Just goes to show you reap what you sow. There are consequences for his words.

He didn’t need to blow his verbal garbage over the air time and again.

It took a long time to force the Supporters clubs into direct action but now the pit-bulls have locked on ….

Congrads on the blog Gerry.

I’m glad it worked re-Cohen 5-star Gerry,and I hope you get a good job soon.
There has been a lot of speculation regarding the team and now that Alonso is going I do not want Masher to go too.The start of the season is not far away now so Rafa had better have a good replacement(that he can afford) handy. How about it Lads, any good guff?

“with some of the best beer in the world”

Do share!

Ode to Madrid

You may buy the players
you may buy the image rights
but you’ll never buy loyalty
you’ll never buy they’re will to fight

you may shine on profiles
you may sell shirts left and right
but you’ll never earn loyalty
you’ll never see the will to fight

you many have another galacticos
but don’t you get too high
for all that you are worth
your balance in the morning will be nigh

you may have bought the players
you may have promised winning nights
but you’ll never buy loyalty
you’ll never see the will to fight

oh and yes…kudos on the cohen bagging

hey gerry i read the blog and don’t know if deserve any credit, i was just following the lead of FS, Aitch, Redscouse, Lurgan, timmytorres and the good people from the NYC supporters club. (i apologize if i missed someone)

on a side note, if your find yourself in NYC and want to watch the Reds, head to 11th & A. Can’t miss the 11st Street Pub, the waterhole for the NYC supporters. Watched a couple of matches there is my time – fantastic place with fantastic people!

Great Blog Gerry and welcome back. I have sent already but will do the thanks one. Reap what you sow springs to mind and in the words of that famous philosopher “Frank un Furter” I hope he reaps it in abundance.

As for the Alonso saga I was saddened to hear that the letter requesting a transfer was prepared over a month ago, but not sent. He has gone down in my estimation. If that was the case state it publicly (if you are prepared to put it in writing come out and say it) and we could have had this whole sage done and dusted ages ago. Trying to play both sides to come out smelling of roses has just ruined his integrity and as far as I am concerned the sooner he leaves the better for Liverpool. What he has quickly forgotten he had two very average seasons before last year and the kick up the arse he got was the catalyst for him to produce the goods, hence the reason for Real wanting him and hence the reason for the starting role in the National side (the injury to Iniesta not withstanding)

He is replaceable and it will not be as much of a train smash as some people are trying to make it out to be. Also this mud slinging and blaming Rafa’s treatment as the root course is way of the mark. In actual fact if not for the treatment we would not be getting 30 odd mill for him so please think before you criticize. Alonso was always going to go, the manner and his manipulation of events leaves much to be desired. A simple I have had 5 wonderful years at Liverpool, but the time is right for me to go home etc etc. Lets face it if Real have done all this talking in the press they must have done a lot of talking with him and his agent behind the scenes and if he was prepared to hand in the request a month ago why didn’t he? Money naturally. I wish him luck because he will need it at Real but time to pack your bags and go. There will be enough time for him to reflect on the mistake he has made because that’s exactly what will happen.

Interesting development that could work out in our favor. Inter and Man City are about to table better bids than Real for Alonso which could force Real to match. The deadline has been extended to Monday and Real have offered Van der Vaart, Huntlaar or Negrado in part exchange, but Rafa wants cash.

So take your pick of any two, Aquilani, Cattermole, Silva, Negrado or Van der Vaart for Alonso. Will we be stronger or weaker?

FS that report of the Turkish winger was if Babel went the other way as it seems to have died a death in the press. With all the striking options we have, Torres, Babbel, Ngog, Nemeth, Vorinon, Pacheo (yes the youngsters will only be eased in) I would go for two attacking midfielders, the next few weeks will be interesting

Super stuff Gerry,

Hope you enjoyed Kerry,its a beautiful part of the world.Whereabouts were you Gerry,i spent a week in banna last week myself.

Good work lads on the cohen stuff weve got a result but we can`t stop until he`s completely off the air.I emailed the thank you`s to those for supporting the boycott,and the one or two sponsors who still advertise on his shows that FS hadn`t posted in here.Thanks for that Gerry.

Very interesting developments Keith,if a bidding war did start it would be in our favour financailly but it could drag on a bit.We don`t want that.Anyway i reckon Xabi has his heart set on Madrid.Shite timing though,he could have done this weeks ago.

Great article Gerry – and I’m delighted to hear of Mr Cohen’s recent bout of unemployment! Following FS and others lead, I too emailed those advertisers so hopefully the airwaves will soon be a Cohen-free zone. On a related note – this is an interesting article in the Guardian about the Hillsborough families fight for the truth http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/david-conn-inside-sport-blog/2009/jul/30/hillsborough-disaster-liverpool – here’s hoping they will finally get what the deserve – Justice

Bobby Robson has passed away,Great man and football man.

R.I.P. Bobby.

Great blog Gerry. Now now, I’m writing a comment after days now. Quite busy with my studies.

Frankly, I was too dissapointed to see Arbeloa leave the club and had this feeling increased with Alonso handing over his transfer request. Rafa’s not on the wrong side in this situation, but surely you all guys would agree with me if I say that our title chances are very dim.

With these departures, I guess our team has taken a large setback. If we would have convinced these players to stay, even atleast for a year, then we would have probably challenged for the title next season.

Obviously all is not lost, but now it will take us more time to bring in new players and settle them in this club. I have full faith in Rafa, but would like to say that instead of going after foreign players who would want to leave us after a season or two, I guess we should try to breed good English players.

Kopking what makes you think our chances are now dim?

Yes,selling Alonso is a blow but don`t you think Rafa has seen this coming for a while now?

Do you think Rafa has been sitting on his hands and has not prepared for the inevitable?

Rafa will have money to add to our squad,maybe not all the money from sales(40m approx) and i`m sure he`ll handle it.

So there`s no need to throw in the towel before the bell`s even rung Kopking.

KopKing: easy tiger – we may have lost Arbeloa but do you not recall us signing an even better right back in Glen Johnson??? As for Alonso – I think we all hope Rafa has a plan B or C

But all to play for – league can still be ours

Hey you guys, chill!!

Yes, I agree Rafa will be left with about 40m. And frankly we all do not know whether Gerrard will fill Alonso’s position or not. If he does, then I guess we would bring in a player like Silva. But don’t you all see, that if we bring in Silva for say 20-30m it is a gamble? Even if he’s hit then maybe he’s going to have some adjustment problems like Arbie.

After about 2-3 seasons more, he’ll want to leave for Spain again. Obviously, the team will be left with some damage.

For the time being, let’s take this situation. Rafa will bring in a direct replacement for Alonso. Normally players find it very difficult to adjust in such positions. It is easier for strikers to overcome these problems but not for mid-field players. I am not saying that a replacement will be a flop, but he’ll need time to adjust himself in a new league. When he’ll do so, then someone like Real or Sheikh would grab him.

This process will take time!!!

Either Rafa would need to bring in an English player or someone who plays in the PL, or he’ll face such problems.

Happy to hear that you had a great time in Kerry. Great news on the Cohen front but as you said we need to continue until he is off the airways completely. It shows what can be done when all redmen stand as one.

Keith, how do you know that Xabi had written the transfer request a month ago? It would be good news if there are other bids for his services but I would prefer a move out of the EPL for him.

KopKing, at least give Rafa some time to get a replacement(s) in before getting the razor-blades out. I would be very interested/excited indeed if Rafa had 40 million to spend!

Just seen you post #15 Kopking, so just ignore my last line.

Indeed Timmy, a great footballing man and character who will be sorely missed.

RIP Bobby.

Some LFC quotes from the great man – hope you don’t mind Gerry!

Saluting Rafael Benitez after Liverpool’s victory in Istanbul:

“Managers have to be like actors at times and Rafa Benitez deserves an Oscar for his half-time performance in the dressing room during the Champions League Final. His half-time performance when all was lost in Istanbul was the most astonishing of the whole amazing night.”

After Liverpool’s shock FA Cup Final defeat by Wimbledon in 1988):

“I didn’t want Kenny to be criticised, but I’m amazed nobody said a word against him.
If England had lost at Wembley as unexpectedly as Liverpool, I would have been slaughtered”.

On Liverpool’s future title prospects (March 2009)

“Liverpool fans can take heart from beating United [4-1 at Old Trafford]. In the short term it will not change the course of the title race. Over the next few years, though, it shows United cannot take the Liverpool challenge lightly.”

On whether Rafa Benitez has what it takes to bring the title to Anfield:

“I hope people do not think that if he [Benitez] falls short this season, he is incapable of winning it. I can see him achieving it at some time at Anfield . “I believe that, if he signs a long-term contract, he has the ability to be a proper rival for Alex…and that can only be good for the game.”

On the power of Anfield:

“At Anfield, Liverpool have just seemed time after time in European matches to have this ability to be able to pull something out of the bag”.

Publicly supporting Benitez after he substituted Steven Gerrard in the November 2007 Merseyside derby:

“Rafa was brave in taking off Gerrard at Everton because he would have been severely criticised had Liverpool not won. But they did win, and I am not sure why Gerrard had to go and see his manager to ask why he had been subbed. Would Dirk Kuyt, Javier Mascherano or any other player do that?”.

On Steven Gerrard after the Merseyside derby (November 2007):

“My view is that Gerrard is a great player; one of my favourites, in fact. But no individual is bigger than the club and this is the time for Stevie to ask ‘What can I do for Liverpool?’, not ‘What can they do for me?’

On Gerrard again:

“I think Rafa appreciates what Stevie has done for the club and the talents he brings to the team. But he is not bigger than the club ? and, if they want to emulate Manchester United and Arsenal, and win the Premier League, all Liverpool fans should remember that.

On Gerrard’s impact at Liverpool

“Gerrard is probably regarded with Kenny Dalglish as Liverpool’s greatest ever player and while he has earned that respect because of his fabulous displays, it comes with a responsibility.

Surmising about Bill Shankly:

“We were driving back from, I think, Birmingham, when Kieron suddenly shouts out, ‘Stop the bus! I’ve left my diamond earring in the dressing room. Can you believe it! Can you imagine in my day a player shouting to Bill Shankly, ‘Bill, stop the bus. I’ve left me earring in the dressing room!?””

Sir Bobby Robson – a true friend of Liverpool FC.

R.I.P

RIP Sir Bobby, you were perhaps the best English manager to be produced on these shores for many years since Bob Paisley. Maybe even the best British manager since Shanks or our King Kenny. (Mr Alex who? Fat Sam what? Please. )

Newcastle were foolish to have sacked you, and now they reap the consequences of that short-sighted decision they made that year.

I think it was Balague or in the Echo and befor any body starts writing our obituary’s remember 4-1 thrashing at Old Twatford. Guess who was in the midfield and guess who was not. There are many permutations while a new arrival or arrivals slot in, not withstanding the fact that Alonso first season was his best apart from last year, starting with the obvious of Lucas and Masch (please don’t all scream at once that Lucas is not good enough, see above result and one more year to settle and grow stronger) Gerrard moving back into the midfield with Benny or Vorinon in the hole and then the replacement who will slot into a settled side and should not take too long to adjust. Reira for example made an immediate impact by slotting into a settled side. At various stages of last season we where without Alonso, Torres and Gerrard yet still managed to challenge and come within a whisker of taking the title. This year we will be stronger and even more settled, with the youngsters, Insua, Lucas, Ngog, Babel and the not so small fact that Agger will be fit and raring to go and the improved attacking option of Johnson down the right and a stronger Reira for having another full pre season under his belt. Throw in Nemeth and Pacheo with San Jose, Kelly, Spearing and Darby as cover and gaining experience in the League cup and early FA cup rounds.

If you can tell me we will not be stronger when we throw in two of Aquilani, Cattermole, Van der Vaart, Martinez and whoever else Rafa has up his sleeve then I give up.

RIP Sir Bobby

Keith you should work in p.r or Hollywood or something lol!

Inter or Man City making bids for Alonso doesn’t really change anything does it? Xabi wants to go to Real Madrid only.

Although we beat the mancs and Newcastle by big scorelines with Lucas and Masch in midfield I am still not confident at all that with those 2 in midfield we could win the league. We did a good job beating a very poor Newcastle side and picking off the mancs with that midfield combination. But with a team coming to Anfield and putting 11 men behind the ball I wouldn’t like to rely on Masch or Lucas to play the type of football that would enable us to create the chances to win.

Dead busy today. But read the blog while I had a moment. Will catch up to the comments later. But just wanted to say, good one Gerry.

