Why the 'Dalglish effect' is bringing Liverpool FC together

Desperately seeking to occupy a sofa in each hour of the day as all good students should, I found myself watching LFC TV in the final hours of Wednesday night. A tempting trip to the fridge was narrowly defeated by the chance to watch Lucas’ 60 minute interview with Claire Rourke.

The interview was an interesting one. In a sport littered with foreign youngsters who prematurely believe that they have made it, Lucas’ attitude towards training and his personal development was refreshing. Whilst attempting to learn English, the Brazilian was forced to stop reading newspapers due to the criticism that his presence in the team received. Having seen a great deal of progression since those days, it was impossible not to feel happy for a timid youngster who has turned into a fiercely determined, yet impeccably polite man. Lucas’ performance in the interview was impressive and when next repeated, I suggest it is a must for all Liverpool fans.

However, one part of the show stands out above any other. When asked by Rourke - relaying a viewer’s email to her guest – which Liverpool player from the club’s esteemed past he would like to play alongside in the current team, Lucas took a moment to sink into deep thought. Suddenly a smile broke across his face and he uttered two words - Kenny Dalglish.

Lucas’s interview was recorded in 2010, before any suggestion of King Kenny’s return had built any serious momentum. Looking back, however, Lucas’ reaction explains the renewed optimism that is surrounding the club. Whilst opposition fans (and some pundits, if we should credit them with the term) are poking fun at Dalglish’s return and as yet, modest results, Liverpool fans have been taken in by the knowledge that their club is in safe hands once more. As a football fan, there is no better feeling than the knowledge that from board room to boot room, everybody is striving to achieve the same thing.

Whilst Dalglish’s results are not yet impeccable, it would have been foolish to expect an instant turnaround. Crucially, Dalglish has excelled in the areas that many critics will have missed. Although we are only approaching the fortnight marker in Dalglish’s new era, it is hard to deny that the football club has been united by the change of manager.

A glance at Twitter showed the regard in which Dalglish is held. Some foolishly suggested that the foreign players may not have heard of him but were swiftly put in their place. Ryan Babel referred to ‘the King’ whilst the excitement of the numerous young players on the networking site spoke volumes.

If the younger players on Liverpool’s books had felt distanced from the first team previously, they should appreciate the change of mentality under Dalglish. Earlier in the week, the manager spoke to everybody involved in the academy, from players to staff, to assure them that Liverpool was to be a cohesive unit from top to bottom. Although progression to the first team will require quality, the glass ceiling that has been strengthening over recent years has been shattered by Dalglish’s return.

Dalglish is not a man who goes back on his word. His encouragement for the academy has been reinforced by his appearance in the dugout at a youth team friendly in midweek and his personal touch. Every player at the academy can rest assured that the manager knows their name, qualities and will watch them first hand whenever possible. The first team remains the Holy Grail for every youngster but it looks set to become a more accessible target.



Suso and Conor Coady have been the first recipients of Dalglish’s personal touch. The policy of allowing promising youngsters to join the first team at Melwood for several days has been in force since Rafael Benitez’s days. The impromptu car sharing offer from the manager himself is something a little different. Both youngsters have been testing themselves against the club’s finest and are likely to travel with the squad to Wolverhampton on Saturday in order to sample the away day experience. Every player speaks warmly of their first day of training with the first team squad when they look back on their career and Dalglish has ensured that for these two talented players, their accounts will be no different.

With optimism throughout the club enhanced, another of the manager’s significant challenges has been to take care of the media. Without wanting to kick Roy Hodgson while he is down, the Liverpool press conference experience is a totally different one under Dalglish. Gone are the dry, apologetic and uninspiring sermons about the formidable task confronting the team in the next game. The press conference is a difficult theatre in which to perform but Dalglish has hit the nail on the head. He has been brutally honest at times but has stuck by his players. He has reiterated his desire to bring back that Liverpool aura to the club and has continually exhibited an ability to use his own brand of humour to deflect unwanted questions. What you see is what you get with Dalglish and it appears to be a recipe that the media are enjoying. He has got the balance between honesty and intrusiveness entirely correct and has the media eating from the palm of his hand. For Liverpool fans, press conferences are now something to look forward to rather than avoid in fear of embarrassment. This is how it should be.

The impact of Kenny Dalglish’s return on the support was always likely to be unifying. There have been no surprises with the positivity that has surrounded the three fixtures thus far. What is refreshing is the manner in which fans have reacted to transfer speculation. January is undeniably a difficult market to operate in and the fans understand that. When rumours spread of a deal with Luis Suarez (weeks before official contact was made), many were a little taken aback. “Us? Suarez? Really?” Liverpool fans have become accustomed to rumours being replaced by far less exciting fact. The realisation that despite current position, Liverpool are attempting to attract the top talent worldwide is immensely reassuring. Dalglish and Comolli are targeting the right players and even if some bids are unsuccessful, their positive intent will keep fans on their side.

For all the talking, planning and encouraging, Dalglish will ultimately be judged on the pitch. Although one point and a cup exit looks underwhelming, the style of football has done enough to convince the fans that progress is likely. The pass and move motto has been a feature of Liverpool Football Club for a long time but it is slowly being dusted off and shown the light of day once more. Accompanied by pressure on the ball high up the pitch, Dalglish’s basic theories are what fans want to see.

Whilst people suggest that Hodgson wasn’t given the necessary time to shape his ideas, they fail to realise that his ideas were not suited to the establishment that he managed. Hodgson was never going to be offered time to build an ideology that nobody wanted to buy into. Dalglish’s plan is aligned with the club’s traditions. Fans will always be willing to support a man striving to achieve their dreams rather than overrule a club’s history with his own brand of football.

Ultimately, Dalglish will be judged on results. However, his work behind the scenes is everything that fans could have asked for and a little bit more. Over the past few years, Liverpool Football Club has become increasingly unfamiliar to those who have grown up supporting it. From top to bottom, Dalglish is trying to unite the club in order to allow it to achieve. If he is allowed the time to do so, Dalglish can turn Liverpool into an organisation more closely resembling the one that he played for. The worst thing for a football fan is the feeling that they can’t identify with their own club. Until the end of the season at least, these fans can thrive in the knowledge that they have their club back.

