What the fuck was that all about?
Seriously.
I’m not arsed about the result. I’m not worried that we have lost two consecutive preseason games 3-0 and conceded 3 in each of the four games played so far.
What arses me is that when the players and management should be preparing for the new season, they were pissing about in Turkey wasting everyone’s time by playing a match that they quite clearly didn’t want and weren’t prepared to take seriously.
Doni in goal; a back four of Flanagan, Kelly, Kyrgiakos and Insua; fucking Poulsen in midfield with Shelvey; Jack Robinson on one wing and fucking Degen on the other; fucking Joke Cole in the hole, and Andy Carroll inexplicably picked to play with the dross.
What the fuck?
Right now, Andy Carroll needs to build his confidence up. The supporters need to build a bit of confidence in Andy Carroll. We need some reassurance that Kenny, Comolli and co didn’t blow £35m on a player not worth £5m. How is that supposed to be achieved when he has shit players around him who can’t string 3 passes together let alone supply anything resembling goal-scoring chances?
Why has fucking Poulsen featured in every preseason game so far? He is shit. What does he need games for? Surely Kenny and co aren’t thinking of using him in a competitive match(?) so why is he out on the pitch clocking up minutes that could be helping another player to gain fitness and sharpness ahead of the new season? I’ve heard the claims that Kenny is putting him in the shop window but it doesn’t wash. No prospective buyer is going to watch him gifting Milan Baros a goal and think “I must sign him”. If anything, giving him game time is going to make him harder to offload. He is an embarrassment to the club and must not be allowed to pull on a Liverpool shirt again.
The same sentiments apply to Philipp fucking Degen. Why the fuck was he playing?
And what about Kyrgiakos? Don’t get me wrong, I like the Greek but he is too error prone and too susceptible to pace to play for a club with the lofty ambitions that we hopefully have. We need better quality. Seeing him playing in every preseason game and captaining the side last night, it didn’t appear as though he was a player earmarked for the exit.
Meanwhile, one of the few players to do himself justice, Alberto Aquilani (who came on at half time), continues to be linked with moves away. Aquilani is the one player who has consistently impressed in preseason. He looks a quality footballer who belongs in a top team. I dearly hope the press speculation is nonsense as I cannot comprehend why we would consider parting with this player without giving him a proper chance to show us what he can do in our first team.
I can understand that with a game in Norway in just a few days and with all the travel this schedule involves, Kenny might not have wanted this fixture. I can understand that despite the wishes of the manager and his staff, the money men might insist on an inconvenient fixture being played in order to tap into the Turkish market. However, with a squad the size of ours, I cannot understand why we needed to field a team that weak. The first and second half teams used in the Far East were all stronger than the XI that started yesterday.
It was embarrassing to see that team and hear it called Liverpool FC.
Friday, 29 July 2011
Sunday, 24 July 2011
Hull City 3 Liverpool 0
Oh dear. We score 10 goals in 2 games but then get beat 3-0 at Hull. It was a funny game in many respects. Liverpool dominated possession but carried little goal threat – particularly in the first half – while Hull scored from two long-range efforts in the first half and then bundled in a third in the second half after poor Liverpool defending. We wore our horrible third strip and got the sort of result you would expect from a team in blue and white.
Positives could be found in some of the build-up play – especially after half-time – but generally it felt a bit flat and things aren’t quite clicking yet.
As for the previous games, we played different XIs in the first and second halves and, as before, I will choose my best XI...
Doni v Jones
Neither made a save of note. Doni was powerless to stop two long-range strikes in the first half. Jones would have done well to save Hull’s third. Purely on the basis that Doni was beaten twice and Jones just the once, I’ll give it to Jones.
Kelly v Flanagan
Kelly didn’t have the best of games but Flanagan offered no challenge here. Once again, Flanagan was rash in the challenge conceding a number of unnecessary free-kicks and could have been shown a straight red for a reckless lunge early in the second half. It’s looking increasingly baffling that Flanagan was able to do so well for the team in the back end of last season. I’m going for Kelly.
Carragher v Kyrgiakos
Neither excelled but neither were particularly bad. As one would expect, Kyrgiakos offered more in an attacking sense while Carra resorted to a few long punts up the pitch instead of attempting actual football. Kyrgiakos was my pick.
Ayala v Wilson
Ayala didn’t stand out. Wilson actually had a few decent moments. Wilson definitely looks a better prospect at centre-half than at full-back. I’m choosing Wilson.
Robinson v Insua
Robinson looked decent. He made a number of good tackles/blocks, got forward well and I really like the way he seems to glide around the pitch. Insua was at fault for the third goal playing the scorer onside. That aside, he acquitted himself well enough without being spectacular. Robinson was my pick.
