11.27.2011 Liverpool vs Man.City 1:1 - Dominated Red almost defeated unbeaten league leader....

Starting line-up: <4-1-4-1>

Reina

Johnson Skrtel Agger Enriqe

Lucas

Kuyt Henderson Adam Downing

Suarez

LFC Scorer: Lescott's OG

LFC Man of the Match: Lucas Levia

11.20.2011 Chelsea vs Liverpool 1:2 - King got the starting 11 right as gutless Chelsea limited Traitors Torres and Meireles to late subsititions

Starting line-up: (4-2-3-1)

Reina
Johnson Skrtel Agger Enrique
Lucas Adam
Kuyt Bellamy Maxi
Suarez

LFC scorers: Maxi & Johnson


LFC Player of the game:

Pure team effort, hard to single out particular individual today: Reina made great save to avoid Chelsea got the lead in 2nd half, Agger led the defensive line very well as usual, Adam was more effective in tackling today along with overall good passing, Lucas was a workhorse as usual, Maxi got the start and reward with the first goal, Bellamy linked well with Suarez and deserved to be full-time starter in the team, Johnson was not reliable in stopping Malouda and Mata but rewarded the team with a solo winning goal.

Insight:

11.5.2011 Liverpool vs Swansea City 0:0 - Inexcusable ugly draw left the Reds out of 4th place zone...

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina

Johnson Skrtel Agger Enrique

Henderson Lucas Adam Downing

Carroll Suarez

LFC scorers: none


LFC Player of the game:
Agger, if any...
Agger is right, the whole team played like headless chickens majority of the game. Agger was the lone better performer along with our step-in captain GK Reina. When healthy, Agger is definitely our leader at the back. Question remains how long he can stay fit over a long tough season.

Insight:
Liverpool was punished by their missed early scoring chances with Carroll disappointedly failed to convert a sitter through a rare good low cross from Downing inside the six yard box. The early misses has given Swansea new life and they gradually grew in confidence with increasing possessions and dangerous wing plays. Carroll's sorry miss was yet another crazy post-hitting shot! It's incredible that LFC has already got 10 post-hitting shots this year, more than any other teams in the league. However, LFC can't just blame on bad luck. Clearly, there are key problems and incorrect tactical decisions in our team. So far we have only scored 14 goals and we sure have big problem in attack. Our key problem include:

1) 4-4-2 means our CMF partner Adam and Lucas are usually out-classed by top teams and out-numbered by most middle to lower ranked sides as they tend to use 5 MF with 3 CMFs against LFC. Adam and Lucas, while both are very decent in what they are good at (Adam in long range pass and free-kicks; Lucas in tackling and smart plays), are very one dimensional with clear weaknesses. (Adam is slow and cannot tackle; Lucas can never score goal or make any creative pass)

2) Downing, our sole natural winger, has been our biggest disappointment. Henderson, a natural CMF, was misplaced as RMF with continuous poor display. Solid and reliable veterans Kuyt and Bellamy were mostly not the preferred starting players. King was too rush to start the youth movement with inconsistent and immature Carroll and Henderson undeservedly given starting chances over Kuyt and Bellamy.

3) Suarez is a superstar in our team. He is brilliant in everything but is not a natural finisher. We are lacking of a classic no.9 with strong finishing ability. Also, in our starting line-up, Lucas,Henderson and Downing all have poor scoring record, only Suarez, Adam and Carroll can score some goals.

We have been solid in defense. Our problem in attack must be addressed in January transfer window with a star sikllful right wing and a top-class scorer being our essential prime targets! If we don't do anything in January or Kuyt and Bellamy still not given more starting chances, I don't see us reaching 4th at the end!

10.29.2011 West Brom vs Liverpool 0:2 - A much needed win as Reds gets back to the mix for top 4 fight!

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina

Johnson Skrtel Agger Enrique

Henderson Lucas Adam Downing

Carroll Suarez

LFC scorers: Adam, Carroll


LFC Player of the game:
Suarez
In the absence of captain Gerrard for his long-term ankle infection problem, Suarez had again taken on leadership role in the team with his dribbling, flair and aggressiveness in attack. He won a penalty for Adam and created a great scoring chance for Carroll. He was basically everything in all LFC's attack moves.

Insight:
LFC has been mostly playing better in away games than home games this season. The reason I can explain is they has been facing too much expectation and pressure from the home supporters. For LFC to win games, it's vital to finish off scoring chances early in the game. To be honest, Suarez was lucky to win a penalty in the game. Carroll was hyped as a heading machine, but had scored all his three goals this season by his feet! It's devastating that the combination of Downing and Carroll has failed to create even one single headed goal so far! They sure must look into the mirror! Among all the new comers this season, Downing has been the most disappointing. Although he has no less than 2 post-hitting shots so far, it's incredible he hasn't won 1 assist so far! Even the heavily criticized but mis-used Henderson has scored goals and got assists already! Left-back Jose Enrique has been very impressive for his defending, ball control and long passes/crosses. Adam has shown his inability in tackling, but has also scored goals and made accurate long-range passes. To sum it up, high priced tag signings Downing, Henderson and Carroll struggled more often. Whereas, bargain signings Enrique, Adam and Bellamy have done well so far. Clearly, the transfer price tags have given players heavy pressure to perform.

10.22.2011 Liverpool vs Norwich City 1:1 - A disappointing 2-point loss as Reds missed scoring chances

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina

Johnson Carragher Skrtel Enrique

Downing Gerrard Adam Bellamy

Kuyt Suarez

LFC scorers: Bellamy



LFC Player of the game: Bellamy
Bellamy didn't play particular brilliant. However, once he got substituted out in 2nd half for strange tactical reason, LFC has lost an edge in attack. LFC created enough scoring chances to win the game. Sadly, only the Welsh veteran was able to finish his chance.

Insight:
LFC must beat lower ranked teams or promoted sides at home if they want to win the 4th spot in the league and get back to UEFA Champion League next season. King was correct again in his starting line-up by inserting Bellamy to add speed and scoring ability, although Kuyt may be a better choice over the left-footed Downing on right wing. LFC missed lots of scoring chances in the game and I felt Suarez has shown tiredness in recent games as he has taken on too much scoring burden. King's questionable substitution of Henderson for Bellamy in 2nd half basically killed the team chance especially Henderson was once again given mis-fit right wing role. Since Lucas was suspended in this game after accumulating 5 yellow cards this season, Gerrard and Adam were the starting 2 CMF in this game. As both Gerrard and Adam are attacking-minded MF, LFC was clearly missing the defensive-minded Lucas in this game. This could be a signal that Gerrard and Adam can't be the starting CMF combination in 4-4-2. Gerrard and Adam should only be started together in 4-5-1 or 4-3-3 with a defensive CMF playing behind them.

10.15.2011 Liverpool vs Man. Utd. 1:1 - Our captain is back!

Starting line-up: (4-2-3-1)

Reina

Kelly Carragher Skrtel Enrique

Lucas Adam

Kuyt Gerrard Downing

Suarez

LFC scorers: Gerrard


LFC Player of the game:
Gerrard
Yet again captain Gerrard proved he is the heart and soul of the team with a clever free-kick that could have sealed an important victory against our ultimate rival.

Insight:
Finally, King Kenny got his formation right in this game. The only way LFC can get anything against the top 5 teams in the Premier League is to start with 5 midfields in trying to win the midfield battle. King has refused to play 5 in midfield this season but rather tried too hard to play 4-4-2 in order to develop the striking partnership of Suarez+Carroll, even if the experiment has mostly been proved ineffective so far due to the contrast styles of Suarez and Carroll as well as the incompetence of Adam and Lucas against the very best CMF in the league. Gerrard in the AMF role behind Suarez with Kuyt starting on the right MF has always been LFC's most effective formula. Too bad that LFC cannot hold the one goal lead till the end. Man Utd FW Hernandez is the type of natural born scorer that we are lacking in the team at the moment. Henderson has almost won the game for us for a dangerous shot and header in two occasions near the close of the game after given late chances in his favorite central role. King really should play Henderson in the middle rather than right wing role from now on.