Don’t let this slide now lads… if you haven’t emailed, why not?
And if you have, good on you but remember to get as many others as you can to do the same.

Later chaps.

Gerry, great stuff. I have been away to Bangkok and met up with Donal and his Misses. Then after the game against Thailand went straight on a wonderful snorkelling holiday to magical, mystical Manado, on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi (formerly Celebes.
Gerry and FS, I have sent the e-mails to those who are still advertising on Cohen’s programme. Hopefully the many e-mials will create some waves and kill Cohen’s radio career forever!

Agree LB,if Xabi goes,we need a suitable replacement,not a clone but a top central midfielder.

Lucas will make a telling contribution no doubt this season.

I was looking at a Q&A on the Alonso situation that was on live today on the Liverpool Echo website.It was hosted by chief sports writer for the Echo John Thompson.

There was nothing really in it that we haven`t already heard but he reckons Rafa will have a list of possible replacements for Xabi and openly admits that they or nobody else for that matter knows who they are.He said Rafa was keeping schtum and speculation about Aqualini,martinez etc is just that,pure speculation.Until Rafa releases some info we are all guessing he says.

On another note he`s also revealed that Tony Barrett has been offered a job with the Times and is agonising over the decision to leave the Echo.John said he should really take the job in the national newspaper because he would only regret it for the rest of his life if he didn`t.

I think Tony is a true red and i think it would be good to see him in the national papers.I know he couldn`t be a biased towards the reds as he is in the Echo but he`d have more of an understanding of what Rafa is doing instead of jumping on the bandwagon of “The Myths of Rafa Benitez” as most journo`s in the rags do.

Sir Bobby Robson is one of the finest managers of British football. What an icon. Will miss him.

KK, you keep on sayianag we are dead ducks once Alonso goes. I think not, as we will be replacing him perhaps with more players and better ones who can attack and defend, can make the difference and score goals. Rafa has plans A, B, C, D and E. Trust him, for goodness sake. Keith had argued quite rightly that we can be stronger once we sell Alonso. Not sure where he got the sniff that Man Shitty and Inter are prepared to pay more for Alonso. But if so, why not? Get the cash plus maybe a couple of good players. We have seen over the last few years how lack of depth we are as a team, especially when fighting on four fronts. With Alonso being sold, suddenly we have cash and player to not just improve the team but also add depth for a triple!

Timmy, ya, agree with you. It would be great to read Tony Barrett’s articles in The Times.

LB–I have to disagree with you regarding Xabi. I love the lad, but he didn’t do much to help us with the park the bus mentality at Anfield.

Here’s a list of the games we dropped points last season:

0-0 Villa away (Xabi started)
0-0 Stoke home (Xabi started)
2-1 Spurs away (Xabi started)
0-0 Fulham home (Xabi came on in 65th minute)
0-0 West Ham Home (Xabi started)
2-2 Hull home (Xabi started)
1-1 Arsenal away (Xabi started)
0-0 Stoke away (Xabi didn’t play)
1-1 Everton home (Xabi started)
1-1 Wigan home (Xabi didn’t play)
1-1 City home (Xabi didn’t play)
2-0 Boro away (Xabi started)
4-4 Arsenal home (Xabi started)

Of those 13 games where we dropped points (11 draws and 2 losses), Xabi started 9 of them, came on as a sub in one of them, and sat for three of them.

I do recall him coming off the bench away to Pompey to help us secure the three points (along with Dirk and Nando), but I don’t recall another match where he came on to turn things around.

And Kop King, I repeat that in July 2007 I was one of the few who agitated for Alonso to leave and be replaced by Barry. He was mostly injured and when recovered, did not play well. He was excellent in 2005 and also last season. Next season if he continues to play well, then it would be good for us. But will he become inconsistent again? He could. Rafa, who clearly stated he wants Alonso to stay had to force Alonso to come out into the open to declare he wants out. Once this happens then I say sell him, particularly if it is for Stg30 million or more. I am sure he has a few excellent midfielders already in mind. And ready to pounce in the market. It is also a good business and profitable deal.
I see this Alonso sale frankly more as a positive than negative.

Ivcjmac., wonderful stats. Thanks for the efort, mate! King kop, what have you to say to that? I dunno how many games Xabi started or played as a sub. But clearly if he had played in say 33 games, then 13 games (where we dropped points) out of 33 is 39%! Would a creative yet attacking , higher scoring player be better? I think so. And there are many names out there, Silva just being one.

And about Arbeloa, he is a good player and had contributed to our improvement obver the last three years. But clearly Glen Johnson is better. And by selling Arbie to Real Madrid, again it is profitable business. I would like to wish him all the best in Spain.

Just to further my last point, I’m not on here to slag Xabi off.

We could also draw up a list of matches where he was vital in helping us secure the three points, but I was just pointing out that when we drop points it isn’t because we had Lucas and Masch sitting deep in the midfield.

Hell, a cause for a lot of those dropped points is because either Stevie, Nando, or both of them were out injured. Xabi will be a big loss for us, but we’ll benefit more this season if Stevie and Nando could get a run of 30+ games in together in the league. Look out if that happens.

It’s being on the cards for a number of Months that Xabi was going to go.
Since Rafa signed his contract the future of most staff ans players was sorted out, Xabi was an obvious exception.
It must be remembered the only reason he didn’t leave last summers is because no one offered the money we were looking for. Xaabir is an excellent player but if we get a decent replayment, and Gerrard and Torres play alot more than they did last season we should find ourselves in even a stronger position, I see Ivcjmac has just said the same thing.

On the Full back issue, 2 seasons ago Risse & Finnan were no1 choice, but were not the players they once were, last season most people in here saw the fullback positions are the most important to upgrade.
I beleive now in Insua & Johnson we have the best pair of full backs in along time

I also think we will be lucky to see half the proceeds on the transfers spent on new players

Alright Lads, caught up with the comments. Thanks Ivjmac, you saved me a job. I was about to dig up all them facts myself, but that was a job well done.

Digger the Hollywood/PR dig at Keith isn’t only churlish it’s downright wrong and defeatist.

I know the sort of people I like to sit amongst on the Kop – and I’ll take what you call the Hollywood/PR type, or who I call a Supporter, over the towel thrower, moaner and booer every time.

It took me a long time, but I learnt to accept that both Digger and LB are of, shall we say the glass half empty persuasion.

They both used to annoy the shit out of me, with their constant gripping and refusal to give Rafa any credit. Now I accept that they are just that way inclined, and will always chose to see the bad side of any story. But in their defence, I know that when the humble pie comes along they will be more than willing to eat their fare share.
And they do give credit when it’s due, even if it’s sometimes given begrudgingly. So, I accept, well sort of accept, their negative view on things.

But what I can’t and will never be able to accept or understand is kneejerking and towel throwing.

FFS the season hasn’t even started yet and the transfer window doesn’t close until the 31st. Many things will change before either happen. What is the point in throwing in the towel now?

I swear, at times it seems like some people would rather just hand the title to Man U and be done with it. Why some would rather run screaming for the hills than have a bit of faith is beyond me. Haven’t you learned nothing?

Rafa is the most meticulous of men you could imagine. Do you really think he isn’t prepared for this?

On top of that, Xabi hasn’t even left yet. And yes, it does make a huge difference that Inter and City are showing interest in him. It means Real will have to meet Rafa’s valuation or Xabi’s going nowhere.

I can’t expand on that. I’ve promised not to. But it’s up to you to believe it or not, but that’s the situation that has been told to me… Real meet Rafa’s valuation of the player or he is going to the highest bidder.

Of course Xabi can refuse, but Rafa will not be fucked about over this and we all know how stubborn he is. And he’s also the most meticulous of men. So do you imagine he isn’t prepared for this?

Anyway, that’s not a personal dig at anyone – LB, Digger or even Kop King. It’s not a tub thumping rallying call either. Form your own opinions. Make your own judgements. Me, I can’t wait to set about them. And I am totally convinced we can win this with or without Xabi. But then I’ve seen us lose Shankly and Paisley filled the breech. I’ve saw Keegan go and Dalglish walked in. And more, so all I’ll say is… why believe the hype?

Great post on Sir Bobby Lurgan. The man was indeed a good friend of LFC, always was. He loved The Kop and loved coming to Anfield. He said so on many occasions going way back into his playing days. A true gentlemen.

But I don’t say that just because Bobby saw the good in us and never jumped on the sterotype bandwagon like so many others. I say it because he just was. And it’s such a shame to see another one of the proper old school leave this mad over-hyped up world.

As for that thing called Cohen, I’ll say a bit more later when the timing’s better. But don’t forget… the battle isn’t won yet. If you haven’t emailed, why not?
If you have, good on you. And don’t forget to rustle up as much support as you can.

Fatty it was a joke big fella, take it easy! Keith and I throw a few one liners each others from time to time, I chuckle (as I’m sure Keith does) and then slip one back. So as such your analysis of my comment as churlish, wrong and defeatist is way, waaaay off the mark I’m afraid. But no biggie, we all misinterpret one anothers comments from time to time. And I too cant wait to for the season to begin and get amongst em. No towel throwing here my corpulent comrade!

FS, just to clarify there is no towel being thrown in by me at all!

LVC, good stats mate but as you alluded to yourself in your later post. Xabi was key in a lot of our victories last season and I think he was vital to our league and CL challenge. I’m not saying it’s doom and gloom if he leaves. What I am saying is that should he be sold we need a quality replacement for our midfield. I would not be confident with Lucas and Masch as our first choice midfield pairing. Call it pessimism or being negative that is the way see it.

If we go into the new season without Alonso and no additional signings I will be a bit worried.

Like I said lads, glass always half full.

And no need to tell me to wind it in Digger. I’m not throwing a wobbler. I’m just telling it as I see it.

And if you read what I said, you will see I gave you both credit at the end of saying me piece.

But even though a lot of comments/opinion you both give only come from the fact you want to win the league, the fact still is… since Rafa has arrived it’s been the same old story – doubt at best.

I know neither of you are kids, but I think it’s an age thing. And no. I’m not playing the aul arse card, but since Rafa arrived I have been in here preaching a little bit of faith and patientce. I haven’t changed me mind.

Anyway, I’m off to me bed. But here’s something to leave you screaming nightmares… don’t be one bit surprised if The aul Tramp springs a surprise before the window shuts.

I hate the bacon faced aul bastard with a passion but I’m not daft enough to underestimate him or think he’s lost the plot.

And I’ll tell you what he’s brilliant at… playing the media. I haven’t for one minute believed him since he said “Our business is done.” And he’s reiterated it a few times now. He’s also lip slinging like a drunk in Sauchiall St on dole day about everyone and everything.

Smokescreen? Ribery? Or Netto Cider?

I all honesty lads I’m a Xabi fan but if he must move on then so be it. Xabi was an influental player for us no doubt. Although I don’t think he will be as big a loss for us as the diving wanker is for Man U.
.
Reason why, the amount of goals he scored. Yes I’m going to miss him but that’s football, I still think it’s amounted to a total fuckup or our pre-season. I was hoping to here all this shit about Voronin, not Alonso.

I was stating this at the beginning of the summer and I haven’t seen anything yet to change my opinion…. If the top 4 squads remain as they are now… LFC WILL win the PL (and I fancy a cup double.)

If we lose Alonso, we will be weaker. But that doesn’t mean we can’t win the PL… just that I don’t see it as a certainty. I’d still say we are likely too, but the other 3 just might press us.

As for a replacement… we already bloody have one at Anfield… the best box-to-box-midfielder in the world by most people’s estimation… so why waste any money?

If we sell Alonso, fuck a direct replacement… buy a goalscoring attacking player… ala Silva!
SG will still bag 10 + goals from midfield and Silva would more than pick up any slack from SG not being “in the whole”
And frankly I think Benny Onion is a better “in the hole” player than SG.
And don’t fuckin soil yerselves… all I mean by that is that Benny’s game is best suited to that, and he seems to be able to get himself involved in the game, when playing there, whereas SG, despite his obvious contributions from that position, can often find it difficult to get involved in proceedings, over the course of 90 minutes, when playing in the hole.

Anyway…
as things stand LFC to win the Prem by a country mile…
without Alonso and no further purchases, (by us or other Top 4s) we still probably win it…

but as FS said, there’ll many a slip twixt the cup and the lip between now and the end of the transfer window.

Come In Number 19…. Your Time Is Up!

I think I just soiled myself!….

Then don’t clean up yet Digger, coz I’m gonna predict Vorronin for 10-15 goals this season… and that we’ll see a return to us inflicting more of those really embarrasing scorelines, like 8-0 v. Besiktas, when we face the so called bus-parkers…
….and a continuation of the hammerings by 4, of the likes of Madrid and Scum!

