AnfieldReds

May All Remember the 96

2012-04-13T11:57:00.004+08:00

With the FA Cup semi-final coming up against Everton on Saturday, the Hillsborough anniversary is coincidentally a day later. May all remember the 96!

King Kenny scoring at the Kop End in the Hillsborough charity match a few years back

You'll Never Walk Alone

You'll Never Walk Alone

The Kingdom of Kenny

2011-05-03T18:30:00.001+08:00

It is said that the first, and most difficult, responsibility of a king is to convey his royal vision to the populace. A king must be a great orator, willing his subjects to not only believe in this vision, but to work toward its fulfillment. At times, however, the king himself must be the greatest example, using not words but deeds.

And always, there is the need to contain the doubt and, it must be said, the treachery of that part of the citizenry who believe him to be a false king, unduly appointed to his throne not on grounds of ability, but on lineage alone.

In this light, Kenny Dalglish, the once and future King of Merseyside, has performed his duties most seriously and most successfully.

Appointed caretaker manager after Roy Hodgson’s sacking, King Kenny has used a mix of airy proclamations and peasant-like resolve to transform Liverpool’s season, and, one might say, their future. His permanent appointment to the position only goes to reinforce that feeling.

Struggling to retain their traditional Top Four status during the end of Rafael Benitez’ reign in 2009, the men in Liverpool jerseys had in 2010 turned to Roy Hodgson to lead their revival. Hodgson himself was a bit of a kingly figure, delivering his former club Fulham out of impending relegation and eventually into a spot in European football in the span of 2 seasons. Tapped to do the same with Liverpool, Hodgson perplexingly could not find the same touch.

Step in Kenny Dalglish, the former Scouse legend. Dalglish had previously played for the Merseysiders between 1977 and 1990.

Beginning in the late 80’s, he had assumed the role of player-manager, leaving the club in 1991 only after being unable, as so many were, to shake the unfortunate grip of the Hillsborough disaster. Dalglish’s dignity during those trying times earned him great respect, building on a reputation first gained through his play and management abilities.His return to the club in 2011, therefore, was seen by many as a return of the rightful heir to the Liverpool throne. Sport is well-known for an almost knee-jerk reaction to the replacement of leadership, suggesting an attitude that “anyone is better than the last guy.” But Dalglish’s appointment was greeted with nothing less than courtly fanfare, and the results have proven why.

The club have steadily climbed the table since the move was made, rising from the bottom third to their current position of 6th, with a return to European football a strong possibility. Dalglish himself treats the success with typical nobility. Asked recently whether he was disappointed at having only earned a late draw with Arsenal after a stunning 3-0 win in their prior fixture over Manchester City, Dalglish mused: “Sadness? In my eyes we are still the best club in English football, if not world football, so I am not very sad at that.” He added, "It will be fantastic to get back (to the top), but you need to hit the standards other teams have set.”

Two statements that sum up the people’s King: one of inspiration, the other of determination. When combined with the support of the masses, who know his legacy is based not on arcane lineage but on service, there appears to be no heights to which King Kenny cannot lead his people.

By Ken Sweda ©

Can Liverpool Steal 5th Spot?

2011-03-27T18:10:00.002+08:00

As disappointing as Liverpool’s exit from the Europa League against Sporting Braga last week was, Reds fans can console themselves with the fact that for the first time in a couple of years now, there are plenty of reasons to be positive. Since the arrival of Kenny Dalglish, the fortunes of a club - who unthinkably considered the possibility of relegation just a few short months ago – have been transformed and there is cause for optimism once again at Anfield.

Just two seasons ago, Liverpool were part of the “Big Four”, a group of clubs at the top of the Premiership so dominant that we were told it couldn’t be broken into. Not only are Liverpool not in the top four anymore, they aren’t even in the top five! It is certainly possible Liverpool can regain their Champions League place by finishing in the top four next season, but to do that, they are going to have to secure European football next season.

As he struggles to find form at Chelsea, Fernando Torres is already a forgotten man at Anfield as the Kop worship a new season. Luis Suarez shirts have been flying off the shelves ever since the Uruguyan hitman arrived at the club and wowed fans with his exciting range of skills and finishing prowess. His classy finish against Sunderland on Sunday underlined his quality and the potential he offers Liverpool.