10.1.2011 Everton vs Liverpool 0:2 - 35M Carroll finally scored as LFC beat 10-men Everton in Meresyside Derby.

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Kelly Carragher Skrtel Enrique
Kuyt Lucas Adam Downing
Suarez Carroll

LFC scorers: Carroll '71, Suarez '82

LFC Player of the game:

Dirk Kuyt – he was finally given a start on right wing over the ineffective Jordan Henderson. Dirk missed a penalty in the game (his first ever miss in LFC shirt!), but he was very active in the game. He almost scored a goal but his shot unlucky hit the post. He also involved in both of LFC goals. He intelligently let Jose Enrique low cross past over his head and created perfect opportunity for Carroll to open his scoring account. He also headed down the ball to Suarez to make his run for the 2nd goal. His most important contribution is his movement without the ball and timely run to the box as LFC tend to have insufficient bodies in the box in attack. He has forced opposing defenders to take notice of him which helped open up space for Suarez and Carroll to attack and score goals. Until LFC can acquire a natural right wing, Kuyt is basically a must start especially he has developed great understanding with Suarez and Gerrard.

Insights:

Liverpool certainly had the game officiating to thank for! To be honest, the game was 50-50 with 11 vs 11. Everton’s 4-5-1 could counter 4-4-2 well. Tim Cahill has always been a threat in the air against LFC, especially on the Carragher’s zone! The game has 0-0 written all over until an incorrect decision by referee to send off Rodwell for his silly but “yellow-card deserved at worst” tackle on Suarez. Yet, the reaction of Everton players such as Rodwell and Jagelika on their silly fouls on Suarez has proved that LFC possess a dangerous threat that fear Everton big-time while Everton certainly still lacks of anyone upfront who provide similar level of fear to LFC. While the class of Suarez is certainly the key difference between the two Liverpool teams, Dirk Kuyt is the real X-factor in the game. After this game, King should start playing Kuyt on right wing instead of Henderson. On the other hand, it’s not a coincidence LFC started to score once they introduced Gerrard and Bellamy into the game. While Adam and Downing are not bad signings by all means, Gerrard and Bellamy are superior in terms of quality and experience. I am glad for Carroll to finally open his league scoring account. The big man has shown his improvement in fitness and form over the past two weeks and his goal is well deserved. With the return of Gerrard, Carroll should have no excuse but to score more goals to repay the team, manager and the fans. I expect Downing to provide better crossing for Carroll. At this moment, LB Jose Enrique has proved to be a better provider from the flank. Jose has had one assist each in the past two games and has proved to be signing of the season for the Reds so far. Another thing that we learn from this game is we can effectively play 4 strikers simultaneously in the future game when we need to chase for winner or come back from behind. After the introduction of Bellamy in late 2nd half, we had as many as 4 strikers Carroll,Suarez,Kuyt and Bellamy playing together with Bellamy and Kuyt playing on the wing. The 4 strikers can provide serious attacking threat and I recommend King to continue to use this tactics in similar situation in the future.

9.24.2011 Liverpool vs Wolverhampton 2:1 - Important victory to rediscover confidence as Captain Gerrard made long-awaited come-back.

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Kelly Carragher Skrtel Enrique
Henderson Lucas Adam Downing
Kuyt Suarez

LFC scorers: Adam '11, Suarez '38

LFC Player of the game:

Suarez – Luis was tired after the midweek Carling Cup tie vs Brighton. He has missed some passes and scoring chances during the game. Yet, he still played very hard and chased around to close down opposing defenders. As usual, even if he didn’t have a good game, he can still produce at least one moment of magic to win the game. The 2nd goal of the game is a sensational goal that showed Luis is a pure genius. He was furious when he was substituted out with around 15 minutes to go, but I think King had made a correct decision as we really can’t afford Suarez to get fatigue and injury. LFC is nothing in attack without “El Pistolero”.

Insights:

As usual, King Kenny used 4-4-2 again even after the poor performance of MF in the 4-0 loss to Tottenham in the previous game. Wolves played 5 midfielders but LFC’s weakness in CMF was not exposed as Wolves do not have high quality CMFs. Henderson was handed another start on the right and as expected, he produced another anonymous performance. With Bellamy and Kuyt combined superbly with Suarez during the mid-week game, maybe it’s time for King to think about giving more playing time for Bellamy, Kuyt and Maxi on the wing over Henderson. The encouraging sign is Carroll has shown improved fitness and great enthusiasm in the game. He played really hard and all he needs is a goal to boost his confidence. I still feel Downing and Henderson have failed to produce scoring chances and decent crossing for Carroll so far. We have simply relied on the flair of Suarez way too often. Highlight of the game was obviously the long -awaited comeback of captain Gerrard after missing action for half year. Gerrard played around 10 minutes but his movement and passing was simply from another planet compared to Adam, Lucas, Downing and Henderson. We really need our captain to get back to full strength soon and by then, we will see a different LFC side with Gerrard produce great passes and crosses for Luis and Andy.

9.18.2011 Tottenham vs Liverpool 4:0 - Humiliation proves LFC can only be 5th in league at best?

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Skrtel Carragher Agger Enrique
Henderson Lucas Adam Downing
Suarez Carroll

LFC Player of the game: None deserved!

Insights:

This was the worst loss under King Kenny as a LFC manager ever! LFC has not beaten Tottenham for the past two seasons and not even most optimistic LFC fans predicted LFC can get a victory at White Hart Lane. Losing is acceptable but losing 4-0 really is a humiliation. Had LFC used the right tactics and starting the right players, LFC sure should not have suffered from such a poor start, allowing Tottenham to score early to gain the momentum. LFC team grew frustrated for Tottenham’s domination right from the kick-off and thereby made silly fouls which resulted in the send-off of both Adam and Skrtel. This season, King Kenny seems to be so determined to adopt 4-4-2 to build the team around striker duo Suarez and Carroll that he simply ignored whether 4-4-2 can be effective against big teams in away games. King was also so desperate to prove his cult in the transfer market by giving majority of playing time to new players like Downing, Adam and Henderson instead of the more experienced and established Maxi and Kuyt, hoping that they can adapt and improve quickly to prove their value. Although Downing, Adam and Henderson are decent players, the likes of proven internationals like Kuyt, Maxi and the departed Meireles and Aqualini are considered by many with superior quality. The decisive factor of this game was the difference in class between Tottenham’s MF and LFC’s MF. In the middle, Parker and Modric easily dominated Lucas and Adam. I believe we can never match up with their CMF with only 2 CMF especially without Gerrard being 100% and starting. We should have played 3 CMF and with Henderson or Spearing starting alongside Adam and Lucas to help neutralize Parker and Modric and force them to play with only 1 FW up-front. Tottenham clearly has an edge in the wing as well. Bale toying with CB Skrtel (who is really a CB) on the left wing as Kelly and Johnson were both nursing with injury. King should have played Flanagan instead, but may be King feels more pressure this season for playing this teenager. It’s disappointing to see our only natural winger Downing having trouble facing the high flying Tottenham RB Walker too. The situation got even worse with King’s stubborn on starting Henderson on the right wing even if Henderson clearly struggles in this role. If King was willing to play 4-5-1 and start more experienced Kuyt, Maxi and Bellamy, LFC could have a better result. Spur’s MF Modric, Parker, Van Der Vaart, Bale and Lennon have the creativity, speed and skills that we are lacking of. Sometimes I wonder if King kept Meireles and Aqualini in the side and started both of them along with Lucas, Gerrard and Kuyt, we may have better chance to match-up with Tottenham. It’s hardly a secret King prefers local English players, may be due to his success with English based players in his glory days with Liverpool in 80’s and Blackburn in the 90’s.