How’s that for a glass half full, FS??????

It seems Alberto Aquilani has just signed to join LFC, subject to Alonso being sold. Here are some You Tube shots of the guy: http://aquilani.theoffside.com/

Stats on midfielder Aquilani:

Personal information
Full name Alberto Aquilani
Date of birth July 7, 1984 (1984-07-07) (age 25)
Place of birth Rome, Italy
Height 1.87 m (6 ft 1+1?2 in)
Playing position Central Midfielder
Club information
Current club AS Roma
Number 8
Senior career*
Years Club Apps (Gls)†
2002– Roma 102 (9)
2003–2004 ? Triestina (loan) 41 (4)
National team‡
2004–2007 Italy U-21 20 (5)
2006– Italy 11 (2)
* Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only and correct as of February 8, 2009.

† Appearances (Goals).

‡ National team caps and goals correct as of February 10, 2009

Morning lads.
I’m not to sure about that Knight. I know it’s being rumoured in Il Messaggero, the local Rome newspaper. (Sort of the Roman Echo as far as I know).

And who knows, it may well be true, but I wouldn’t take it as gospel just yet.

What I would say is, you can bet your botttom lip Rafa does have someone lined up and all the angles covered.

But whether it’s Aqualini, I doubt anybody knows. Tell you what though… if someone’s leaked it in Rome to ther local Echo, you can bet Rafa won’t be happy. As I know Chelsea and Arsenal have tried to sign the lad before – he knocked back both of them though.

That’s one of the little things I know of him – he’s a local lad, sort of Stevie G in Rome. And from what I know, he’s very happy there and has just signed another long contract. But we all know there not worth the paper they are written on.

Other than that, I don’t know that much about him. That’s why I never commented when Keith said he’d heard rumours. But I did look into him a bit more, like I do with most of the players that get linked to us.

And I still don’t know too much… He’s been out for a long time injured, but then that doesn’t mean he’s injury prone. And I know he doesn’t score many goals, but he gets a few, has a good shot on him from distance, and loves to get up in support of the attack and into the box – something we’re missing in central midfield.

So who knows. Like always… we’ll have to wait and see.

And the same goes for Xabi too, but like I’ve said all along we’ll probably know after the Espanyol game.

And I hate to say I told you so, but well, I did. These transfer windows are fucking horrible and getting worse every year. The amount of hype is now ludicrous. And being bombarded with all this cack constantly, well, I suppose it’s understandable how some fans react now.

But footy doesn’t work like that. Manager’s and players don’t jump just because Sly, Talk Shite or any newspaper tells us it to. They just get along with it and take no notice.

And we spend loads of time in here talking about the bollacks the media comes out with, but then jump like scalded cats when they start their nonsense.

And I know I get on some people’s wick by going on about it, but it’s truth… take no notice. Just have a little patientce and faith.

We might live in an age of instant gratification – but it doesn’t work like that. Surely, just looking back over Rafa’s time at the club has taught us that.

True – Xabi leaving has threw a spanner in our plans. But when has it been settled or easy since Rafa arrived? In fact, if you compare what’s going on to some of the disruption that’s happened at the club in the last five years – it’s pretty small potatoes.

And has Rafa won every other battle he’s faced? Darn tooting, he has. Have we always came out of it in some way strenghtened. With out doubt. So why doubt him now?

I know it’s a blow. I wouldn’t dream of saying any different. I’m as sick of all this shit as the next man. I’d love to have a settled team and club. But I have learnt to trust the boss. I see no reason to change my opinion.

But I’ll tell you the day, I panic… when Rafa says fuck this for a game of soldiers. I’m off.

Have been reading teh posts every day but have not commented for a while.

Look like Xabi is gone and I’m sure Rafa has plans in place. I think they will include Silva and a direct replacement for Xabi.

People talk about moving Gerrard back into Alonso’s position. We all know Stevie is one of the best players in the world but he is not a central midfielder ala Xabi. He does not have the range of passing or discipline to play there and Rafa knows that.

Wht do you think he played him on the right wing and in the hole ?

Rumours this morning about Villa and while that would be very exciting, i can’t see it happening. If Xabi goes we DEFINITLEY need a direct replacement.

Digger please send me your address some I can send you some water proof adult diapers. Been to Hollywood all noise and looks with no substance or depth, you might like it! LB and I had a similar argument last year when he was stocking up on preseason razor blades and writing the obituaries and I am not to sure if he has finished eating all the humble pie he had to eat but it was a fair amount. Here is another prediction, similar to last year, we will be better in the Prem without Alonso. When teams sit deep and get 10 men behind the ball a fast attacking midfielder running at the defense, a Silva, Gerrard, Van der Vaart, Sneijder , Aquilani type (have an inclining that Martinez could be a sneaky option as the speculation concerning him has gone quiet) will be far more effective than some one sitting deep trying to find space in behind a deep sitting defense. Where we might be slightly worse off will be in the CL where the game is slower and more controlled. With Johnson and Insua on the flanks that will create a bucket load of opportunities that we did not create last year. Again Agger bringing the ball forward will create more space when they have to close him down, not to forget the potential of some spectacular goals. I really cannot believe that some of you think Alonso will be this massive terminal blow to our chances, he can and will be replaced by somebody equally as good and with the extra money another attacking option will be brought in which means we will be stronger and have more quality backup. I stick by my earlier prediction of if he stays great and we will be stronger than last year with the best shot at beating our points haul from last year and an even better chance of lifting the trophy and if he goes we will be even stronger a win, win situation.

One final note did anybody know of Alonso before he came to Liverpool, was he in the National side? Rafa will have at least 5 different options, all probably the same if not better than Alonso. Show a little faith; show a little trust in Rafa to get it right.

Just a thought, seeing the speculation and seeing that Spearing has just signed a new contract, is Cattermole a better option than Spearing? I have not really seen him play and if I have, he has not really registered on my radar. You could add Lucas and Plessis into that equation and do not forget Ince (I like this lad) and Pepper from the academy who also looks a great prospect.

I would not be surprised to see somebody come in that we have not been linked to, a complete surprise, which would be more Rafa’s style.

Keith mate. I agree absolutely that with or without Alonso we will be better in this coming season. With Alonso we have the team understanding and stability. Without Alonso we have Stg 30 million to buy at least one if not two of the following star signings: Villa, Silva, Aquilani, Clattermole, etc. Therefore with or without Alonso I am predicting that we shall win the league and one more cup (CL or FA) this coming season.

With the Stg30 million cash we shall be buying attacking midfielders who can score goals. Hopefully one who tracks back and defends as well, ala Rooney. Silva and Villa will complement Nando for sure. He has played with them and they gel well together. These are pluses.
Surely this season will see more of Nando and Gerrard playing together than last season. Also as Keith mentioned Agger will be playing more and be able to bring the ball forward. Then there is Johnson’s fast pace on the right. Among the youngsters, Insua & Lucas will get more games. Babel will surely get better too. Keith I saw Jay Spearing in Thailand and that lad is very good. He reminds me of Danny Murphy, small but fearless in tackles and good passer too.

Really busy, just quickly say… Catermole is being laughed at by some fans – of other teams and our own.

I’d actually like to bring the lad in, but Wigan don’t want to/don’t have to sell. So, they will demand top dollar. The other drawback is, I see him more as a replacement for Masch than Xabi. He’s closer to that type of player.

So, I’d love to buy him now if we could get him cheaply enough (Which I say is doubtful), and he would be willing to be Masch’s understudy for a season. Cos, que screams, you can bet your bottom lip this will happen with Masch again next season and that is if we manage to hold on to him now and through the January transfer window.

Keith can you fedex them diapers overnight cos on top of filling my togs when reading the words ‘benny is a better in the hole player than stevie’, Aitch is now also responsible for me pissing myself laughing when I read the words ‘voronin for 10-15 goals this season’! So as you can see I’m in dire need here! He’ll really kill me off altogether if he says Lucas will win player of the year!

Lurgankop

Congratulations on a job well done for diggin up Sir Bobby’s quotes on LFC. I’ve always had time for him and he would be sorely missed.

Kopking, after reading some of your comments I was asking myself this question. Why bother take part in the Premier League? Let’s simply play some friendlies for the next 9 months and then present the trophy to Ferguson at 10 Downing Street in May 2010. Does that sound like a good plan?

I refer you to one of Sir Bobby’s comments about Gerrard, which you will find in Lurgankop’s post (no 19). The same applies to Alonso in the sense that no individual is bigger than the club. LFC waa around before Alonso and the club will still be around long after Alonso starts washing his teeth in a cup.

I agree that selling Alonso is a blow but what can you do if the player insists on leaving. In any case, Alonso’s departure is not fatal to our chances of challenging for or winning the title.

LFC have sold many great players in the past but the club went on to win more of the major trophies available. Remember what happened when a certain Mr Owen jumped ship? LFC won the CL trophy the following season whilst Owen watched in disneyland.

I also agree that a quality replacement should be found once Alonso leaves but are you seriously suggesting that Rafa is incapable of finding a replacement to take LFC to the next level?

Kopking, how will you react if Rafa announced to the world that LFC has no chance of challenging for the title? I humbly suggest that it is too early to start throwing in the towel before a ball is kicked.

While your body fluids runneth over in your ever so humble opinion do you think a line up against the bottom half of the table of Gerrard in midfield, alongside Masch with Benny in the hole is more attacking than Gerrard in the hole with Alonso in midfield when facing ten men behind the ball?

If we add Johnson and Insua to that equation, a fitter Reira and Babbel firing I don’t think we loose too much in comparison and a team quite capable of breaking down teams coming for a draw. Lets face it that’s where we lost the Prem last year. Throw in a fit Torres and I cannot understand the pessimism.

In all competitions 10 to 15 goals is a good stat, especially seeing that he will start in a lot of the Carling cup and early FA cup rounds with the youngsters adding experience to the squad and I can see him coming on in the Prem and CL when things look comfortable as we look to rest Gerrard and Torres. I remember a similar debate regarding Kuyt a couple of seasons back. Another prediction from me is that I can see a big year from Kuyt as well, throw in an improved Babel and you might just need those diapers with all the humble pie you will have to eat.

As for Lucas, he has already won Brazilian Player of the year, give him another couple of years and who knows. I will tell you one thing you will see his potential this year and I expect a big year from him. The year before last I actually thought his passing and vision was better than Alonso’s and supported the Barry quest, underestimate Lucas at your peril the lad can play.

Thing about Lucas is, he is still learning to play Rafa’s way. But here’s a thought that you can apply to most players. Ironically Alonso is the exception to the rule, as he had a really good first season under Rafa.

But anyway, it seems to me, players need some time to adjust to Rafa’s demands and expectations. Think about it – Lucas, Babel were too highly rated young hopefuls. If anything they seemed to go backwards under Rafa at first, but have started to show what Rafa expects and sees in them. (Lucas more than Babel, I’d say).

But this can even be applied to the likes of Kuyt and Bennayound, indeed even Gerrard. They all struggled at first before coming good, the Rafa way.

Remember all the complaints about Rafa being a bad man manager, and all the complaints about him playing players out of position.

But the fact is, except for arse holes like Pennant, every player who has played under Rafa – even players who have left like Crouch – end up saying how Rafa made them a much better player. And you don’t have to take their word for it – you can see it with your own 2 eyes or even with Digger’s third when he wipes the negativity and pessimism.

Look no further than Gerrard for proof, but it shows in all of them – attack and defence, even Pepe Reina. They seem to struggle at first with all the extra demands heaped upon them, and they can’t seem to get to grip with all the extra work and thought that goes into playing Rafa’s way.

I suppose that’s why Kuyt, the willing work horse, succeded more quickly and better than most. And I suppose it had a lot to do with why Pennant failed. Talent isn’t enough on it’s own and it doesn’t win any favour with Rafa.

Players are expected to be the cogs in his machine, do as they are told, put in the graft, do their team duties, and stick to the game plan, whether attacking or defending.

It brought Rafa great success at Valencia, and you can see Liverpool are slowly turning into a similar machine – attackers the first line of defence, and defenders as the attacking launch pads.

It can seem like Rafa is standing the whole thing on it’s head, but it’s nothing new. England’s wingless wonders of 66, the AC Milan team of the 80s, which Rafa says was the best teams there’s ever been, and indeed Rafa’s own Valencia, have had great success with a similair system.

Well, I think Babel and Lucas could still fulfill that promise. Babel though is still on borrowed time as far as I can see. And it’s up to all the players whether they can apply themselves to the blue print demanded. But we’ve already seen the results when they do.

