air. He's a good option to have on the bench but we can certainly do better in terms of a starting centre back

[Nineteenx]

Bobby and a great many other players haven't been near their bes levels since Jurgen fucked about with the midfield when it was performing better than ever with a fluid 3 last season, it's been a slippery slope ever since and the only games in which we've looked like that Liverpool since are the ones in which we've had a fluid midfield 3 with at least 2 of any of the mids who played it so brilliantly in it

[CCTV]

Gomez is still quite young for a centre back and can get back to his very best.

[Nineteenx]

Gomez is still quite young for a centre back and can get back to his very best.

Get back to something that wasn't good enough in the first place? May as well look to sign Usain Bolt, he's very quick and doesn't have the skills or experience of a top defender either and he'd probably be better in the air

[CCTV]

Get back to something that wasn't good enough in the first place? May as well look to sign Usain Bolt, he's very quick and doesn't have the skills or experience of a top defender either and he'd probably be better in the air

Back to his very best, he has time on his side to blossom like hendo. Like Matip, he needs some luck avoiding the treatment room.

[skyebo]

Back to his very best, he has time on his side to blossom like hendo. Like Matip, he needs some luck avoiding the treatment room.

Injuries have taken it's toll on Gomez, hope he can get back to the form he was in before injuries. The only defender we have who can cover all defensive positions.

[Nineteenx]

Here you go CD, maybe stop running your mouth off when you don't know what you're talking about

[justme]

Fabinho is not a centre back. he makes too many errors.. Thiago is not strong enough for our midfield. But when Thiago and Fabhino play together. And Fab is the DM. Ninteenx will ignore the obvious weakness which will be Thiago and blame Fabinho

[skyebo]

Fabinho is not a centre back. he makes too many errors.. Thiago is not strong enough for our midfield. But when Thiago and Fabhino play together. And Fab is the DM. Ninteenx will ignore the obvious weakness which will be Thiago and blame Fabinho

I don't read any of his posts as they are more like novels. I've read War and Peace is less time.

[Nineteenx]

Fabinho is not a centre back. he makes too many errors.. Thiago is not strong enough for our midfield. But when Thiago and Fabhino play together. And Fab is the DM. Ninteenx will ignore the obvious weakness which will be Thiago and blame Fabinho

The bottom line is Fabinho is NOT and never will be a suitable DM/No6 in a side such as ours who look to play a certain way

If you play a high risk high press and counter press strategy, in which all your players are defending while attacking, each and everyone of them needs to be incredibly astute and aware of their positioning or opposition players positioning. Fab doesn't have that in his locker

Fabinho is an absolutely superb midfield destroyer, his best games for us were undoubtedly Barcelona at Anfield and City at Anfield in the 3-1 in which he scored and the reasons for that are very obvious

In both those games Barcelona and City dominated the ball, we weren't set up as we set up now for either of those games, we weren't playing the high risk, high press and counter press system, we were pressing, but not as we have evolved to doing it at our best so we had extra players in defence and midfield most of the time in those games and were looking to nick the ball through that and counter very quickly, that style of play is absolutely perfect for Fab

Fab is absolutely perfect to as a midfield destroyer in any team that sets up as we did in those games, accepting that the opposition are going to have most of the possession, having extra players in midfield and defence so if he goes looking for a tackle and leaves an area for a plyer to come into, there's a player to cover it, but most teams now look to do to us what we used to do to teams who were better than us, so we don't play like that anymore.

As we play with everyone fit and available and as opposition sides set up against us, we play very high risk football, and in all our games we attack and leave our 2 Cbs and our No6 (or whichever player is occupying the position) in a 3v3 constantly, THAT is how we play

Can none of you see this?

I'll ask you a simple question, if we leave our 2 CBs and No6 in a 3v3 situation so frequently when attacking, can we afford to have a player in the No6 position who will leave his player to go charging into another situation to give the opposition an immediate 3v2 against our 2 CBs if they can get the ball to any of their 3?

I know the answer to that, I expect you all do, but I don't expect any honest answers

[Crimson Dynasty]

Here you go CD, maybe stop running your mouth off when you don't know what you're talking about

Here I go, what?

Next time actually bother finishing your thought and the comment before asking others opinion about it.
And you should be one to talk about people running their mouths when they don't know what they're talking about.
With the amount of shite you spout off on here, on an almost daily basis?
don't make me laugh.

Pot.
Kettle.

It's tragic that mirrors don't exist where you live.


As long as you keep picking on players who hardly deserve your stick and the shite you fart out on the regular, I'll kepe calling you out on it, whether you like it or not.

[Nineteenx]

Here I go, what?

Next time actually bother finishing your thought and the comment before asking others opinion about it.
And you should be one to talk about people running their mouths when they don't know what they're talking about.
With the amount of shite you spout off on here, on an almost daily basis?
don't make me laugh.