Poulsen v Spearing
Poulsen was anonymous allowing Hull’s players time and space on the ball in the central areas. Spearing was his usual terrier-like self but in truth only had to turn up to be better than Poulsen. Spearing easily.
Aquilani v Henderson
This is a really tough one. I liked the look of Henderson. He was energetic and got around the pitch well plus he played a number of decent and intelligent passes. Aquilani looked calm and composed in possession, rarely wasting a pass and demonstrating that rare commodity of finding time and space in congested areas. Aquilani was let down by a lack of intelligent movement from his teammates whereas the second half team that Henderson played in was much better as a team. I’m going to go for Aquilani but that is no slight on Henderson.
Coady v Adam
Coady looked lost out there. He was at fault for Hull’s first goal and was never able to impose himself on the game. Adam looked decent. His passing is starting to match his vision and his set pieces were much more effective. Adam at a stroll.
Cole v Kuyt
Cole was back to his frustrating worst here. No end product; failure to make a positive impact; wayward passing; bad decision-making, and a comically bad finish after Gulacsi spilled Ngog’s shot into his path in front of goal. Kuyt was involved in some good team moves and generally offered more. Kuyt – no contest.
Maxi v Downing
Maxi buzzed about but I can’t remember too much of what he did. Downing was constantly involved; whipped in a number of crosses; had a well-struck shot saved, and worked well with his new teammates. Downing is my pick.
Ngog v Carroll
Ngog was chronically dire. His first touch repeatedly let him down and, other than a shot from the edge of the area after Aquilani had cleverly slipped him in, he offered no goal threat at all. Carroll was much more of a handful for Hull’s defenders to deal with. He linked well with Downing and won a series of knock-downs that needed teammates to better anticipate. Carroll is my pick.
So far we’ve seen 29 players in action and they have not included the likes of Suarez, Gerrard, Lucas, Johnson, Skrtel, Aurelio and Reina. At this point, I would like to see more time given to the players who are actually going to feature for us next season. I cannot believe they will include Cole, Poulsen, Coady, Flanagan or Jones. In Coady’s case, it is simply too soon and barring an unprecedented injury crisis, there are too many players with greater experience ahead of him in the pecking order.
Cole, Poulsen and Jones are surplus to requirements and will surely be sent packing if takers can be found. Flanagan is a player that I am beginning to harbour doubts over. As well as he did last season, you can see a clear gap in quality comparing him with Kelly and with Glen Johnson a cut above Kelly, Flanno’s prospects aren’t great.
As much as I think we need to sign a left-back, I have high hopes that Robinson is going to develop into an excellent player in the next few seasons and I’m wary of signing someone who will block the youngster’s path into the first team. Perhaps with Aurelio and Insua already at the club and Johnson capable of playing on the left also, it might be better to stick with what we have and ease Robinson in.
I also think we need another striker. I don’t see Ngog as being good enough to lead the line in the absence of Carroll or even to compete with Carroll for a first team place. We could always go another way with Kuyt replacing Carroll and take a more fluid approach to the game but I would prefer to tailor our tactics based on the opposition rather than our own personnel.
I am encouraged by the performances of Aquilani, Adam, Henderson and Downing. I would like to see more chances created for Carroll rather than balls he can only be expected to knock-down or flick on for others. Overall, I remain positive and look forward to the start of the season.
Positives could be found in some of the build-up play – especially after half-time – but generally it felt a bit flat and things aren’t quite clicking yet.
As for the previous games, we played different XIs in the first and second halves and, as before, I will choose my best XI...
Doni v Jones
Neither made a save of note. Doni was powerless to stop two long-range strikes in the first half. Jones would have done well to save Hull’s third. Purely on the basis that Doni was beaten twice and Jones just the once, I’ll give it to Jones.
Kelly v Flanagan
Kelly didn’t have the best of games but Flanagan offered no challenge here. Once again, Flanagan was rash in the challenge conceding a number of unnecessary free-kicks and could have been shown a straight red for a reckless lunge early in the second half. It’s looking increasingly baffling that Flanagan was able to do so well for the team in the back end of last season. I’m going for Kelly.
Carragher v Kyrgiakos
Neither excelled but neither were particularly bad. As one would expect, Kyrgiakos offered more in an attacking sense while Carra resorted to a few long punts up the pitch instead of attempting actual football. Kyrgiakos was my pick.
Ayala v Wilson
Ayala didn’t stand out. Wilson actually had a few decent moments. Wilson definitely looks a better prospect at centre-half than at full-back. I’m choosing Wilson.