Liverpool are still in need of more quality additions to their squad to supplement the undoubted quality of the likes of Steven Gerrard, Raul Merieles, Suarez and Andy Carroll. With new owners who have pledged to invest in the team and the feelgood factor returning to the team with Dalglish, the summer certainly looks like being an exciting one for Liverpool supporters. But key to attracting players to the club is the lure of European football.

As things stand, not many would fancy Liverpool to catch Tottenham for fifth spot, with Harry Redknapp’s men sitting four points clear with a game in hand. However, the obvious distraction of Spurs Champions League quarter final with Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid could be the source that lets Liverpool creep in for an unlikely comeback.

Liverpool fans are certainly starting to believe. Sales of Liverpool football shirts complete with official football shirt printing have significantly increased since the arrival of Dalglish and victories over Chelsea, Manchester United and Sunderland have added to the confidence levels at Anfield. That setbacks will occur is undoubted, as the squad is still not deep or strong enough to show the level of consistency boss Dalglish would like.

But with Suarez in the form he is in and £35m striker Andy Carroll still to be fully integrated into the team, the signs are positive for Liverpool. It will be a tough ask to overhaul Spurs but with 24 points still to play for it is certainly a possibility.

Written by Eddie Smith, a sports writer who blogs about cheap football shirts.

Luis Suarez – The New Hero

2011-03-08T15:00:00.001+08:00

The 31st of January 2011 was an extremely busy day for Liverpool football club. The club had sold Fernando Torres to rivals Chelsea for a record-breaking £50 million, which upset many fans as they saw the departure of a world class striker as a major step down and that things might look bleak for the future. Fast-forward to March and things seem very different…

On the same day that Torres left the club, Liverpool purchased both Andy Carroll from Newcastle and Luis Suarez from Ajax, who cost roughly the same combined as Torres did. Andy Carroll made his debut on Sunday and will surely offer them something different up front and Torres has not made much of an impact at Chelsea so far. On the other hand, Luis Suarez has come into the Liverpool side and already looks like he will be a fantastic acquisition.

There seems to be a new lease of life for those wearing Liverpool football shirts at the moment. A lot of this is down to the return of Kenny Dalglish to the club, but Suarez has injected more energy and buzz about the time that has not been seen for quite some time.

The Dutch league is often criticised for having a poor standard as several players have come over from the Eredivise with a fantastic goal scoring record and have completely flopped in the English Premier League. Suarez’s goal record at Ajax was 81 goals in 110 games and although it doesn’t look like he will score anywhere near that amount in England, he can offer an awful lot more than putting the ball in the back of the net.

He might actually be the perfect partner for Andy Carroll and could end up with a great amount of assists at Liverpool. There’s no doubt that the Uruguayan forward can score goals, but I think he’ll be more useful playing the way he did against Man Utd on Sunday.

Suarez seems to be able to beat a man (or four) with ease at times and with energy levels that can match Steven Gerrard, it can only be a positive sign for things to come at Liverpool. It will be very interesting to see how his partnership develops with Andy Carroll over time, especially next season. Many wondered if Suarez and Carroll combined would be better than Fernando Torres for Liverpool, but it could turn out that Suarez on his own will do more for the club.

Written by Eddie Smith, a sports writer who blogs about replica football shirts.

What Will Liverpool Settle For Now?

2011-02-27T19:07:00.001+08:00

If you had asked Liverpool fans at the beginning of the season if they would take a 6th place finish in the English Premier League and to get to the latter stages of the Europa League, I’m sure most would have given you a strange look. Unfortunately though, most Liverpool fans would now probably take this offer with both hands.

Liverpool had a dreadful start to the season and therefore sacked Roy Hodgson in early January. There were several changes at the club last month, including Kenny Dalglish being re-appointed as manager, the departure of Fernando Torres to Chelsea and the late signings of Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll. Things at Anfield do seem to have improved, but with the season so far through, there is only so much that King Kenny can do in a short space of time.

Fans will now have to be realistic in their ambitions for the rest of the season and accept that there is a lot of rebuilding needing to be done at the club. The acquisitions of Suarez and Carroll are certainly a step in the right direction and they both have youth on their side. If Liverpool can hang on to other players like Reina, Gerrard and Meireles, then there is a good spine to the team and 2 or 3 other good signings could mean that those wearing Liverpool football shirts will be able to compete for a Champions League spot next season.