Pot.
Kettle.

It's tragic that mirrors don't exist where you live.


As long as you keep picking on players who hardly deserve your stick and the shite you fart out on the regular, I'll kepe calling you out on it, whether you like it or not.

Excuse me, but you were running your mouth off saying i gave Fab no credit for filling in at CB when here is a thread in which i was heaping praise on him for that

Fabinho is not and good DM for how we have evolved to playing since we bought him, because he is a destroyer, he was a superb addition for how we played at the time we bought him, but the team and how we play continually evolves and we need a more positionally astute No6 with better distribution than Fab who leads and organises

Fortunately we have that in Hendo, unfortunately he is out injured and also spent too many games used at CB

If we're to persist with Fab, we have to change formation to 4231 with Hendo being the more positionally astute Alonso figure and Fab being the Mascherano and a flatter back four, unfortunately that doesn't play to the strengths of our forwards and full backs and we've nowhere to play Thiago, Millie or Jones

Fab would be absolutely superb in Rodgers 352 Leicester outfit, extra player at the back, employed to simply destroy and give the ball simply to one of the more creative mids ahead of him, that's what Fab is, that's his best role in any team, unfortunately it isn't what we need in a No6, you don't need a destroyer when you've evolved to having most of the ball

[miller0863]

I cannot believe that CD has actually accused 19X of all people on here, the Nineteen Times of not possessing a mirror !!!!!!

[Nineteenx]

I cannot believe that CD has actually accused 19X of all people on here, the Nineteen Times of not possessing a mirror !!!!!!

:D Yep, shouting their mouth off about something they know nothing about again, despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary of what they're saying ;)

Quickly on Fab, it's the equivalent of playing a 433 with Masch or Momo at No6, that's what it is, any of you think that's a good idea or ever would have been?

[Crimson Dynasty]

Excuse me, but you were running your mouth off saying i gave Fab no credit for filling in at CB when here is a thread in which i was heaping praise on him for that

Fabinho is not and good DM for how we have evolved to playing since we bought him, because he is a destroyer, he was a superb addition for how we played at the time we bought him, but the team and how we play continually evolves and we need a more positionally astute No6 with better distribution than Fab who leads and organises

Fortunately we have that in Hendo, unfortunately he is out injured and also spent too many games used at CB

If we're to persist with Fab, we have to change formation to 4231 with Hendo being the more positionally astute Alonso figure and Fab being the Mascherano and a flatter back four, unfortunately that doesn't play to the strengths of our forwards and full backs and we've nowhere to play Thiago, Millie or Jones

Fab would be absolutely superb in Rodgers 352 Leicester outfit, extra player at the back, employed to simply destroy and give the ball simply to one of the more creative mids ahead of him, that's what Fab is, that's his best role in any team, unfortunately it isn't what we need in a No6, you don't need a destroyer when you've evolved to having most of the ball

Rent-free

Fab.

Living in your head.

You should offer your clearly suplefundiferous* footballing knowledge and skills for the managerial position now open at Spurs.
(*yes, I made that word up just for you).

[Crimson Dynasty]

:D Yep, shouting their mouth off about something they know nothing about again, despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary of what they're saying ;)

Quickly on Fab, it's the equivalent of playing a 433 with Masch or Momo at No6, that's what it is, any of you think that's a good idea or ever would have been?

I absolutely love the fact that you completely missed the joke he was making at your expense and just barreled straight through to the obligatory Fab rant.

You're nothing else if not predictable and dependable like that.

[miller0863]

To be fair CD, 19 knows I was having a joke at his expense but laughing with him rather than at him. And I’ve always found him able to laugh at himself. He has strong opinions but I don’t think he’s guilty of taking himself too seriously.

[Nineteenx]

To be fair CD, 19 knows I was having a joke at his expense but laughing with him rather than at him. And I’ve always found him able to laugh at himself. He has strong opinions but I don’t think he’s guilty of taking himself too seriously.

Thanks Miller, Miller knows me at least, I knew he was tickling my ribs and I know i was absolutely crazy bad shit full blown manic through the entirety of the Mirror Training thread, it's healthy to laugh at yourself

[fiordearg]

Midfielders at CB has not worked for us

[skyebo]

Midfielders at CB has not worked for us

Klopp has had times when he could have played orthodox centre backs together but chose not to, so he can't use injuries as an excuse when his choice is to put square pegs in round holes.

[justme]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcScMGlFYw3y8glRX7nNALe2PFMNMg0kB QCHvw2C4DgPaqax2xpVl1Ban70aaJBUGSz3QwQrcaE&usqp=CAc

Thats what it reminds me off. when Managers put players in positions that gets you wondering why..