Why Ralf could be the man to lead Liverpool out of Roy's misery

At the time of writing, Roy Hodgson is still manager of Liverpool Football Club.

Unfortunately for Roy, his continued presence is more closely linked to his team’s performances leaving those connected to Liverpool in need of a stiff drink and a period of shut-eye to forget these very real nightmares, than his own success.

By the time that Liverpool walk onto the Old Trafford pitch on Sunday, the feeling is that they will see a different, less frequently rubbed face in their dugout. Whether that face is the same one that will manage the club for the foreseeable is a different matter.

Kenny Dalglish will understandably be cited as a potential replacement, in a temporary capacity at the very least. In a previous article, Mike has outlined the various problems associated with such a move. If he does well, how do you move him out? If he were to be moved out, would fans clamour for Dalglish at the first sign of trouble in the new regime? Dalglish is a great man to have involved in the club but his role within the managerial structure continues to pose questions.

The murmurings from FSG would suggest that they would ideally like to appoint a manager for the long-term who would be capable of working in tandem with their strategy. If this is the case, a little known German could be the way forward.

When Ralf Rangnick quit his post at German side Hoffenheim, most Liverpool fans wouldn’t have noticed. Why would they? A manager of a side who aren’t particularly well publicised quits over a transfer dispute and the Kop is supposed to rise in anticipation? It’s unlikely.

Several informed analysts took a deeper interest in the 52 year old. Although perhaps feeding off the ‘anyone but Roy’ attitude that has grown throughout Hodgson’s reign, the summaries of Rangnick’s credentials from those with a knowledge of German football seemed to promote something more substantial than fantasy.

When looking at the style of Rangnick’s management at Hoffenheim, his methods seem to interlink nicely with FSG’s strategy for Liverpool.

Despite fairly unsuccessful spells at Stuttgart and Schalke, Rangnick’s spell at Hoffenheim was spectacular. Arriving at a third division side based in a German village with a population of just over 3,000, Rangnick utilised the wealth of the club’s billionaire owner to propel Hoffenheim into the Bundesliga. In their first season in Germany’s elite division, Rangnick’s side finished 7th, a position that may have finished higher had it not been for a major injury to striker Vedad Ibišević. This was followed up by an 11th place finish last season, providing two very reasonable finishes for a side that only turned professional in 2007.

With a substantial budget, Rangnick could have built a team in any style that he felt appropriate. Significantly, he opted to play attacking football. A 4-3-3 system with two natural wingers provided a platform upon which to play fluent, quick football. Rangnick’s sides played scintillating football and backed their ability to play the ball on the floor. Although there is no saying that he would adopt the same formation in English football, his mentality is very much offensive. Ian Holloway has showed that attacking football can work in the Premier League. Rangnick would promote a similar style.

Following the negativity of Hodgson, the free-flowing football exhibited by Rangnick’s sides would be a welcome relief. Even if results were not to be immediately in line with the hopes of fans, there would be a greater tolerance if it was clear that the manager’s ideology was an attractive one.

Rangnick is also accredited with a transfer strategy that focuses upon the recruitment of young players with the intention to develop them through first team exposure. What with a youthful recruitment strategy, an eye for a bargain and a desire to play attractive football, comparisons with Arsene Wenger are inevitable. Nicknamed ‘The Football Professor’ – reportedly due to his tactical explanations using only a blackboard on German TV – Rangnick should expect this. However, such comparisons are not to be taken lightly. Wenger is a manager who has succeeded in English football to the highest degree. If Rangnick offers potential to do the same, he could be a shrewd appointment.

The usual concerns when appointing a foreign manager often regard communication. Having studied in England in his youth, Rangnick has no such problems. A fluent footballing style and the ability to convey it to his players would mark the German out as an impressive candidate. The fact that his agent has already stated his client’s interest in the Liverpool job, were it to become available as it surely will, highlights an ambitious streak that must appeal to the Anfield hierarchy.

FSG are seeking to rebuild Liverpool both on and off the pitch in order challenge at the top in the years to come. If they are looking for a manager to build a squad with potential to develop, obtaining value for money and providing football that the fans will enjoy, they could do a lot worse than to employ Ralf Rangnick.

Although there will be demand for a Dalglish return or the hiring of a ‘big name’ manager, Rangnick provides a feasible alternative. It is easy to see ways in which Rangnick and FSG could be compatible. If John Henry and his team see Rangnick in the same way, Liverpool’s future will be an exciting development.

Rafa's return? Why Christmas dreams highlight the importance of getting the right man

I can’t avoid talking about it anymore.

Having buried my head in the snow for a few days, it appears that Rafa Benitez’s exit from Inter Milan has only just been confirmed and as such, the inevitable speculation has peaked at a time when I had hoped it would have disappeared into the realms of Christmas fiction.

The fact that a manager sacked at the end of last season is being affectionately requested only halfway through this one says a lot about the current manager. Although absence certainly makes the heart grow fonder, a mediocre successor has had a far greater effect.

While Hodgson continues to convince people that he is not the man to implement NESV’s vision in the long-term, the sudden availability of Benitez has only acted to make Hodgson’s position even more uncomfortable.

The calls for Rafa’s return are very much symbolic of the ‘anyone but Roy’ attitude that is growing amongst supporters. However, Benitez’s suitability to retake the role should be considered in isolation. The question is whether Benitez would be the right man to take Liverpool forward under NESV, not whether he would do a better job than Hodgson.

Despite a tarnishing of his managerial reputation in the past 18 months, Rafa Benitez continues to boast a strong CV. At Valencia, Benitez won the Spanish Championship as the underdog. At Liverpool, he won the Champions League in his first season, once more as the underdog. With success both domestically and in European competition, it is ridiculous to suggest that Benitez is a manager who does not know what he is doing.

