Gerry,
I think you’ve inadvertently hit on the idea of the season.

A travelling banner for the opening away game at Spurs (who by then will have bought a fair number of expensive players by all reports)
folowed by a Kop Mosiac for the opening home game.

Simply put:

We write songs for our heroes
Other clubs just write checks

(Maybe even have the entier squad’s names written around the edge?
F.S. get your SOS mates working on that banner!)

Thanks Aitch, now you can see why I’ve decided to design a few t-shirts.

Very happy with the Glen Johnson signing. I do feel however that no matter who we sign this summer, if we manage to hang onto Masch and Alonso, it would feel to me like signing two new players. I agree that no player is bigger than the club and their loss would be felt for a short period but this year seems to be the best chance we have of winning the league, with Manure weakened, Chelsea under a new manager, Arsenal with their usual youth movement, Man City with new players and growing pains etc. We need to have a stable and familiar team with the experience of taking it all the way to the wire. If we win the league next season and they decide to leave, at least we got a win and will have the confidence to kick on to greater things from there. We need them for just one more season I think. Unfinished business…

Yup good point FS…

Excellent blog there Gerry, had a good chuckle here and there through it!!!

Crazy season is upon us well and truely…

Totally agree with you, Gerry. GJ is an excellent signing and will give us a boost next season. Nice gesture on the t-shirt as I’m one of the “fastastic international supporter”.

Hopefully a little taste of what we can expect next season. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFmzTt1aK6k

“And on a final, final note, I have personally designed a Liverpool t-shirt aimed mainly at our often neglected but completely fantastic international supporters . . .”

TQ Gerry fer once again keeping us faraway Kopites in mind.

Of course, no one player is bigger than our club but canna help but worry over Masch & Xabi as they are being pressured by their family to move.

Lest we forget the huge weight family opinion carries, just ask Stevie G.

On another note, seeing that us overseas fans are deprived of watching our reserves in action, could any regulars share their opinions on who they think might get some game time in senior squad this year?

Despite the rave reviews Pacheto, Nemeth et al seem to get, they have yet to taste first team action. Something even Plesis managed . . .

Take that, all you Scum loving media! For trying to even sabotage the deal by saying the Chavs might swoop him, only to fail all so miserably.

Welcome to the family, Glen Johnson. Work hard and learn the Liverpool Way, and you’ll be rewarded more than all those cheques the Scum and Chavs can sign.

For some reason, with Prick Parry gone, Rafa’s transfers have so far gone with extremely little hassle, no matter how much (last minute) shit the Scum media try to stir up.

Is it just me or is it all kinds of wrong that the main site photoshoped Johnson’s face onto an old picture of Pennant??????

…sent shivers down my spine, gave me hives AND puppy wriggles, AND goosebumps, and made the hair on my arms stand straight up!

gerry, i too mentioned to my lfc supporter mate the other day why aren’t scum, chav or gunners being raided for their players. i mean, i havent read about anyone making an audacious offer for shrek, or dog-breath, or losers like carrick or anderson. seems like the attraction this transfer period is all about liverpool players.

personally i am happy with the glen johnson signing. if the entire team remains intact, then any add-ons (whether u agree with the fee or the player’s worth) would only enhance what we already have.

i used to have doubts over glenda when he was with the chavs, and i figure it was right that he was offloaded cos glenda wasnt up to par and also becos nurturing players wasn’t the chavs’ policy. (after all, why bother when they can just buy?)

following his departure from chelshit, glenda also got kicked out of the england squad cos he refused to play for the under-21s. was disgusted with his attitude then, probably figure he was too good for the u-21s.

but he has since come good at pompey and under don fab’s tutelage, has excelled for england.

now, to keep arbeloa. cos if arbelo thinks he’ll get more action with madrid, he’d be making a mistake, with sergio ramos as first choice RB. maybe arbeloa might find a role on the left (that’s he played in the confeds game against south africa, was it LB or LM?)

welcome to LFC glenn. may you do us proud lad.

Another great blog Gerry. I remember coming on here last week and being a bit negative saying that were better right backs out there.Even though I still hold that opinion finding out that the chavs matched our offer made me reflect a little bit, I guess you don’t know what you’ve got until some tw*t with a massive wallet throws loads of money at it. Most of the best ones are 26 or 27 and Glenda has the potential to develop into a top class right back as well by the time he’s their age. Very happy to have a talented pacy attacking right back, welcome to Anfield Glen!

I for one am glad that Rafa has signed us a quality English player. It has been said that youtube can make any player look good but if Glenda can do this (#6 link)for Portsmouth, imagine what he can do for us when he has team mates who can provide pin point, accurate passes, short and long (including Reina and Agger) and when the team is countering at blistering pace. I agree that he and Kuyt can have a great combination down the right.

Can’t wait for the season to commence!!

I’m not expecting miracles for our following signings but I am very eager to find out what other gems Rafa has in mind.

Great Blog Gerry,

There have being alot of shit about player leaving, but I have a feeling that Alonso will go.

Back when Rafa signed his contract he sorted all the back room staff and alot of the key players, but no word on Xabi.
Last season the club would have accepted 15m, and this season looks like receiving 25m.

Great Blog Gerry and nice catch phase I will defiantly be throwing that around. Good signing as well, it is defiantly an improvement to the squad giving us more attacking options and more cover for the Right Back spot. Arbie, as you say needs to stay and with Aurelleo crocked maybe Dossena needs to stay as well.
Just one more player to bring in and I think we will be set for next season. FS I read your comment that Masch said he wants to stay but could not find the interview, all the reports I have read have stated h is flattered to be linked and that Barca are the better team at the moment. As I said on the last blog none of them will leave and that is my honest gut feel. As to the comment about Nemeth and Pacheo, they where involved in preseason last year. Nenemth would have played in the first team but was injured for most of the year. Pacheo is very young (18) and very small physically, having spent 2 years at Liverpool now I think we will start to see more of him. Don’t forget Spearing, Darby and Kelly played in a CL game and Insua and Ngog are only 19-20 so we are bring the youngsters through. There is also San Jose who will come into the equation for the centre back slot along with Kelly. We have one, if not the youngest squads in the Prem, everybody goes on about Arsenal but we are on a par with them. Lucas 22 and Babbel 23 also fall into that category. There is a nice mix of youth and experience and we look set for many years to come. One to watch for the future is Bruno as well, if not this year (also very young 18) next year we could be seeing more of him. The other youngsters to watch in the reserves next year will be Ince, Ecelston, Da la Valle, Amoo from the acadamy to see if they can make the step up to the reserves. There are one or two others that look good but I cannot remember of the top of my head at the moment. You can see them all play on LFC TV they show a lot of the games.

I would just like to ad one more thing in response to the comment why Rafa brought in another youngster that we don’t need. Apart from the youth policy that is vital if we need to compete with clubs that have more financial muscle than us. Any youngster that goes through our academy and youth system and makes it into the first team is categorised as a home grown player even if he is not English. So if the 5 and 6 rule eventually gets passed we will be well set to comply.

Great blog Gerry.

‘We write songs for our heroes
Other clubs just write checks’

Very important statement made by you. We keep saying how important Masch and Alonso are for us. Yesterday i reacted to Burgerman’s comment on selling Masch.

But the kind of statements coming from the player himself is shameful.He wants a wage increase. For that to happen, he keeps on praising Barca and Real Madrid. Interesting to see how Rafa handles him. And rightly mentioned by Gerry, if a player does not feel like playing in front of the KOP, there is no point holding him. Its not that players are not getting good wages. Mascherano should be thankful to Rafa to get him out of the mess at West Ham. Instead he is playing this tricks to increase his wages.

Its not done.Johnson signing is a good news.

Some very good points made there Gerry, a two man team with at least 5 of their players being coverted by other top clubs, home and abroad. It’s so pathetic you can only laugh at it.

I am delighted by the signing of Glen Johnson and I think this is one in the eye for those who like to knock LFC. This is another world class player in the team and as he won’t even be 25 until August, this lads will get better and better. Champions Leauge football will see to that.

Is Johnson our first English International right back since Phil Neal? Or am I forgetting someone?

Steve Warnock played for England I think Steve

Steve,

Think you forgot Rob Jones. He represented England for a short while before injuries and G. Nipple took over.

Smacker of a blog Gerry ! I’d feel pretty good now if the season was starting tomorrow, comparing us with the rest of the potential title challengers. But there is a way to go yet.

Morning lads. You all know what I’m like with the press, and find most of these stories aimed at destabalising us hilariously funny. But Gerry, the sad thing is, in this day and age, footballers are more interested in seeing their names on huge cheques than hearing them from the crowd.

Sad fact of life.

But Somnath, Masch isn’t playing games to get more money. His agent is doing that. You can’t find the interview Keith because it was given to a Spanish newspaper. The English media just took the parts of it that they wanted and spun them into the usual shite. One rag is now claiming Masch has demanded the club TREBLE his wages or he is off. Pure bollax, but when has that ever stopped them.

I read the version that was translated by a Spanish Liverpool fan. In it Masch stresses how comfortable he is at Liverpool and in Liverpool itself (The city). He went out of his way to use the word “Comfortable,” but never said anything about his family. As for the comments on Barca and Madrid, Masch gave the happy and comfortable at LFC answer to the journalist and only spoke about the speculation when really pushed.