And that is probably Rafa’s next big challenge – bringing in the right players with the right mentality. So, I’m not arsed about star names or the players bandied about in the media. I just want the right players to fit into Rafa’s plan.

And if you think I’m putting a bit too much faith in him and his master plan, just look at Valencia after Rafa…. bollaxed with a capitol B.

PS… as for Cohen there have been lots of developments – all good. I’m just too busy to put them all up now but I will when I have more time.

And to all our American lads… you shouldn’t be too worried about your daily dose of soccer news. It seems it won’t be long before there’s a much beter quality option to the shoddy one you have now.

Hello you guys!!

First of all, I would like to say that surely some of you didn’t get the point from my comments. I never said that we have already lost the title that hasn’t even started yet. All I am saying is that Xabi’s exit would harm us in such a way that it will be quite difficult for us to prepare for the League. Obviously, a new player takes time to settle in an altogether different country, club, atmosphere, players, manager. As I said before, this process takes time. This problem has made our chances “dim”(as in difficult).

Now if Aquilani joins the club this season, then he would encounter such problems just like Essien did, Masch did. While, if we buy Lee Cattermole, then he wouldn’t. He’s already settled. I am not saying that Cattermole would be a better player, but surely you all can make it out.

Now, if SG fills up Xabi’s position then it would be very easier for us. Of all the positions in a team, the toughest one to fill in is the one in the central midfield. The player playing in this position should understand the team’s play, be the source and provide chances to the other players. This is a playmakers’ position. This takes time to fill in.

A better option would be a player that can fill SG’s position. This will make our chances even higher than that with even Xabi in the squad. These players can adapt very well in such positions. Silva could be a good option, or even either one of Villa or Mata. But these players would come at a very high price, would be a gamble and would probably want to return to Spain again after 2-3 seasons.

That is when I said that we should buy any one of them looking at our current state and start breeding in some good English players who can give us many seasons in one position itself.

And Mr.Bayo(??), whoever you are, please try to understand my point and stop mocking me!!!!

I can`t understand how some people are suggesting that rafa slots SG back into midfield and thats it,problem solved.

Have you been looking at the partnership they`ve built up in the last 18 months or so.They have developed an almost telepathic understanding and have become one of the,if not the most dangerous partnership in the world.

Stevie will have to drop into midfield now and then due to injurys and suspensions etc but long term,IMHO we can`t break up that pair.They`re just too good together.

PS,

Kopking,Mr Bayo is a long time member of this blog,he might not have posted for a while so if maybe you think he`s a stranger that just came in to drop a grenade,your wrong.

BTW…Where`s burgerman,i could do with a giggle!

I still feel, Gerry, that we must never give more time than such nattering nabobs of negativity as Cohen deserve. He prides himself as a provocateur, but I truly wonder who he really offends. Such ‘fans’ don’t bother me in the least. In fact, their words more often than not evoke pity, not contempt. It makes me really sorry that such a person, with his education and exposure to higher thinking, can settle for such mediocrity. He’ll never change the truth – neither he, nor The Sun (The Eclipse, actually), nor any haters of the Reds. We’re still the Reds, and his team(s) will NEVER be! YN(Ever)WA(Not Ever)!!!

Sam, you are on very fragile territory here.

If Cohen did not have any exposure then I could see your point, just about.

However, this guy has an American audience, who are not totally up-to-speed on this subject, and is polluting their minds that LFC supporters were the root cause of this disaster. Have a look here and then come back with a counter-argument if you want.

http://www.lfcny.org/

BTW, he is a Chav ‘fan’, and even they have distanced themselves from him. There are not many times I have credited Chelsea FC but this is one of them.

YNWA

Sam he offends me and should offend every other LFC fan. And I suppose if you lost friends or family at Hillsborough you would be offended yourself.

Sam: have you ever heard the statement” All it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing”.
Well if we all just sat back and dismissed Cohen as nothing but a silly little man he would be able to continue to spew his Lies to people in America who listen to his show, and most of who don’t have a clue what happened at Hilsborough.

He needs to be driven off the Air .

Sammy don’t wanna gang up on you mate, but the difference is, Cohen isn’t Burgerman, who comes in here drops a bomb every now and then (hmmm, or is he??) and leaves. He’s a spokesman on a very, very public forum, broadcast throughout America, with no oposing voice.
big difference.

As I intended in my earlier comment to FS, if it was just some yob with an opinion, then who really cares, but he’s not, he’s a preacher with a large audience, in a country that doesn’t know the deal!

—-

And Digger… keep laughing my friend.
Vorronin has the potential to reach that goal haul.
SG’s gamne IS better suited to the box-to-box role despite his undoubted ability in the hole.
Benny if given a run in the hole would do just as well as SG has.
And Lucas has a lot more about him than people give him credit for.

Oh and one more prediction… Carra will score 3 this season…. but they’ll all get picked out of the net by Pepe… (oh well…)

Don`t think Benny/Torres would have done what stevie/torres did to the mancs at old toilet.To be fair Aitch they destroyed them that day.

Not saying benny couldn`t do a job there though,but long term i wouldn`t touch the partnership.

Stevie is/was a great box to box midfielder but i think he`d have eventually burnt himself out.In this role he dosen`t do as much milage therefore it could prolong his days at his peak.

You could be on to something there alright Aitch ….BM/SC..??????

Maybe burgerman will go to the papers and say we are racist towards him!

Is there really any need to call him “Alex Fergiescum”? I mean this is a serious article about a serious topic, and calling a rival manager scum at the end just lowers the tone of the whole article for me. I realise I’m just pissing in the wind trying to stop people using the word “scum” so lightly though…….

I love this fella

http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N165251090801-0927.htm

Fair enough tim, but my idea wouldn’t just be Benny Torres, it would be Benny/Torres/SG.

I see it as a more effective 3 man partnership, playing to all 3 players best strengths, as opposed to relying on the FT/SG partnership…. my idea would have us beting the mancs 6-1 instead of 4-1

Torres presses the line (among so many other things) Benny is most effective in that 30 yard to 18 yard space, running at defenders with the ball, and SG would then be advancing into that 25 yard shooting space where he is so deadly (and still hitting FT with passes from 30 yards as opposed to 10/15) (or Alonso’s 40/50 yard passes)

But as FS keeps saying… I don’t really reckon Rafa needs my tactical take on things… he’s doing just fine without me or any of us!

Either way… Come In Number 19 … You’re Time Is Up!

…er everyone gets the Sefton Park rowing boats reference … right?

Point taken there Aitch.

Sam, I hear what your saying and normally I would agree that the last thing you should give to a clown like cohen, is the oxygen of publicity. But it’s already well and truly out there now and there are a lot of fellow Liverpool fans in America and around the world who were moved/offended enough by this clowns comments to take action. I’m damn proud that even in this day and age we still have supporters who care enough about our club to freely put such time and effort into defending it against such scum. And I firmly believe that even in our little corner of the web here at Kopblog, we have a duty to support them in any way we can.
But as noble as that may be, I also have an ulterior motive for encouraging people to support this cause. You can bet your bottom dollar that there are dozens more cohen clones out there desperate to get themselves a little notoriety by any means necessary.
Morons like that wouldn’t think twice about slandering our club, our supporters or even our dead in an attempt to get themselves noticed. And that is why I think it’s important for us to obliterate cohen now and it can be a warning to other such scumbags and their sponsors in the future.
I’m well used to the kind of often over the top criticism we get in the media, it just seems to be a fact of life for Liverpool and I expect it will always be that way. But there are certain thresholds that should never be crossed and if somebody chooses to do so then they’ve got to except the consequences and be prepared to reap a whirlwind.

Good point Ataturk @ 68, I’ve done an edit on it.

Timmytorres, thanks for your comment at no 61. Kopking, to answer your question, I am just an ordinary fan, who wants to see LFC on top of the world.

With regard to your request that I stop mocking you, I suggest that you read my comment again. I have no desire or intention to mock you or any other person who offers an opinion on this website.

You made the following comment at no 12:
“Rafa’s not on the wrong side in this situation, but surely you all guys would agree with me if I say that our title chances are very dim.”

“With these departures, I guess our team has taken a large setback. If we would have convinced these players to stay, even atleast for a year, then we would have probably challenged for the title next season.”

First of all,

“I would like to say that surely some of you didn’t get the point from my comments. I never said that we have already lost the title that hasn’t even started yet. All I am saying is that Xabi’s exit would harm us in such a way that it will be quite difficult for us to prepare for the League. Obviously, a new player takes time to settle in an altogether different country, club, atmosphere, players, manager. As I said before, this process takes time. This problem has made our chances “dim”(as in difficult).” Another word for ‘dim’ is weak.

It sounded to me like a concession statement in relation to the title race. My point is that LFC have sold great players in the past. Yet the club never stopped winning trophies. In any case, feel free to disagree if you wish to do so. This is a forum that encourages freedom of speech.

Kopking, the second to the last paragraph was taken from your comment at no 59.

Ataturk @68, what on earth are you babbling about?

In case you still haven’t realized, this is a blog written by a Liverpool fan for Liverpool fans, I honestly don’t see what’s wrong calling that old piece of shit Alex Ferguscum.

With due respect, please don’t preach to us on this nonsense about “respecting people”, it just reeks of condescending patronism and hypocrisy.

It is the duty of every Liverpool fan to hate everything that is Scumchester United. After all, the feeling is reciprocal.

Hello again!!!

I would like to apologise to Bayo. It seems like he is an old member of this blog. I had no intentions of hurting your feelings my friend. All I was trying to do was prove my point. Alas, you are still not convinced.

Timmy, I know you’re right about SG and FT’s partnership. I am well aware of this fact that, this is a lethal combinaion. Unfortunately, we don’t have enough funds to buy both Aquilani and Silva. This would cost us about 45m(minimum).

Rafa will have to choose any one of them. Both the signings will be good for the club.

I think Rafa should go for Aquilani. For the time being, Gerrard should be shifted to the central position. This is because Aquilani has just recovered from an injury. He will have to settle himself. Try playing him in some reserves matches and then let him show some good form to put him in the lineup.

But my gut feeling says that Rafa wouldn’t go for Aquilani. He’ll go for Silva and Cattermole. Liverpool can afford these two players together. Cattermole would replace Masch next season and would work as his understudy this year. While Lucas will be trained under Gerrard in the central position another year. Silva would play right behind FT in SG’s position. Riera obviously on the left and Kuyt on the right.

This will not be a bad lineup but obviously this is a safe route to take after Xabi’s exit. Gerrard is better with Torres in the front but I think Rafa would take this option.

Reina

Johnson – Carraghar – Agger – Aurelio

Kuyt – Gerrard – Mascherano – Riera

Silva

Torres

PS,
Kinny,I thoroughly agree with you on this one. Manure deserve this from us. And even they have the same feelings for us. Even they acknowledge us with names I wouldn’t like to share on this blog. Firing is not being done from a single place.

First of all, Gerry agreed and edited the article as result. Secondly, do you not think it’s a bit hypocritical to condemn this man for his lies and hate-speech and then call Fergie “scum”? What has Fergie done to deserve being called “scum”? Some underhand tactics and media manipulation to help his team are his only crimes that I can think of. Please in any responses tell why he is scum, I’m happy to be corrected.

Kopking, I think Aquilani is coming if Alonso goes, I even read De Rossi yesterday talking about how it would be good for him to play with the best midfielder in the world, Gerrard. I’m concerned about his injury record, but I’ll give Rafa the benefit of the doubt on this one. Though the longer this drags on, the more likely it is that Alonso will stay, which would be the best outcome.

Excuse me Astaturk. I think you like ferguson more than our own manager Rafa Benitez. Even he’s a manager and he hasn’t done anything to the Manure fans. Then why the hell do they refer to him as a Spanish Waiter? They often call our own club Liverpuddle or Loserpool. Is this right? Maybe for you, but not for us. This rivalry has led to us both on such terms that we hate each other more than anyone else. I don’t think you understand this.

Sorry Ataturk, I wrote your name Astaturk by mistake.

I love Rafa, I’ll just make that clear. I understand being angry at those names, but that has nothing to do with Fergie. Maybe Utd fans are a load of f**king idiots, that doesn’t mean we should follow their lead, no?

Who’s following their lead? We are just expressing our anger and truth to the world. And to be honest Fergie is a real scum. The a** has destroyed our reputation since the last two decades. He has not been retiring because he wants to beat us by winning more titles than us. He has already taken it to 17 and now wants to take the lead.