Robinson v Insua
Robinson looked decent. He made a number of good tackles/blocks, got forward well and I really like the way he seems to glide around the pitch. Insua was at fault for the third goal playing the scorer onside. That aside, he acquitted himself well enough without being spectacular. Robinson was my pick.
Poulsen v Spearing
Poulsen was anonymous allowing Hull’s players time and space on the ball in the central areas. Spearing was his usual terrier-like self but in truth only had to turn up to be better than Poulsen. Spearing easily.
Aquilani v Henderson
This is a really tough one. I liked the look of Henderson. He was energetic and got around the pitch well plus he played a number of decent and intelligent passes. Aquilani looked calm and composed in possession, rarely wasting a pass and demonstrating that rare commodity of finding time and space in congested areas. Aquilani was let down by a lack of intelligent movement from his teammates whereas the second half team that Henderson played in was much better as a team. I’m going to go for Aquilani but that is no slight on Henderson.
Coady v Adam
Coady looked lost out there. He was at fault for Hull’s first goal and was never able to impose himself on the game. Adam looked decent. His passing is starting to match his vision and his set pieces were much more effective. Adam at a stroll.
Cole v Kuyt
Cole was back to his frustrating worst here. No end product; failure to make a positive impact; wayward passing; bad decision-making, and a comically bad finish after Gulacsi spilled Ngog’s shot into his path in front of goal. Kuyt was involved in some good team moves and generally offered more. Kuyt – no contest.
Maxi v Downing
Maxi buzzed about but I can’t remember too much of what he did. Downing was constantly involved; whipped in a number of crosses; had a well-struck shot saved, and worked well with his new teammates. Downing is my pick.
Ngog v Carroll
Ngog was chronically dire. His first touch repeatedly let him down and, other than a shot from the edge of the area after Aquilani had cleverly slipped him in, he offered no goal threat at all. Carroll was much more of a handful for Hull’s defenders to deal with. He linked well with Downing and won a series of knock-downs that needed teammates to better anticipate. Carroll is my pick.
So far we’ve seen 29 players in action and they have not included the likes of Suarez, Gerrard, Lucas, Johnson, Skrtel, Aurelio and Reina. At this point, I would like to see more time given to the players who are actually going to feature for us next season. I cannot believe they will include Cole, Poulsen, Coady, Flanagan or Jones. In Coady’s case, it is simply too soon and barring an unprecedented injury crisis, there are too many players with greater experience ahead of him in the pecking order.
Cole, Poulsen and Jones are surplus to requirements and will surely be sent packing if takers can be found. Flanagan is a player that I am beginning to harbour doubts over. As well as he did last season, you can see a clear gap in quality comparing him with Kelly and with Glen Johnson a cut above Kelly, Flanno’s prospects aren’t great.
As much as I think we need to sign a left-back, I have high hopes that Robinson is going to develop into an excellent player in the next few seasons and I’m wary of signing someone who will block the youngster’s path into the first team. Perhaps with Aurelio and Insua already at the club and Johnson capable of playing on the left also, it might be better to stick with what we have and ease Robinson in.
I also think we need another striker. I don’t see Ngog as being good enough to lead the line in the absence of Carroll or even to compete with Carroll for a first team place. We could always go another way with Kuyt replacing Carroll and take a more fluid approach to the game but I would prefer to tailor our tactics based on the opposition rather than our own personnel.
I am encouraged by the performances of Aquilani, Adam, Henderson and Downing. I would like to see more chances created for Carroll rather than balls he can only be expected to knock-down or flick on for others. Overall, I remain positive and look forward to the start of the season.
Saturday, 16 July 2011
Malaysia XI 3 Liverpool 6
This time last year we were in a malaise. Now we’re in Malaysia (sorry – terrible pun!) having played two pre-season games and achieved 2 wins; 10 goals for; 6 goals against. Two of those stats are good and were achieved without Reina, Skrtel, Johnson, Gerrard, Lucas, Suarez and new signings Henderson and Downing.
Pre-season is a time for optimism and so far our games have only fuelled that feeling. Once again we fielded two different XIs versus Malaysia. Just as I did for the Guangdong game, I’m going to compare the players from each half and pick the best player for each position.
1st Half........2nd Half
Jones...........Gulacsi / Hansen
Flanagan......Kelly
Carragher.....Kyrgiakos
Agger...........Wilson
Robinson......Insua
Spearing.......Shelvey
Coady...........Poulsen
Adam............Aquilani
Cole..............Kuyt
Meireles........Maxi
Carroll..........Ngog
Jones v Gulacsi / Hansen
Jones had little to do and was beaten by a stunning free kick. Gulacsi had nothing to do. Jones had plenty to do and dropped a clanger to gift Malaysia their second goal of the game. Jones was the pick of the bunch.