Benitez’s continued popularity in Liverpool is also a substantial feather in the Spaniard’s cap. ‘Rafa’ the man was far more popular than ‘Benitez’ the manager in the final year of his time at the club. Whereas a less popular manager would have been deemed incapable for his record in the final season, the fans warmth towards Benitez meant that they were always willing him to succeed. It is this continued warmth that has allowed Benitez’s reputation to remain intact. The blame for a mediocre final season has been firmly placed with the former owners and as a result, the belief that Benitez could be successful in the stable environment provided by NESV will remain strong.

Benitez also possesses a key card in terms of the current playing squad. Whether playing internationally or at club level, Fernando Torres’ best form has come under the stewardship of Benitez for Liverpool. With Torres struggling to replicate his best on a regular basis under Hodgson, a Benitez return could potentially increase the chances of keeping Torres in a Liverpool shirt after this season.

However, there are considerable obstacles that stand in the way of a successful return.

Firstly, it would be wrong to assume that the support for Benitez is universal. Although he remains popular, there is a 50-50 split in regard to the fans’ attitude to his potential return. A failure to produce instant success would result in a clear split in the support and this goes against the united attitude that NESV are seeking to create.

If negative relations with the fans could be problematic, the reaction to Benitez in the press would be far more significant. Benitez received a substantial amount of criticism during his tenure and the good will afforded to Hodgson in the British media would not extend itself to Benitez. Indeed, if Benitez were to replace Hodgson – one of the darlings of the British media – then a backlash could be expected at the first opportunity. While NESV continue to stress the long-term nature of Liverpool’s recovery, the appointment of a manager to whom a period of development would not be allowed doesn’t make sense. As such, now may not be the time for a Benitez return.

We should not overlook Benitez’s failings on the pitch either. In his final season at the club, Liverpool were a poor side. For every bit that Benitez’s team progressed over the preceding years, it is impossible to overlook the fact that a side that finished second in the league was considerably damaged in the months that followed. Although the ownership saga made working conditions at the club very difficult, flaws in player-relations and tactics were clear.

Benitez was always perceived as cautious. The use of two holding midfielders was almost universally criticised, not to mention the disillusionment with his rotational system. Benitez’s style is not to be dismissed as a failure, it clearly isn’t. However, whether it is what Liverpool fans truly want at this time is another matter. Many of the supporters who criticised Benitez last season are now those who see him as the saviour. Hodgson isn’t right for Liverpool but is Benitez?

His judgement of players must also be questioned. Benitez’s transfer record has already come under scrutiny, but the treatment of Xabi Alonso highlights Benitez’s failure to manage his players on a personal level. The touting of a replacement for a player who remained under contract was unprofessional in the extreme. In hindsight, the fact that Rafa wanted to replace the exceptional Xabi Alonso with the lumbering Gareth Barry is every bit as worrying. This may have been a one off mistake but it is one that many are overlooking as they clamour for a return.

While it appears that Rafa Benitez isn’t suitable for Liverpool at this moment in time, it is also fair to say that the job isn’t suited to Benitez at this moment in time.

Since Benitez left Liverpool, the structure of the club has changed. The arrival of Comolli to oversee Liverpool’s transfer dealings is something that Benitez would not be a fan of. Benitez likes to work alone in the transfer market and any deliberation is done with his closest staff. The advice of a middle man, however well intended, is something that Benitez could not work with.

We have already seen how Benitez reacts to working conditions that he does not approve of. His willingness to enter club politics at Valencia, Liverpool and Inter Milan is admirable but in reality, ill-judged. NESV need a manager to embrace their vision, not one who could oppose their ideas in the public sphere.

Rafa Benitez is an excellent football manager and one who will do a great job at a club in the not too distant future. However, he is not the answer to Liverpool’s problems, the crucial point being that the two parties are not compatible at this moment in time.

In truth, Benitez needs to take a break. Although his absence from the game need not be prolonged, he appears to be a man in need of a few months away from the rigours of football management. A complete overhaul of his managerial technique is not needed but if Benitez can make minor adjustments to his approach whilst waiting for a suitable job to become available, he will return to the game a better manager.

We should not rule out the return of Rafa Benitez to Liverpool in the future. At a later stage in NESV’s plan, Benitez’s style could be compatible with the club’s needs. This is football, we can’t rule anything out. However, the clamour for his immediate return is being hugely overplayed due to the current manager’s failings.

In reality, the Benitez to Liverpool rumour is likely to be a non-event. However, due to the desperation of many fans to replace Hodgson and the continued admiration of the previous manager, the story has received surprising levels of support.

Although Benitez is not the right man for the job in the short-term, Hodgson isn’t the man for the long-term. When the time comes for NESV to choose a new manager, whenever that may be, it is important that they choose the correct manager. If Benitez is still unemployed, Henry and Werner shouldn’t allow sentiment to cloud their decision.

Despite the club’s current position, the Liverpool manager’s job is one that can attract top names who can bring a fresh approach to the club. The chance to take Liverpool to where the club wants to be is an attractive proposition to any manager. When the time comes for a decision to be made, NESV must get it right.

Whilst this rumour has been fun for the media, increasingly exciting for the fans and a clear irritant to Hodgson, the truth is that the rumour has grown because Benitez is a popular man.

Liverpool fans must keep the club’s interests closest to their hearts. They need not worry about Rafa Benitez. Deep down, we all know that he will be just fine.

George Dugdale – You can find George on Twitter here.

Do you believe that the rumours of a Rafa Benitez return are anything more than that? Would his availability have been mentioned within the club? Do you actually think that Rafa could be the man to replace Hodgson? Let us know your feelings in the comments section below.

I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of all at Micro LFC, to wish each of our readers a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Why Steven Gerrard's absence may have shown Liverpool the way forward

When I heard that Steven Gerrard had sustained an injury whilst away with the national side, my immediate reaction was to consider the impact that this would have upon Liverpool’s midfield. Although the removal of a player of Gerrard’s quality will always be detrimental, there was a feeling that Raul Meireles may benefit from his captain’s absence.