Hell I wish the f***** retires from football, but he is a hard a** to break. All this while I have been wondering that, has neither of you ever thought of murdering this old piece of sh**? Unfortunately I am just an 18 year old living in Asia. But you guys have been tolerating him since the past ages. He has got on my nerves in the last 4 years and you all guys have been watching him since the past 25 years.

KILL THE SCUM!!!!

Unfortunately, they’ve already equaled the record this year. Fergie was gonna retire 6-7 years ago, but his old friend, Bobby Robson talked him out of it. It’s no crime being successful, otherwise Liverpool would be the biggest criminals of all!

Wait a second there Ataturk. Why are you backing the scum? You are defending Fergie as if he were you. His success has resulted in our loss. Well obviously it seems to me that his success is more important to you than our loss. You sound just like a Manure fan.

Even Michael Owen has joined these scum for success. But is this right? No, it isn’t. Because he’s not only supporting them but has become their part in order to win the League. His success will result in our loss.

Learn to take judgements Turk.

So we can`tg call him any of the following so Ataturk…..FerguScum,Taggart,The TRAMP(FS Favouite),Rudolph,Bacon face,Father Jack,Mr ferguson(as rafa likes to call him)…any more lads?

Ataturk you shouldn`t really get your knickers in a twist over this bud,we`ve a lot more pressing issues to discuss in here.

LFC refer to him or anything Man u as scum in the football sense.We dislike them so much even hate them thats because they are our biggest rivals and try to stop what makes us happy in everyday life.

I don`t think people see them as scum like cunt who ro old ladys or deal heroin or anythng like that.

There probably worse

For what it’s worth I’m with Ataturk on this one.

Ironically enough, given the topic of the blog, it’s not the tramp who has acted in a “scummy” manner but our friend from the USA.

Again I would agree with the comments made above about Manure fans in general, they are pretty clueless and or life’s losers to boot. You know either the type who have and are nothing in life and need to attach themselves to some sort of “successful” organisation to have some reflected glory or bandwagoning know-nothings.

(Note i have not had the pleasure of being insulted by Manures faithful at the old Toilet so I remain unscarred on that one)

They are not scum in my mind … not worth the insult, nor the time.

Save it for the actions of the Steven Cohen’s of the world. Different breed.

The world must be freezing over when KopKing is actually agreeing with me. (Just kidding KK. )

As KK said, just which side are you on anyway?

I might as well add, Gerry, why are you actually acceding to Ataturk’s requests? I find nothing wrong.

I also find nothing wrong in calling them “Scum” apart from other “true scum” like Cohen.

This is not racism, sexism, classism or whatever discriminatory -ism you may think of, this is just tribal rivalry at its best.

As long as we don’t cross the bottom lines of each other (Hillsborough and Munich respectively, which Cohen has sadly crossed), it’s all fair game to me.

I never said you can’t call him that, I’m not the internet police. All of those names are fine to me other than Ferguscum. KopKing, I’m sorry that I don’t wish death on Fergie, if that makes me a Utd fan then so be it. You’re right though timmytorres, more important things to talk about than Fergie, moving on…………..

Nobody wishes death on Ferguscum, that’s too extreme. Besides, we want him to live as long as possible to see Liverpool re-claim the fucking perch which he has so wrongfully usurped for the last 20 years, undoing all his work so that he may live on in bitterness.

Ataturk, I know you are fairly new to this blog but you are coming across as a pompous twat. What attracted most of us to this forum was the sense of humor, piss take, coupled with an intelligent debate (yes even you Digger even though I used the term intelligent liberally) we can disagree, argue, take the piss get the piss taken and it all stems from Gerry and the manner in which he writes. The over riding criteria is our love and respect for all things Liverpool.

To be offended by Fergiescum and to get all moralistic about it is exactly what is wrong with modern society as it strives to be ever so Politically Correct. We loose our sense of perspective, let alone humor. I might be a long way from Liverpool, having left when I was 8, but despising everything ManU just comes so naturally for Liverpool supporters there is no reason to justify it, or defend it, it just is. They are the complete antithesis to us. Flash, greedy, arrogant, ignorant and it is perpetuated by their Manager and the types of players that have played for them over the years. The nasty ill tempered likes of Whiteside, Keane, Hughes, Scholes, and the self serving images icons of Beckham, OOH AHH and the Wanker. This is all perpetuated by their Manager Slur Alex Fergiescum and the me first mentality that perpetuates around Castle Grey Skull. If the shoe fits you are an old drunken sot. The way he manipulates the media, the Fat Sam laughable incident aim at Rafa, the jibes that Owen would have been treated better at the Scum, the Heinze farce and I can go on. With everything that he throws at us using his buddies in the media and his sycophantic manager friends who buy into his agenda in the hope of getting and basking in his reflective glory, you want to censor a Liverpool site, written for Liverpool fans, that have to register to write comments, for taking the piss at of the Tramp!

I suggest you put your nuns habit back on and retire to the cloisters, but don’t try and change the best site on the net. If you are offended it is your choice not to read the blog, but the rest of us love this site and I would suggest that more people would be offended by your criticism of Gerry than by the Fergiescum deserved nickname, lighten up.

Totally agree with keith. The reason I love reading this blog is due to the humour and light heartedness of gerry’s writing and most comments… The day we can’t call ferguscum ferguscum then I wont be reading.

On a football note. If we do lose alonso I’d much prefer to buy villa then silva. I can’t really see how silva would fit into our team. Unless of course we have given up on riera which I haven’t.
If we can’t get villa then regardless of whether alonso stays or goes I think we should look at picking up kenwyne jones particularly if sunderland end up with bent. He would be a force that could help rough up the defense to help torres out. I see him developing into drogba.
I also think cattermole would be an excellent signing and agree with whoever mentioned that he should be signed as a replacement for masch not alonso. I think we’ll really struggle to keep masch next season, and so it would be great to have cattermole doing his apprenticeship this year. Although I dont know why wigan would sell him as they have a new manager that has already lost valencia.
A back line of johnson, carra, agger, skrtel, aurelio and insua rotating is great IMO.
Masch playing as the bulldog with cattermole spelling him.
Kuyt and Riera on the wings with a lot of range (both attacking and defending) Babel and bennyonion spelling them.
Stevie g playing mainly as a central attacker and have torres and jones (or villa) right up front.
That would allow us to have lucas as a backup to steve. I think this would minimise the loss of alonso. We would be much more attacking but have 5 guys primarily defending and giving the ball to the likes of kuyt and riera.
I have high hopes…

KopKing you are out of order. I can understand fanatical supporters but shouting that last sentence! I hope you did not mean it literally, for if you did you have no right to be on this site.

Ataturk is quite right.

For what it’s worth my two cents… You never see me call the Mancs or the tramp scum. And except for the accepted Bluenose, you don’t see me say anything bad about Everton.

But having said that, I don’t care what others call them. Well, up to a certain point I don’t.

KK, saying you’d want to kill Ferguson, well, I’ll just put that down to you being 18. But take a few deep breaths and wind yourself in a bit. That’s completely OTT and uncalled for.

I accept it’s an age thing. Any old Scouser will always call the Mancs just that the Mancs. Scum is a word that seemed to arrive in the last couple of decades and gets tossed about by all football rivals.

Doesn’t bother me, but I just don’t use it. Do you realise in Liverpool when something is called Manky it means filthy. So the name Manc is not just a shortening of Manchester. It’s always been an insult that has become acceptable to the point that Mancs call themselves it now, but younger ones wouldn’t even know what it means.

There’s footy banter. Most of us enjoy, but everyone has a point that they find offensive.

I call Ferguson the tramp. I’ll tell you why… well, obviously the man does like a tipple. One look at his bacon face tells you that. But the reason I picked that name and stuck with it… Years ago he got stopped driving on the hard shoulder of the motorway on his way into Old Trafford. Instead of just paying the fine and going on his way he told the cops that he was ruching to get into work because he had shit his trousers.

Yes. I kid you not. Instead of paying a 80 pound fine, the multi-millionaire, knight of the realm, preffered to tell the police he had shit his kecks! A classy fella.

I hate him. I hate his club. I hate the city. I hate the fans. But do I hate Mancunians and all people from the city? Of course not. I know some very good people from there.

Now don’t think that is because I am some sort of old div, from a gentler time. I started going to Anfield in the mid 60′s. Scousers and Mancs fought like cat and dog back then. And by the time I was in my teens, early twenties, it really was savage. I seen people being cut with Stanley knives and stabbed. I ended up in a 3 day coma when a gang of Mancs very nearly kicked the life out of me.

So, no. I’m not from some kinder gentler time. If you want to know how bad it was, have a search round the net for The Battle of Maine Road. It was actually and FA Cup semi-final replay between LFC and MUFC. It was the worse I had ever seen.

The streets around Maine Road resembled a war zone. Houses and cars on fire, bodies in the street. Inocent people from both sides kicked to smithereens for absoulutely nothing. How nobody died that night is still beyond me. And it was wrong, wrong, wrong.

I wasn’t involved. I never went in for footy violence. I thought it was for divs. And in all honesty Liverpool fans were routinely voted the best behaved in Europe. We used to sing songs about it and were proud of the fact.

So, if anything, things are far more civilised nowadays. And there’s nothing wrong with a bit of rivalry and banter. But people draw their own boundaries and it’s not for any of us – especially and 18 year old kid – to tell them where them boundaries should be and go as far as to call them a traitor for it.

The fact is, in my opinion, The Tramp is a disgusting old bastard. He has all the personality of a rattlesnake and none of the charm. He is never funny or witty. He is never humble in victory or dignified in defeat. He is an arrogant, nasty bully of the worse kind, and I litterally hate the man.

But I tell you what… you can not knock his record. And anybody who tries only ends up looking silly. But even worse than that, to come out with shit like Kill Him…. no. no. no.

Did you not read the blog? Did you not take anything in?

We are trying to take a man off air for exactly the same thing. How do you think talking like that helps our cause? I know you are only a young man and maybe you haven’t realised the hypocrisy of your statements. But if you are saying it to make yourself look like a commited Liverpool fan – it is having the opposite effect. And if you want to show your comment to the club – send off some civilised emails to Cohen’s sponsors explaining why his hate speech is wrong and shouldn’t be/won’t be tolerated.

And you can take offence to all or any bit of this that you like. But the fact is, I am giving you a tip. In fact here’s a great tip for you…
Take the cotton wool out of your ears and put it in your mouth… Listen and learn from the people on this site and you won’t go to far wrong

PS… if you want to see some real hatred, go onto the Mancs Red Cafe site. If it doesn’t sicken you, you should join it.

Fair enough lads, it’s just that I hate hearing or reading “fat Spanish waiter” etc. but if Liverpool fans call Fergie scum, then it’s only fair that Utd fans can say stuff like that about Rafa. I don’t lose any sleep over it, it’s just something that always annoys me.

I’ve been on the TIA forums for over 3 years and I always read Gerry’s blog. It was only a suggestion I was making. Anyway, keep up the good work, Gerry!

What is the thing the blackburn game is remembered for ? Whiskeybreaths
pathetic attack on Rafa.
What should it be remembered for ? Blackburn player laying a wreath to honour
those who died at Hillsborough 20 years earlier .
So while that scumbag Cohen was spreading his hatred, Ferguscum was in
collusion with fat head Sam planning another attack on LFC.
Then his dig about Everton not been a small club, but then went on to field
his second string before losing to them in the FA cup.
Remember him throwing a hairdryer at Schmiecle or kicking the boot at
Beckhams head resulting in stiches and both players leaving),
top man management that .Telling his own fans to go support the Chavs
constantly harassing officials, getting certain refs barred from the Toilet
witjh his friend David Gill been their boss its all been too easy to get their
6 points a season from the refs.
Basically he’s a cheat,hypocrite,violent bully, who manages a team made
up of players who have similar attributes, so yes Scum does fit the bill

Ataturk mate, in a football sense or use, I can’t stand the word Scum either. I think it doesn’t work. But it seems to have become THE word for football fans.

I remember it started with Pompey and Southampton. But it’s used by most fans nowadays. I prefer something a bit more original meself, but I don’t let it bother me… just a sign of the times.

And I can’t speak for Gerry, but I bet it was just tossed in as an easy aside… Our esteemed blogger has some far better ones of his own.

Sorry all you guys if in any way have I overreacted. Of course this was a joke and wasn’t intended to be taken seriously. All I have to say is that I got your meaning my friends(FS, Kinny, Jack, Turk, Keith, RedinAus).