After a run of four consecutive wins and also clean sheets against Wolves, Chelsea, Fulham and Stoke, fans were starting to look up the league table and fancied their chances of challenging for fourth spot in the league. Unfortunately, a home draw against Wigan has stopped this run and the task to earn a Champions League position has started to fade again. That is not to say that the team cannot get into another run of form again, but there are certainly some very tough games ahead.

Liverpool still have to play Man Utd and Man City at home in the next few weeks. They also have matches against Arsenal at the Emirates and a home game against Tottenham and a final day clash with Aston Villa at Villa Park. With only eleven games to go, these are four very tricky matches to win. One team from Man City, Chelsea and Tottenham are also likely to miss out on a Champions League place, which shows how tough it will be. I certainly think that with how this season has panned out for the club, a 6th place finish for Liverpool would be regarded as a reasonable success.

They are also still in the Europa League and few would bet against Liverpool winning the trophy. Man City are seen as favourites at the moment, but Liverpool are certainly in with a shout. I would be interested to hear anyone else’s thoughts on this, especially Liverpool fans. Have I been too harsh or is this the consensus among Liverpool fans too?

Written by Eddie Smith, a sports writer who blog about football shirts.

The List to Dump for Liverpool’s Revival Process

2011-02-24T17:34:00.001+08:00

Liverpool has gone through an immense amount of change in the past year; new ownership, Fernando Torres gone, arrival of some big names and big flops…after an impressive transfer period, the Reds appear ready to change up the squad to get back into contention amongst Europe’s elite teams. Some players will arrive, some will certainly have to go. Here’s who the Anfield faithful should start waving goodbye to:

1. Milan Jovanovic: Though the winger arrived on a free from Standard Liege just over 6 months ago, it’s time for the Reds to get any value they can out of the 29-year-old Serbian flop. He’s been atrocious since his arrival and if anything, they can try to sell the winger back to Liege or listen to “supposed” interest from Wolfsburg. Jovanovic is not worth the long-term contract he was given and the sooner the men in Liverpool jerseys can free up a spot on the bench, the better.

2. Fábio Aurélio: The 31-year-old winger back is well past his prime now. He’s starting to become injury prone and a back-line that has conceded a not-as-respectable 32 goals in 27 league games, the defense needs shoring up if they are to become part of Europe’s elite again. Plus, the club signed Aurelio on a free, too, so getting a tidy transfer fee for a player on his down years is a plus for John Henry and the gang.

3. Sotirios Kyrgiakos: Another 31-year-old defender for the Reds has performed decently at times, however, he never has been truly Premier League quality. When Liverpool seem desperate, Dalglish has employed the Greek international to become a target man and he’s largely failed at that role, too. Really, most of the backline needs help. It starts with replacing some pretty average players with some players of quality.

4. Joe Cole: It seems as if Cole has been letting age get the best of him. The 29-year-old England International has had 2 pretty awful past seasons (one with Chelsea, now halfway through his Reds season) and is now becoming an injury prone mess. Though his talent is undoubtedly good when he’s on form, it’s been a few years since this occurred. And no, Steven Gerrard. Joe Cole is not “better than Messi”. Maybe Blackburn could purchase the downtrodden “speedster” with all the rumors about Kaka flying into the Rovers this summer. Yeah, right.

Written by: Chris Behrens, soccerpro.com

Luis Suarez: Liverpool’s Revival Need

2011-01-28T09:29:00.001+08:00

110 goals in 154 appearances. 38 appearances for the Uruguayan national team by the young age of 23. Dutch Footballer of the year. Pretty good credentials, right? Many top clubs around the world are believing the hype, too, about Luis Suarez, current Ajax captain and absolute phenomenon. His transfer to a major league in Europe is nearly inevitable and the Amsterdam-based club will be catering to the top bid available. Rumor has it that interested clubs include: Tottenham, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Arsenal, and of course, struggling Liverpool. Out of all these squads, the Reds need Suarez the most (the club have the fewest goals out of any of these sides in league play thus far.