Although LFC could have provided a more competitive contest to the rejuvenated Tottenham after their impressive signings during the summer, Tottenham has clearly shown they are superior in quality at the moment. The arrivals of GK Friedel, DMF Parker and CF Adebayor have all improved their weakness areas, even if they all may only be considered to be short-term solutions. Other than Suarez, Reina and may be Gerrard , LFC do not have one area having a cutting edge over this strongest ever Tottenham side for the past 20+ years! If defensive leader Ledley King can stay healthy, it’s hard to see LFC winning over the 4th spot in the end!

9.10.2011 Stoke City vs Liverpool 1:0 - Early season set-back as LFC only has themselves to blame despite questionable referee decisions

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Skrtel Carragher Agger Enrique
Henderson Lucas Adam Downing
Kuyt Suarez

LFC Man of the match:

Luis Suarez - the only LFC attacker causing consistent pressure to the rock-solid Stoke's defensive line. Unfortunately, Suarez could not finish off some socring chances despite once again displayed his brilliance in attack in different occasions.

Insight:
There had been obvious questionable calls from referee throughout the game. Stoke may not deserve to win the penalty, but Carragher also needs to look into the mirror as he should have never made similar school-boy error to let Stoke's Walters to take advantage to flop for that slight push. It's not the first time our vice-captain made stupid mistake, remember his error to allow Bolton got a goal back last game? LFC may deserve to win their own PK for some half-handball claims, but LFC has failed miserably in their finishing and final passes. Suarez has been as brilliant as ever, but he has never been provided with enough support. Bellamy has done very well since coming on and King should seriously consider dropping the inconsistent and immature Henderson to the bench. Both Bellamy and Maxi deserve to be starting over Henderson at the moment. Despite the loss, LFC still possess strength in depth to have a good season ahead. We have dynamic and versatile forwards serving different functions. However, what worries me is we still don't have a top-finisher like Ian Rush and old Torres. As sensational as Suarez, he is more of a supporting striker rather than a classic no.9 finisher. We need to be more clinical in front of goal to accomplish our goal- finishing at top 4 and getting back to Champion League!

8.27.2011 LFC vs Bolton 3:1 - Henderson & Adam opened their goal tally as new-look LFC impressed the home crowd!

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Kelly Carragher Agger Enrique
Henderson Lucas Adam Downing
Kuyt Suarez

LFC Goal Scorers:

Henderson, Skrtel & Adam

LFC Man of the match:

Henderson - Henderson has been criticized for his performance during first 3 games <2 league games and 1 Carling Cup games> He has been over cautious and afraid of making mistakes, so he has passed the ball to the nearest teammates way too much without trying to create chances. Although Suarez, Adam and Lucas have all been brilliant in this game, Henderson deserved to be Man of the Match. Not only did he score a great goal, but also created scoring chances for Downing and Suarez. Henderson was still young but people have been expected too much from him too soon due to his 20M transfer fee. Henderson should have a good future, but he needs to keep improving.

Insight:
It seems King Kenny will prefer 4-4-2 at home and 4-5-1 in away game. This game has shown that Kuyt is a better complement for Suarez than Carroll. Suarez did not score in this game, but his movement and passing are top-class the whole game. Some of his splendid passes reminds me of passes from Gerrard in his glory days! Liverpool was just a different team with Luiz. He and Kuyt have created so much room and spaces for midfielders to attack. I am delighted both Henderson and Adam opened their scoring account for LFC. Adam and Lucas are sensational in MF and even Henderson was brilliant in RMF role. However, Bolton was playing without Holden and both Muamba and Reo-Coker are work-horse without ball control and playmaking ability. Therefore,I remain skeptical whether Lucas+Adam are sufficient defensively in CMF in 4-4-2. Could 4-4-2 work well without a natural right winger? Henderson played well on RMF in this game, but he is still young and can be inconsistent. I still hope LFC can get a natural right wing before the Aug.31 transfer deadline. Also, I would hope for a striker with speed and finishing. As brilliant as Luiz, as intelligent as Kuyt, as powerful and high-potential as Carroll, LFC still lack of a great finisher. However, defense could be strong now with the arrival of Coates. A new defensive line comprise Kelly, Johnson,Skrtel,Carragher,Coates,Agger,Enrique,Wilson,Auerlio are great in strength in depth! We can be top 2 defensive team in the league this season!

8.20.2011 Arsenal vs LFC 0:2 - Chaotic Gunners commit suicide as LFC won in Highbury first time in a decade!

Starting line-up: (4-2-3-1)

Reina
Kelly Carragher Agger Enrique
Lucas Adam
Kuyt Henderson Downing

Carroll

LFC Goals:

Ramsey (ARS) OG '78, Suarez ‘90

LFC Man of the match:

Suarez - Once Luis and Meireles sub into the game in 71 minute, Liverpool has been a different team. His skills and movement completely frustrated the sorry Gunners defense and ultimately scored the winning goal. King had done right to rest Luis as sub to keep him fresh in this game as he had a tired summer with the Copa America runs. However, it has shown LFC still relied on the magic of Suarez too much.

Insight:

In this away game, King played with 5 MFs with Andy Carroll as the lone striker supported by Kuyt and Downing at the wings. Although Liverpool has shown promises and improvement throughout the game, especially in defense with Kelly and Enrique produced impressive performance in defending Arshavin and Walcott, their attacking plays surrounding Carroll limited to one-dimensional direct long-ball. Had Gunners played without defensive leader Vermaelen, this simple strategy could have still worked more effectively. The game could have been gone 0-0 until the appearance of Suarez and Meireles. Since their arrival, LFC completely changed their plays to pass-and-move. Gunners had no answer and their young gun Frimpong made a silly fouls on Lucas to get send-off. Right after, Gunners handed LFC a free-gift for a careless own goal. With a more balanced squad and greater fighting spirit, it's clear LFC has a decisive edge over Gunners in the race for 4th place this season.

8.13.2011 LFC vs Sunderland 1:1 - Promising 1st half following by a disappointing 2nd half as 4 new players making their debut in new-look LFC

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Flanagan Carragher Agger Enrique
Henderson Lucas Adam Downing
Suarez Carroll

LFC Goals:

Suarez ‘12

LFC Man of the match:

Agger – Agger is fit again and he is a quality and complete defender when he is fit. He has good read of the game, decent ball control and great shooting ability. The question is he is very injury prone! With Skrtel currently injured and Kyrgiakos not up to LFC standard, LFC will hopefully get a new CB before the transfer deadline.

Top 5 Insights:

1.It was a pity Suarez missed the penalty to open the score after sensationally earning a penalty for LFC in the opening minutes. (Suarez did make up for his mistake by opening the account with a tricky header.) However, Sunderland’s Richardson should have been send-off when he tripped down Suarez in the penalty claim. On the hindsight, had Richardson been send off in the early going, LFC could have dominated the game.

2. King Kenny started all 4 new players: Adam, Downing, Henderson and Enrique. Although Adam, Downing and Enrique have all shown their quality in the game, it’s clear they need more playing time and training to gel together. People have criticized King Kenny for starting all 4 of them together, but King is clearly concerning more about long-term. He’d rather lost points in the early season by starting all of them at once than taking more time for the new players to develop their understandings by restricting their playing time. Had King care more about instant success, he could have started Kuyt, Meireles and Maxi alongside Suarez. On the other hand, although Sunderland had bought about 7-8 new players, they have only started 2 new players so it’s obvious they have the edge in terms of understandings and teamwork.