Flanagan v Kelly
Flanagan had a rotten game. He struggled with the Malaysian’s pace, conceded a number of free kicks due to poor challenges and was ineffective on the ball. By comparison, Kelly was strong and assured. Kelly wins at a canter.
Carragher v Kyrgiakos
Carragher was faultless throughout the first half. Kyrgiakos was faultless for much of the second half but, along with his teammates, looked lost as the defence collapsed late in the game. Carragher wins.
Agger v Wilson
Agger was a bit hit and miss. Towards the end of the first half, some of his passes were going astray or dangerously close to opponents. That said, he was at least trying to play football from the back. Wilson, like Kyrgiakos, was faultless up until the collective collapse when Malaysia looked as though they could score at will. He was the closest man to Malaysia’s goal scorer for their third goal although it seemed the attacker was offside. Agger just shades it.
Robinson v Insua
Robinson had another decent game but Insua was excellent. Insua racked up a couple of assists and could have had more but for others’ finishing. On this showing, Insua should be Liverpool’s first choice left-back in the coming season. Insua wins.
Spearing v Shelvey
Spearing had a decent game, moving the ball around well and covering a lot of ground. Shelvey was even better though, looking like a real player. Shelvey wins.
Coady v Poulsen
Both players seemed to let the game pass them by making it very hard to choose between them. Being totally honest, I’d pick Poulsen ahead of Coady on this showing.
Adam v Aquilani
Adam was again hit and miss. He played some excellent passes from deep and had improved mobility since the last game. He also got on the score sheet after having to take then retake a penalty, scoring on both occasions. On the downside, he conceded a needless free-kick from which Malaysia equalised. Aquilani was simply fantastic. The build up for the fourth goal was pass and move football at its best and illustrated the folly of loaning out the Italian and Insua last season. Adam was good but Aquilani wins.
Meireles v Kuyt
Meireles had a stinker here. He struggled to control the ball, looked off the pace and delivered nothing. Kuyt was much-improved on his showing versus Guangdong and slammed in the sixth goal after a great build up involving Aquilani. Kuyt wins.
Cole v Maxi
Cole looked OK again but ultimately delivered no end product. Maxi started badly but improved and scored twice. Maxi wins.
Carroll v Ngog
Carroll looked isolated and had to feed off scraps. By contrast, Ngog enjoyed excellent service from teammates enabling him to score twice. Carroll also won the first half penalty with a dive. Ngog wins.
So after two games, who has impressed. To me, the star of pre-season so far has been Alberto Aquilani. I’ve also been impressed with Insua and Kelly. Looking at David Ngog, I can’t help but feel he is worth keeping for this season. You would expect him to be behind Carroll in the pecking order and, based on last season, you would think King Kenny will play Kuyt up front before Ngog. However, unless we are going to sign another striker, Ngog would be a decent third or fourth choice striker. When his confidence is intact, he’s a good player.
Poulsen is surely not part of the plans for the coming season and it is probably too soon to expect Coady to make the breakthrough. Both will find competition for a midfield berth intense with Lucas, Adam, Aquilani, Meireles, Henderson, Spearing and Shelvey all currently in contention.
Based on how we have lined up so far, Cole and Meireles have been used as the wide players in a 4-2-3-1 formation. If Meireles is to stay at the club, this position makes sense for him from the perspective that it neutralises his defensive deficiencies in central midfield. However, with Downing, Adam, Maxi, Gerrard and Kuyt all in contention for those same positions, it could be difficult for either Cole or Raul to hold down a place in the first XI.
The fact that Maxi has just been handed the No. 11 squad number, suggests he is part of Kenny’s plans for this season. Why change the squad number if the player is likely to depart?
What is really encouraging is the number of decent players in contention for positions all around the pitch. I still have concerns that none of the midfield options are of such quality that the top teams around Europe would be queuing up to sign them.
I also still harbour doubts over Andy Carroll but I’m willing to give him time. So far in pre-season, there has been little to choose from between him and David Ngog. Given that Carroll cost £35m and Ngog cost £1.5m, you would expect a gulf in ability but that has yet to materialise. Hopefully, with the likes of Downing, Adam and Gerrard supplying quality service, we will see Carroll develop into another Didier Drogba (but without the diving and petulance). We will see.
Right now I’m feeling good and that’s no bad thing with a new season fast approaching.