He said he was flattered by big clubs like Barca and Real being interested in him, that was it. Again when pushed he told the truth, or truth how he sees it… “Barca is the best team in the world and Messi is the best player.” He then went on to say he prefered the Prem to La Liga, saying it suited him more and that LFC were the best team in it and unlucky not to win it. And then went onto say how he wanted to try and win it this season.

I could go on, but what’s the point. It’s just the usual… Player saying all the right things, English media twisting them to suit their agenda.

So, as always all I can say is, we’ll have to wait and see.

I don’t want to cause any sort of panic here. I have also seen all the greats come and go, but we are at a delicate time in our transition/evolution. It has took Rafa five long years of hard work to assemble this team. I hope none of them leave before the job is complete. But if they do, we will just have to get on with it.

In fact, I think Arbie is gone now. But there again, Johnson arriving is the end result of something Rafa has been working at for 5 years – finding an attacking full back. Trace Rafa’s history with the position. It’s been a bit of a trek to get here. I think Johnson has cost far too much money. But there’s nothing else you can do nowadays… Rafa has tried them all – cheap buys, free transfers, homegrown kids.

In fact, Arbeloa was a fantastic find and will turn out to be a great bit of business by Rafa. A 3 million buy that no one rated, turned into the Spanish RB, and should sell for at least 8 (hopefully up to 12) million.

And I will be very sorry to see Arby go. I really like and rate the kid. But I think he will go. His homesickness is real. (Don’t understand how anyone can discount homesickness or family unrest as reasons to leave). And he is not going to want to sit on the bench, especially while wanting to solidify his place in the national team in a World Cup year. So, sadly I think it’s bye bye Arby, but I hope I am wrong.

As for the arrivals, Rafa must be getting deperate – we have signed Jesus and King. Hoping for a bit of divine/royal intervention.

As for Johnson, as I said one of the final pieces in the jigsaw. Just keep him out of B&Q. Keep the rest of the squad together, and add the last couple of links. Job done. But like I said, still plenty of hard graft left for Rafa.

Great blog Gerry, I love the slogan!

I like the fact Glen Johnson snubbed Man City and Chavski. He’s looked the business over the last couple of years and hopefully he continues to improve in a red shirt. Rafa has got the attacking right back he always wanted it seems. Remember his attempts to get in Alvez a few years ago. Well there’s no Rick Parry to f**k things up this time.

Was just reading you guys comments on Mascherano so I had a look at some articles. At first I read that he is demanding more wages and is waxing lyrical about Barca and Real’s interest. But then I read that he’s on £25,000 a week! Gerrard and Torres are on around £120k a week. Carra is on around £80k. Johnson around £80k apparently. Alonso around £60k. Kuyt and Agger have new deals agreed and I bet they are both getting more than £60k a week.

If it’s true Masch is on £25k a week then I think he’s entitled to seek higher wages. We should offer him a new contract or cash in on him.

Wasn’t Warnock a left back? In which case he will be the first England RB since Rob Jones which was around ’95… so its been 14 years.

Oh and I forgot to add, sales will still be needed. I’d throw Intandje out the door sharpish, even on a free, just to get shut. In fact, I’d have the lawyers working on cancelling his contract. I’d take whatever I could get for Vronin. And sadly, I’d let Plessis and Spearing go. I don’t think they will ever be quite good enough for the first team.

Pacheco and Nemeth I would wrap in cotton wool and put away in a cupboard until they are ready. These two – especially Pacheco – will save us millions one day.

Just read your post FS. A very good one.

LB, we must have posted at the same time. Read my post. I hope it explains it to you. It’s the fucking media stirring up the shit again. And it’s them (The media) and Masch’s agent not Masch who is spreading this shit around.

Don’t you remember Rafa telling Masch’s agent to shut it the other week? And I will try to find the translation of the article that has started all this bollacks off again.

Fuck we keep posting at the same time, but hope that explains a bit

Liverpoolecho.co.uk, says that Rafa admits he still has room for one more signing before he has to start selling. Doesn’t mention how much he has to spend.Plessis isn’t a bad player.

Plessis is an excellent player, just not good enough for LFC especially if we want to win titles

I think Plessis would do great in a different league – with a bit more time on the ball.

FS, you’ve explained that Spanish article perfectly. I get it now and should have known really. But I do get the impression that Masch is a bit cheeky if you see what I mean – he doesn’t rule out anything.

It’s the agents job to get the best possible financial package for the player. Obviously the agent gets paid whenever a new deal is done. If Liverpool offer Masch a new contract due to the interest of Barca and Real well the agent has done his job well I guess.

£25k a week surprised me though – that can’t be right.

I just read on Soccernet that Masch makes 30,000 a week playing for Liverpool. That can’t be right can it? It’s surprising that a player of his calibre is making so little (in comparison to other players). Does anybody have an idea how much the other big name players are making? Would love to know.

FS and other lads have a read of this when you have a moment it’s a good, interesting balanced article on the Brazil football team comparing it to past eras etc….

ttp://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/timvickery/2009/06/brazil.html

If you read the papers you will find all sorts of differing wages. But the fact is, Masch’s contract will be revised and upgraded when and if he commits himself to the club. And that’s the manager’s job LB.

These Argentinian agents are snakes in lizards clothing. Consortiums – fucking cartel’s more like. But like anyone else, you’re right – they will keep pushing for more and more.

You have to remember how fucked up the signing of Masch was. Rafa done a great job there for LFC, securing him on a small deal, while pretending to H&G he only wanted him on loan, and then causing absolute murder to get him signed. Let’s not forget Rafa threatened to fall on his sword for Masch. So, I’m pretty sure he would put his earnings on a par with anyone at the club, if and when Mascher commited himself to the club.

And yeah. He is a cheeky fucker LB. Everytime I see him talking he’s at it. He seems to never say the same thing twice – he’s happy, he’s unhappy, he loves LFC, he wants to win trophies with them, he wants and can bring Tevez to LFC, he doesn’t care what Tevez does, he owes Rafa, he owes no one but himself and his family fuck all.

I could go on, but I suppose all you can do is believe the last thing he said… “He is comfortable at LFC and wants to win the title with them.”
The rest we should just take as the usual media bollacks.

But I have a feeling he could be a bit nuts LB. Do you know he caused absolute murder with the Argentinian squad, and got Requilme thrown out of the team?

I don’t know the full story (when do we ever). But apparently he drove Requilame that mental that he chinned Masch. Maradonna then told Requilame he wouldn’t be playing for national team and said… “The Argentine team is Mascherano and 10 others.”

Sort of flattering for Masch, but maybe a boot up the arse might have been better for him.

I’ve got to go out now, but I just did a quick search for the article about Masch. I couldn’t find it, but I will later. While routing about, I came across this old article….
ttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/146121-media-myths-rafa-benitez-and-his-transfer-history-with-liverpool-football-club

I’m not sure if I posted it before, but I know Keith will love it and we should all read it.

I don’t really know anything much about the writer, but fair play to him. I love the opening lines…

Myth: “fable, fiction, lie; a widespread but untrue or erroneous story or belief.”

There appears to be a trend growing amongst media outlets, “expert” pundits, and rival supporters who strive to ensure a negative air surrounds Liverpool Football Club and more commonly its manager, Rafa Benitez.

It seems he can do no right in the eyes of some people—his own supporters included—and more false claims appear every week that serve only to derail him from his quest of rebuilding Liverpool Football Club.

It would do us all well to bear that in mind as the press/media will only up their game over the coming weeks and the nearer Rafa gets to concluding his/our business.

See you later.

Well done guys, Rob Jones………. I knew I had forgotten someone.

We might need Plessis or Spearing as back up to Lucas if either/or Alonso/Monster leave. Not ideal I know but they are a similar if inferior pairing to Mash and Xabi. Hopefully it will not come to that but I think if Spearing got his chance he would grab it with both hands. Plessis doing the Xabi role and Spearing doing the Monster role. I’m now making myself very nervous.

Glenn Johnson gives us a little taste that we expect us to start this season the same as way as we finished last season. Cautious Rafa? My arse. The media and fans make me chortle. A team has to be built and to be successful it has to be built from the back to the front. That’s why I have no sympthy for the Geordies. Dalglish made Newcastle a lot tighter at the back and they were moaning like hell, he’s not playing the traditional Newcastle way of shipping goals and getting battered woar Jackie! Out with him! Didn’t they see the teams he built at Liverpool and Blackburn?

Just read an article on the official LFC site about Torres. Again shows what a great piece of business Rafa did in getting him here. Very humble and down to earth as well as being the top striker around in the world.

Reds,here’s an article in the liverpool echo. Rafa justifies the signing of Glenda but also says that he has money for one more signing without having to sell…not bad
(can this paper can be trusted??)

“We have a plan,” added Benitez. “We can sign one more player if necessary, but that’s without any players leaving.”

ttp://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-fc/liverpool-fc-news/2009/06/23/why-i-had-to-splash-out-on-glen-johnson-liverpool-fc-boss-rafa-benitez-100252-23949351/

YNWA

Great blog once again maestro Gerry, including the title which no one has mentioned!