3. 4-4-2 was used in the game for the objective of developing the striker partnership of Andy Carroll + Luiz Suarez instead of the more successful 4-2-3-1 adopted in their winning runs in the 2nd half of last season. However, Henderson as the right winger doesn’t seem working so far as he doesn’t have the skills and speed to operate in the wing effectively and he looks for passes too often when he received the ball. Clearly, he is more effective in the CMF role. Also, the partnership of Adam and Lucas in the 2 CMF has shown clear weakness. Adam has shown decent passing and shooting ability, but his defending ability is poor. Thus, Lucas has to take on too much responsibility in defensive duty in the CMF. I think 4-4-2 may not work for LFC and 4-3-3 or 4-3-2-1 may still work better with one more CMF such as Meireles and Henderson to help out Lucas and Adam. Suarez may need to play in the wing forward role but I still think a 3 CMF formation suits LFC more.

4. I always like to have a target man like Crouch and Carroll in the squad. It gives the team another dimension in attack as they can attack opponents through the ground or up in the air. However, the single most disappointing area of LFC display in this game is there were simply too much mindless long-balls to Carroll in the 2nd half. LFC should have tried to pass the ball around more to have a better mix of pass-and-move to complement with decent crossing for Carroll like they did in the 1st half. With players like Suarez, Adam, Downing and Meireles, LFC is much more quality than having to rely on 40-50 yard long crossing to Carroll. King Kenny really needs to correct this big tactical mistake from now on!

5. There are concerns that Aquilani didn’t even make the bench and it could be a signal King may sell him before the transfer deadline. I still hope King will give Aquilani serious chances in the coming few games to prove his worth as he is a skillful playmaker with scoring and playmaking ability. I believe Aquilani and Suarez can play well together with their passing skills and ball control. As King said he will give fair chances to everyone in the squad and I hope he will keep his promise!

2011/2012 Premiership Prediction

1 Manchester United
2 Chelsea
3 Liverpool
4 Manchester City
5 Tottenham
6 Arsenal
7 Everton
8 Sunderland
9 Fulham
10 Aston Villa
11 West Brom
12 Stoke City
13 QPR
14 Newcastle United
15 Bolton
16 Wolverhampton
17 Blackburn
18 Norwich
19 Wigan
20 Swansea

2011/2012 Liverpool FC Squad

GK

25 Pepe Reina – Spain
- One of the top GK in the premiership will certainly continue to start for the Reds. His overall performance has kept improving, but seems to have lost his ability in saving penalty last season. Had/Will hernia problem affect his performance?

32 Doni - Brazil
- Former Brazilian national team GK and starting GK for Roma joined in the summer. Definitely a higher-profiled GK than any of Liverpool back-up GK in the recent years. Should provide a more reliable back-up for Reina. My concern is will LFC sign him to start more than we anticipated due to recovery concern of Reina for his hernia operation in the summer?

RB

2 Glen Johnson - England
- Efficient in attack but unreliable in defense, Johnson had been one of the weak links in LFC defense until King Kenny returned and inspired him. Since the return of the King, Johnson had started as left-back and improved his defensive performance. Should move back to right back role if LFC can successfully acquire a new left back. With the emergence of young Kelly and Flanagan, I wonder if Johnson should finally be pushed forward as right wing to display his talent in attack.

34 Martin Kelly - England
- A natural CB who can also play anywhere across the defensive line. His strong performance in the right back has even pushed England regular Johnson to the left-back role. Unfortunately, he has been troubled by injury in his young career so far. The most defensive solid RB among the 3 right back choices, but should eventually returned to his natural CB role as many has tipped him to be new Jamie Carragher.

38 John Flanagan - England
- Made a couple of surprising starts for the first team near the end of last season due to the team's injury problem. The 18 year-old has surprised many for his mature and calm performance for playing without fear. Selected as LFC best player in reserve team last season and could make the right back role his own in the near future.

LB

3 Jose Enrique - Spain

6 Fabio Aurelio - Brazil

- The most injury prone player in the team. The Brazilian LB can hardly stay fit for more than 1/3 of a season. When he is fit, he is an intelligent LB with good passing/free-kick skills and positioning. He can only be a back-up due to his fragility and is basically on pay-as-he-play contract.

49 Jack Robinson - England
- Made his senior debut two seasons ago when he was 16! Received a few first team chance during the close of last season due to injury problem in LB and did not disappoint. LB of the future but was still too young and raw to be a starter. Definitely can be a reliable back-up LB.

CB

23 Jamie Carragher - England

5 Daniel Agger - Denmark

37 Martin Skrtel - Slovakia

16 Sebastian Coates - Uruguay

22 Danny Wilson - Scotland

DMF

21 Lucas Levia - Brazil

20 Jay Spearing - England

CMF

26 Charlie Adam - Scotland

33 Jonjo Shelvey - England

AMF

8 Steven Gerrard - England

14 Jordan Henderson - England

LW/LFW

19 Stewart Downing - England

11 Maxi Rodriquez - Argentina

RW/RFW

7 Luiz Suarez - Uruguay

39 Craig Bellamy - Wales

CF

9 Andy Carroll - England

18 Dirk Kuyt - Holland

2011/2012 Season Liverpool New Arrival: No.19 Stewart Downing

Position: LW/RW

Age: 26

Previous Club: Aston Villa

2010/2011 stats: 38 games 7 goals 7 assists

International Caps: England- 27 caps

Transfer fee: 20M

Liverpool has been lacking of a single natural winger in the team. Kuyt, Maxi, Joe Cole and even Meireles were used in the winger position since the come-back of King Kenny, but none of them are natural winger. One of the most important focuses in this year summer transfer for Liverpool is to look for a natural winger with speed and crossing ability who can supply crosses for Andy Carroll. While initial target Aston Villa winger Ashley Young chose to join Manchester United, King Kenny has quickly identified Stewart Downing as his no.1 winger target. Downing's 20M transfer fee was considered to be over-valued but Liverpool was in desperate need for a proven and established winger in the league who can provide pin-point crosses into the penalty box to maximize the ability of Carroll to justify his 35M transfer fee in January. In fact, many football insiders could see Downing as the perfect complement for Carroll, a traditional British big central forward who needs crossing from the flank to fully display his scoring/heading ability.

Some fans believe an internationl class winger like Spanish Mata should prove to be better money-for-value than Downing. However, not only foreign wingers may need time to adapt to the physical English league, but also most foreign wingers prefer to use their speed and dribble skills in the wing than making crosses into the box. I am not saying Liverpool should never sign a skillful international winger who can take on defenders on the wing, but I do believe Liverpool needs a winger who can cross as much as a winger who can dribble. In the ideal world, I really hope Liverpool can also sign someone like Mata on the opposite wing of Downing.

Downing has been one of the league's top youngsters since his early career with Middlesbrough. He was selected by England national team 27 times as of today. He has helped Middlesbrough to earn runners-up in UEFA Cup. He may not be very skillful or full-of-tricks, but he is quick and intelligent. He is a great team player who helps out in defending. He has also improved his right foot to the point which earned him more assists with his right foot than his left last season! He has been very impressive for Aston Villa last season and was chosen as the Club's Player of the Season. Last season, Downing has put in 137 crosses into the box which was the highest amounts provided by any single player in the league! Many fans doubted him because Downing is not fancy and eye-catching; however, many managers love Downing for the similar reason-Unspectacular but Efficient.