The signing of Meireles following Javier Mascherano’s departure was greeted with enthusiasm but only now is the Portuguese international showing his true credentials. Having been forced to play from a wide position early in his Liverpool career, Meireles has stood out in a more central role. Rather than being viewed as a direct replacement for Mascherano, Meireles is better suited to attempting to fill the void left by Xabi Alonso.

Since Gerrard was sidelined, Meireles has developed an understanding with the impressive Lucas. Rather than having two rigid defensive midfielders, as seen previously, Liverpool now have a fluid midfield pair that understand their individual contributions to the team. When one ventures into the opposition’s final third, the other is willing to sit deeper to protect the back four. As a result, Hodgson’s side are looking a far more cohesive unit when attacking.

This system is clearly bringing the best out of Lucas. Heavily criticised under the previous manager – despite a vastly improved effort last season – the Brazilian is relishing the freedom to attack. In the last two games, Lucas has been a vital creative influence, always looking to utilise the pace of Babel, Ngog and Torres by turning defences. Whilst also proving to be a formidable destructive unit in defence, Lucas is obviously enjoying his football.

However, it is the role of Meireles that will be up for debate once Gerrard returns to the team. By studying the chalkboards below, we can see the subtle improvements in Meireles’ game.



In both the defeat to Everton and the victory over Aston Villa, 9 Meireles passes were unsuccessful. Somewhat surprisingly, he completed 7 more passes in the away defeat. However, it is the nature of his completed passes that has marked the vast improvement in his performances.

Since being asked to move more centrally, Meireles has been able to keep the tempo high whilst initiating attacks. From the Villa chalkboard, it is clear that Meireles was successful at both ends of the field.

Working with the combative Lucas, Liverpool’s midfield was able to win a lot of second balls. The impressive feature of Meireles’ distribution in this respect was his willingness to send his team on the attack with his first touch. Although many of the passes within his own third may seem unspectacular, they were crucial in Liverpool’s fluid counter-attacking play. With his first touch – often the first Liverpool touch following a tackle – Meireles would spread the ball wide to Maxi and Kuyt. With two quick strikers willing to run in behind the opposition defence, Liverpool’s midfield were able to capitalise at key moments.

Furthermore, Meireles was effective in the attacking third of the field. The Portuguese international is very good technically and this is clear in the way that he links play when attacking an organised defence. The passes that failed against Everton – mainly passes into feet on the edge of the area – are now finding their mark and allowing the likes of Ngog, Torres and Babel to threaten the goal directly.

Admittedly, Aston Villa’s midfield was limited in the extreme but this should not detract from an impressive midfield performance. The fact that Stephen Ireland has slightly less determination than he has hair should not be used as a way of discrediting Liverpool.

Meireles is very good at keeping the ball moving and relying upon his instinct to direct operations. The last player that Liverpool had with these qualities was Xabi Alonso. Nobody is expecting Meireles to match Alonso – and there are very few players in the world who can land a football on a postage stamp in a neighbouring postcode with the precision of the Spaniard – but Liverpool have missed an instinctive ball playing midfielder since his departure.

Steven Gerrard had his best seasons playing ahead of Xabi Alonso. The captain trusted his midfielder’s ability to provide him with a quality supply and as such, Gerrard remained higher up the field, where he is most dangerous. If Liverpool return to a 4-4-1-1 when Gerrard returns, it must be Meireles partnering Lucas and Gerrard occupying the role behind Torres. It is unfortunate for Joe Cole but Gerrard’s return must not be an excuse to send Meireles back to the flanks where his ability is wasted.

Admittedly, a return to the bench would be harsh on David Ngog. The Frenchman has improved by the game as part of a front two and no longer looks as if he is outclassed by opposition defences. He still has some way to progress but with plenty of time on his side, the signs are encouraging. Ngog and Babel have shown their manager that they are a capable pairing and give Liverpool options should they need flexibility in formation throughout the season.

Game by game, Hodgson’s Liverpool are becoming more enjoyable to watch. Fans are enjoying watching the more attacking, fluid Liverpool and the Meireles – Lucas partnership is a considerable factor in this. Steven Gerrard’s return will be welcomed but the Hodgson must build upon the lessons learned in the captain’s absence.

Liverpool looked a good side against Aston Villa (who were admittedly poor) and if managed correctly, the return of Gerrard and Torres can only enhance Liverpool’s dynamism.

Why Hodgson can't afford to settle for second best

I think I have just witnessed footballing perfection.

For any football fan, watching Barcelona demolish Real Madrid was a pleasure. Throw in the look on Jose’s face and the realisation that Ronaldo isn’t as close to Messi as he would have you believe and it has been an enjoyable evening.

Although the natural reaction is to succumb to the forlorn resignation that Barcelona have mastered the game, it is important to remember that the rest of us continue to compete amongst ourselves for the title of ‘second best team in the world’.

Many Liverpool fans will remember the last time Real Madrid were humiliated in this fashion. It was March 2009. Anfield witnessed a red destruction so shocking that it reduced Iker Casillas to tears. When combined with the famous victory over Barcelona in the Nou Camp and an away victory in Milan, Liverpool were confirmed as a major force at the top table of European football.

As we head towards the end of 2010, it is clear that the club has moved backwards. This is something that needs to be understood, but not accepted as the standard.

This is a crucial point in the way that Liverpool Football Club move forwards.

Following defeat at Spurs, Paul Dalglish referred to ‘Liverpool standards’ and the refusal to accept second best. The performance at White Hart Lane wasn’t too bad. It wasn’t brilliant but most would accept that Hodgson’s team deserved something from the game. If individuals had fulfilled their duties – Maxi and Torres when through on goal and Konchesky when ball-watching in stoppage time – then Liverpool would not have left London empty handed.

However, not being ‘too bad’ is not the standard that Hodgson should accept. Having shown a willingness to be more adventurous away from home, even against a side as dangerous on the counter-attack as Spurs, there is the renewed hope that Hodgson might be adapting his style to suit Liverpool’s needs.