I wrote this before but the worrying thing about the Arbeloa issue is that since his bust up with Carra, he has kept a very low profile. Maybe he had already made his mind up to leave by then and was not concentrating too much; and maybe Jamie saw that in him.

He is a quality back-up so I would hate to see him go, but as FS pointed out, it will be an incredible piece of business. I am actually hoping that Martin Kelly is brought back– I hear that he is quick and versatile, allowing him to play across the back 4.

And then of course, I am once again happy to hear that we have snatched another fine youngster. Get them before anyone else can cos just like pacheco, he could prove to be a mega star in the making. I am really looking forward to how the academy and youth will develop with the appointment of the new technical director.

FS, surely Masch can only can only commit his future to Liverpool when we offer him a new and improved contract? As of reading LB’s post this morning I now know why these stories wont go away; he’s on 25k a wk! Sure ffs is it any wonder he’s waxing lyrical about Barca and his agent has a new story in the paper everyday? Masch has the power to stop it whenever he wants. But he wont. Until he gets his revised with a pay rise. Simple logic methinks lads. He’ll either have a pay rise by august or Barca it is.

I think all the players should be on the same money. If Masch is on 30k a week and Stevie G and FT are on 100k a week it will only breed jealousy.

I’m not for one moment suggesting that they should all be on 100k a week (I think that’s far too much money to pay anyone) but an amount in the region of 50k per week for all of them would be fairer in my opinion.

I would love it if somehow Arbeloa would stick around for one more season. With Johnson coming in and paying for him what we did, I’m assuming he will get the nod for most matches. I could still see Arby getting 35+ games for us.

Arby’s versatility would help us immensely. He can play any of the back four positions; remember his debut at the Camp Nou at LB shutting down Messi?

It would provide us the ability to sell Doss back to Italy without being left short of cover for Insua and Aurelio (who may or may not have a knee knack right now). I don’t know if Arby is suitable cover as our 4th CB, but he has played there for us before back in the 2007-08 season. It gives Rafa the option of playing Arby at RB and pushing Johnson up to RM on some occasions.

Homesickness is something you just can’t combat. It has nothing to do with making a ton of money and winning trophies; football is only a small part of a players every day life. If the missus is the one who’s really homesick, you’re screwed.

All the married guys will be able to relate to this. Nothing is worse than coming home from a long day at the office and finding the missus acting all cunty. As a one off, we’ve all found ways to deal with it (pub anyone?) but if it’s an every day thing, it becomes old real quick.

You can only take so much of the bride saying: she’s not happy in England, doesn’t like the weather, struggling to communicate because of a foreign language, wants to raise the kids back home, missus being around family and friends, etc. There comes a point that you finally give in and give her what she’s looking for.

It’s not like these lads (Arby, Masch, Xabi) are being linked with moves to small clubs (Barca, Real Madrid). They will remain in the spotlight and win their share of trophies and national team appearances. We all focus on Liverpool and what a great club it is, but for a lot of these Spanish/S. American players, their childhood dreams involve playing for those two big Spanish clubs.

FS, I would put Spearing in the same league as Pacheco & Nemeth. I supposed that he needs the play time to establish himself. Have only seen Spearing played once and he impressed me. Certainly showed the hunger and more importantly, the heart when he put on the resd shirt. But what do I know? Fans like me from the east do not have the chance to watch reserves games. Perhaps you can shed some light on his performances during reserves.

Super Blog Gerry

FS Quality find in Article 35.

I find it amazing the lengths people will go to, to discredit Rafa. Some of it borders on hatred and I genuinely dont know why. Is it because they cant find weaknesses themselves that they just jumb aboard a bandwagon of myths and downright lies.

Have to say I am comfortable with the Masch situation but I think Alonso will be going. (what about Michael Johnson of Man City as a replacement young quality and English)I am however expecting a big season from Lucas.
I think Arbeloa is as good as gone aswell.
Johnson is a quality buy, and I am delighted that the deal deal is almost done, like Rafa says, to stay in the top 4 you have to spend the money.

Got to say aswell I am intrigued as to the one other player that we can afford. Only time will tell I suppose

yaya toure is on the verge of signing his new contract at barca…

Which begs the question Alec…. Why on earth would they spend £30m on Masch? When they are struggling to offer Valencia £35m for David Villa?

Answer: Agents and journalists are talking cack.

Great blog Gerry.

I’m not sold on Johnson yet, I just know very little about him. I don’t watch England games, and very few Portsmouth games, so I can’t really comment on him.

I’ll trust the judgement of the posters on here, if they are generally happy with the signing.

Any rumours about players leaving seem to have come from, either agents or journos. None of our players have said they were unhappy or wanted to leave. In fact, any that have spoken, have committed themselves to the club.

I do take it as a compliment to the players that they are being linked to all teams. It shows the level of improvement in our squad. And also, the respect that Rafa is held on the continent. His judgement of players is given praise, rather than the usual denigration that he gets in the British media.

Just a quick cut and past on something I picked up and found amusing.

“Incidentally, in other news, Glen Johnson has apparently spurned the chance to rejoin the UN’s new headquarters at Stamford Bridge on the grounds that he doesn’t want to have to take five different translators to work every day when it would be easier just to learn Spanish at Liverpool.

We’ve also signed Jesus, (no relation to Fowler)”

Yes Rob Jones was who I was thinking of. I think Rafa is playing clever, either Arbie signs a new deal and he agrees to sell him next year or the year after or he sells him know for a big profit. He cost us 2.5 mill, it is a win win situation, but I hope he stays. If he goes Dossena will stay we cannot get rid of both.

Alonso is going nowhere for the next one possibly two years then we will sell him for a profit. By that time Lucas will be ready to take over from him, with the confidence he gained from fighting through the rough patch last year, the bulking up over the season we should see the real Lucas come to the fore. I have high hopes for him still despite all the negative sentiment by some so called fans. The most interesting thing for me is that Rafa said he could still bring in one more quality target without selling. That was the best news we could have heard. Keep the squad together and bring in two quality signings. I presume that it did not included Vorinon, Intandje, and a few youngsters in that equation.

Super stuff Gerry,

A good signing johnson is IMO.

Happy we`ve nabbed this kid Jesus from Barca.I`m thinking Rafa has signed up one of the top youth development coaches(that guy from barca) and it`s already paying dividends.If we were fighting Barca for his signature then he must be good.I read a comment yesterday from Kev saying it was a waste of time signing youngsters.What a ridulous comment to make Kev in all fairness if we don`t buy youth we`ll have nothing for the future.If we unearth one gem it could save us 20 million.

Keith just regarding your comment on lucas replacing Alonso.I can`t see that happening.I think they are two different types of midfeilders.Lucas to be fair isn`t as bad as some like to make out.He has put in some decent shifts in this difficult season for him personally but IMO he hasn`t a creative bone in his body.Saying that now Keith i think he`s a good player who,given the chance become a lot better but as a direct replacement for Alonso i just can`t see it.He has a future with us though,that is no doubt.

Classic “We’ve also signed Jesus, (no relation to Fowler)”

I agree Tim, Lucas wont be replacing Alonso, someone will be replacing Lucas!! Alright, all joking aside I will be watching him closely this season to gauge what improvement or progression, if any, he has made. Big season for the lad – 3rd one at Anfield, he’ll be what? 23? And I tell ya what, if Masch keeps batting his eyelashes at Barca and no pay rise is forthcoming from Anfield, he could well see shitload of playing time this season. A potentially massive season ahead for our much maligned Lucas Levia.

am i the only one to feel a little peeved by the journalists questioning of our paying of “17″ million for johnson??! first off, it was probably closer to 9-10 million because of money owed to us on crouch, and did we hear any of this questioning when chelsea payed 15 million for bosingwa, an unproven foreign defender?! or perhaps berbatov costing 32 million pounds?!?! christ, its annoying.

FS, are you sure about Spearing? I’d love to see him make it at liverpool and I think he has the potential to do so. I haven’t seen many reserve games but any I have seen he has always played very well. He got a hatrick in a game near the end of the season

Has everyone seen the Mancs transfer actvity? Absolutely hilarious, from nearly everything I’ve read they’re planning to go the way of Arsenal, splashing all the cash on unknown 20 year olds from Brazil. I know most transfer talk is bollocks, but I still think theres never smoke without a fire. Ferguson’s not Wenger, in fact I can say without bias that barring his fluke crop of English players in the 90′s he’s never developed a young player well in his life so I pray that he genuinely has lost the plot this is the way he’s going.

I’ve also heard them linked with Dario Srna (the right back I think we should have signed) so it may be an interesting barometer to see if Rafa got it right with Glenda.

What about Lucas’ assist to Keane? I think that he’s got the passing ability, especially with the likes of a fit torres, gerrard and Galenda to create space through their speed.

Glad to hear Rafa being happy with his squad for the first time in LFC history! One more player to come? Sounds like it’s a second striker to me. Arbeloa (should he stay) and Skrtyl (would rather say Carra) should be enough for the RB position. We could be a little light in the CB position, Arbie can cover it, not to mention the young’uns…

I wonder if the likes of Kenwe Jones or Obafine Martins would be good value for 8-10mill…

or saviola for 5…?