His ability to play as both wings will be a great assets for Liverpool. Chances are Downing will likely be featured in any formation: 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 3-4-1-2 or 4-3-3. Along with Adam, Downing can be the X-factor for Liverpool this coming season.

Has Liverpool over-paid for him at 20M? Probably! However, I would rather Liverpool over-spend in getting the right player than getting some disappointing players at a bargain!

2011/2012 Season Liverpool New Arrival: No.26 Charlie Adam

Position: CMF

Age: 25

Previous Club: Blackpool FC

2010/2011 stats: 34 games 12 goals 8 assists

International Cap: Scotland- 11 Caps

Transfer fee: 9M

Although Blackpool FC only spend one season in the premiership before they quickly relegated to the Champship Division, many fans had been impressed with Blackpool's entertaining exciting attacking football. Their captain Charlie Adam has been particularly impressive for his leadership in the heart of the midfield as Adam has been sensationally nominated as top 6 candidates for the 2010/2011 Premiership Player of the Season by PFA!

Before 2010/2011 season, Adam was a unheard Scottish midfield who has spend majority of his young career with Scottish premiership giant Rangers and Blackpool FC in the England Championship Division. However, 2010/2011 premiership season has provided a perfect platform for Adam to display his quality as the midfield general in the top level. Adam has great long-range pass, dangerous free-kicks, accurate corner-kicks/penalty kicks and powerful long-range shot.

In fact, Adam can be a perfect replacement for Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso, whose departure 2 seasons ago was never a coincidence for the start of the club's downfall. Without Xabi to direct traffic in the central midfield, Gerrard was forced to drop deep and reduced his chance to play in the advanced AMF role which has gradually proved to be his most ideal position. Now, with the arrival of Adam, Gerrard can be featured in AMF position again.

To me, Adam can be the difference maker for Liverpool FC in the new season. His playmaking ability and set-piece skills can open up an extra dimension in attack. However, due to Adam's lack of speed, he can be vulnerable in defending if he has to be used as a DMF. Like Alonso, Adam probably needs a more defensive minded midfield like Lucas to play alongside with. 4-2-3-1 five midfield formation could be most suitable to fit both Adam and Gerrard in the same starting 11, which could ironically restrict King Kenny from starting 2 strikers in his starting 11.

2011/2012 Season Liverpool New Arrival: No.14 Jordan Henderson

Position: CMF/RMF
Age: 21
Previous Club: Sunderland FC
2010/2011 stats: 37 games 3 goals 4 assists
International Cap: England- 1 Cap
Transfer fee: 20M

Liverpool's 1st summer signing is the shocking 20M acquisition of young England talented midfield Jordan Henderson, who has been relatively unproven in the top level. What has made Liverpool willing to spend 20M on a young unproven player? Jordan Henderson has made premiership debut in 2009/2010 season and took little time to impress Sunderland to make him starting midfield in the 2010/2011 season in which he has produced impressive performance that earned him an international cap for England senior level. Henderson is high-energy, box-to-box midfield in the mood of Gerrard and Lampard. Henderson doesn't have a particular strength in his game, but is rather seen as a complete midfield who can contribute in different areas for the team. He still needs to improve many areas in his game, such as finishing skills. However, his all-actioned diligent game and intelligent positional sense allow him to advance to dangerous areas. In fact, in 2010/2011 season, Henderson was 5th in the premiership in scoring chance creation!

Although Henderson can also play as a right wing, his best position is central midfield as shown in his impressive displays for different junior levels for England national team. However, since Liverpool currently possess many talents in the central midfield, Henderson may be given more playing chance in the right midfield position. Many people believe Liverpool see Henderson as the heir of captain Gerrard as many see Henderson has potential to be new Gerrard in the future. For now, Henderson will be the under-study for Gerrard. 20M high transfer fee definitely is paid for the future, but Henderson should be ready to contribute whenever he got his chance.

No.7 Luiz Suarez- "I just can't seem to get enough" - Tribute to the new Liverpool Legend!!!

"His name is Luis Suarez, he wears the famous Red
I just can't get enough, I just can't get enough

You'll Never Walk Alone is the first thing he said
I just can't get enough, I just can't get enough

He scores a goal, and the Kop go wild
and I just can't seem to get enough, Suarez

du du du du du. du du du du du du du.....

lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu lu ... LUIZ SUAREZ!!!"

Above is the lyrics of the offical Luiz Suarez Song- "I just can't seem to get enough". Luiz Suarez took little time to not only settle in English premiership, but also become the focal point and dangerous man of the rejuvenated Liverpool, which has rise from 19th in October to 6th place finish in a bitter-sweet season. The change of ownership, the incredible man-management skills of King Kenny and magical tactician introduced by Steve Clarke have helped to boost the team spirit and maximize the potential of the whole Liverpool squad in little more than three months. Yet, the revolution can never succeed without the star performance of Luiz Suarez in almost every single game he has played so far. Luiz Suarez can have a quiet half at times, but he has always produced at least one magical moment to give a winning chance for Liverpool even when they are struggling. Of course, when the team was on song, Liverpool has been quite unstoppable lately.

With the old idol Torres gone, Gerrard and Carroll both injured, Liverpool was left with no top class player who could fear the opponents. Since King Kenny has made Liverpool to play as a real team and collective unit again without having to rely on one-man-show from Gerrard, the whole squad from young full-backs like Martin Kelly and John Flanagan, under-sized midfield Lucas and Spearing and struggling wingers Maxi and Kuyt have all produced incredible performance and basically have all their critics and doubters ashamed of and regret for their harsh judgement on them! In particular, Kuyt, Maxi and Meireles have all had their incredible scoring runs in the recent months. Yet, they could have never produced such brilliant performance without the presence of Luiz Suarez.

Luiz Suarez possess great dribbling ability and can take on defenders at ease. At 5'11, Suarez may not be considered to be short among most great dribblers; yet, he has low central of gravity which allow him keep his balance even against physical knock. He has a multiple ways of tricks in going past defenders that make defenders find it hard to dictate his next moves. Suarez's most threatening dribbling move is dribble to the baseline/by-line of opponents' defensive half even with amazingly narrow space. His great control allows him to control the ball at ease under narrowest of space. Opponents always fear of stopping him in those dangerous zone. Basically, if defenders are too eager or aggressive in their tackle, they could risk concede a penalty kick to Liverpool!!!

Suarez has not been finishing off easy chances consistently just yet. However, he has shown his ability to score sensational goals. He is equally brilliant in his own shot attempts or provide vital assists to teammates. His presence attracts so much attention from opponents and create space for Kuyt and Maxi getting into scoring position. The difference between Suarez and Torres is that while Torres is a more clinical goal scorer, Suarez is a more complete attacker who can create chances for teammates, dribble past defenders, took free-kicks while also score fair amount of goals. Suarez is less selfish and is more versatile with his ability to play as a support striker, central striker and wingers. What has been most impressive in Suarez's game is his never-say-die attitude. Not only has he been diligent in attacking, but also has been aggressive in tracking back to initial defense up-front.

Is he the New Tevez? the new King Kenny? It really doesn't matter. What matters is with Suarez acting as the corenerstone for the new Liverpool FC, the hope of winning trophy could finally be materialized soon!

May 9, 2011 - Fulham vs Liverpool: 2:5 - Liverpool on incredible roll as amazing Maxi hits 2nd hat-trick in his last 3 games!

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez & Maxi Rodriguez

Game Summary:




Starting line-up: (4-3-3)

Reina
G.Johnson Carragher Skrtel Flanagan
Meireles Lucas Spearing
Kuyt Suarez Maxi

Goals: Maxi '1,'7 '70, Kuyt '16, Suarez '75

May 1, 2011 - Liverpool vs Newcastle: 3:0 - LFC reached 5th spot as confidence soars skyhigh!