Pre-season is a time for optimism and so far our games have only fuelled that feeling. Once again we fielded two different XIs versus Malaysia. Just as I did for the Guangdong game, I’m going to compare the players from each half and pick the best player for each position.
1st Half........2nd Half
Jones...........Gulacsi / Hansen
Flanagan......Kelly
Carragher.....Kyrgiakos
Agger...........Wilson
Robinson......Insua
Spearing.......Shelvey
Coady...........Poulsen
Adam............Aquilani
Cole..............Kuyt
Meireles........Maxi
Carroll..........Ngog
Jones v Gulacsi / Hansen
Jones had little to do and was beaten by a stunning free kick. Gulacsi had nothing to do. Jones had plenty to do and dropped a clanger to gift Malaysia their second goal of the game. Jones was the pick of the bunch.
Flanagan v Kelly
Flanagan had a rotten game. He struggled with the Malaysian’s pace, conceded a number of free kicks due to poor challenges and was ineffective on the ball. By comparison, Kelly was strong and assured. Kelly wins at a canter.
Carragher v Kyrgiakos
Carragher was faultless throughout the first half. Kyrgiakos was faultless for much of the second half but, along with his teammates, looked lost as the defence collapsed late in the game. Carragher wins.
Agger v Wilson
Agger was a bit hit and miss. Towards the end of the first half, some of his passes were going astray or dangerously close to opponents. That said, he was at least trying to play football from the back. Wilson, like Kyrgiakos, was faultless up until the collective collapse when Malaysia looked as though they could score at will. He was the closest man to Malaysia’s goal scorer for their third goal although it seemed the attacker was offside. Agger just shades it.
Robinson v Insua
Robinson had another decent game but Insua was excellent. Insua racked up a couple of assists and could have had more but for others’ finishing. On this showing, Insua should be Liverpool’s first choice left-back in the coming season. Insua wins.
Spearing v Shelvey
Spearing had a decent game, moving the ball around well and covering a lot of ground. Shelvey was even better though, looking like a real player. Shelvey wins.
Coady v Poulsen
Both players seemed to let the game pass them by making it very hard to choose between them. Being totally honest, I’d pick Poulsen ahead of Coady on this showing.
Adam v Aquilani
Adam was again hit and miss. He played some excellent passes from deep and had improved mobility since the last game. He also got on the score sheet after having to take then retake a penalty, scoring on both occasions. On the downside, he conceded a needless free-kick from which Malaysia equalised. Aquilani was simply fantastic. The build up for the fourth goal was pass and move football at its best and illustrated the folly of loaning out the Italian and Insua last season. Adam was good but Aquilani wins.
Meireles v Kuyt
Meireles had a stinker here. He struggled to control the ball, looked off the pace and delivered nothing. Kuyt was much-improved on his showing versus Guangdong and slammed in the sixth goal after a great build up involving Aquilani. Kuyt wins.
Cole v Maxi
Cole looked OK again but ultimately delivered no end product. Maxi started badly but improved and scored twice. Maxi wins.
Carroll v Ngog
Carroll looked isolated and had to feed off scraps. By contrast, Ngog enjoyed excellent service from teammates enabling him to score twice. Carroll also won the first half penalty with a dive. Ngog wins.
So after two games, who has impressed. To me, the star of pre-season so far has been Alberto Aquilani. I’ve also been impressed with Insua and Kelly. Looking at David Ngog, I can’t help but feel he is worth keeping for this season. You would expect him to be behind Carroll in the pecking order and, based on last season, you would think King Kenny will play Kuyt up front before Ngog. However, unless we are going to sign another striker, Ngog would be a decent third or fourth choice striker. When his confidence is intact, he’s a good player.
Poulsen is surely not part of the plans for the coming season and it is probably too soon to expect Coady to make the breakthrough. Both will find competition for a midfield berth intense with Lucas, Adam, Aquilani, Meireles, Henderson, Spearing and Shelvey all currently in contention.
Based on how we have lined up so far, Cole and Meireles have been used as the wide players in a 4-2-3-1 formation. If Meireles is to stay at the club, this position makes sense for him from the perspective that it neutralises his defensive deficiencies in central midfield. However, with Downing, Adam, Maxi, Gerrard and Kuyt all in contention for those same positions, it could be difficult for either Cole or Raul to hold down a place in the first XI.
The fact that Maxi has just been handed the No. 11 squad number, suggests he is part of Kenny’s plans for this season. Why change the squad number if the player is likely to depart?
What is really encouraging is the number of decent players in contention for positions all around the pitch. I still have concerns that none of the midfield options are of such quality that the top teams around Europe would be queuing up to sign them.