In fact, I would like to say that I (over)reacted to Turk’s comments. But the thing that annoyed me the most was being called a kid by FS. I might be 18, but surely, like any other guy, I hate being called a kid.

PS Not that i’d want anyone to kill him thats just wrong.

True story, that I got second hand from a mate… A young lad was serving on tables in some big football do. The Tramp was there as was just about every other notable in football.

The young Scouse just happened to be serving the Tramps table. And to cut a long story short, the tamp gave the lad a right dressing down in front of all assembled, and then finished of by saying…
“And when you address me, you will do by calling me Sir Alex.”

Next time the young lad came to his table he called him Sir Alex Shitty Arse and was sacked on the spot.

Call me Sir, indeed. This from a self-proclaimed socialist from the Glasgow docks of Govern. And on that note, that is my final say on the hypocritical nasty old arrogant bullying bastard. It’s their job to obsess on us, not the other way around. And I prefer to concentrate on supporting my team.

Well stop fucking acting like one

Maybe you’re in a mood today to give me a dressing down, FS. As I have already apologised earlier, I won’t like to repeat myself again.

Agreed FS, please let’s move on. Does anyone think or know if Alonso’s playing today? I wish Madrid would pay up already or piss off. If they don’t think he’s worth the money then why don’t they back off? They thought the circus act was worth £80M, so Alonso has to be worth £30M+ surely? I’d love it if he stayed, he’s the best midfielder in England (if you count Gerrard as a striker).

I tell you what kid. I am in a great mood. But you are slowly wearing it away. FFS kid, get a grip. Everytime you come in here you spark some sort of shit and it takes days to clear it up. 3 times I’ve given you the decency of answering you and discussing things with you – and after 3 days you just ignore it anyway.

I’m actually acting very decently be taking the time to explain your mistakes – not giving you a dressing down. But I’m about an inch away from just telling you to Fuck off and not to bother with me again.

KK When i was 18 i thought i was all grown up, but when i did grow up i
realised that i knew f*ck all when i was 21 never mind when i was a teenager.
In 10 years time you’ll probably think all teenagers are kids as your parents probably do now.
Anyway compared to Mr Jack Hill most of us are kids.
YNWA

Q1 Which English football club receives the most banning orders for hooliganism.?
Q2 In the NW of England where are you more likely to get
Burgled,Mugged,Raped,Murdered,Shot,Car stolen or your Child molested.?
Q3 in the NW of England where are you more likely to get someone smoking
a joint.?

PS you wont find the answers in any newspapers.

I’d just like to thank our American friends for the boycott, this scumbag should not be on the air or this planet.

I’ll use the lyrics of Bob Dylan to sum up my feelings on this prick:

You’ve thrown the worst fear
That can ever be hurled
Fear to bring children
Into the world
For threatening my baby
Unborn and unnamed
You ain’t worth the blood
That runs in your veins

How much do I know
To talk out of turn?
You might say that I’m young
You might say I’m unlearned
But there’s one thing I know
Though I’m younger than you
Even Jesus would never
Forgive what you do

Let me ask you one question
Is your money that good?
Will it buy you forgiveness?
Do you think that it could?
I think you will find
When your death takes its toll
All the money you made
Will never buy back your soul

And I hope that you die
And your death’ll come soon
I will follow your casket
In the pale afternoon
And I’ll watch while you’re lowered
Down to your deathbed
And I’ll stand o’er your grave
‘Til I’m sure that you’re dead

Oh you will R77 mate, the figures for burgalry have just been realeased… Liverpool isn’t even in the top 10, but have a guess which city tops the national league?

But you know, what I don’t give a toss. Game on tonight. I should have been there but me and the lads couldn’t work it out, and a £100 for a ticket to a bloody friendly, not a chance.

But I’m gutted I never went. Love it in Barcelona, great craic that city. And I think this is where it’ll start warming up a bit now. You’ll see the established/top players getting much more pitch time. The line up will be much nearer our best 11, and there won’t be all the substitutions. But it still won’t be anything to really jusge them by.

Only 2 weeks and 2 games to go after this and then it’s off to Spuds. So, this will still not be the game to judge the team by, but it will be time to start really bedding things in.

I’ll have a go Rome…

Q1… Newton Le Willows FC
Q2… The Lake District
Q3… Gretna

‘Fergiescum’ sound appropriate to me though there are plenty of other names I also go along with. Think it depends what the debate is about and how angry I feel. It seems to me that as The Tramp approaches his retirement and old age his behaviour is getting increasingly worse. I won’t repeat all the good points already made about his hypocracy, bullying, ref manipulation and so on. I just see his behaviour deteriorating so rapidly that I think we’re going to be in for a rough season with him and his scheming, especially if, as I believe will happen very soon, we regain top spot and full normality is returned. I was wondering why Sir Euroflop hadn’t made any remarks about the Southport/Gerrard incident and then I remembered the incident when he threw a boot at one of his top players causing him to need a couple of stitches. Isn’t that ABH? Be prepared lads for all kinds of dishonourable practises and with Mike Riley now taking over Hacket’s job at the FA, we’re going to see Slur Alex getting worse and worse in that department.

Good job on the lowest form of human life Cohen lads. Well done.

Alberto Aquilani for Alonso looks more and more likely. That should give us around 10 mil more to spend. Maybe not enough to go for Silva (who knows) but should enable Rafa to make one more important signing this month. We’re well placed I think.

Whoa!!

FS! seems like I’ve been getting on your nerves for quite some time now, and am quite unaware of the fact: WHY?

Let me make this clear once and for all. You have been the only one I’ve respected on this blog. For your views, your comments, your interactions etc. Till now I haven’t been in any argument with you except for the “Xabi tiff”. I’ve never meant to hurt you in any way and was quite taken when you said you never meant to hurt me either. In fact I wasn’t hurt by your comments.

You have run out of patience because now you’ve realised that I’m just an 18 year old. You can’t take any “shit” from an 18 year old. You are an elderly person and I respect you for that.

Back there I apologised to you and to every one else on this blog. And that was not just once but maybe twice. You were still not convinced with that, were you? The thing is that I really don’t care what you think about me, like I said on the Xabi argument.

And now you are pissed off for nothing but only because of your own interference. In Turk and my argument. Okay, I was a bit rude there, but I also apologised and that had nothing to do with you.

You have turned yourself into a master of this blog. Now, you don’t like my comments, you want me to Fuck Off. Like I said I don’t want to disrespect you.

I have my views and you have yours. You say whatever you like, whenever you like, and just piss off. While I share my views and if wrong, I apologise. This is the liberty you take my old fiend.

I have never asked you to clear any shit I leave. It’s your choice, your interference. You want to involve yourself in every damn argument. Be it Xabi, Cohen, Real Madrid, Ferguson. You’re everywhere. If I’m getting on your nerves I wouldn’t want to get in any arguments here, especially with you. You don’t like me. Fine!!!

The thing is, that some people, like Rome77 here explain the same thing without hurting my feelings, and you do the opposite. Maybe this is because of this large Generation Gap between us. We both have very different views. You are even older than my father.

I don’t mean to hurt you my friend. All I am trying to do is explain why nothing is working out.

If you think that I have said anything wrong then please accept my apology.

KK so the rest of the bloggers are all shit including Gerry and not worthy of your respects? Sometimes you just open your mouth to change feet leave it be and don’t go on and on you start to sound like the Misses nagging me to do something.

FFS get a grip lad.

“Today on Jeremy Kyle…the generation gap! Fact or an excuse for ignorance? Join us after the break!”

I watched the Fulham-Liverpool game from 04/05, it’s ranked at no.11 in Rafa’s best 100 league games.

The come back was great, which was inspired by Xabi, but it was a shit game, shocking standard, with some average players on show.

but for me it really hi-lights the progress Rafa has made since then. we were a million miles off the standard 5 years ago (nearly 40 points)

Really dreadful game against Espanyol. To find a replacement for Xabi will undoubtedly be crucial to the season ahead of us. After this game I am sure Rafa will do everything in his power to sort it out.

Shocking performance tonight, maybe Espanyol paid us off. Degen was bloody awful defensively tonight. Alonso played for around 10 mins, probably his last match. Thank God it was only a friendly.

Just caught last half hour of game just in time to see Degan sticking his hand
up and not tracking back as we went 2-0 down. Now i know its a friendly but
some of his mistakes are judgment not lack of fitness,similar to the youngsters
but for a international player its worrying.
Maybe it really is time for LB to get his boots ready, for RB.
Aitch A 1 Half a point because Mancs used to be called Newton Heath.
A 2 Manchester
A 3 Liverpool ,but if thats a crime where’s the victim.
FS I was going off last years Home Office figures as the media tend to distort
the facts just like Plattini did with his “worse fans in Europe ” bullsh*t.
Ataturk I was going to wind you up about you suggesting Rafa lacks integrity
by insinuating he was paid off.But i know you was joking.
YNWA

FS If there’s people fishing down at that river you walk your JR beware.
My JR only jumped up to get the bait as some lad was casting off and
got the hook through his lip. It took 3 of us a hour to hold him down
and cut it out without getting bit. Mind you it’s the biggest thing the
lad will ever catch.

It looks like Dossena might be staying, I read today that Napoli aren’t in for him anymore. I think you’re right that a left back should play there instead of him if Johnson’s out. Degen has looked like a non-player in this pre-season and it doesn’t say much for Darby if Degen is picked ahead of him. Time to train the Doss as a left back I think.

I mean right back.

Ataturk By LB i meant London Barnes as suggested on the blog poll.

Me knows many of ye says we shouldn’t take too much from the friendlies but the lacklustre performances are just a bit worrying.

And with some players clearly not up to scratch – Voronin, Deegen et al – am wondering if more than one more signing will be required before season starts.

Great blog as usual Gerry.

Morning lads. Well, I only saw the first half. I feel asleep on the couch, I’d been working since 4am and was knackered. So, even the first half was seen through blurry eyes. But we seemed alright to me for a big part of it, so I don’t know what caused the collapse.

I don’t even know who played in the second half, but I summise there was at least a few changes. And PR that’s right: Our squad is not the strongest. But what can we do?

If everything was right in the world and Rafa had his way, we’d have Big Sam and Arbie as our main defensive cover.
Momo in central midfield. And Crouch up front.

But players like that aren’t willing to stay. They won’t full time football. So, we have to make do with kids who aren’t ready and hopeful punts on cheap/free players like Vronin and Degan.

I’d put our first 11 against anyone, but then we start getting a bit thin on the ground. But like I said, what can you do?

If we hadn’t had these constant upheavels on the playing side and behind boardroom doors, we’d be in a much stronger position. But we have and we have to get on with it. We aren’t Man City, we can’t just buy every best player available and put them on huge wages for sitting on their arses.

But having said that, I wouldn’t go getting suicical over one bad result. As I said, I can’t comment on the second half, but we could have been 3 up by that stage… Gerrard woodwork twice (what a hit against the bar) and Torres would have scored if he hadn’t have been pulled done and should have had a penalty when he was.

So things would have looked a bit different if the bounce had went our way. In fact, 3-0 up, game over, everyone getting cocky, fans and players, go to Spurs over confident. So, in a way, it’s good to get this out of the system now… I’d rather have the opposition thinking we are worse than we are, than our own players thinking we are better than we are.

And make no mistake about it, there will have been some harsh words from Rafa. And there’ll be some hard work over the next couple of weeks to put right whatever went wrong.

There’s also one very big factor to take into account… Espanyol have been waiting a full year for this game. It was arranged as part of the Riera transfer. They struggled in La Liga last season and wanted to put that right. And the biggest factor – opening their new stadium. They would have been desperate to start that off right.

Just this moment seen the goals on Sly News. What the fuck was Deegen doing for the second? School boy mistake… You don’t stop chasing the ball/player when putting up an arm for off side. Put up the arm by all means but keep chasing and get the tackle in. Silly, basic, school boy error. But hopefully something I bet he won’t do again after the bollicking he’ll get for it.

And I know that doesn’t prove me point, but it sort of shows what I’m trying to say… Squad still needs work, but should be okay if we get all these silly mistakes ironed out.

Could go on, but this is turning into a novel, and to put it in a nutshell… Roll on Spurs. I’ve seen nothing to worry me yet, and I haven’t changed me mind – we’ve got every chance of winning it this time round.

MTMMC: #117
Rome77 #122. Nuts aren’t they? Wish some of our fans had the fight in them that them little bastards do.

Sorry lads, had to come back, cos I just got some news. So, get the razor blades, vodka and tablets ready… Xabi has stayed in Spain, and the deal is almost done. He won’t be coming back.