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez

Game Summary:




Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina

Flanagan Carragher Skrtel G.Johnson

Meireles Spearing Lucas Maxi

Kuyt Suarez

Goals: Maxi '10, Kuyt '59 (PK), Suarez '65

April 23, 2011 - Liverpool vs Birmingham: 5:0 - Maxi's hat-trick led to bigget league win since September 2009 as 5th place hope stays alive.

LFC Player of the Game: Maxi Rodriguez - the 3 goals he scored may all look easy goals, but Maxi is an expert in running into open space from deep. The "scoring midfield" is back to his very best form under King Kenny. Of course, Maxi could have never revive without a star dribbler like Suarez. Maxi had proved that he deserved to stay in the team to provide scoring ability from the bench.

Game Summary:

Since King was in charge, Liverpool had beaten Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City and earned a draw vs Arsenal away. However, they had not shown their ability to beat middle to low ranked teams. Finally, Liverpool had shown that they are ready to show their ability to beat teams outside of top 5 in this game vs Birmingham in convincing fashion. Liverpool totally dominated from start to finish. Due to yet another disappointing injury to Carroll, King was forced to switch his line-up by pushing Kuyt to play up-front with Suarez and gave Maxi another starting chance after his disappointing performance in the Europa League elimination tie against Barga. This time, Maxi would not let the starting opportnity vanished by scoring his first hat-trick in Red jersey. The three goals Maxi scored may not be great goals, but they had all been vital. Maxi opened the account in the 7th minute bascially set the tone for LFC. Although LFC aimed to develop the great potential big and small striker partnership between Carroll and Suarez, Kuyt had proved to be a more ideal partnership with Suarez so far. Kuyt had never been in greater form in his LFC career than now as Suarez had developed great understanding with Kuyt. They are both very hard working and make themselves available for passes by running into open space. There is certainly great chemistry developing between themselves with both always made good one-two pass with each other. With Suarez's dribbling and flair trouble opposing defenders, Kuyt was able to run into open space for a bounced shots. In fact, since the arrival of Suarez, players like Maxi, Kuyt and Meireles had all have great scoring runs. Suarez had made everyone playing around him better. Tribute had to be paid to King Kenny for developing great one-touch-passing/pass-and-move in the diamond of Meireles-Kuyt-Maxi-Suarez. The movement without the ball cannot be under-estimated. In the present LFC offensive play, always we can see Meireles,Kuyt,Maxi,Suarez made great run into the box, with all 4 offensive players kept moving around to different positions without staying in one particular area to wait for the pass. It makes the offensive plays unpredictable and opposing teams had nightmare in man-marking LFC attacking players. Of course, the current LFC offense cannot be executed without a magical dribbler Suarez. In the long-run, Liverpool really needs to sign another Suarez's type of player with dribbling ability and flair. Suarez cannot be depended upon like Torres in the past. We need a reliable substitute for Suarez.

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Flanagan Carragher Skrtel Robinson
Meireles Spearing Lucas Maxi
Kuyt Suarez

Goals: Maxi '7, '66, '73, Kuyt '23, J.Cole '86

April 16, 2011 - Arsenal vs Liverpool: 1:1 - Madness in the 11-minute added time as LFC youngsters came through big challenge.

LFC Player of the Game: Lucas Levia - No one played well in attack while everyone played hard to keep the Gunners from scoring in the defensive end. Yet, Lucas' earning two key fouls in the 11th added minute in the 2nd half was the turn-around of the game for LFC. In reality, we all LFC fans know Lucas was faking for the foul. Lucas had become a very smart player and even his faking skills has improved!

Game Summary:

This was an incredible challenge for LFC playing at Highbury vs Gunners who was still in league title race. Liverpool tried to use Carroll height to attack Arsenal's weakness in defending headers. However, Arsenal's was in control of possession with their flair and skills on the ball. Liverpool did not have the wingers to supply crosses to Carroll and had been forced to defend deep. Still, teenagers full-backs Flanagan and Robinson showed their posie in the game and had played in a key role to stop Gunners from scoring. Near middle of 2nd half, a scary scene seen Carragher got a head crashed and went unconscious. He was substituted out of the game and it was a tribute for the young Liverpool to be able to keep Gunners from scoring in the regulation time until Spearing made a mistake by fouling in the penalty box and gifted a penalty to Van Perise in the 94 minute. Due to Carragher's injury, referee supposed to give around 8-11 minutes added time. Just as all LFC fans including myself thought the 94th minute Gunners' penalty bascially left us too little time to make any kind of comeback, we got a miracle! Lucas Levia got fouled in the edge of the penalty box and awarded LFC a free-kick. After Suarez's free-kick was blocked, the ball went straight back to Lucas in the penalty box. The silly Arsenal RB Eboue made an unnecessary push on Lucas and earned LFC a big chance to tie the game. Great PK taker Kuyt made the PK and I was overjoyed by the 1-1 result. This was a key result for Liverpool, giving LFC big confidence boost and belief to keep their great winning run going to chase for the 5th Europa League spot. The mistake for Gunners in the closing minute yet again showed that Gunners still lacked the poise and experience to win the big game in crunch moment to challenge for title.

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina
Flanagan Carragher Skrtel Robinson
Kuyt Spearing Lucas Merieles
Carroll Suarez

Goals: Kuyt '101 (PK)

April 11, 2011 - Liverpool vs Man.City: 3:0 - 35M striker opened his account as LFC crashed the sorry City!!!

LFC Player of the Game: Andy Carroll- 35M striker completely out-performed Manchster City's high-priced strikers Balotelli and Dzeko.

Game Summary:
Liverpool was in complete chaos when they made their visit to Manchester City in early months of the season under Hodgson when they were easily hammered by 3 goals. Although Liverpool had been able to beat top teams such as Manchester United and Chelsea since King Kenny was in charge, many LFC faithful expected this game to be a tough encounter even playing in Anfield. On paper, Manchster City may seemed to have an edge with their multi million players such as Tevez and Dzeko. Good news for LFC was Manchster City would have to face Manchester United in FA Cup semi-final 5 days later, so Manchster City had not shown total focus in this game.

Since full-backs Glen Johnson and Martin Kelly suffered from long-term injury, King Kenny had forced to play CB Carragher and Wilson on the full-backs position without success due to their lack of speed to defend opposing quick wingers. To solve the full-backs problem, King Kenny took a gutty move by starting 17 year old RB John Flanagan in this massive encounter. As the injury-proned Aurelio injured again in the early 1st half, another 17 year old LB Jack Robinson was also given chance to shine. Both young full-backs exceeded all expectation by shutting down Manchester City England international wingers Adam Johnson and James Milner.

However, the man making the headline was 35M big striker Carroll. Finally getting back into form, Carroll scord two great goals that led to important victory for LFC. The two goals Carroll scored was in fact Carroll's trademark. The first goal was a powerful left-footed long-range rocket, with the 2nd goal being an accurate and powerful header. Hopefully Carroll will be able to maintain his fitness and score more goals for LFC.

Starting line-up: (4-4-2)

Reina

Flanagan Carragher Skrtel Aurelio

Kuyt Spearing Lucas Merieles

Carroll Suarez

Goals: Carroll '13, Kuyt '34, Carroll '35

April 4, 2011 - West Brom vs Liverpool.: 2:1 - Another struggle after international week as Hodgson got the last laugh...

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez, if any...