The improvement from the Stoke game was substantial but the progress must continue if Liverpool are to achieve their aims. Ultimately, the team left both games without a point. Improved failure is not a success but at the very least, at least it is a start.

As NESV are willing to give Hodgson time, the manager must repay the faith that is being shown in him. Like many, I will be making a final judgement on Hodgson’s suitability at the end of the January transfer window. The nature of the manager’s transfer targets (and his ability to attract them to a Europa League club) will tell us a lot about Hodgson’s plans for the future.

The fall of the previous regime has removed any excuses about the manner in which the football club is run. Roy Hodgson will be able to do the job as he wants to in January. Despite the club’s current position, the Liverpool name alone continues to carry significance across the world. Although the January market is often expensive and difficult to manoeuvre within, it could make or break Hodgson’s future.

Hodgson’s transfers thus far have gone two ways. In Raul Meireles, Liverpool have acquired a player that the fans have warmed to, recognising his ability on the ball and footballing brain. If the manager can bring in players of a similar calibre, few will complain.

However, in Poulsen and Konchesky, Hodgson very much appears to have settled for ‘second best’. Both are limited players who would do well at a mid-table club. Further signings like this will not see Liverpool return to where they need to be.

When Dalglish states that ‘great men’ worked to create a standard at Liverpool that is in danger of being lost, it is hard to disagree. Although football is a very different game to the one played in Liverpool’s greatest days, the traditions and values of the club must be embraced.

Although conversations are refreshingly being conducted behind closed doors, NESV do not appear to be a group that will stand for the lowering of standards. Working in tandem with Damien Comolli, there must be cautious optimism that Hodgson can identify the right players to enhance the playing squad.

Hodgson must not settle for second best. If he does, NESV may not be so accommodating.

Why Suso's contract is not typical of the average Liverpool trainee

The news of a Liverpool youngster signing a professional contract may have passed many fans by today. Despite the number of players signing contracts before disappearing into the lower leagues, fans may look back on today’s announcement as a very good development for the club.

News that Spanish teenager Suso has committed himself to the club until 2013 will come as welcome news to anybody that has witnessed his performances for the reserve team so far. Despite being only 16 years of age when he first played a reserve team fixture, Suso’s technical ability and vision have marked him out as a player with a very bright future.

Like Dani Pacheco before him, Suso need not worry about his progression into the professional game. Although Pacheco’s emergence as a first team player has not been as forthcoming as many had expected, there are few doubts that the Spanish youth international will play at a high level, whether it be at Anfield or elsewhere.

This is not the case for all young footballers learning their trade at Liverpool.

Although the education provided at Kirkby is of a high quality, being a good footballer is not enough. Injuries can put an end to a youngster’s hopes of being kept on and the quality of competition in their respective position can result in a player being forced to look elsewhere to break into first team football.

Liverpool have won the FA Youth Cup 3 times in the past 15 years and yet only a few of the players involved in these teams – ultimately the best young team in the country in that particular season – will be known by the majority of football fans.

Every youth team side has players who appear to have a chance of making it. Looking at the fortunes of Liverpool’s youngsters in the aftermath of a Youth Cup Final highlights the fragile nature of a career in football and the different paths that a young player’s career can take.

Whilst the likes of Michael Owen, Jamie Carragher and David Thompson made significant contributions to the Liverpool first team, the vast majority of the 1996 cup winning side were less fortunate.

Although it seems hard to believe after a career of the highest quality, Carragher was not captain of this side. The skipper of the victorious team was a boy by the name of Phil Brazier. After 18 months of a professional contract under Roy Evans, Brazier moved to the less illustrious Vauxhall Motors before embarking on a career in the northern non-league.

Many will remember the names of two Liverpool strikers from the 90s who were expected to achieve great things. Whilst Jon Newby was tipped to do well, Jamie Cassidy was a player who the Liverpool staff fully expected to succeed at the club.

After being released without making a first team appearance, Cassidy briefly attempted to forge a career at both Cambridge sides before heading into an early retirement. Newby was slightly more successful, making four first team appearances before heading down the Football League. The speedy striker can now be found turning out for Colwyn Bay in the Northern Premier League.

When considering that these youngsters shared champagne with players who are now etched into Liverpool’s proud history in 1996, it is easy to see how a youth team footballer can not take anything for granted.

If we are to look at the subsequent movements of Liverpool’s 2006 and 2007 winning squads, it is clear that a glowing reputation at youth team level does not guarantee a path into first team football.

Robbie Threlfall – Highly rated full-back now at Bradford City after a series of loans.
Ryan Flynn – Falkirk after a spell at Wrexham
Craig Lindfield – Despite scoring 12 goals in 12 games for the 2007 and making England U19 appearances, the striker is part of a group of ex-Liverpool trainees at Accrington Stanley.
Ray Putterill – Also at Accrington Stanley after 7 operations ruined his chances of breaking through at Liverpool.
Jimmy Ryan – Playing in League Two with Lindfield and Putterill.
Michael Burns – On loan at Stafford Rangers having failed to break into the team at Carlisle.

Despite their apparent fall, these players are still lucky to have a career within the Football League. The captain of the 2009 side - defeated by an Arsenal team containing Jack Wilshere - was stocky central defender Joe Kennedy. Following his immediate release after the two-legged final, Kennedy has enrolled on a sports-related course and has never played football at a professional level.

Perhaps the most unfortunate of Liverpool’s young players in recent times is Ramon Calliste. Having been branded as the ‘New Beckham’ whilst at Manchester United, it was a shock when the youngster was released as United scrapped one of their reserve teams.

Calliste was given an opportunity by Liverpool and scored prolifically for the reserve side in his spell at the club. However, as sixth choice striker, he never made a first team appearance and moved to Scunthorpe. Following a devastating ankle dislocation in a pre-season fixture, Calliste has been unable to establish himself within the professional game despite trials all over the Football League.

The stories of the youngsters from Liverpool’s past should act as a warning to the current crop of youngsters. Whilst it is easy to assume that a career in the game is inevitable following an education with a Premier League side, the reality is that even the highly rated may struggle to get a break.