Don’t know if it’s gospel truth, but it’s from someone I trust and I always thought it would get sorted after this game.

Oh well, Lucas and Jay Spearing it is then. Someone pass round the suicide kits. I’m off!

mu tuppence worth on “fergiescum”. I agree he is a horrible indvidual, arrogant and everything he stands for I hate. My personal favourites are Taggart(because he looks and is as dour as) and The Tramp(for reasons FS described) Old Trafford is “The theatre of wet dreams” and “Castle Greyskull”.

I hate/detest the club, their players, their manager, the city (it’s souless and you could pass out in the street and people would just walk over you) and especially their fans(I use that term loosly) first sign of trouble and their moaning and emptying castle greyskull quicker than a fart in a lift, ie when the mancs went 3 yeards without a win they were all saying Taggart had lost it. Well we know he has but err I see a lack of loyalty.

Xabi Alonso has just played his last game us I reckon. Well if Rafa can’t someone in with £30 million quid provided he gets that of course we’re in trouble. Obviously the gaffer knew what was going on and is one step ahead. We all wanted transfers etc to be done the “Liverpool Way” and with thick parry gone it is, so I’m pleased there’s not much news in the papers apart from bleatings from other club’s and their officials.

Well they never showed the game over here but I have just read the Barrett report and find some of the comments above strange. Yes preseason and they where up for their first match in their new home. If it was a competitive game their player who pulled down Torres would have walked and the Gerrard chances where a tad on the unlucky side. I said last year I had doubts about Degan after seeing him in the reserves and it looks like most people are starting to agree. He came on a free so we have not lost much in trying to get blood put of a stone and maybe Darby will be a better bet at this stage, he cant be much worse by all accounts.

Alonso is History (glad it is more or less sorted) and Aquilani is the direct replacement and I am looking forward to seeing the lad play, by all accounts he is a major talent and could be just what we need to unlock defenses that sit deep. Barrett also had good things to say about Lucas and it seems he has also stepped up another level. I would not be surprised to see Rafa bring in another player other than Aquilani and maybe some extra cover at the back would be appropriate with Agger and Skertal out as well as Degans iffy performances it really is a pity Arbie wanted to go home, but I am sure Rafa will find a gem. The next couple of weeks will be interesting and I have to agree with FS that I would rather have the set backs preseason than go overconfident into the prem having run roit against easy opposition. It is still preseason and we are still not as sharp as we will be, our defense is missing key players so we need to look at it in that context.

Kopking #114

Were you playing the violin whilst writing that?

Want some Kleenex Fatty?

Looks like the Xabi stuff is finally over.Wish it was done earlier but we`ll drive on .

I’m still not convinced Real Madrid have the money at the moment.

Rafa is definatey playing hardball LB.Thank god we have him doing the deal,Parry would have him flogged long ago for £15m.

Kopking i know you don`t like een called kid but are “You the kid who hit the kid,the kid around the corner kid,so go and tell your the kid who hit the kid,the kid arounfd the corner kid

LB: Real Madrid don’t have the money but the rumour in the Echo is they are close to selling sneijder to Inter Milan For £15 million so the deal probably depends on that.

To be honest I think Xabi will regret going to Real Madrid just like Michael Owen did. I think we will win the title next year, Real Madrid will be 2nd again to Barca, do nothing in the Champion’s league and Xabi will have missed out on the opportunity to be a legend instead of someone regarded as a good profesional who will be remembered fondly.

KDLL, I think you are probably right.

Professionally Xabi might regret going to Real Madrid but it’s a good move for him regarding lifestyle, having his family and friends closer etc. If he’s first choice for Real he’ll probably be first choice for Spain’s midfield as well.

I don’t think it can be compared to Michael Owen as Xabi is goign back to his home country. Young Spanish lads don’t dream of winning the league with LFC. They dream of winning La Liga or CL with Real or Barca.

Timmy #132, I’ve got some but me zimmer’s stuck and I can’t reach it. But I was feeling a michievous old scamp this morning. I said Xabi had stayed to sign because I wanted to see the sqwuaks for a laugh but no one did. So…

Xabi has only stayed in Spain to be with his family for a few days. His wife and kid stayed there when he came back to Liverpool to train with the lads. He’s got another couple of days off.

I know it’s more than odds on he leaves, but after reading the latest things him and Rafa have had to say I don’t rule out a Barry type outcome just yet.

The thing that’s really bothering me about is the time it’s taking. I blame Madrid, but it could be looked at like Karma for what we done to Villa last season. But I wish it would just finish so we could finish our business.

Anyway, talking of kids, has anyone seen the hype surrounding the lad Wilshire at Arsenal? It’s ridiculous. No doubt the lad is going to go on to great things, but the claims being made on Sly is proof positive of how crazy the hype in footy is getting.
And LB #138, here’s a kid that did…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUbqz85gPsA

PS… KK don’t be sulking and hiding, just calm down a bit.

LB I voted for you, after seeing Degan you cannot be worse. As for the Alonso sage I am so over him and just wish it would end. I am actually looking forward to Aquilani, from all the reports this lad is the real deal, excuse the pun. LB do you really think Alonso is better than Iniesta or Xabi? I am not to sure his biggest problem is his pace, yes great passer of the ball but one dimensional playing wise when team sit deep hence part of our problem last year with those types of teams. I have a feeling with somebody more in the Xabi, Iniesta mould, who can take on players and create more space for our forwards by drawing out the defense as well as being more of a goal threat, we might be stronger with Aquilani, Prem wise. Yes we will miss Alonso’s controlling of the game and dictating the pace but as a lot of you said last year with some teams you just have to attack them and not be to tactical. That was ManU’s strength last year with their strong forward line –up and their weakness form a tactical point of view when Barca gave them a football lesson in the CL.

Alonso did it all wrong he should just look at how Arbie did it, Rafa asked him to stay one more year, he did and got his wish to go back to Real with no agro. To be on the verge of claiming our first title in 19 years, Alonso knows how important this season was. He was regarded as a decent midfielder and nobedy this side of the pond had heard of him. Rafa turned him into one of the best midfielders. He needed the kick up the arse last season because he was not up to par the previous two so I think the manor in which he has engineered move has left much to be desired, not to mention a big up yours to the Liverpool supporters who stuck by him. So as far as Alonso goes we got two great years out of five and will be remembered for jumping at the wrong time and will not go with to many plaudits. Written request says it all.

True FS, Nando is a special case though! One in a million eh

Great analysis(as usual) of the Alonso situatiion Keith

Great blog Gerry and well done to all the lads for sending emails (personally I used Aitch’s one as i thought fatty’s one was more 1980′s and went out with the mullet)

Kopking I’m sorry you dont respect anyone elses views in here except for Fat bastards but I wont get all in your coolade about it as you seem like a decent bloke trying to make your own mark in a superblog so chill the beans and dont let it get to you
Kenny Dalgleish told me to piss off the other week and I took it on the chin bud and thats what you have to do cause LFC fans like the Irish will slag the shit out of you at every oppertunity

Ataturk you have Al Swarengen from Deadwood(played by the great Ian Mc Shane) as your gravatar and I’m sure if he was a Liverpool fan he’d plobably say a lot worse about that dirty old bastard.
I’m sure manc fans and he’s family think he is a great man but I’m neither, I’m a Liverpool man all the way so I don’t!!

Have been getting most of me fotty news from ye lads for the last few days and wont comment about it until shit is definite,

sad to see Arbie go and glad to see that Dossena is probably staying

YNYA

Over and out

Fernando was classy as usual in that article Fat Scouser

Cheers bud

Over

Thanks for the vote Keith, I think I can do a job at right back. Don’t expect me to track back after I’ve made a lung busting run up the pitch though. Kuyt can cover for me so it’s all good.

No I don’t think Alonso is as good as Xavi and Iniesta but I reckon he might get the holding role in the Spain midfield 3. Marcos Senna is getting on now and is getting injured quite a bit these days. If Alonso were to have a great season for Real I don’t see how Spain could leave him out of the first XI.

I slightly disagree about the way Alonso has gone about it. He wants to go to Real Madrid and eventually when put in a formal transfer request thus forgoing the loyalty payoff he would have got otherwise. As far as I know he’s turned up to every training session on time and I don’t remember reading about any moaning at all in the press or anything. He’s done his club duties off the pitch also. Simple fact of the matter is that he has his heart set on a move to Madrid. I don’t begrudge him that. I also don’t think he’s the type to sulk if the move doesn’t happen this summer. I could see him doing a Gareth Barry. Head down, get on with it.

I’ve not seen much of Aquilanli. Don’t really know what his strengths are so can’t comment too much on him. Is he a more attacking and mobile player than Xabi?

Oh he’s that indeed LB. I just wish more footballers could be like the lad… humble, loyal as a labrador, unaffected, unassuming. I just can’t speak highly enough of him. A fantastic young man.

To be honest, I think the same of Xabi an all. From all I know he’s a really nice bloke, and as far as I’m concerened this is all down to Real.

But yeah, you’re right Keith… it should all get settled asap so we can get on with our business. And if Xabi does go and Rafa ends up with 40 million, I think he must invest a little in an experienced centre half. I don’t mean a lot of money, but we need experienced cover there, even if it’s just a big huge yard dog at the end of his career.

I just don’t fancy relying on one of the kids, if any of the first 3 get a long term injury.

Such a shame Sammi is an other decent fella and wouldn’t be satisfied sitting on his arse for a big part of the season and picking up his wages.

I’d have LB at Left Back… left back at bloody Melwood while all the lads was on the bus to the game

Fuck this big fat arthritic typing finger of mine. I always end up 3 bloody comments behind

And no it’s not aultimers you bastards

FS – i can just imagine you taking Spanish lessons

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8cDvm26VYI&feature=related

LB i’d have you at left back on the bus
but apparently this donalfromthegap fella is the next Roberto Carlos with a bigger tank

maybe we should sign him

the xabi to madrid saga is know bordering redicouls. i have no problem with him if he wants to leave. i just hope rafa gets to use the funds in a sharpish manner so who ever is brought in can settle w/ the boys.

watched the match last night and the team looked almost unitersted. having said that i’m the espanyol boys wanted to give a great showing to open their new stadium…which brings me to this point.

our play did not bother me during the match but this question did – how does a second fiddle team in the Spanish league build a 60+ thousand seat stadium and not a shovel has turned earth at Stanley Park?

not that i’m in a rush to get rid of anfield but for the long term viability of the club we need to get rid of the two fucks who own “the franchise”. I wish i could offer a solutions more then just venting!

if we need another 6’7″ stiker with a magical touch and a little more to him then crouchy i would like to offer my services to rafa.

i am more then willing to wait my turn behind torres, will give a ngog and veronin a run for there money and kick babel into gear.

pay for play wages so no one accuses me of just sitting around collecting my wages!

Guillem Bellague, Gollum Ballbag morelike. He’s just been on Sly with “Exclusive News” on the Xabi saga…
“Now we are at a point where everyone is saying it could happen any time – or it couldn’t happen.”

Gracias NK, La.

Left back on the bus and Melwood, very original lads, very original! But you haven’t seen me cross a ball. If you did you’d be screaming at Gerrard to leave the fucking corners and free kicks to me!

Regarding Guillem, i used to think he had a lot of insight but this summer he has gone down in my estimation. That exclusive news that FS has mentioned is a classic!

“It could happen any day now or it might not happen”.

EXCLUSIVE

“Xabi Alonso went to bed last night…. and he woke up this morning!!!”

Yes. He is defo not the man he once was LB. But I’ve heard all about it…..
LB the best crosser dresser in football. So maybe, I’d have you at Right Back… Right back in the changing rooms when the lads was on the pitch!

Gotta say thats inaccurate Keith. Xabi hasnt engineered this move at all. Madrid came in for him. Xabi has done the right thing all Summer and kept schtum except to say ‘if I’m sold to Madrid thats fine, if I remain at Liverpool thats fine too’. And as regards the written request apparently saying it all, what would you rather he do? Keep dragging it out til September 1st so he gets a sign on bonus? Xabi has been a standup guy throughout a balls of a situation that Madrid engineered.

Arsing about aside. There’s something I haven’t mentioned in here, because Rafa always gets the blame. But fuck it…
From what I’ve heard, the relationship between Rafa and Xabi has all but broken down. They just don’t get on. It’s a shame. When Rafa arribed, Xabi was the first he brought with him. And remember the Gerrard/Chelsea fiasco… well, Rafa was willing to let Gerrard go, get the dough and build a side around Xabi. And I believe they used to be so close the lads used to skit Xabi something woeful for it. I can’t remember the name, but it was some sort of Spanish name that meant somehow kiss arse and Rafa’s son in some way.