Game Summary:

Let's face it, Liverpool is still in rebuilding stage. Since King Kenny took over, Liverpool has been able to beat top sides such as Manchester United and Chelsea. However, they still have failed to beat lower teams like West Brom, West Ham and Blackpool. Liverpool has to rely on hard work to beat the top teams and they tend to be out-worked by lower teams. There is simply no other alternatives for Liverpool other than out-working their opponents in order to gain any victory in the ever demanding league. Since the team is lacking of strength in depth at the moment, fatigue caused from tight schedule such as European games or international game week can basically kill any chance of Liverpool's chance to perform.


Starting line-up: (4-3-3)

Reina

Carragher Skrtel Kyrgiakos Wilson

Merieles Lucas Spearing

Kuyt Carroll Suarez

Goals: Skrtel

March 20, 2011 - Sunderland vs Liverpool.: 0:2 - LFC quickly bounced back from Europa League elimination.

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez still...

Game Summary:

After the disappointing losing tie against Barga of Portugal in final 16 of Europa League, Liverpool took little time to bounce back by getting a vital victory over Sunderland at Stadium of Light, one of the toughest fields to gain victory. Suarez was again the creative force of the team as he has provided a magical 2nd goal that basically ended all hope of Sunderland come back. In Europe, Suarez was ineligible to play for Liverpool as he was Cup-tie after playing for Ajax in Europe this season, and this explained why Liverpool had such difficulty to score in Europe compared to domestic league. Suarez provided flair and dribbling ability that Liverpool has been lacking before his arrival. Carroll made his 1st league start for Liverpool and he was unfortunate for not scoring his first goal for the Reds after his header cleared off the line by Sunderland defender. Carroll needs time to gel with teammates and regain his form; however, his performance so far already suggested he will provide heading and ball-holding ability up-front. He and Suarez should develop into a lethal partnership as Gerrard believed. Spearing played well in the game and has proved to be a worthy back-up for the Reds. As Liverpool still do not possess natural wingers, King Kenny gradually prefers to play 3 up-front with 3 central midfield supporting behind the 3 strikers. This could be a wise move, as forcing non-wingers playing the the wing could have adverse effect in overall efficiency of the team. Liverpool badly needs natural wingers who can provide accurate crosses to Carroll. Until then, we will never see the best of Andy Carroll, the future and presence of Liverpool and England No.9. My hope is someone like Ashley Young, a natural winger with pace and crossing ability, will come this summer.

Starting line-up: (4-3-3)

Reina

Carragher Skrtel Agger Johnson
Merieles Lucas Spearing
Kuyt Carroll Suarez

Goals: Kuyt'34 , Suarez '77

March 6, 2011 - Liverpool vs Manchester Utd.: 3:1 - King Kuyt Hat-Trick!!!!! Red Devils & Nani Crashed HARD!

LFC Player of the Game: King Kuyt + Luiz Suarez

Game Summary:

Liverpool was well rested with one full week of rest before facing their bitterest rivalry as the Reds were determined to take hard revenge against the Red Devils for the 0-1 loss in the FA Cup 3rd round which knocked the Reds out from FA Cup a month ago. With Kelly and Agger still out, the partnership of Carragher and Skrtel in the central of defense never give me confidence. The unfortunate injury of Auerlio during the early minutes had ironically solidified the Reds defense as it pushed King Kenny to play Kyrgiakos in CB with Carragher switched as RB and Johnson to fill the void in LB for Auerlio. It avoided Ferguson's troop to attack LFC weakness by adopting ariel attack led by Berbetov without defensive protection as Kyrgiakos' strength in defending header has always bailed LFC out against ariel attack and headers. In all honesty, Liverpool was extremely fortunate to face United without their leading CB Vidic, Ferdinand and Evans. Smalling and Brown were never capable of containing the sensational Suarez, who had produced a super-star performance throughout the game with his sizzling dribble, clever movement and flair which had all been missing elements in LFC games for over two decades! Kuyt may have stolen the headline for his first hat-trick in his Reds career. Kuyt's hard work had paid-off in this important encounter as he had produced a "Gary Lineker-like" performance with all 3 goals scored within 3 yards out! In fact, Liverpool had never have any player scored a hat-trick vs United since Peter Beardsley more than 20 years ago! Kuyt was striker by nature, but he had been transformed into a right wing to accommodate Torres' lone-strike game since El Nino's arrival. Now with Torres gone, Kuyt could be given more chances to play as striker again as both Carroll and Suarez can play with a striking partner. Although Kuyt had scored all 3 goals, Suarez was instrumental in all 3 goals. Who can forget the opening goal when Suarez dribbled past three United players before sliding a half-shot past Van Der Sar. Even without Kuyt stole his goal, Suarez's slow shots could also have gone into the net. With Carroll finally recovered and made his awaited debut in 2nd half and took little time to make his presence felt with his aerial power and strength, the long anticipated striking partnership of Carroll and Suarez could soon be materialized. By then, LFC faithful should say "Fernando Who?"

Starting line-up: (4-3-1-2)

Reina
Johnson Carragher Skrtel Auerlio

Gerrard Lucas Maxi

Meireles

Kuyt Suarez

Goals: Kuyt '34, '39, '65

February 27, 2011 - West Ham Utd. vs Liverpool: 3:1 - 8 game unbeaten run ended as tiring troop was out-performed!

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez, still...

Game Summary:
No question that Liverpool is lacking of strength in depth. After the tiring Europa encounter against Sparta Pargue three days ago, Liverpool players left with no energy against a rejuvenated West Ham side who tried very hard to fight for survival. Liverpool still tried to play recently effective formation 3-4-2-1. However, with Kelly, Kyrgiakos and Agger all out injured, Liverpool had so much trouble contained the athletic Hammers forwards. Parker and Hitzelberger had also out-played Gerrard and Lucas in the central midfield. Suarez was still the one and only dangerous attacking threat from the Reds. Despite a poor 1st half, he produced moments of magic and almost helped the team to tie the game. After 8 unbeaten games in the league and Europe, Liverpool finally faced a minor set-back.

Starting line-up: (3-4-2-1)

Reina
Carragher Skrtel Wilson

Kelly Gerrard Lucas Johnson
Meireles Suarez
Kuyt

Goals: G.Johnson '84

February 19, 2011 - Liverpool 1: Wigan1- Missed opportunity as Suarez's shots hit the post and the crossbar in his 1st start...

LFC Player of the Game: Luiz Suarez!!!

Game Summary: With Gerrard and Agger both out injured, Liverpool was forced to switch from their newly successful formation 3-4-2-1- back to 4-4-2/4-3-1-2 having to deal with Wigan speedy wingers. Key players such as Kuyt, Meireles and Lucas got fatigued for the mid-week international friendlies, Liverpool has to rely on Suarez to produce his magic against Wigan in his first start for the Reds and he didn't disappoint! Suarez has been a headache for the Wigan defense for the whole game. With his quick turn, speed and dribbling skills, Wigan defense can only stop him by fouls that provided the Reds several free-kick opportunities. Unfortunately, Suarez's low shots hit the post in the 1st half while his curving free-kick hit the crossbar in the 2nd half that could have turned the disappointing home draw into a 3 point well-deserved victory. Reds has still been undefeated for six games in a row and stayed at 6th in the league. Keep on going, Reds!

Starting line-up: (4-3-1-2)

Reina
Kelly Carragher Skrtel Johnson
Maxi Lucas Auerlio

Meireles

Kuyt Suarez

Goals: Meireles '24

February 12, 2011 - Gerrard declared his career belongs to LFC Forever!

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits Fernando Torres broke his heart quitting for Chelsea.
Gerrard, though, insists he bears his former teammate no grudge.

"I was heartbroken," Gerrard told the Daily Mail. "Absolutely gutted. But I also called him after he left.

"There are no hard feelings. I built up a relationship with Fernando and became his friend. He scored some fantastic goals and I have fantastic memories. I enjoyed playing with him. So you can’t go from one extreme to another and fall out with him, start criticising him.