Some of Liverpool’s most talented youth players in recent years have been forced to seek opportunities elsewhere due to the calibre of player they are directly in competition with.

Although Liverpool’s wingers are conspicuous by their absence, Adam Hammill and Paul Anderson were forced to move to Barnsley and Nottingham Forest respectively due to a lack of first team opportunites.

Bucking the trend of players sliding down the leagues after leaving Liverpool, both young wingers have impressed at a lower level. Whilst Anderson will seek to regain his place in the team after injury, Hammill is earning plaudits for his performances in the Championship. Although rumours of a £500,000 buy-back-clause in his departure from Anfield continue to circulate without confirmation, it is certain that Premier League clubs will make enquiries in January.

If a youngster is good enough, Hodgson must be brave enough to put them into the side in order to maintain their services. Once a youngster has left Anfield, there is the possibility that they may choose to head elsewhere if they develop sufficiently in the future. Whilst it is not accurate to suggest that Liverpool have a queue of youngsters deserving of a first team spot, Hodgson and his staff must be careful not to let any opportunities pass them by.

Despite what many will be keen to tell you about Rafa Benitez’s destruction of the youth system, the progress made under Benitez was desperately needed after the stagnation of the Academy under Houllier.

There are many talented players who are fighting to make their name at Liverpool. While you will have heard of the likes of Ecclestone, Darby, Spearing and Kelly, there are many others who are tipped as hot prospects.

Raheem Sterling – An attacking midfielder signed for an initial £300,000 from QPR. Having broken into the England U16 side at the age of 14, Sterling looks to have a great chance of making the grade at Anfield.

Toni Silva – A flamboyant Portuguese winger who has impressed at both reserve and U18 level. Although his end product can still be frustrating, he has all the key components of an exciting attacker.

Conor Coady – Having captained England’s U17 side to European Championship victory in the summer, Coady earned high praise from all involved in the national set-up. With a reputation as a natural leader, it would not be a surprise to see Coady progress to reserve team captain in the future.

Andre Wisdom – Like Coady, the athletic Wisdom can play either at centre back or in central midfield. Although a nasty injury sustained in a collision with teammate Ross Barkley (the Everton star suffered a broken leg) on international duty has sidelined the youngster, Wisdom is highly rated at Kirkby.

Michael Ngoo – With a build not dissimilar to Peter Crouch, Ngoo’s style makes him a tricky customer at both youth and reserve team level, having been promoted in pre-season. An England youth international, the striker has the physical attributes to develop into a difficult opponent at any level.

Tom Ince – As son of tenacious midfielder Paul, it is perhaps surprising that Ince is a tricky attacker blessed with considerable pace. Currently on loan at Ince Senior’s Notts County side, Ince has impressed for the reserves in recent months.

Alex Cooper – A fiercely determined Scot who can play either at full-back or in midfield. Cooper’s commitment has always impressed at reserve team level.

Although these are just a sample of the talented players coming through the youth system at Liverpool, the message to all at Kirkby is crystal clear. Despite the doom and gloom surrounding the chances of youngsters being put into the first team, these players cannot afford to let their efforts drop.

As Hammill and Anderson are showing, leaving Liverpool doesn’t always have to be a negative step.

However, a failure to maintain the expected standards could mean the difference between continued opportunities at a Premier League club or the struggle to maintain a professional career in the lower leagues.

Whilst Liverpool fans should greet the signing of Suso as a positive move for the future, it is worth remembering that not everybody is quite so fortunate. In today’s environment, the progression of any youngster into the first team is something to be celebrated.

Why Roy's away days will be his downfall

On Saturday night, Audley Harrison was defeated by David Haye in Manchester. Harrison threw two punches before the more aggressive Haye dispatched him to the canvas. Boxing fans across the UK despaired at one of the most anticlimactic fights of recent times. Assuming that he couldn’t sleep following the defeat at Stoke, I think Roy Hodgson would have enjoyed it. Harrison and Hodgson have similarities in their approach that nobody wants to see.

I have tried to give Hodgson time. Honestly, I have.

My view of the manager is not clouded by the undying passion for the club that you all possess. I have my own manager and team to worry about in Oxford and trust me; they’re giving me plenty to fret over. However, since I have been writing for Micro LFC, everything that happens in Liverpool carries a greater relevance.

For several weeks I felt that the reaction against Hodgson was premature and that he would adapt to the task in hand. After the Chelsea game, I felt that I had called it right. A week later, the improved form has revealed itself as the false dawn that everybody feared. Liverpool fans worldwide are posting their disapproval on internet sites and I am sorry to say this, but even from the outside it is hard to say that they are wrong.

Roy Hodgson is not the correct fit for Liverpool and he never was.

If we are to look at things with a significant helping of generosity, the home form is improving. There were positive aspects in each of the past three home games (including the Europa League) culminating in the Chelsea victory.

Unfortunately, Hodgson’s reign will fail due to his approach towards away matches.

Although I’d love to claim that this declaration is based upon superhuman foresight, the statistics to support the argument are all too easy to find. Have a look at these two:

• Hodgson has been manager for 105 away games in English football. His teams have won 13 of them. That is a win ratio of 12.4%.
• Hodgson’s overall win ratio at Blackburn, Inter and Liverpool – clubs where success was expected – works out at 39.3%. If you add Fulham and Udinese to the equation, this drops to 37%.

When you consider where NESV want to take Liverpool Football Club, these are not the figures of a manager who is able to lead the operation. They are perfectly acceptable at some clubs and this is where Hodgson belongs. A Roy Hodgson side would be likely to avoid relegation but with the mentality that he enforces, it will not challenge at the very top of the league.

Rafael Benitez’s Liverpool was far from being overtly adventurous but in comparison to what is currently being served up away from Anfield, it looks like Brazil in 1970.

Tactically, there are problems all over the field.