I also still harbour doubts over Andy Carroll but I’m willing to give him time. So far in pre-season, there has been little to choose from between him and David Ngog. Given that Carroll cost £35m and Ngog cost £1.5m, you would expect a gulf in ability but that has yet to materialise. Hopefully, with the likes of Downing, Adam and Gerrard supplying quality service, we will see Carroll develop into another Didier Drogba (but without the diving and petulance). We will see.
Right now I’m feeling good and that’s no bad thing with a new season fast approaching.
Thursday, 14 July 2011
Thoughts on Guangdong 3 Liverpool 4
It is often said that pre-season is all about attaining fitness and preparing for the season ahead and therefore results don't matter. Could it be argued that in the context of preparation for the season, results do matter? After all, losing heavily in every game is hardly the ideal preparation for the season's opening games. On the other hand, a pre-season that yields wins and goals galore is likely to send players into their opening fixtures full of confidence. It's true that the result is not the be-all and end-all but winning football matches is no bad habit to get into.
Recent evidence suggests there is a link between pre-season form and early League results.
* In 2006-07, pre-season ended with consecutive defeats against Kaiserslautern (2-3), Grasshoppers Zunich (0-2) and Mainz 05 (0-5). We started the League season with a draw, a win and 2 defeats. We also failed to win an away game until early December by which time we were long since out of contention for the title.
* In 2007-08 we were unbeaten in pre-season winning 6 out of 8. We began the League season with 3 wins and a draw to top the Premiership table after four games.
* In 2008-09 we won our last 3 games against Rangers (4-0), Valerenga (4-1) and Lazio (1-0). We won 3 of our first 4 games and drew the other and went on to have our best League campaign since the Premiership era began.
* In 2009-10, we lost 2 of our last 3 games versus Espanyol (0-3), Lyn Oslo (2-0) and Atletico Madrid (1-2). We began the season with 2 defeats in 3 games, had a 'mare of a season and Rafa got sacked.
* Last season we failed to score in pre-season losing our last 2 games to Kaiserslautern (0-1) and Moenchengladbach (0-1) before embarking on the disaster that was Roy Hodgson's reign.
So basically, a poor pre-season can be linked to a poor start to the League campaign while a decent pre-season is more likely to lead to a decent start in the League. Looking at the rollickings dished out by Jamie Carragher throughout the first half or Charlie Adam's reaction to Guang Dong's third goal last night, it's clear that these players think the result matters.
That said, it is clear that the two different XIs that lined up for the first and second half last night contained a mixture of players who will be in contention for first team places in the coming season; players who will be hoping to break into the first team, and players who will be playing elsewhere when the season starts. In that respect, what does it matter if Christian Poulsen played well given we wouldn't want him anywhere near our match day squad come August 13th?
So can we learn anything from yesterday's game? There is an obvious risk of reading too much into things but it appeared to me that with entirely different personnel, the team lined up with the same formation for both halves. I claim to be no expert in team tactics and formations but I would describe that formation as a 4-2-3-1. Could this be indicative of the formation we can expect next season - particularly bearing in mind how easily it lends itself to becoming 4-3-3 when on the attack?
I was also intrigued by the use of Flanagan at left-back. Perhaps with Johnson and Kelly ahead of him in the pecking order for right-back, we may see the youngster on the left more often than the right next season. On the other hand we might still sign a left-back and not see Flanno at all outside the Carling Cup.
I thought it particularly poignant that Agger wore the captain's armband for the second half given the lack of trust shown in him by Hodgson last year. Kenny clearly rates him and is perhaps looking for more leadership from him.
I would also suggest that Gulacsi getting 45 mins in goal while Jones got 25 and Hansen 20 confirms what is commonly understood to be the goal-keeping pecking order. All three will be behind Reina and Doni too if he signs. Jones is strongly linked with a permanent transfer out of the club while Gulacsi is expected to go out on loan.
Due to the lack of fitness and the inevitable rustiness of players, it would be unreasonable to criticise players who underperform at this stage. However, I think is fair to credit those who impress given that they have time to improve further and are also giving themselves a chance of impressing the manager and coaches. So who did impress? I thought for fun I would compare like for like the players who lined up in each half and pick my XI from the 23.
Gulacsi versus Jones/Hansen
Gulacsi had more to do than Jones and Hansen (barring stoppage time). Gulacsi made one decent save and that gives him the edge.
Kelly versus Wisdom
Wisdom looked decent enough but Kelly is truly exciting when he bombs forward down the right wing - which he did a lot. Kelly was my pick.
Carragher versus Kyrgiakos
Carra made a number of well-timed tackles and general played well. Kyrgiakos was at fault for Guangdong's second goal. Carra wins.