Good Blog , Gerry ..
I think Johnson will turn out to be a good buy.
It’s crazy how much money it costs to buy players these days, but what do you do?

I will be sad to see arbeloa go, he’s turning into a good right back for us, but like FS said , if w can sell him for anywhere between 8-12 million it’s a nice bit of business.

KeithSA – thanx fer the info on d reserves. As fer watching reserve games online, unfortunately we have shit internet speed over here. So by the time the vids spool, most of the reserves would have retired . . .

As fer G Johnson, must admit it is a bit steep in light of our limited budget. But am sure Boss man knows best.

As fer Masch, me’d be whining incessantly as well if me salary was one third of the rest (if reports are true). This could very well spin into a Makele scenario & that was how the original Galaticos era started to unravel . . .

FS, I rate Spearing highly but have only seen him played once. Certainly a very intelligent footballer and has the heart. Do not have the chance to watch him in reserves and perhaps you can shed more light on his performances during reserves.
I think he’s someone that we need to keep and all he need is some play time and he’ll come good.

Timmy before last year Alonso was nowhere near the player he was in his first season. Hence the Barry saga which seemed to put a boot right up his arse. If you watched Lucas, I like to watch and see how the kids perform, his vision, creativity and passing outstripped Alonso on most occasions he played with him. Alonso was back to his best last season and we benefited greatly, Lucas had a very difficult time, booing from your own supporters is difficult at the best of times, for a kid it is even worse, yet he rose above it, came back stronger and better which shows courage and the right mental attitude and toughness to succeed. Remember his defense splitting pass at New Castle to put SG in for his goal. The lad has vision and creativity but most of the time he comes on in place of Masch in the holding role, or late on in matches to shore up the midfield when Alonso or SG is rested. When comparing what he can and cannot do all these circumstances have to be taken into account. We have by all accounts, with the exception of Barca, the best midfield in the world. Lucas is compared to Alonso, Masch and Gerrard, are the fans really being fair about his capabilities or the comparisons? The Brazilians rate him (player of the year) has made his full international début, Rafa rates him very highly, his team mates rate and support him, Gerrard (Stevie me) has come to his defense. Yes Burgerman thinks he is crap and goes out of his way at every opportunity to say so shouting loudly that we should sell him, that Kopblog icon of footballing knowledge Digger ( payback is a bitch) is not over enthusiastic about him, I wonder who we should believe or whose judgment we should rely on. I think people will be very surprised when the real Lucas stands up to be counted and it will happen soon.

is this a reliable site?

if so, even though it sounds abit dodgy its surely good news overall.

http://www.theroadend.co.uk/home/index.php?p=58&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

Keith i agree Lucas has potential.He does provide to odd defense slitting pass now and then.All i was saying is i couldn`t see him as alonso`s successor as regards running the game the way alonso can.I think he`s neither a defensive midfielder or attacking just a mixture of both.He does cover a lot of ground when he plays and i respect him even more for what he went through,he came out fighting on the other side.

As you said Keith if Rafa,the man who works with him every day may i add,rates him then so do i because i absolutley trust Rafa with everything now.

PS,

Red rebel,I`m sure if that were true it would be on more than just an independant fans site.

Don`t hold your breath!

The second half of the Jeff Randall show on skynews.co.uk last night had a piece about Liverpool’s finances- not very encouraging.Why not play both Johnson and Arbeloa 2gether, the latter as a right back and GJ on the right wing.

@RedRebel,
Have a look at this…. (add the H to the start)

ttp://www.thestreet.com/tech/internet/1165692.html

It explains where this, supposed, U.S. company originated.
Notice the acronym, F.A.K.E.

Lads, silly question here. I know some of you explained how to get an avatar earlier, but I can’t seem to get mine up.

Can one of you post instructions?

So Keith by saying ‘when the real Lucas stands up to be counted’ you effectively concede he hasnt exactly been upright for the past 2 seasons then?! Make sure and let me no when ‘when’ occurs mate because having never witnessed a mediocre player transform into what you believe him to be, I await this metamorphosis with bated breath! And define soon? Will it be this season? Or next after another year of apologists and excuses? And on it goes… We shall see my fellow paragon of knowledge.

Good Idea!

I’m not going to do Keith’s arguing for him digger but I don’t think Lucas is mediocre. He’s developing, not as fast as we hoped but he does a competent job when he comes into the team even if it’s not spectacular. The phrase water carrier comes to mind sometimes that’s what a team needs.

Well if he somehow transformed into Didier Deschamps overnight I’d be more than happy Kenny! Perhaps mediocre was a little harsh. Average then?

Amazes me in here… Say Spearing needs selling it’s jumped all over. (Who of you have even really watched him?) But the very same people constantly advocate that full internationals, developing or in their prime, like Lucas, Kuyt, Riera, Dosenna and even Bennayoun aren’t good enough. FFS.

Say Rafa needs to sell, newspapers are dragged out saying Rafa can buy one more without selling. FFS… we all knew he would have about 10 mill left after buying Johnson. There’s no need to drag out newspaper reports trying to make people’s points look wrong.

And correct me if I am wrong, but… isn’t the point of this blog – as a whole and this one in particular – to show the papers for what they are, and for people to share information/opinion without reverting to them arse wipes.

And I see the Lucas debate is still on going. FFS Lads, pulling people up for every statement and this cheap point scoring should be below us by now. I give up hope at times. That’s why I disappear for awhile now and again… I can’t be arsed with it.

I actually won’t go into a lot of sites as you find fellas in there who think having their point proved is far more important than the good of LFC. I can’t believe it when I see it, but there’s fellas who would rather see the club/team/manager and individual players fail, rather than see their opinions disproved. Pathetic to say the least.

Well, as for my earlier statements, I stand by them… If we want to win titles and eventually go on to dominate football again we need at least 2 top notch players for every position bar goal keeper, and even there we need an able deputy.

So that means players such as Plessis, Spearing, El Zhar, Leto and a few others have to be moved on when time/money allows it and better squad players need to be brought in or developed to cover for our top 11 players when needed.

As for Rafa having money for one more player… Whoop de fuckin doo. Read between the bloody lines. He can hardly say, we’re skint and fucked.

Fact is, he will have about 10 mill left. How many times was that discussed before Johnson was bought?

But it’s still not enough. It might have to suffice. We might have to get by with that. And Rafa will do everything to prove it’s enough before we go into battle next season. But I bet my bottom lip Rafa is desperately trying to raise more funds to carry on completing the team and upgrading the squad. It’s how he has to work at LFC.

But no doubt someone will find something in the Daily Manc to disprove it.

Whos scoring points FS? And for that matter whos keeping score cos I for one want to know where I am in that table! Easy there big fella!…..

Points or no points, I have to say that I agree with Digger’s comments regarding Lucas. ONE good pass to Gerrard (against Toongerines) and suddenly it’s widely believed that he’s a cretive player. I don’t think he’s going to be the player he was expected to be – in England that is…

Anyhow, I have to say this Blog was awesome Gerry. Have just registered from Stou Africa and can’t wait for the new season to start.

YNWA!

Good one Gerry. Johnson is a big signing. I hope Arbie does’t leave. Rafa has put in so much work on this squad. It wld be dissapointing if the good players leave the club. We need them the most this season. What is the point in bringing GJ and letting Arbie go? It brings us on square one itself. We need to strengthen the squad and create depth in the club.

Although, I do not know anything abt Jesus, I guess he might be a talented young lad. We’ve snatched him from the hands of Barca and Real. I mean, these two are really good at identifying talents and in bringing up the youth.

As for the present state of the squad, I beleive in them. I just think that Rafa needs to build more optimism in the team. I was quite impressed with his interview. Another addition wld be great for the club. I know that it’s going to be a striker. I just hope that the signing is a good one. Rafa doesn’t need to spend much on that position. He just needs to strengthen the squad.

“The Iron is Red”!!!

Fat Scouser,

Your knowledge of, and passion for LFC is clear for all to see. Your comments are usually informative and interesting to read.
But Jesus you’re a grumpy git!

No one “jumped all over” your comment about selling Spearing. A few of us disagree and think he has potential. Chill out.

fantastic blog gerry,really needed to hear alot of that. Also a big thank you to all the posters on here,lads i like many said i wouldn’t get caught up in all the hype an media bullshit this summer, but its nearly impossible to ignore.
Weather or not we do lose mash or alonso(personally im confident we wont) its great to hear reasuring blogs an posts to block out the balls!! big cyber hug – keep up the good work men.

Chill out me arse. I’ve seen it in here for years. Someone says something, someone sets out to disprove it. And that normally means dragging in some shite from newspapers to give their point some credit.

Disagree by all means. It’s what all footy fans do. But what’s the point in just waiting for someone to say anything – no matter what the point or subject – and then ignoring everything else just to disprove that point? I don’t get it meself.

It’s by no means everyone who does it, and it hasn’t been that bad in here for quite some time. But it used to be woeful and it took a long time to get to this stage of having civilised debates between ourselves. And it still goes on. Well, it gets boring to say the least.

I just had a huge argument with an old friend of mine this afternoon. I’ve known the lad for more than 40 years. He’s a life long match going red. We ended up arguing over Rafa’s transfer record. But if it hadn’t of been that it would have been something else about Rafa or LFC in general. He just can’t help himself.