Let’s face it; Liverpool are in desperate need of a revitalization, and what better way to start one than with Suarez in a Liverpool jersey. What Reds side would lose to Everton, Blackburn, Stoke City, Newcastle United, Wolverhampton, and even Blackpool twice? A side desperate to find some form. Under Kenny Danglish, the side at least look interested in playing on the field now. Only 7 teams in EPL league play thus far have produced fewer goals than Liverpool. Fernando Torres is beginning to find a bit of his old form from time to time but when he’s not on, the club can’t realistically rely on David N’Gog or Ryan Babel to man the reigns and take responsibility to account for a few goals here and there. Enter Luis Suarez.

In my mind, there is no inherent flaw to Luis Suarez’s game. He’s one of the most deadly box finishers in the game, he can hold up the ball, and has pace. Plus, he can distribute and has an underrated game out of the air. He is the ‘new’ Fernando Torres signing and marquee man Liverpool need to get back on track. The Reds are reportedly working out a fee to sign Suarez this January and fans are drooling at an opportunity to see the man in a Liverpool jacket. Honestly, I am too. He may cost a pretty penny to the English club and he would be worth every one. He has all the tools to become as beloved as Torres and partnering the two together would immediately make the tandem the most feared attack in all of the league. If John Henry is looking to make a splash, and make the club relevant again, he can do no better than signing one of the hottest commodities in Europe.

Written by: Chris Behrens for soccerpro.com

Is It Time for Liverpool To Cash in on Fernando Torres?

2010-10-10T19:29:00.001+08:00

The idea of selling Fernando Torres will sends chills down the spine of most fans of Liverpool Football Club. Since arriving in the English Premier League after a big money move from Atletico Madrid, the Spaniard has turned himself into one of the leading strikers of world football and is the darling of The Kop. He has gone on to become not only a European, but a World Champion with the national team and has terrorised Premiership defences, winning games against Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. To sell Torres is unthinkable because the predatory instincts of the Spanish forward is a vital component of a title winning side.

However, the reality for Liverpool fans is their club is no longer a title winning side. They may have come close two years ago under Rafa Benitez, but since then a combination of the disastrous reign of the American owners and the erratic transfer dealings of the now Inter Milan boss have resulted in an almost unbelievable fall from grace for the Reds, who incredibly now occupy the relegation zone.

For Liverpool to move forward, they have to first accept the position they now find themselves in. They are no longer title contenders, they are barely Champions League contenders and the club has to regroup in order to allow themselves to rebuild and once again establish themselves as a top four side.

As talented a player as Torres is, the reality is he is no longer the player he was two seasons ago. Of course, he is certainly capable of recapturing this form but such is the dilemma Liverpool find themselves in, they cannot allow themselves to wait for this to happen. Undoubtedly, sales of Liverpool shirts would fall if the number 9 left, but there has to be a bigger picture and if the Reds were to cash in the January transfer window, they would be able to command a significant sum of money for the player from the likes of Man City or Chelsea.

At the moment, Liverpool are far too reliant who a man who cannot currently be relied on. The groin injury picked up in the opening minutes of Sunday's 2-1 defeat by Blackpool which has ruled him out of the Euro 2012 qualifier with Scotland next week is just the latest in a string of injuries picked up by the Spaniard over the past 12 months. He is also a doubt for the Merseyside derby on October 16th, a match which is even more significant than usual given both teams find themselves in relegation territory.

The injuries Torres has suffered have meant that not only can he not be relied upon to start consistently but when he is playing, he is lacking the sharpness which made him one of the most feared strikers. While it could be argued this is down to the poor Liverpool side around him, he was equally sluggish in the World Cup - despite playing with a team who ultimately went onto be crowned champions.

As heartbreaking as it would be for Liverpool fans for Fernando Torres to leave Anfield, it could now be time to for the financially stricken Reds to cash in on the hitman and invest in a less talented, but more reliable and stable strike partnership who can help ensure Liverpool remain at least on the fringes of the UEFA Champions League.

If they can do that, Liverpool Football Club will always be big enough that they can attract players and once the mess involving the American owners is settled, the club will definitely be in a position to challenge for the title once more.

Written by Colin Hill, a sports writer who blogs about kids football kits.