[skyebo]

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcScMGlFYw3y8glRX7nNALe2PFMNMg0kB QCHvw2C4DgPaqax2xpVl1Ban70aaJBUGSz3QwQrcaE&usqp=CAc

Thats what it reminds me off. when Managers put players in positions that gets you wondering why..

Indeed Justme

[dicko1969]

Mascherano
Carrick

Fabinho hasn't worked
Even if he plays quite well there.

But never won in that position.

[miller0863]

The forwards have been more of a problem than any other department of the team or the manager.

They have consistently missed hatfuls of absolute sitters, all four of them.

Very few games have we deserved to lose or draw when we have dropped points this season.
It’s been amateur hour at the top end of the pitch this season.

[Nineteenx]

The forwards have been more of a problem than any other department of the team or the manager.

They have consistently missed hatfuls of absolute sitters, all four of them.

Very few games have we deserved to lose or draw when we have dropped points this season.
It’s been amateur hour at the top end of the pitch this season.

It certainly has, Mane and Robbo started the season on fire until Jurgen played both out of form trying to go tappy crappy to be fair to that pair

[jozza800]

To be fair, when you're 4 CBs short it becomes a little more difficult...

[Nineteenx]

To be fair, when you're 4 CBs short it becomes a little more difficult...

If the filthy, Leicester, City or any other side had been without 4 CBs for so many games of a season they absolutely would not have amassed as many points as they have thus far

[jozza800]

If the filthy, Leicester, City or any other side had been without 4 CBs for so many games of a season they absolutely would not have amassed as many points as they have thus far

Absolutely.

Ive never known a season like it.

It doesn't excuse this season but it has certainly had an effect.

[miller0863]

Aye

[Steveo]

Which 4 Centre Backs? Started the season with 2.5.. 2 went down early and for the season and Matip ( the 0.5 Centre Back ) has been Matip.

[jozza800]

Which 4 Centre Backs? Started the season with 2.5.. 2 went down early and for the season and Matip ( the 0.5 Centre Back ) has been Matip.

Phillips will have been missing for the last 3 games, as it looks like he'll be missing tomorrow.

[Steveo]

Phillips is a Championship level player - if he is missing tomorrow that cannot be used as part of our issues “ missing so much of the season. “

Far too much has been put on our injuries - it has been pretty dreadful this season granted but we benefited hugely the last two from almost zero - nobody wants to talk about that.

[LEGS]

I think we are pissed off Steveo as the main injury was done on purpose I have no doubt of that.

I know he played at Villa before anyone brings that up that was a complete one off shite from everyone bar Salah.

Mane/Firmino have gone off the boil this season that is an understatement I guess but take a look at Sterling as well all 3 travel loads for club/country and played pretty much all games over that time.

Salah is abit of a freak like Ronaldo where he just plays and plays !

[ianlfc]

Every tea has injuries but our problem has been replacing centrehalves with first choice midfielders. So we're really replacing 2 players instead of 1.

[Steveo]

Catalog of errors from the top brass even after the obvious balls up of inaction in summer 2019.

Lovren sold - no replacement. = 2.5 Centre Backs to defend a title...!! Shocking

Then as December looms and we find ourselves top ( although so close with so many other teams on points ) the top brass sit on their backsides - most likely planning the details of the RedBird investment and the soon to be revealed ESL - they wait for the entirety of January to finally source 2 CB’s - one from the bottom of the Championship and the other from the bottom of the Bundesliga...

Shocking on every level.

Want to highlight where the biggest part of this stems from... Then look no further

[Steveo]

Slightly crude but this called it right in mid February.

https://liverpool.vitalfootball.co.uk/fsg-are-to-blame-for-poor-form/

[Insidious]

This is the closest thing to a relevant thread that I could think of to post this comment and I didn't want to open another one as I don't think it's a subject that will lead to (nor requires) much discussion really.

However.

Has the dark cloud of last season's ridiculous number of centre-back partnerships (and us subsequently still qualifying for the Champion's League despite the adversity) actually created a silver lining whereby Klopp's mind is more open to rotation at the back, believing we can still win, based on the evidence of last season?

We've already seen Matip partner Van Dijk, Matip partner Gomez and Konate partner Van Dijk this season, as well as signs of a tiny move away from simply playing Trent and Robertson for every game (honestly, who would have correctly predicted all 4 of the back four against Palace?) and we've managed to keep the goals-against column in the League to a solitary goal - we'd conceded THIRTEEN at the same stage last season and before anyone (correctly) says "7-2 v Villa" that's still 6 other goals over the other 4 games.

The solidity we've shown this season outside of a wobbly 10-15 minute spell against AC Milan is really encouraging. Hopefully we can maintain it.