I stopped going the match with him years ago over it. I don’t even watch it on the telly with him now and it’s getting to the point where I’ll stop talking to him about LFC. He has an excuse, though. He’s fucking bonkers.

oops i meant whether-ironic i got sun burnt today!!!

Leto gone. Not in English media yet apparently. but just found out from Greek reds that a fee has been agreed – 3.5 mill with Parathinikos.

Great blog Gerry. GJ is a great signing but a bit too expensive for my liking, especially when we could have picked him up for half the price last season.

However once he had signed his contract extension and Portsmouth stayed in the EPL, the price was only going to go one way. Thank Fowler that Parry leaves the club next week.

FS you should chill man. Try and prove me wrong

BTW, the Spain – USA match is warming up to be a good’un – minus the swarm of bees!

I’m old and Scouse Lurgan. We don’t do Chill. Even calming down takes a bath full of Carling.

It also looks like Arby will be gone next week. He’s having talks with LFC and Real on Monday. I’ve been busy all day and just catching up with things. The Leto and Arby news comes from Greek and Spanish reds. Sure the Daily Manc will disprove both though.

Kelvin McKenzie is now on Channel 5 in a program about how bad the English Press is. To anyone who understand s that, well… fuck me, it’s beyond ironic.

To anyone who doesn’t understand that – Kelvin McKenzie was the editor of the Sun who printed The Truth Headline and story about Hillsborough.

He’s on a show about Jack The Ripper. Apparently the letter sent to the police during the murders was writted by a tabloid journalist who sent it to the police and fucked up the whole police inquiry just to keep the headlines going and the papers selling.

So they was even worse in Victorian times. That letter invented the name Jack The Ripper. It had never been used until then. And it probably stopped the killer from ever being caught. And McKenzie is on the telly right now, saluting the editor of the paper that printed the headline and letter. He reckons it was the greatest ever headline in an English newspaper.

The mind boggles.

FS, would turn the fuckin’ telly off if that cunt McKenzie was on. A sucker of Satan’s cock, if I have ever seen/heard one (copyright to Bill Hicks)

Unfortunately, it seems that Arbie is on his way. Always liked the guy and a nifty bit of business from Rafa. I have also moved to a different country/culture in my time. So I have some understanding of what he maybe going thru. So, if he wants to go, then he should, with a pat on the back.

BTW, I have now read thru’ the comments and was surprised to see that it was you who was homesick in the US of A and wanted to come home. How long did you stick it out there?

I was there for years mate, East and West Coast. I’ve also lived all over Europe and Australia. And I’m now in Bournemouth on the south coast, but I’m in Liverpool all the time. I still miss it and I know I will end up there. I’d be there now if it wasn’t for family, and I would have never left but it was bad times back then. Loads of us left to follow the few bob and ended up making a life away. There’s loads of Scousers here in Bournemouth, so it feels alright but most want to go home.

Common thing mate… you go cos it’s shite and you need a few bob. Things improve but you’ve made a life and can’t leave it to go back.

As for McKenzie I was channel flipping at half time between Spain USA. Normally I’d have lashed the telly out the window, but glad I caught what he was staying.

Reds of all people, should need no telling what Shite Hawks these people are. It was disgusting mate. That letter probably caused at least another 2 murders, fucked up the police inquiry beyond redemption and probably stopped the killer from ever being caught.

All McKenzie could do was salute the journalist and reporter responsible. And I bet if you pulled him over that he wouldn’t even understand why.

Shit bags to a man.

Lads I was listening to RTE Radio (Irish National radio) this evening and apparently Liverpool are going to play a pre-season friendly (around the time they play Espanol) against a local West Cork side from Dunmanway .!!

I know, where the f**k is Dunmanway ? (25 mins from my door actually).

It’s not April 1st. I heard the guy who organised it, sounds genuine. The weather is great right now we’re having a summer things just got a whole lot better down my way.

ps – I hope to christ this is not a wind-up, I have not checked on the LFC site or anything so this could be a tad embarrassing but what the fu*k ye can have a laugh at my expense.

dougle, here’s a quote from guardian.co.uk.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“I had my reservations when he did it. We have no association with the club and I honestly thought they’d ignore us” – club manager John Buckley reveals how Dunmanway Town XI player David Hall phoned Anfield six weeks ago, asking Liverpool for a pre-season friendly … and got one.

Jesus Gerry, two blogs in four days! This unemployment situation defo has its advantages.. Every cloud and all that! Keep the faith

Who would’ve thought, Spain getting knocked out by the USA?

Perhaps it’ll be a blessing in disguise for Spain, since the pressure of having gone so many games unbeaten will eventually get to them, it was perhaps better for them go out in this Mickey Mouse competition than to crash out next year in the World Cup without warning.

Though the downside is that our Liverpool players will still need to stay behind for the 3rd place play-off this Sunday.

(Just who the hell invented such stuff as a 3rd place play-off anyway!? When a team gets knocked out in the semis, they wouldn’t have any motivation to participate any further when it’s no longer the big trophy at stake, I know I wouldn’t and it wouldn’t be good to lose twice either if you lost that subsequent play-off.

Even in the Olympics, they ought to just stuff two bronzes for both losing semi-finalists. )

watched the spain/usa match last night. well deserved win for the us; dogged defending and a willingness to attack when they got the ball. as for the Liverpool connections, I felt torres had an off game trying to dribble past to many defenders. Though xabi and albert where the best players on the pitch for the Spanish.

The more I see of him the more I believe that clint dempsey would make an excellent addition to our squad. The lad can play down either flank and in the hole, so he could provide cover for a couple of our problem areas. Plus he has the determined/never let your head go down mentality rafa looks for in players.

Sad to hear about letto, thought he might have been a useful player for us.

FS, I hope your sources are wrong about arbie, though he has been a very consistent performer for the team and I don’t really want to have rafa looking for another rb. If he does go…good bit of business overall by rafa (assuming we get more than 3m for him)

Also, how did you like life on the west coast, never was one for it myself. More of a new york or chicago guy.

I thought that 3.5mill for Leto was very good business by all concerned… Rafa really rated that kid and hopefully he does well in the future…

We really don’t have too many left to cull as Peanut is gone as well as Parry…

It is interesting to speculate just how much money Rafa has left to play with, if it was 10 plus Letos fee, then we’re starting to get into Alonso-Masherano priced players… Maybe with a couple more sales in the form of Itanje and Voronen we may well have enough for someone of real quality… Interesting to see Rafa’s old target of Aguiro being priced at 50mill GBP… Thanks to Parry for losing Aguero…

I don’t really understand the score sheet that we’re supposed be be having FS, to me there’s a hell of alot more sanity in here than those tabloid filth that’s twisted into the exact opposite of the truth… Excepting old Godshitts, of course… I’m still entertained by the Lucus debates that continue in here, although I’m obviously still hoping he turns into a real gem…

I must admit, I was in favour of selling Alonso for Barry last season. I was worried that another bad season would render Alonso almost worthless. But he’s proven his class and I’m over the moon for him, as is every Reds fan (I hope…)…

It’s definately going to be an interesting few weeks, I’m hoping that we get at least 1-2 more seasons from Alonso and Mash, they’re just entering their prime, be a waste to lose them now..

Kinny – The accountants invented the 3rd/4th play offs.
Dougle – It definetely isn’t a wind up. I thinkthe lads have decided to go into bandit country and convert all the misguided Manc supporters that live in them neck of the woods.

The score sheet isn’t as bad as it once was, but it still annoys me. What is the point of just coming in here, dropping a snide comment on someone’s thoughts and disappearing. It does nothing to add to the debate.

But here’s the reasons why I did come in here…
Please take a look at this…
ttp://appealmobile.blogspot.com/

I haven’t mentioned it before as with us all being so scattered, I thought it wasn’t really worth mentioning. I know there’s little help people could come up with on the other side of the world.

But it’s worth knowing about and it’s quite fun to keep track of Harry. Harry is a wonderful man and does many great things for people. I’ve got the pleasure and priveledge of him staying at my house tonight as the appeal ride hits the Bournemouth area.

There have been some great characters from the kop over the years. Harry stands shoulder to shoulder with any of them. I just hope Missus Fat Scouse doesn’t fatten him up too much for the rest of the ride. She’s already got the pans going and is putting Harry some Guinness in the fridge as I write.

Sadly she hasn’t took to kindly to me next scheme… Knight Sir, I may just meet you for a drink in Bangkok before the match. Yes. I’m trying to fanagle a trip over there for the friendly. But having seen Pattaya on the telly, Missus Fat Scouse won’t take too kindly to the suggestion. I’m working on it now, so that’s then… Espanyol for me.

As for the rumours I’ve heard nothing more. But I’d like to tell our overseas fans this… When LFC go abroad we always arrange things with the locals – usually a fans football match and a good piss up and sing song. Sadly I’m too old for the footy matches now, but I still can take on all comers in the drinking and singing stakes. It’s great fun.

And that is why you see fans all over europe joining us singing YNWA and waiting outside stadiums for us to be let out… and not like waiting to fight with the mancs. They wait to drink and sing with us. So, LFC fans have forged some great links with other clubs throughout Europe. And I’ve made some great friendships over the years.