Thank You Rafa Benitez

2010-07-10T11:35:00.005+08:00

It just teared me.

YNWA

YNWA, Liverpool

2009-11-08T18:54:00.009+08:00

It's really hurts to see my blood and soul, Liverpool FC losing matches and being criticised on every single report, on every newspaper I read. It's inevitable though. Media is everywhere and they will write accordingly to what they see and think.

When Rafa makes a substitution, the player came on and scored the winner in the 83th minute, words of praises and 'master tactician' would be over the headlines. However, you conceded a last minute equalizer, there's goes your head. It's how football works, no denial.

I've already lost count the number of matches they've lost and the number of goals they've conceded. Nevertheless, I'm here telling all the fans out there, do keep the faith. Yes, we may not be able to win the Premiership we desperately want, and we may be knocked out of the Champions League, still, we are Liverpool Football Club. We have to stick with the team, be it high or low.

Disappointment and anger definitely be there whenever the Reds lost a match. Having said that, we have to remind ourselves that we have to be positive and support the team no matter what happens. I've started watching Liverpool play during Roy Evans' days and we have improved massively from then. Of course, we should be challenging for the title year in year out. However, I do think sometimes, Rafa has his problems behind the scenes which we couldn't see.

The long injury list, the beachball incident were all beyond Rafa's control. All I hope for is just a little luck on the Red side of Merseyside.

Walk on, keep the faith, I'll be right behind Liverpool Football Club.

You'll Never Walk Alone..

What Happen Liverpool, Rafa?

2009-10-18T01:55:00.021+08:00

While serving National Service and spending most of my time in camp, I will try my best to get updates and watch Liverpool matches whenever I can. Unfortunately, the current status of the Reds camp seemed to be one of the worst during Rafa's reign.

Just a hour ago, Liverpool had just lost their 4th game in the season, having played 9 so far, against Sunderland. Title contenders? I'm seriously doubting this fact. Defensively unstable, lack of creativity and to me, the squad is not GOOD enough. Simple as it is.

With star duo Stevie and Fernando both ruled out injured, I simply have no idea how Liverpool will handle it. Expectedly, they played poorly and with the players Rafa chosen for his starting 11, it really puzzled me on how on earth he came to those decisions. By putting a inexperienced Jay Spearing and highly criticised Lucas Levia in the middle of the park against Sunderland in the Stadium of Light, is something which I thought was suicidal.

I do wonder, has Rafa lost it? What happen to our master tactician? Are our poor form due to Rafa's decisions or lack of squad depth or even luck?

Of course, you can argue about the ball in the middle of the field which assisted the winner. But, Liverpool had enough time to recover and change the game. Sadly, with the players now, I couldn't see anyone who can really do that. Luck plays a part and it's so unlucky whereby players come back injured from international break and you could do nothing about it. Having said that, the players coming into the team has to cherish the chance to prove themselves, fight for the place in the starting 11. Apparently, I couldn't see the guys doing that.

Against Chelsea at the Bridge, I thought Liverpool was losing out on quality and creativity. While Gerrard and Torres were both being heavily marked, the rest of the team did not rise to the occasion and hence, Drogba & Co got the upper hand. No one to dictate play, no one to distribute the defence breaking balls like what Xabi Alonso used to do.

So what happens now? 4 losses in the league with only 9 games played. 1 lost 2 played in the Champions League and meanwhile, the American owners are owning tones and tones of money to the banks. A very rough or I should say bad patch for Liverpool Football Club.

Definitely, we need to improve on the pitch. Forget about the title. Just keep going on every game and push as high as up on the table as possible. Players need to step up and resume responsibility to fight hard for the team while the fans like us can only pray hard, finger crossed and keeping the faith like we always have.

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Steven Gerrard the PowerHouse

2009-10-18T01:44:00.008+08:00

Saw this advertisement on adidas.com and it was a great advert on our Captain Steven Gerrard while the commentary was done by one of the world best footballers, Zinedine Zidane. Take a look guys.

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Torres' Double Sink Hammers

2009-09-21T16:35:00.010+08:00

West Ham 2 Liverpool 3
Torres 20, 75 Kuyt 42

Due to National Service here in Singapore, I have limited time to post match reports on this little site of mine. My sincere apologies, I will update as much as I can during my leave and break days.