For starters, the defence is too deep. Whoever is playing at full-back has a mammoth task on their hands because they have to cover extra yards to join an attack and the same to recover their position in the back four. Glen Johnson might have a fighting chance of getting up and down the field but Jamie Carragher will not. Putting Carragher up against Etherington and Pennant is clearly a defensive measure.

With all due respect, Martin Kelly coped with attackers of a higher standing last week so why not entrust him with the task this week? Playing Carragher at right back allowed Hodgson to field a back four that was primarily focused upon dealing with Stoke’s threat rather than giving them problems of their own.

Furthermore, a deep-lying defence does little to help Pepe Reina. He may be one of the finest goalkeepers in the world but his shot-stopping is superior to his aerial command. By dropping deep, Hodgson invites the opposition to throw the ball into the box whilst allowing them to surround Reina with bodies. This is an old-fashioned tactic that does not suit a modern goalkeeper such as Pepe Reina.

In midfield, the lack of width is staggering. A compact midfield may help to prevent the opposition from playing but the placing of square pegs in round holes does nothing to make Liverpool an attacking threat.

Thankfully, most Liverpool fans have been intelligent enough to understand Raul Meireles’ plight. The Portuguese international is a good footballer. If you watch him play for his country, he is a different player from the one seen in a Liverpool shirt. If Hodgson is replaced, you will see the best of Meireles. For his sake, we should hope that people remain patient with him because his task will become much more difficult if he is under pressure from the fans. He will come good but only when he is deployed in the correct position. Although Meireles was Hodgson’s choice to replace Javier Mascherano, it’s hard to believe that the Argentine would not have been closer to Hodgson’s model for the ideal midfielder.

That said, we should accept that under Hodgson, the midfield becomes increasingly irrelevant as an attacking force because so much of the play is conducted twenty feet above the pitch. Firing long balls for Fernando Torres to chase forlornly for ninety minutes is not a tactic used at Anfield so why use it away from home? Liverpool have midfielders who can pass a ball. To see a strategy enforced whereby they are not utilized is incredibly frustrating.

Liverpool at home and away are two different teams. One is increasingly seeking to press the ball high up the pitch whilst passing the ball on the ground. The other forgets how to play football, dropping deep and launching the ball skywards.

Hodgson may well be getting to grips with what is needed at home but he is a million miles away from getting things right on the road. What good is half a manager to anybody?

Away from home, Liverpool’s aggregate score is 11-4 against. Two of these goals were set-pieces at Old Trafford and Liverpool have failed to score in 4 of the 7 away games thus far. This is not a coincidence; it is the side-product of a manager with a negative mentality.

Hodgson’s attitude is very much reliant upon not being beaten away from home rather than trying to win. This mentality serves many clubs well but will not suit Liverpool’s needs. A failure to take 3 points is widely viewed as points dropped. With Hodgson at the helm, this appears to be deemed as a success. It isn’t.

NESV have plans to take Liverpool back to the top. If they are to succeed in their aims, you will be hard pressed to find a Liverpool fan who genuinely believes a change of manager is not needed.

Audley Harrison’s display of negativity got what it deserved. Liverpool fans can only hope that Hodgson’s mentality meets a similarly hasty end.

Why Hodgson’s squad must learn from the Chelsea success stories

As far as weeks go, this has been a good one.

On paper, three wins from three represents perfection. In truth, the nature of these victories puts a gloss on an already positive seven days. Whilst the victory at Bolton was reward for a mixed performance, the second half performance in the Europa League demonstrated the re-emergence of the spirit that has been missing for too long.

However, the highlight of the three wins must be Sunday’s win over Chelsea. Not only was it the best all-round performance but an undeniable barometer of progression. Three scrappy wins would have sufficed but the game on game improvement witnessed in Hodgson’s side has given fans a reason to be cautiously optimistic.

If evidence was needed of the role confidence plays then this week has provided plenty.

Over the course of three games, one moment of inspiration has been the catalyst for the lifting of collective spirits at Anfield. One Fernando Torres flick at the Reebok Stadium released Maxi Rodriguez to give Liverpool a vital three points.

On Thursday, a 45 minute cameo from Steven Gerrard provided a timely reminder of what the captain remains capable of.

By Sunday, the confidence spawned from two individual contributions provided the platform for an impressive performance from everybody in a Liverpool shirt.

If this week really has been the start of Liverpool’s sustained rise under Hodgson, several players must take credit. In a Liverpool squad that is often described as being short of depth (and this remains the case), the success stories from this week can be placed into three critical categories.

• Great players who have not been performing.
• Average players who should not be at a club with aspirations of challenging at the top.
• Youngsters who are not ready for first team football.

If the collective performance displayed against Chelsea can become a regular occurrence, many critics will be forced to rewrite their damning assessments. What is more, those who have not fulfilled their potential must now realise that there is an opportunity to progress at Liverpool, before it is too late.

Great players

Many will correctly point out that Liverpool are lacking in great players.

Just three names stand out as being in the top bracket of players worldwide. Whilst Pepe Reina’s performances have remained at a high level, both Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard have disappointed in the opening months of the campaign. Torres in particular, has seen his every move scrutinised by everybody to claim an understanding of the game.

In the last week, both have indicated that they are able to rediscover their best form to drive Liverpool forward.

The fact that Steven Gerrard was one of the better performers throughout an awful start to the campaign and yet received criticism only demonstrates how significant his impact upon the side has been. If Gerrard is not performing miracles and successfully fighting fires all over the field, he is not seen to be doing his job.

In the first half against Napoli, Liverpool were mediocre. It would have been easy for the captain to sink to the level of his teammates as the team stuttered towards another disappointing defeat and the return of the negativity surrounding the Hodgson reign. It is the ability to raise the performance of an entire team that marks Gerrard out as one of the finest players of his generation.

Gerrard has transformed matches on a regular basis in the past. Is it possible that this performance here transformed his club’s immediate future?

In the 45 minutes that he was on the pitch, Steven Gerrard sent out a message to everybody that was willing to hear it. Liverpool Football Club is not going to be a fading force on his watch. By giving everything he had whilst on the field, Gerrard left his teammates in no doubt as to what is expected of a player in the Liverpool shirt.