The fans of many clubs spread right through out Europe stay in touch with LFC fans and that’s where some of the information comes from. And that’s where I heard that Arbie will be discussing his future with both LFC and Real next week. I honestly hope the lad decides to stay, but I must admit it looks like he will go.

If that’s the case, let’s just hope Rafa takes Real for every penny he can but I think he won’t as apparently he had a deal with Arbie last season… stay for another season and we will sort you out as soon as we can find a good replacement.

And looking at everything that has happened, that seems about right to me. But as always, we’ll just have to wait and see.

Thank you for your email expressing concern about RBS’ banking arrangements with Liverpool FC and it current owners. We are aware of the strength of feeling of a number of fans on this matter and have corresponded with many during the course of the past year or so.
Perhaps I can start by putting RBS relationship with Liverpool FC in context. RBS is the main banker to the Club including all of its operating accounts, cash management, online banking, automated payments, and credit card processing to facilitate ticket sales and retail merchandising. We also provide a credit facility to support the Club’s working capital requirements and a letter of credit facility to facilitate the purchase of players from non-Premiership Clubs, along with a loan facility for design, planning and other preparatory work for the proposed new stadium at Stanley Park. We have set out to establish a long term relationship with the Club, and we look forward to this continuing for many years to come.
We also lent money to the Club’s parent, Kop Football Limited, so that it could repay debt which was on the balance sheet of the Club at the time of its acquisition by George Gillett and Tom Hicks. This is the only portion of Kop Football’s bank debt for which the Club is legally responsible. We took great care when making our original loan in early 2007 and when refinancing it last January to distinguish between obligations of the Club, primarily those outlined above, and obligations of its parent company, the latter being secured by personal guarantees and collateral from the owners and a pledge of the shares they own in the Club. As a result the Club does not suffer the burden of debt implied by a lot of the recent press reports and, in our view and that of the executive management of the Club, it is financially healthy and able to service comfortably its debt obligations from cash flow generated by its playing and commercial activities. It is in our commercial interest to support the Club in the manner described above so that it can continue to perform successfully on and off the pitch.
As far as the Government is concerned, they have been very clear that they do not wish to exercise day to day control over RBS or make commercial decisions for us. Indeed they set up an independent body, UKFI, to oversee the Government’s shareholding in RBS, so matters such as strategy and governance can be agreed, while they leave commercially related matters to us.
RBS attaches a great deal of value to being associated with Liverpool FC. I hope my comments reassures you as to the strength and depth of our relationship with the Club and that we will endeavour to contribute to its long term health and success.
Kind Regards,

Roger Lowry
Head of Group Public Affairs
Royal Bank of Scotland Group

Lads, I got the above email from RBS this morning.

thanks LB,

It’s a bloody corporation alright… Until they suck every last drop out of us they don’t really give a toss…

We’ll soon see if GG’s recent sale does anything for our finacial situation/ non-building of our stadium…

For all peoples republic of cork…

Dunmanway Town XI V Liverpool FC XI
Dunmanway AFC V LFCLOGO
Venue: Maria Immaculata Community College, Dunmanway, Co.Cork.
Kick off Date & Time: August 6th 2009 at 2pm

heres the link to try get tickets (limited supply)

put a h in front

ttp://www.westcorkleague.com/Liverpool.htm

they are not expecting gerrard of torres but players like kuyt, babel and agger are expected. Should be a great day out in West Cork

Hahahaha! What a saga but I think I’ve finally achieved the most protracted drawn out saga transfer of the summer. So long in fact that Rick Parry must have been in charge. In fact what is essentially free has cost me well over the odds for my dilly dallying.

Congrats Kenny, welcome to the avatar society.

I think that Rick Parry leaves the club this week. Is this a coincidence

What was the problem anyway?

I have put my name down for tickets for Dunmanway Town game, I might get to see a few of the promising youngsters on show!!

Liverpool in West Cork, I can’t beleive it!!

Dougle,

You will have organise a party for all the Kopblog faithful that will desend on West Cork

Lurgankop: The problem was staring me in the face. I was being a bit thick really. LB told what the problem might be right at the start – my e-mail address and so it proved. I registered Kop Blog with my work’s e-mail but I was convinced it was my personal e-mail. Then I tried to re-register blah blah but hey I don’t care I have my gravatar and rick Parry managed to get it for the bargain price of £20,000,000 with a few add on’s, it also retires next year.

I knew it Kenny!

Don’t get all cocky now with me LB! lol. Anyway my comments might be crap but at least my gravatar is top notch no one can argue with that.

Oh and no eating my hat for me Spain got knocked out so no Spain v Brazil final. All in all a good day because my hat’s a 10 gallon stetsun.

That bit of Sergio Ramos defending did make me chuckle. A bit gutted though as I wanted to see a Spain Brazil final. At least our players seemed to have come out of it in one piece. I see another player got a red card for hacking Xabi. How many is that now over the last couple of years?

I read an article by someone called Maguire who stated that Liverpool FC would be in severe financial straits if they don’t do something-then the email re-RBS which stated that the Reds are in good financial shape. I do not pretend to understand matters but what the so-and-so is going on? Could someone please help,or am I being wound up?

Jack, I doubt the journalists know any more than your good self. They tend to sensationalise things when they really don’t know what they are talking about. RBS on the other hand will sugar coat things so that they don’t sound quite as bad as they are. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle.

I haven’t yet had a chance to read a lot of the recent comments and have only just realised that there is a 3rd/4th place play off in the confederations cup. How fucking ludicrous!!

LFC and Malaga in talks about Intandje. Personally I’d kick him all the way there for free, but I suppose I should just be glad if he goes, gets off the wage bill and Rafa adds a few more bob to the transfer kitty.

Not a member of the Charles Itanjde fan club then FS?

It looks like we’ll get a couple of quid for Leto as well. £3m from Panathanaikos.

I’m non the wiser now LB but at least you replied.Regarding Itanjde,I don’t like him either.He calls himself a goalkeeper-whoever recommended him wants shooting and as a person,he’s not good either.

Maybe you can drop him off on your way to Espanyol FS!

Good money for Leto if it goes through.

Its great to see the Reds coming to West cork.It`ll give my son a taste of seeing Liverpool in action before i bring him to Anfeild for the first time this season.

The 3/4 place play off in the confederations cup is a bloody joke.There`s barely 4 teams in the whole competition!

Jack,

What RSB are saying is that Hicks & Gillett are personally responsible for some of the debt on the club.
i.e. on the 350m loan for the banks H&G have given personal guarantees of 185m, net risk for the club 165m

“As a result the Club does not suffer the burden of debt implied by a lot of the recent press reports”

Even if we only get 1m for Itanje and 3m for Leto, it’s 4m towards getting another striker in.

The only one we can afford to lose to bring even more money in is Dossena as we already have 3 left backs (including Dossena)

Looks more likely that Arbeloa will go though. That will need us to buy cover for GJ.
Deggen cannot be relied upon. Is he still at LFC, btw?

I’ve been thinking about the right back situation. If Arby goes we’ll have Darby and Degen. As FS said a kid and a crock. They are still right backs though and getting paid. Surely they must be competent enough to provide cover. If not why the hell are they on the books?

LB, if Rafa had any faith in Darby as a right back, don’t you think he might have featured in, let’s say, the Leauge Cup by now? Or even the F.A Cup? You have a good point though, if he doesen’t rate him, why is he still there?

As for Deggen, he probably won’t stay fit long enough to get a chance. The guy’s an injury waiting to happen!

Stephen Darby was offered a new contract in April so I’m a bit confused, Steve…

Didn`t Darby get a run out in Eindhoven?

He did indeed Timmy, but my cynical side says that was only due to the CL rules which kind of force Rafa to put those players on the bench. When did we see the likes of Spearing and Darby get run outs? When we were 4-0 up against Real and at Eindhoven when we had already secured qualification. Both CL.

Clearly Rafa wasn’t happy with the standard of the youth teams and reserves hence all the coaches getting the sack but then I’m confused Spearing and Darby get offered new contracts. Maybe it’s so that they can be sold for a million quid next summer?

Sorry lads, I’ve been mad busy lately and though I do try to pop in and keep abreast of what’s being said, I’ve had little time to actually type comments… and when I do comment its been a bit hit-n-run… which I try to avoid doing…but…

…FUCK ME….
G&H did not have not and DO NOT have any of their personal money invested in LFC. They financed the lot. At the last refinancing they “put up 20 million collateral each” but that was in an account in the Cayman’s, simply to “secure” the loan.
The minute the ink was dry they could pull that cash and use it elsewhere!

This shit drives me friggin batty. The world is in a bucket of shit because of this double speak.

Jack
“What RSB are saying is that Hicks & Gillett are personally responsible for some of the debt on the club.”

That might be what RBS are saying but make no mistake mate, G&H are only “personally responsible” in so far as they own Kop Holdings.

but firstly, Kop Holdings is actually owned by a secondary Ghost Company, which G&H then own and both are registered in the Cayman’s and since Brit Financial Law does not extend to the Cayman’s, should they (G&H, Kop Holds, whoever?)default on the loan, they (G&H) will be “personally” responsible for fuck all!