I managed to watch the exciting affair at Upton Park last weekend with Liverpool beating Zola's men 3-2. Finally, able to catch a match of my beloved Liverpool in their new away white strip, fought their hard-earned 3 points.

Fernando Torres' brilliance on the pitch gave us the valuable win. 2 great goals by the Spanish plus a Kuyt's toe-poke overcame West Ham coming back twice in the game. Defensive errors from both centre backs was frustrating to watch which I do think Rafa needs to sort it out. The reliable Carragher and Skrtel seemed to be out of sorts handling English striker Cole.

Fortunately, the attackers did not disappoint and it's nice to see Ryan Babel coming on as impact substitute, sending a beautiful cross to Torres which was the winner of the game.

With already 2 losses in the league while the rest are writing us off, we have to stay focus and keep it going. Taking one game at a time, 3 points is what it matters end of the day. Come on Liverpool!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Fernando Torres New Book!

2009-09-19T10:31:00.010+08:00

Found some pictures in Fernando Torres' book launch!

Let's hope this can spark another wonderful season of Fernando Torres for Liverpool Football Club! :D FERNANDO TORRES, LIVERPOOL NUMBER 9!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Team Photo 09/10

2009-09-19T10:22:00.004+08:00

Awesome Team Photo! :D

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Photos from Singapore Tour 2009

2009-08-01T09:01:00.006+08:00

Due to National Service in Singapore, I was not able to be those crazy fans chasing our beloved club when they came over here for their pre-season Asian Tour. It's been 8 years since they've came and unfortunately, I had to miss all the fun and excitement. Nevertheless, I'm sharing some of the pictures over here.

Some great pictures in Singapore and you could see the players are enjoying themselves under the hot weather here. Let's hope this tour would be a spring board for the team for more success in the upcoming season.

Wanna Shop Online?

2009-07-28T11:06:00.008+08:00

Need a pair of boots? Jerseys? Ever thought of shopping sports apparel online but yet afraid that all these online sites are not trustworthy enough? Don't worry! I'm pretty sure of this site which has all the variety of sports apparel and they do real business!

SoccerPro is the one!

The guys from SoccerPro has kept their promise of shipping their products all the way to Singapore and it's right up to my doorstep. Believe it, their service is first class and their quality is never a doubt.

The home Liverpool kit as well as the latest away kit was delivered and products are of top quality. I'm impressed by its efficiency and customer service provided by SoccerPro. Now I'm not worried about getting coned online nor products can be delivered halfway.

So what are you waiting for?

SoccerPro is for you!

Fields of Anfield Road

2009-07-02T13:31:00.010+08:00

I was surfing Youtube when I came across the all time Liverpool song "Fields of Anfield Road!" There are many versions of it, let me share my findings!

Liverpool Legends Singing on Hillsborough Tribute

James Walsh, the Lead Singer of StarSailor. He has a great voice!

Who else? Our very own fans! They are simply fantastic!

Simply Brilliant! Enjoy!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Glen Johnson's Liverpool New Right Back

2009-07-01T16:38:00.016+08:00

Finally, Liverpool has confirmed its signing on English defender Glen Johnson with a fee believed to be 18 million pounds from Portsmouth.The strong and pacey right back has agreed to join Rafa's men and I strongly believe he would be a great addition to the squad.

His former club, Chelsea was also in the chase for Johnson, however and fortunately for Liverpool, Glen decided to join the 5 times European Champions instead of his ex-club. It was also believed that Liverpool paid 11 million pounds while the other 7 million was still owed from Peter Crouch's deal 2 years back.

Let's take a look at our new right back!

Welcome to Liverpool Football Club!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Fernando Torres to Front ProEvo Soccer!

2009-06-26T11:17:00.004+08:00

The popular football video game which I myself plays, Pro Evolution Soccer whose' new front would be our very own striker Fernando Torres! It would be exciting to see our number 9 in action in the game now!

Get the game once it's out!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Torres' Fans Base in South Africa

2009-06-25T20:59:00.003+08:00

While Spain is competing in the Confederations Cup, the Spanish players took a walk in South Africa while fans over there went crazy over Liverpool striker, Fernando Torres. I guess mostly are Liverpool fans!

Take a look!