Steven Gerrard will always lead by example. If anybody doubts the skipper’s influence on those around him, they need only look at the team’s performance against Chelsea. From front to back, Liverpool’s players replicated their captain’s example.

Whilst Gerrard has always been able to fall back on his all-action style, Fernando Torres is judged on his ability to change games in the final third. Undeniably, Torres has been underperforming since his injury at the end of last season. When everybody tells you that you are not playing well, it is very easy to fall into line with their observations.

Torres needed a break and this came against Bolton. The Spaniard’s clever flick was his best contribution in another poor performance. However, just seven days later, his entire performance was on a different level to everything that had gone before.

When things are going against you, you lose the belief in your own ability to execute your strengths. Watching Torres spin his marker and drive towards the Chelsea goal was a sight that fans have been desperate to witness for months. Following a second goal that exhibited the class we all know Torres possesses, there is little doubt that Liverpool still have one of the most potent striking weapons in the world on their side.

It was vital for Hodgson to lift Gerrard and Torres from their respective slumbers and however small a role the manager may have played in doing this, it will benefit him in the long term. Liverpool have two of the finest footballers this planet has to offer wearing the red shirt and as they improve, Liverpool’s fortunes will invariably follow.

Whilst they perform at the levels shown in the past two games, nobody will accuse them of underperforming.

Average Players

This is a category that the naysayers are quick to push forward.

To many, Liverpool’s squad is packed with players who are not good enough to take the club to where they want to be. Whilst remains accurate in relation to the likes of Poulsen and Babel, the constant scapegoat since his arrival has been Lucas Leiva.

If you had written Lucas off as a flop years ago then you might want to reconsider your assessment.

It is important to point out that the Chelsea match was simply one performance but if the Brazilian can continue to perform at the standard that he has now set, Liverpool have a good player on their hands. Lucas summed up the Liverpool performance with his endeavour and determination. When I spoke of players replicating Steven Gerrard’s midweek performance, this is exactly what I meant.

It is not only in terms of workrate that Lucas has impressed. In truth, Lucas has always been a willing worker. The quality of his ball retention was often used as the justification for his immediate sale. Whilst this may have been the case in the early part of his Liverpool career, it would take a short-sighted fan to insist that this was still accurate.

Lucas’ improvement has not been as sudden as many would have you believe. In the last 18 months, his progress has been substantial. In the aftermath of the Chelsea match, statistics have revealed that Lucas has misplaced only 8 passes in the last four games. For any player in the world, that is a phenomenal statistic.

Cesc Fabregas misplaced 27 passes against Newcastle. You do the maths.

If any other player had performed in this manner then the praise would be widespread. It is only fair that those who criticised Lucas now acknowledge his improvement.

The Brazilian international is clearly thriving in the role that he has been given under Hodgson. Giving credit where due, the manager has not tried to turn him into a Javier Mascherano tribute act. With the licence to play with slightly more freedom, Lucas has been able to keep the ball moving more efficiently than in previous seasons.

Furthermore, his defensive work for the team against Chelsea was nothing short of exceptional. Lucas was everywhere. His willingness to win the ball high up the field gave Liverpool a great platform to build attacks (as seen by the second goal) and his endeavour prevented Chelsea from playing. When Ancelotti praised Liverpool’s defensive efforts, it is Lucas who should have taken much of the credit.

If the performance of Liverpool’s best players sets the standard for everybody else, Lucas’ rise to prominence should act as a lesson to others in the squad. If Ryan Babel could exhibit half the character that Lucas has, he would be a better player.

Being criticised shouldn’t result in the end of your Liverpool career. Failing to commit to the cause will.

Youngsters

This is another category in which many would say Liverpool are short of players. Many youngsters have threatened to make it into the manager’s plans but Martin Kelly is one of the few to actually maintain his place there.

Kelly’s performance in itself was solid and when considering the quality of opposition, worthy of high praise. However, the most impressive aspect of his performance was how he dealt with an unexpected challenge.

Hodgson had planned to line up with Kyrgiakos at centre back with Carragher filling in at full-back once more. When the Greek was struck down by illness, Martin Kelly was thrown into the team to tackle the Premier League’s most potent attacking force.

Kelly’s performance was not that of a 20 year old who had not known of his selection until the morning of the game. To perform as he did showed great mental focus – an asset that will serve him well in the future.

Glen Johnson may well be a full England international but could he have matched Kelly’s defensive performance? I am not so sure.

Just as Kyrgiakos has given Hodgson a headache in his centre back selections, Kelly may have given the manager a decision to make at full-back. Regardless of Johnson’s pricetag, Hodgson must pick on performance and in this respect, Kelly has done himself no harm whatsoever.

Furthermore, Kelly’s involvement sends a message to all the young players at Liverpool. The door to the first team is not closed if you show that you can handle life at the top level. The likes of Pacheco, Spearing, Wilson and Shelvey must use Kelly’s emergence as an indication of where there efforts could take them.

The standard has been set

A victory over Chelsea was something that nobody would have predicted following the defeat to Blackpool.

Although Liverpool have recorded four wins in a row, this was the most complete performance thus far. Now that a standard has been set, every player must match their previous level of performance and do everything that they can do improve it.

John Henry’s post-match comments highlighted the emphasis of everybody at Liverpool pulling in one direction. Even if critics will insist on breaking the Liverpool squad down into categories, this should not act as a rigid evaluation of the players.

Hodgson must strive to get all facets of the club working for the cause with the understanding that improvement will be acknowledged.

If the best players in the squad can perform at their optimum levels, the much-maligned players step away from the mediocrity to push themselves into the limelight and the youngsters push for a spot in the first team, the squad will suddenly not be as weak as it initially appears.

Those who fail to buy into this mantra will be shown the door. Anybody who makes the grade will have the opportunity to be a part of Liverpool’s future.

As strange as it may seem after all that has gone before, if Liverpool’s management and players continue to take things one game at a time with the right mentality, that future might not be so bad after all.