That’s a pretty layman’s way of saying it and of course their are laws and such in place, but don’t hold your breath on G&H showing any responsibility should things truly go tits up.

Also… Given what a media whore Gillette has been…

Since the announcement of the Canadiens sale was is over a week old… if he was planning on putting any of that cash into the club don’t you think he’d have already made some grandiose statement by now, in an effort to re-endear himself to us??

Thats a good point LB.Indeed Rafa hasn`t had much time for them in the PL.

Spearing is a cracking little player and he wants to make it so much but maybe a move out on loan would probably do him the world of good.Then Rafa can decide what to do with him.Some experience in the championship maybe would stand to him.Ultimately if he ain`t good enough for Rafa then its Adios Amigo`s.Love the lads attitude though.

I’m confused too, LB.

Perhaps in Darby’s case, Rafa thinks he has potential but doesen’t think he is quite there yet. I don’t know, but I suppose that if Arbie does go, and Rafa doesen’t draft a replacement in then maybe that would suggest that things are looking good for Darby. Time will tell.

Yeah LB, I was looking forward to a Spain Brazil final too. Cant believe the States beat em, wtf?! Anyway came in to say watched Liverpool vs utd nov 02 last night on premier league classic last night and I see its no. 93 on TIA’s list of days we’ll remember. Dont think I’ll ever forget Risses goal as long as I live. We had a great team that yr and I was convinced we would win the league that season, much the way I feel about this coming season actually. Man our club needs, wants, our title back so bad…

ttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/liverpool/5612171/Liverpools-Nikolay-Mihailov-has-run-in-with-mafia-godfather-over-ex-girlfriend-jibe.html

Just add the h

Looks like we might not have to buy a new striker after all.

Voronin is on his way back to Anfield after his loan spell at Berlin comes to an end and he claims that he going to prove himself to the Prem. Thoughts?

Thoughts on Voronin? No club seem interested – that speaks volumes.

I’m actually suprised that that Hertha Berlin didn’t want to sign Voronin as I seem to remember him doing quite well there.

Will Rafa put him in the squad or put him on a plane?

Thanks corklfc and Aitch for the financial sort-out.I guess it’s really only soccer I’m in tune with.
In a few minutes I’ll be watching the 2nd semifinal on the Telelatino Channel.The commentary will be in Spanish but I will just turn the sound down.We’ve had one surprise and I hope we don’t get another.I can’t really see S.Africe beating Brazil but in football you never know on the day.

JackHill, here’s my two-cents worth, even though most of it is a re-hash of what has went before.

Kop Football ‘Cayman’ Limited own Kop Football ‘Holdings’ Limited who, in turn, own our beloved LFC.

As Aitch has pointed out, since Kop Football ‘Cayman’ Limited is located in the Cayman Islands, they are not liable to the British law.

So, in brief, I think, these two (y)wanks can load all the debt onto LFC at any time they so desire and RBS can do fuck-all squared about it.

I am not a financial guru, by any means, but these two guys are experts at leveraged buyouts and would fuck their own family to make a penny, IMHO.

Thank fuck we have Rafa at the helm. However, because he is a genius, they probably now see him as the best way to make money and are now willing to let him have what he wants, within reason, and ream in the money once we are back were we belong.

The question is that I have for everyone here – would you rather have the league title and be champions of Europe, while they are our custodians, or would you prefer to win fuck all and git rid of this shire of shite.

Me personally, I would go for the latter, provided we got a proper replacement for them. I have waited 20 odd years, I can wait a few more!

Thats a good question Lurgan.I`d have to go along with you.

For the long term well being of our club it`s best they`re not our owners for reasons we all know only too well by now.

Lurgan, considering that it’s unlikely H&G are going anywhere anytime soon I think I’d take the league title asap.

I’ll have to catch up with the comments later. Harry is here and needs to update his ride for dylan blog. Just read a couple after my own last one, and here’s the little I know….

Darby is a very reliable full back in the Steve Finnan mould. Nothing spectacular going foward but a very dependable and capable defender. But he’s still a bit young and untried, so I can only see him being used in cup games and in emergencies in the league.

I’ve seen Degan once. He stunk the gaff out. But it would be unfair to judge him on that. Obviously one game of footy every 2/3months isn’t going to be enough to get any sort of form going. Other than that, I know what most of you know, his reputation… he’s Switzerland’s first choice right back, and he’s good at going forward, but not so hot at defending.

Would say more but Harry needs to update his blog… Please check it out. He’s a good man on a good cause.

Are you asking would we prefer LFC going into liquidation, just to get rid of the Yanks, LB?

Personally, I’d take the current situation, Rafa is getting enough backing (evidence in the new contract) and that we’re not in liquidation…

Eitherway I’ll still be supporting LFc

FS,Tell harry well done for what he`s doing and the best of luck on his journey.

Top man and a great cause.

Lancey, who said about LFC going into liquidation?

& Rafa is getting enough backing? Want to clarify that statement?

BTW, FS ask your mate Harry if he is willing to come to France/Luxembourg. If he is good to go I will see what I can do.

Cheers,
Lurgankop

Michael Jackson died lads….

I am sure that Jarvis Cocker is devastated…

Will get me flak jacket!

Can’t believe he died! For all the rumours about kiddies, he still did a hell of alot of good for this rotten human world we all live in. My cousin has a photo with MJ when he was in a children’s cancer ward. Enough said for me, RIP…

If Rafa hadn’t had enough support we wouldn’t be in a position to have challenged last season. Our team is studded with stars (wanted by Real Madrid and Barca)… So, when I say that Rafa has had enough support I’m just stating that he’s been able to construct and build a team that’s well and truly on the rise…

Yes, we could’ve had Aguero, Winker Wanker, Alves, Vidic, etc for a fraction of the price that they’re worth now. But then we’ve brought the entire first XI (bar SG and Carra) for a fraction of their current value… It only goes to show Rafa’s genius and that of his support staff (bar Prick Parry)…

Make no mistake, we could’ve had more, but now Parry is gone and finally, Rafa is pulling the strings. Things are improving and whether we like it or not Rafa gets his 20-26mill per season with the Yanks…

By the way, IF Moores had of stayed on as owner of LFC I would have no doubt that the famous Lampshade quote would’ve been used again by Rafa. Reason being: Parry would’ve been vetoing every move of Rafa’s that was over an offer of 8-10mill… Moores wouldn’t have approved a 20mill GBP aquistion such as Torres, because of Parry, which would’ve pissed Rafa off to the extent where this year’s standoff would’ve resulted in Rafa leaving…

Finally, Rafa is not afraid of voicing his concerns if he deems it serious enough… The fact that he’s no longer complaining and is stating (for the first time in his LFC career) that he’s very happy with his squad only helps my opinion that he’s getting enough support… Yes, I know he has a clause in his new contract, but he’s looking very happy these days, why not? Parry got the sack and our Gaffa has what he’s wantged all along…

However, that’s not to say that I’m siding with the Yanks… For example: Me missus loves buying new lounge suites, etc on me credit card. I love the new stuff too, but in the end we’re broke as fuck… Same applies to LFC, we’re buying players and a successful team, but we’re still broke as fuck… Either way you can’t be happy putting everything on credit, which is the root of the problem, not the fact that Rafa isn’t getting this or that by the Yanks…

Hope that makes enough sense…

The reason I raised liquidation was that I truly don’t see the Yanks leaving anytime soon… Until the stadium is finaally built they’l be with us…

So, the only other option to get rid of the Yanks would be if LFC defaulted in their payments and eventually went into Liquidation… Hence dropping down a league or two after the fire sale, ala Leeds United…

But, in this day and age, debt is what we all must live with and LFC (along with every other team bar Real) are ultimate examples of it…

Gone are the days when you only brought what you can afford…

RE: League title or G&H fooking off.

Tough one.

Title me supposes. Coz quite possible G&H could siphon our club dry & watch it sink like a leeds utd . . .

Lads excuse the drunken syntax likely to follow. yeah its thursday nite and im have in the bag sue me! fatty can you post a link to this harry gents blog with the h in front please so i can just click on it thanks mate. yes im a lazy bastard. yes lurgan rafa is a genius. how much is pepe xabi dagger masch torres worth now? 3 for arbie possible 8 coming? 3 4 leto 4 nothing? voronin more? I wish i was so smart…. i agree with lb, title and c.l now. we’ll recover when these misers leave. ynwa lads

lads: what the difference between ferguson and michael jackson? Ferguson will still be playing giggs in august.

jacko died when his nose fell while picking it causing him to have a heart attack. Doctors say don’t blame it on the bogie.

YWNAlancey: Not sure I agree with you that Rafa has got the backing he needs. If he had have got half the backing he wanted I’m sure we would have won the league already when you consider the players he wanted. For example Daniel Alves at the time could have been bought for 10-12 million but we’ve just bought Glen Johnson for 17 million.
rafa has also nearly been sacked and has fought tooth and nail.

In an exclusive interview with Liverpoolfc.tv, Pepe Reina gives the lowdown on his teammates and reveals who he is close to off the pitch.

Jamie Carragher

It’s his heart and his head. He is very important in the dressing room. His mind is always on football and he is 100 per cent professional. He has real character and tries to help the team with this character. He tries to help his teammates positionally, both with and without the ball. It’s important to have someone like that – it’s like a manager on the pitch.