It seems like Torres' popularity is getting higher and higher!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Torres Hat-Trick in Confederations Cup 2009!

2009-06-16T13:25:00.005+08:00

Representing Spain in the Confederations Cup 2009, Fernando Torres just needed 17 minutes into the game to score his hat-trick against New Zealand in Spain's 5-0 win.

Brilliant goals scored! EL NINO!

Fernando Torres' Hat-Trick (Not the best quality)

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Masch..Mascherano!

2009-06-13T22:58:00.009+08:00

I saw this news on Soccerne t and I couldn't help but to post it here!

It reports..

Former Argentina international Jorge Solari has heaped glowing praise on Javier Mascherano, describing the Liverpool man as the one of best midfielders his country has produced in the last four decades.

''For me he (Mascherano) is the best central midfielder that has left Argentina in the last 30-40 years. ''Even better than Redondo. Javier covers a lot of ground, defends very well, especially one-on-ones, he attacks, he has good technique, he is intelligent and adapts to whatever the coach wants from him.''

I couldn't agree more! JAVIER MASCHERANO!

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Where Do We Need to Improve?

2009-06-11T14:18:00.041+08:00

Now that the season has ended and the whole transfer market is up alive once again. Transfer speculations, rumours, record high fees. As for the Red half of Merseyside, there are more talks of players leaving instead of buys. Looking at the current Liverpool side, keeping the core players is definitely the priority rather than selling them. While Rafa Benitez is rejecting the suitors of Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso, let's see in which areas we need to improve?

Right-back
With the current situation and depth, it seems to me that we have only Spanish Aberloa as our reliable full back. Free transfer signing, Philip Degen has been invisible the whole season. In several occassions this season, while Arbeloa is unavailable, Carragher has to makeshift to right back which I always disagree with this move. However, there's no other players to provide the depth in that position.

A new right back will not only provide stability but also competition to Arbeloa whose performances can be inconsistent a times.

Rafinha

The Brazilian right back has great pace and his overlapping ability is an eye to watch. I'm lucky enough to watch him live in Singapore when he came over with the Brazil Olympic Team. He's quick and has decent footwork. Tireless running up and down the flank. In Rafa's style of play, full back overlapping is highly important and I do think Rafinha fills the bill.

Glen Johnson

There was speculation over Liverpool is going to buy the Portsmouth and England international fullback. Big, strong and fast are his strengths and his ability to charge down the flank explains why he's playing for England now under Fabio Capello. The fact that he's English is a plus point as there will not be any adaptions to English league problems. Rafa, take a look!

With the rest of the defensive positions having enough cover, let's see the midfield. With Xabi Alonso, Mascherano and Lucas in the middle, plus Steven Gerrard able to play there as well, our center midfield is stable.

Winger
A flying winger would be good for our attacks, providing width and crosses into the box. With Albert Riera, Kuyt and Benayoun in the team, it would be beneficial if we have one more to bring on defenders, turning in and out.

Arjen Robben

The ex-Chelsea man has lighting pace, great dribbling skills and abilities. Famous on how he brings on defenders, delivering beautiful crosses into the box. A lethal left foot who can score incredible goals from tight angles as well. His relationship with Liverpool may not be the best, but, I'm sure he can be a great addition to the team.

Striker
Strikeforce? Fernando Torres and David Ngog at this moment. It seems to me that Rafa is unlikely to remove the effective partnership between Gerrard and Torres. This shows that by bringing in another striker to the team will have another Robbie Keane situation. Having said that, with another striker may prove to be a good move as there are times whereby playing 2 strikers can be essential.

Sergio Augero

The Argentinean striker who is playing for Torres' ex-club, Athletico Madrid, one of hottest prospects in the market. Another fast-paced striker who has an eye on the goal and his ability to link-up play with the midfield can be effective. He could be another Torres in the making, exciting fans with his runs behind defenders.

3 positions to be improve, a few more additions to the squad. Will this finally our final piece of our big jigsaw puzzle? What do you guys think?

You'll Never Walk Alone..

Lap of Honour 08/09

2009-06-10T02:19:00.008+08:00

Pictures and video of the Lap of Honour 08/09 at Anfield after the last Premiership game against Tottenham Hotspur.

You'll Never Walk Alone..