Wilson versus Agger
Wilson was OK. Barring stoppage time, Agger looked good. Agger wins.
Flanagan versus Robinson
Tough to choose between these. Flanagan had more to do defensively but both were effective. As a left-footer, Robinson was slightly more effective in the attacking third whereas Flanagan kept having to check inside to use his right foot. In terms of style, Flanagan appears to have a more rugged approach whereas Robinson looks more elegant. If I was forced to choose I'd go for Robinson but it is really marginal.
Poulsen versus Coady
Without being spectacular Poulsen was actually OK and even scored the opening goal. Coady was a bundle of energy and scored a cracker. Coady wins.
Spearing versus Adam
Spearing was everything we have come to expect him to be but in addition played some incisive passes that opened up the opposition. Adam demonstrated an excellent eye for a pass but his technique was rusty with most being overhit. Adam's set pieces were all disappointing. Spearing just shades it.
Shelvey versus Aquilani
Shelvey showed a mixture of glimpses of quality and sloppy passing. His head dropped after numerous rollickings from Carragher. By contrast Aquilani was energetic, constantly getting involved and gave a master class of passing. Aquilani wins by a country mile and, after seeing him here, I hope to be seeing more of him in a Liverpool shirt.
Cole versus Kuyt
Cole looked OK. He did his usual 360O turn on the ball for no obvious reason and the crowd loved it. He also set up the opener for Poulsen and delivered some decent corners. Kuyt was not good. His touch was generally poor and bar an excellent chance he created for Maxi, he did little to impress on the ball. That said, as you would expect, he ran a lot. Strictly on this showing, Cole was my pick.
Pacheco versus Maxi
Pacheco started well then disappeared. Maxi started badly looking very rusty but was involved a lot and set up Carroll's goal. Neither impressed but Maxi was my pick.
Ngog versus Carroll
Both scored though neither took their goals particularly cleanly. Ngog actually might have had another one or two but for some dodgy off-side decisions. Carroll also assisted Coady for his goal and surprised me with the amount of running he did so I'd go for Carroll.
And who didn't we see? Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Ayala, Aurelio, Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Meireles, Downing and Suarez - an entire XI of which all bar Ayala would be expected to feature regularly in the first team. So in spite of performances here in China, I'd still only expect 5 at most of my picks to be first team regulars next season and possibly 2 or 3 of the non-picks to do so too (certainly Kuyt and Adam).
So what have we learned? We can field 3 pretty strong XIs but the only one I would want to see (as an XI) in the Premiership is the one that didn't play last night. Overall we've got the makings of a good team with some decent squad back up and some promising young players coming through. We also have some deadwood but then we knew all that already.
So in conclusion, maybe this piece was a complete waste of time but, hey, it's only pre-season!
Recent evidence suggests there is a link between pre-season form and early League results.
* In 2006-07, pre-season ended with consecutive defeats against Kaiserslautern (2-3), Grasshoppers Zunich (0-2) and Mainz 05 (0-5). We started the League season with a draw, a win and 2 defeats. We also failed to win an away game until early December by which time we were long since out of contention for the title.
* In 2007-08 we were unbeaten in pre-season winning 6 out of 8. We began the League season with 3 wins and a draw to top the Premiership table after four games.
* In 2008-09 we won our last 3 games against Rangers (4-0), Valerenga (4-1) and Lazio (1-0). We won 3 of our first 4 games and drew the other and went on to have our best League campaign since the Premiership era began.
* In 2009-10, we lost 2 of our last 3 games versus Espanyol (0-3), Lyn Oslo (2-0) and Atletico Madrid (1-2). We began the season with 2 defeats in 3 games, had a 'mare of a season and Rafa got sacked.
* Last season we failed to score in pre-season losing our last 2 games to Kaiserslautern (0-1) and Moenchengladbach (0-1) before embarking on the disaster that was Roy Hodgson's reign.
So basically, a poor pre-season can be linked to a poor start to the League campaign while a decent pre-season is more likely to lead to a decent start in the League. Looking at the rollickings dished out by Jamie Carragher throughout the first half or Charlie Adam's reaction to Guang Dong's third goal last night, it's clear that these players think the result matters.
That said, it is clear that the two different XIs that lined up for the first and second half last night contained a mixture of players who will be in contention for first team places in the coming season; players who will be hoping to break into the first team, and players who will be playing elsewhere when the season starts. In that respect, what does it matter if Christian Poulsen played well given we wouldn't want him anywhere near our match day squad come August 13th?