Martin Skrtel

He does a good job. We have all been surprised at his performances because he is so young. He can still improve but already he has a brilliant character and he’s a really tough guy. He is one of the toughest in the squad because he’s powerful and so determined. It’s unbelievable. He is quite quiet, that’s his way, but once he gets onto the pitch he is not shy any more. He always wants the ball.

Daniel Agger

He’s different from the other centre-backs in terms of playing the ball nicely and playing beautiful football. But he’s also a tough guy – he has great character. He is an important player for us. The fact he is left-footed is also important for the team. He’s not very talkative off the pitch, he’s shy; but he has a couple of businesses and this shows how comfortable he is in Liverpool. He’s a nice lad.

Alvaro Arbeloa

He’s been one of our most consistent players this season. Maybe he’s underrated with the public but he knows how important he is and that’s all that matters.

Fabio Aurelio

He’s one of the best players, not just at Liverpool but the entire Premier League. He has been unlucky with injuries but he’s very important for us both defending and attacking. He’s very good at set pieces also.

Steven Gerrard

He is the heart and soul of Liverpool, and is probably our most important player alongside Fernando. The character he shows in every single training session and every single game makes all of us feel even more commitment to Liverpool. I have played alongside many good players and he is one of the very best without doubt. He’s also our penalty taker, and in training he always beats me. We need to do something about this because it hurts my morale! More importantly, he also does it at key times on the pitch.

Xabi Alonso

He is the man with the ball. He can pass five yards and 45 yards exactly the same way. He had his best season so far last year. He is Spanish, so it’s always easy to speak to him off the pitch. We spend a lot of time together.

Javier Mascherano

He is a real winner. He is brave, quick and has passion. He knows what his qualities are and he exploits them really well. He’s the kind of player you don’t want to play against – he’s annoying to play against.

Lucas Leiva

He is young but has shown great spirit. He is never intimidated by anyone even though he’s 22-years-old and playing in the Premier League. Lucas fights for every ball and puts in good tackles. He can still improve but he has a lot of qualities to exploit.

Albert Riera

We knew each other from the national team even before he arrived here, and I think that’s made it easier for him to settle down in Liverpool. He is skilful and has a good left foot. He’s a great player and gives us a lot of variety down the left.

Dirk Kuyt

It’s annoying how much he runs! He never stops. The stamina he has is just unbelievable. For any team, this kind of thing is important. He is a lovely guy off the field too. I am very close to him because he plays golf and cards. We are always together and I’d say I know him better than I know any of my teammates.

Yossi Benayoun

He’s also a lovely guy. He’s skilful between the lines and maybe he’s the only one in the squad with these qualities. He’s clever and quick with his feet.

Fernando Torres

He is always trying to improve. People probably don’t realise how much he looks at his own mistakes and tries to sort them out. He wants to be the best player in the world. It’s that commitment, that unselfish personality, which makes him the player he is. He’s already in the top three players in the world and of course he can be the best one day because he’s still only 25. He has so much potential and is at the best club in the world. I would like to look like him as well! He takes care of himself!

Pepe Reina

You’d have to ask my teammates. But I try to be as professional as I can and help my teammates. I think I’m a nice, normal guy. Probably I’m one of the loudest in the squad, that’s how I’ve always been.

Alonso hasn’t scored a home Prem goal in 2 seasons.Time to cash in ?.If Liverpool entered a second team in the Prem , using players such as Lucas, Plessis, Ngog etc, would they be good enough to finish in the top half of the table?.

Pepe is fast becoming a legend in my eyes.

His bubbly personality doesn’t seem to shine on the pitch, but all his club and country teammates seem to love him.

Burgerman: what?

As FS said I wouldn’t swap Pepe Reina with anyone

Great comments from pepe LB.He`s my favourite LFC keeper of all time.Love his enthusiasm.

Lancey if you think 20 million a year,in this day and age,is good backing,well thank god your not our manager.

Bugerman what are you on?You taking the mick or what?Maybe you should take some anti-depressants man and maybe you wouldn`t be coming out with some outrageous negative comments.

The Confederations Cup may not be good for some of you Reds but the semi-finals have been very good to watch and I am looking forward to the final – Brazil v. USA – on Sunday.

Lou macari says the scum losing ladyboy and herman munster could work in their favour!

Maybe we should sell stevie and torres to clinch no.19 !

Lol, Timmy!! Those ex manc players talk a hell of a lot of shite don’t they? Hahaha… sell Torres and Gerrard to win 19 – I like that one.

Have you lads seen the new manc kit? It’s absolutely shocking! Both home and away.

Ya especially Macari.He turned Bill Shankly down to sign for the scum in the 70`s.It must be killing him.He`ll never admit it though.

Shankly later said “I only wanted to but him for the reserves anyway”.

Another great quote from Shanks after Tommy Docherty (the then man u manager) said that 100,000 wouldn`t buy one of his players..”Ya and i`m one of the 100,000″

Seen the home one LB.Rio had to comment on it.Usually they say it looks nice and they can`t wait to get it on.Instead cokehead said:

“Maintaining the traditions of the club is very important”

Translation:

“Why do we have wear this brutal kit.Someone kill me now.Where`s my agent?I want to leave now.I`m getting sick of looking like a right plank because of this tradition bollox.I`d much rather a pink hot pants and a titty top”

Hahaha! Oi, Johnny Barnes shorts in the 80s resembled hot pants. Molby’s were rather tight as well….

Your on top form today Timmy. I sniggering away in the corner here at work and people giving me strange looks.

Keep up the good work!

Burgerman, you must be a wind-up merchant, with an opening statement like that.

I know ya Lurgan maybe he should change his username to “Mushroom-man”

Seriously though lads Alonso should score more goals. I reckon he should push further up the field especially against the weaker teams. His shooting is excellent – sometimes I feel this skill is wasted when he is too deep. Should we cash in? NO.

Agree he dosen`t score enough but he more than compensates for it.In fairness it`s the overall tally of the team at the end of the season is the one we look at.If that is satisfying then we should be happy and the overall tally has been good in the last two seasons.

To be fair I think he hit the cross bar about 6 times last season.

That’s exactly right LB.
Xabi hit wood more often last season than Jenna Jameson.

To be honest though, I think our shooting in general is pretty poor… and sometimes wonder if Rafa doesn’t like shooting drills and prefers passing and tactical drills maybe.

The number of opportunities we get from 20-25 yards …and subsequent shots that go up into the stands is simply staggering for players at this level.

I used to think Didi was bad. Don’t get me wrong, loved him, one of my faves, but he was always far more likely to twat the bloke in Row Z than test the keeper if you saw him squaring up to shoot… and who did we replace him with…. Mascherano.

The Stewards run “duck -n-cover” drills for when they see the ball rolling out to Masch 25 yards out in a game.

Rafa Benitez took five minutes to chat to Liverpoolfc.tv about his first major acquisition ahead of the 2009-10 season.
glen johnson

LFCTV: Why did you decide to bring Glen Johnson to the club?

Rafa: We were thinking about bringing in players with quality – that’s the first thing. He is also English and that is important for the Champions League list. We were thinking about improving the team and Johnson is a very good player who will do that.

LFCTV: What will he give us?

Rafa: He was important at Chelsea and in the last year at Portsmouth he has improved and is much better. One of the main things is his mentality – it’s really good. He is a winner. I was impressed with the conversations I had with him. He wants to improve.

LFCTV: Does he represent value for money?

Rafa: We knew the market was going to be difficult this summer and some of it has been crazy. Manchester City and Chelsea were there – they were making offers. We had to be quick and the club acted quickly. It was down to the player whether he chose us or City or Chelsea and he chose us. It was very clear from talking to him that he wanted to play for Liverpool.

LFCTV: What does this mean for Alvaro Arbeloa?

Rafa: Arbeloa was a good player for us last year. The thing is, he has one year left on his contract. We have offered him an extension and we’re talking. He is our player but if there is a good offer we have to consider it. We have two or three clubs asking about him. He would like to stay but he knows the competition will be hard.

LFCTV: Can fans expect any more signings?

Rafa: We are working and trying to bring new players in but we are happy with the squad we have at the moment. We were thinking about improving and with Johnson we have improved. Like I have already said, we could buy one more player without selling anyone. We now have to wait.

Timmy, Rafa could have 10mill,20mill or 100mill, as he’s always said it’s about how you spend the money that counts…
Like I’ve said already, it was Parry and Moores that wouldn’t spend the vast majority of the transfer fund on one or two players, not Rafa.

We’ve already discussed the fact that Rafa’s had more like 24-28mill per season to spend on players, plus sales… Since the Yanks arrival Rafa has brought a host of players over the 10mill range, and now that Parry has gone we’ll probably start seeing Rafa buying or two quality players, year in year out…

I think that our starting XI is the best in the league, if not world. So, quite obviously Rafa’
s had sufficient backing to create this situation.

Like I said before, we could’ve had other players, but the players that we do have are all gems in their own right… Only have to read LB’s link to Pepe’s comments, see the offers that are comming in from Real and (perhaps) Barca to understand the Rafa has indeed had enough support to get us here…