"But he will also understand how I feel. Fernando is a bright person and he will understand that the Liverpool fans are upset as well."

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says he "trusts" the club's new owners.
Gerrard admits he didn't enjoy the final days of the Tom Hicks-George Gillett era.

"The football club is much happier now," he told the Daily Mail. "It’s in a better place than it has been for a few years. We’ve got new owners, who I’ve spoken to quite a lot, who are passionate about what they want to do.

"I trust them, I trust them even more after what’s happened in the last week or so. And the way they’ve acted, coming towards the end of the transfer window, has impressed me. I was a bit wary at first because I was maybe a bit guilty of trusting the previous owners too much.

"This time I’ve taken a bit more time in judging them. But they’ve been brilliant so far. They have put the club back in a good place already and the last three or four weeks have been really positive. We’ve had some good results. The lads are smiling again. I’ve actually enjoyed going to work again."

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says Kenny Dalglish is proving the ideal manager for the club.
Gerrard believes the veteran Scot is simply the right fit.

"It does feel right him being back," Gerrard told the Daily Mail.

"First and foremost, he’s a good person. He’s helped me throughout my career. The advice he has given me, even before coming back as manager. He’s always had time for me. Cared for me. I know how much he wanted this job and I’m just glad he got what he wanted.

"I feel he can take the club forward. As everyone knows, it’s a results business. But so far, so good, and I’d love him to get the contract extended.

"He’s brought everything together. Growing up, my experience of Liverpool was that you don’t hang out your dirty washing in public. For the last couple of years there’s been a lot of bad press. Non-stop.

"That’s not the way we want the club to be run. But Kenny’s come in and he’s lifted the fans and the players. I think you can see that in the determination they have shown in the last few games. The players are certainly playing for Kenny."

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has declared he expects to play out his career at Anfield.
In choosing to reject Chelsea, the bond has grown stronger and, at 30, he now says he will finish his career at the club.

"Since the speculation about Chelsea emerged I’ve been asked that question a lot," he told the Daily Mail. "And I’ve always held my hand up and said, yes, it did turn my head at the time, mainly because of a lack of success that we had had at Liverpool. And the interest was not just from Chelsea. It was from a number of big clubs, so of course it’s going to turn your head.

"But I’m well past that now. Well over it. I won’t be going anywhere else. I’m 31 this summer and I tell myself every day that I made the right decision. I’m pleased because, when I look back on my career, I have no regrets. I would have regretted leaving Liverpool.

"People on the outside, who don’t have the bond I have with the club, may not understand that. They will make judgments and say I could have won my trophies and earned more money if I had gone elsewhere. But that’s not important to me because I still feel I can win a couple more trophies with Liverpool and, if I do, they will mean an awful lot more to me.

"It’s more important for me to share the success I have enjoyed, and hopefully will in the future, with the people who live around me, the people who care about me and love me. The relationship I have with them is that special."

February 6, 2011 - Chelsea 0: Liverpool 1- Take that Torres!!! 4 in a row as LFC gets back to 6th!!!

LFC Player of the Game: Everyone!!! Purely a team effort, but Carragher has been the stand-out as he came back from a 2-month injury and led his defensive line to perfection today, not to mentioned playing key role in shutting-out the traitor Torres highlighted by his signature shot block that denied Torres' potential game leading goal.

Starting line-up: (3-4-2-1)

Reina

Carragher Skrtel Agger

Kelly Gerrard Lucas Johnson

Meireles Maxi

Kuyt

Goals: Meireles '69

King Kenny's New 3-4-2-1 Formation Analysis & Preview of Gameplan vs Torres & Chelsea

Fantastic game vs Stoke. I think we could be better without Torres now as the team commitment and spirit is finally back without the self-minded striker. King's 3-4-2-1 formation remind me of The 3-4-2-1 or 3-6-1, whatever you like to call, adopted in the Champion Final vs AC Milan in 2005.

Reina
Skrtel Kyriagkos Agger
Kelly Lucas Auerlio Johnson
Meireles Gerrard
Kuyt

reminds me of the formation we used in the 2nd half 3 goal come-back vs AC Milan:

Dudek

Carragher Hyypia Traore

Finnan Hamann Alonso Riise

Garcia Gerrard

Baros

I even think King Kenny may watch back those old videos and take some reference from that. Benitez had done countless things wrong, but he did do something right to be fair. However, Benitez sometimes likes to give up something that's working and try some new stupid ineffective idea.The idea of this 3-4-2-1 is to press the opponent midfield, trying to out-number the opposing midfield and aiming for winning the midfield battle. Playing 3 CB can be effective to stop opposing teams with star strikers with one extra defender to perform double-team marking. The lone striker holds up the ball and drops back to assist the 2 AMF with good scoring ability in Gerrard and Meireles (Gerrard and Garcia in 2005) I actually think KING KENNY will use this formation vs Chelsea, but may be Gerrard will drop back to CMF and let Suarez to play in advanced attacking midfield role.

Reina
Skrtel Kyrgiakos Agger
Kelly Gerrard Lucas Johnson
Meireles Suarez
Kuyt

We will face the triple attack of Drogba and Torres with Anelka playing just behind. It's important we have 3 CBs to defend them. In Drogba, Terry, Invanovic and even Essien, Chelsea can have a few players good in headers and it's important that we keep playing K16 along with Agger+Skrtel+Kelly to defend their aerial attack! Chelsea is not particular great in the wings, especially on their right wing side, so Johnson can really attack more through the left flank. If we only play 4 MF, we probably could lose to Chelsea:Essien-Lampard-Malouda-Anelka (or Mikel).. since our MF cannot be as quality or as physical strong, it's important we out-number their MF by playing 6 MF to out-number their 4 MF. We need to press them early and stop them from create chances to strikers, as they don't have great wingers to trouble us, we need to bascially JAM-PACKING the middle, just like the way we battle AC Milan in 2005 final when they have great CMF but do not have wingers! Anyway, I do suggest Gerrard drop a bit deep to restrict the Chelsea MF as I think Lucas+Auerlio won't be good enough vs the Chelsea MF and they could be press and lose possession under the pressure of Essien/Mikel.

In attack, Kuyt may not trouble Terry and Ivanovic much, but his real function is to take Terry/Ivanovic out from their defensive zone and create space for Suarez and Meireles to attack. I think this may be an effective attacking tactics. For sure, when Carroll comes back, he will provide an extra dimension for us in attack.

I 101% support King's 3-4-2-1 plan. May be this won't be only used vs Stoke City, but rather a future plan especially after Carroll is fit. King's know we don't have natural wingers so he may stick with attacking the wing through wing-backs. Playing 1 extra CB, espcially Agger, to lessen our weakness in DMF as we all know Lucas isn't natural DMF and Poulsen is still average even if his form improving. There is no way to fit our new fantastic 4 in Carroll + Suarez+ Meireles + Gerrard with 4-2-3-1 that could bascially keep Meireles to the right MF that will never be effective as proven in some of the Hodgson's game. Therefore, playing 3-4-2-1 will be a great solution as Meireles and Suarez could play together with Gerrard just behind to direct traffic in the CMF, not to mention that even Joe Cole and Maxi can be more effective in those 2 AMF roles (being substitute for Meireles and Suarez) rather than forcing them to play wide on the wings. I do expect Carroll to start once he came back and Kuyt could take turn to start as CF depends on stamina and form.

The wing-backs will be very important in this formation with Kelly and Johnson being major key players in the game plan. When they need a breather, we may see Auerlio playing some more LB again while Johnson can also play some RB if Kelly needs a rest. In fact, when Carroll comes back and start as CF, may be Kuyt can help out a bit in RWB role.