So can we learn anything from yesterday's game? There is an obvious risk of reading too much into things but it appeared to me that with entirely different personnel, the team lined up with the same formation for both halves. I claim to be no expert in team tactics and formations but I would describe that formation as a 4-2-3-1. Could this be indicative of the formation we can expect next season - particularly bearing in mind how easily it lends itself to becoming 4-3-3 when on the attack?
I was also intrigued by the use of Flanagan at left-back. Perhaps with Johnson and Kelly ahead of him in the pecking order for right-back, we may see the youngster on the left more often than the right next season. On the other hand we might still sign a left-back and not see Flanno at all outside the Carling Cup.
I thought it particularly poignant that Agger wore the captain's armband for the second half given the lack of trust shown in him by Hodgson last year. Kenny clearly rates him and is perhaps looking for more leadership from him.
I would also suggest that Gulacsi getting 45 mins in goal while Jones got 25 and Hansen 20 confirms what is commonly understood to be the goal-keeping pecking order. All three will be behind Reina and Doni too if he signs. Jones is strongly linked with a permanent transfer out of the club while Gulacsi is expected to go out on loan.
Due to the lack of fitness and the inevitable rustiness of players, it would be unreasonable to criticise players who underperform at this stage. However, I think is fair to credit those who impress given that they have time to improve further and are also giving themselves a chance of impressing the manager and coaches. So who did impress? I thought for fun I would compare like for like the players who lined up in each half and pick my XI from the 23.
Gulacsi versus Jones/Hansen
Gulacsi had more to do than Jones and Hansen (barring stoppage time). Gulacsi made one decent save and that gives him the edge.
Kelly versus Wisdom
Wisdom looked decent enough but Kelly is truly exciting when he bombs forward down the right wing - which he did a lot. Kelly was my pick.
Carragher versus Kyrgiakos
Carra made a number of well-timed tackles and general played well. Kyrgiakos was at fault for Guangdong's second goal. Carra wins.
Wilson versus Agger
Wilson was OK. Barring stoppage time, Agger looked good. Agger wins.
Flanagan versus Robinson
Tough to choose between these. Flanagan had more to do defensively but both were effective. As a left-footer, Robinson was slightly more effective in the attacking third whereas Flanagan kept having to check inside to use his right foot. In terms of style, Flanagan appears to have a more rugged approach whereas Robinson looks more elegant. If I was forced to choose I'd go for Robinson but it is really marginal.
Poulsen versus Coady
Without being spectacular Poulsen was actually OK and even scored the opening goal. Coady was a bundle of energy and scored a cracker. Coady wins.
Spearing versus Adam
Spearing was everything we have come to expect him to be but in addition played some incisive passes that opened up the opposition. Adam demonstrated an excellent eye for a pass but his technique was rusty with most being overhit. Adam's set pieces were all disappointing. Spearing just shades it.
Shelvey versus Aquilani
Shelvey showed a mixture of glimpses of quality and sloppy passing. His head dropped after numerous rollickings from Carragher. By contrast Aquilani was energetic, constantly getting involved and gave a master class of passing. Aquilani wins by a country mile and, after seeing him here, I hope to be seeing more of him in a Liverpool shirt.
Cole versus Kuyt
Cole looked OK. He did his usual 360O turn on the ball for no obvious reason and the crowd loved it. He also set up the opener for Poulsen and delivered some decent corners. Kuyt was not good. His touch was generally poor and bar an excellent chance he created for Maxi, he did little to impress on the ball. That said, as you would expect, he ran a lot. Strictly on this showing, Cole was my pick.
Pacheco versus Maxi
Pacheco started well then disappeared. Maxi started badly looking very rusty but was involved a lot and set up Carroll's goal. Neither impressed but Maxi was my pick.
Ngog versus Carroll
Both scored though neither took their goals particularly cleanly. Ngog actually might have had another one or two but for some dodgy off-side decisions. Carroll also assisted Coady for his goal and surprised me with the amount of running he did so I'd go for Carroll.
And who didn't we see? Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Ayala, Aurelio, Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Meireles, Downing and Suarez - an entire XI of which all bar Ayala would be expected to feature regularly in the first team. So in spite of performances here in China, I'd still only expect 5 at most of my picks to be first team regulars next season and possibly 2 or 3 of the non-picks to do so too (certainly Kuyt and Adam).
So what have we learned? We can field 3 pretty strong XIs but the only one I would want to see (as an XI) in the Premiership is the one that didn't play last night. Overall we've got the makings of a good team with some decent squad back up and some promising young players coming through. We also have some deadwood but then we knew all that already.
So in conclusion, maybe this piece was a complete waste of time but, hey, it's only pre-season!
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