But I didn’t mention it before, because any sort of fall out always seems to get to blamed on Rafa’s lack of “man management.” But for what it’s worth, that’s what I’ve been told.

Yeah I’ve read a lot about that too FS. Apparently the relationship began to disintegrate after Xabi dident travel to Milan for the c.l game vs Inter. He stayed behind for the birth of his first child. Hardly the crime of the century but by all accounts Rafa was furious over this. Things went south from there leading to the Barry debacle last summer and culminating with his move to Madrid this Summer. So to call them friends would probably be a slight overstatement! A Xabi move probably best for all….

Well, we all knew back then Digger that it caused problems. But I don’t know what happened, or even if it’s really that bad and the true cause of all this. But I have been told they hardly speak, and seem as if they genuinely can’t stand each other. Not hard to belive, sometimes it’s the closest of people who fall out the worst.

But like I said, I never mentioned it because these sort of things always come down to Rafa’s fault. And who knows, it might just be Xabi acting the twat. But whatever it is, and whatever is going to happen, I wish it would just be yesterday and we could get on with preperations.

If you ask me they are all jealous of Rafas beard

how do ya like that for a hangrenade

(does it even count)

This new blog lingo kinda confuses me really, maybe i should stick to picking stones and doing the 4 hand reel

over and out

Hey lads I just set up a Kopblog Fantasy league like last year

It was good craic and I think AKKA won it (not sure though

If ye want to join go to http://www.fantasy.premierleague.com
register / pick your team and join a private leagug
the password is 577752-164796

I hope some of you lads join as its good craic and will keep the banter going when times are dull

over and out

And lads plz join up fatty and Jack hill and keith and dig Timmy Dougle Kopking Abhraim Knight Bayo Hyde Nigeria (formerly knows as Chicago) Andy Wirral (get Aussie Kopfan on board) Lurgan and LB even Burgerman FFS (and all the rest of you fuckers)lets have a craic
maybe even have a prize at the end of da season

Keep it real and over and out

P.S. Its free

I forgot to mention alot of ye fackers like Bayo KKDL MTMMC etc bet your all welcome

BTW Gerry I dont mean to plug another website on you blog but I think itll be good craic for the lads and will go on for the whole season just like ferguson’s red nose

Is it sad that getting mentioned in #165 has made my day?

It aint sad MTMMC (Maybe Obaba will mention you in his next speech La!!!!!) but until then an honorable mention on this famous blog will have to do

So seen as your so moved are you gonna join up the Kopblog 2 (thats right we did it last year) league ?

It takes up about 10 mins of your life each week and about 20 if you wanna beat Hyde or AK

over and out

i’m over the moon myself – but you did forget gerry donal

Gerry goes without saying Nigeria

Shur hes the Gerry Me of the whole blog hahahah!!!

And a legend to boot

Shur I’d hope he’d be the captain!!

Over and out

link won’t work with the www Donal. just http://fantasy.premierleague.com

Cheers donal pal we`ll have a feckin craic with this!

i simply thought he was st gerry of stella artois

Whats that password for donal?

Timmy the password is to join the league that just has Kblog members
Click join leagues and enter the PW and your in

Over

enter your team of course probably keepin your K BLOG NAME and were set for da season
maybe we should drop 10 euro each and the winner keeps it all

Just a suggestion otherwise bragging righte should be good

Abrihaim or AKKA won it last year and didnt even pick Ronaldo(the highest scoring player) for the whole season so its a good craic and player valye rises and falls

Check out the rules

Over and out

Sorry to bother you donal.Do i need a username?I can`t find the join leagues link.Ireally shouldn`t come online after a session!

Mickey Thomas

thats the link bro thanks

Yeah Timmy set up your
team and then register for the league

To get a user name you just have to register

Ill be online fopr a few hours so just drop a comment if theres any trouble

I really want this league to happen cause I think its good craic so no bother bro

Over and out

Team is entered Donal. Left myself 7m for three forwards so a lot of tinkering was done.

Cheers pal.

Thanks Timmy and MTMEC

teams are successfully entered

Lets kickste\art the craic

10 euro a head payable to Gerry and let him dish out the prizes………im in if you are]
we have till the start of the seaeon to make changes

if its cool with da man

we have 3 already ley more sign up

over and out

Its called Kopblog 2

over and out

Fuckinhell
7 Mill for 3 forwards bud you might end up with heskey Kevin Doyle and berbatov

WOhaaaa WOHaaaa

Knight dont think your getting off lightly I’m expecting a good team from yourself

Tracey wants a team full of Dossena’s and Babel’s!!!!!

Over

MTMMC
You have until the start of the season to enter your team

so tinker all you want

Over

Donal, I’m in. Let’s have a little fun with it. Let’s see how this dumbass Yank makes out…

Done and done Donal TT`s warriors.How do we donate the tenner?

Wow, you take a few days off from Kopblog (at the wife’s behest, since I was on hols with her & the kids) and look what happens

In no particular order:

1. Political correctness is discussed to and fro (BTW, my name would be Slur Ballix Turps Fergiescum (c))

2. LB and FS agree on something

3. LB will take Degen’s position in the backline, Melwood or first team, I am not sure. I have just seen ‘that’ goal. Another error like that from Degen and it will be the final straw that broke the missing camel’s back

4. A Kopking special. My advice as part of the non-respected crew would be to listen to everyone on this site and you will not go far wrong. Keep posting and keep learning ‘kid’ – couldn’t resist that one

5. MTMMC has only 7m to spend on strikers
Good luck there mate.

6. Burgerman has not commented.

BTW Donal, there was also a ‘predict the score’ competition. Is there a Kopblog representation there as well?

What a great site, definitely up there with the best. Congrats to Gerry and all the contributors.

Donal #143 made me chuckle just when FS has been named Yoda of Kopblog. The Yoda Mullet is quite catchy.

I will be back over the weekend and will sign up for the league or if the Hotel I will be staying at internet is fixed (it was down the last time) I will do it then.

Digger I don’t wish Alonso ill but for my money (yes and LFC is all I care about) he could have stayed one more season, done a quite deal with Rafa as Arbie did and none of this shit would have happened. 3 years left on his contract and he puts in a written request, well let’s just say it does not induce me to vote for him as the stand out guy of the team. Call me selfish but this is our year and we don’t need things like this to distract us from our preparations. Any new player is a risk, how will he slot in, how quickly will it happen, will he settle etc.

After all Rafa has accomplished and under the most trying conditions, dragging and kicking this team into something quite formidable with the like of the two twats and Parry holding him back I think he deserves more respect than Alonso is giving and showing. An Alonso who owes his position and status to Rafa I might add and if he did not get the kick up the arse and put in the performances like he did last season, would Real be chasing him right know, would he be a starter for the National squad? I think not so yes maybe they won’t be sending Christmas cards to each other but I still think the way he has handled it shows disrespect for Liverpool and Rafa. Staying quiet does not cut it for me. Saying I am honored that Real are interested but I have a Liverpool contract, I am very happy and I want to win the Prem to repay the faith that the fans have shown me would have been better. Then sitting down with Rafa and telling him he will give him one more year and then he wants to be allowed to go to Real. Reach this kind of agreement the way Arbie did last year, then I would not feel we have been short changed and he could leave with all our blessing and good wishes. Now he must go and I don’t care one way or the other, just the sooner the better, bring in a player that wants to be here and lets get on with the winning of the Prem.

A very good tribute from 5 live about Sir Bobby.

It’s 45 minutes long, so put it on a bookmark if you do not have time now.

Just note Slur Ballix Turps Fergiescum comes along around the 25 minute mark

Great blog, Gerry. People like Cohen make Mr Ferguson seem like a nice bloke. Emails have been dispatched, and may he get all that’s coming his way and then some.

Not going to comment on all the transfer speculations until the 31st August as it would just be adding fuel to the farce that is the transfer window. However LFC does not need Alonso next season to win the league. Why? Firstly, if he stays, he will not have the “I’ll show him(Rafa)” drive he got last season from the Barry fiasco. Secondly, we need a more dynamic midfielder that also has an eye for a pass than Alonso ( who? in Rafa I trust we will get one). Thanks for the memories Xabi, but I fear you might regret your decision when you look back on your career.

Finally, great idea with the kopblog league, Donal. Been playing it with some mates at work for years and it’s great fun. I should warn you guys that I’m 3 from 4 so far, and came second the other time so if you want to donate cash to the redgasman appreciation fund, then it’s onions in the bag for me.

Peace

PS. Ease off KK, guys. He’s only a kid ! (sorry, couldn’t resist)

Might as well throw me two cents worth in about Alonso, so far I think it’s a fucking debarcle, personally I think it’s fucking up our pre-season.
.
I want it sorted today not on the day we play Spurs, as it’s looking it might be.
.
As far as Aquilani, the guy is out injured until late September, then he needs to begin training, we won’t see he lad until the end of October.
.
And we thought Parry was slow.

Also has anyone heard the rumour that Lucas is looking to go back to Brasil, thought I read something somewhere.

Gaz,

It`

Its Real who are holding up the deal Gaz.Rafa has named his price,real are moaning about it.Rafa will make sure we don`t get fooked up the arse by these gangsters again!

Timmy, Gaz, I read a comment recently (Echo I think) that Rafa thought that we had previously been underselling ourselves in the transfer (selling) market.

I think that this maybe the ‘No-one fucks with us stance’ and pay-up or fuck-off. Has to be done!

BTW, how much juice to you have TT today?

Gaz, I’d be amazed if Lucas was looking to go back (for footie reasons). It would not look good on the CV at all. Anyone who has any ambition is looking to get a move out of the brasilian leagues. As many have said this could be an important year for him at Anfield.

KK, you came up with the Cattermole-understudy for mascher thread. Good thought that.

I remember Spurs last year won all their pre-season games …. there was talk of a top 4 finish … Juan de Ramos anyone ? Pre=season is about getting fit and giving a carrot to the maybe’s in the squad. espanyol = irrelevent.

Donal, I’m in on the fantasy league, cheers mate !

What’s big, grey and not important?

An irr-elephant!

None today bud had a savage session yesterday.Out around 2 for cork game stumbled in the door around one(well thats what she thinks anyway)make that around three.Should have had a couple this morning to cure meself but once i was up it was daddy day care for me.

A ruthless mare,my one.No merrcy.I call her the one with the thousand faces.

Nice one MTMMC.

I love the corny ones

If i was rafa i`d wake up tommorow get on my best suit,fly to Madrid kick in the door and say:

“ALRIGHT YOU MOVA FUCKA`S…THE TIME FOR PISSING ABOUT IS OVA.YOU WANT XABI ALONSO,YOU AGREE TO PAY £30 MILLION TO LIVERPOOL FC BY THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS TODAY OVAWISE YOU CAN SAY SIANARA”

“NOW DO YOU WANT ME TO RUN THAT BY YOU AGAIN YOU THICK IDIOTAS IN CASE YOU DIDN`T UNDASTAND”

Then out the gap he goes.Business concluded.

Gaz,

just checked on the brazilian version of the guardian on-line and the president of Corinthians says he has a “yes” from Lucas and that they are in negociation with Liverpool over his contract. Also they are after Riquelme ?!

The problem is that he is quoted in “Marca” which, i think, is the Madrid mouthpiece. Thus I would give it no credence. To boot they have just sold or loaned 6 of their squad over the last while.

Well, another day gone. 11 to go now. Would be nice to have all this sorted out by the Atleti game at the latest, but I expect Real to pull a Trampish trick and try to snatch Xabi at the last minute. Oh well.

Will try to get that league thing going tomorrow. But be warned… the toothless get ruthless! And a mullet would be a small mercy nowadays with this heed. Me wife makes me put on a hat just to look out the window.

And normally I’d say fuck all Dougle, but if you look at the comments, well it was old fat yoda himself that said buying Cattermole to learn from Masch and step into his boots when he does inevitably leave would be good sense if we had the dough. And the only reason I do mention it is… I think it’s sound to get youngsters in here. Wish they’d just keep learning and keep the noise down a bit while I’m trying to have a nap.

But while I’m on the subject… don’t worry about Rafa not getting the full dough. He’s longed turned our transfer losses into profits. Just one of the great turnarounds he’s performed. 30 million will be a great bit of buisiness. 20 mill profit after 5 years service, even I have to take me hat off to that. And if Masch has a good season and world cup… well, it would probably bring enough dough to sort out all the problems, but sadly that’s more likely to be RSB’s problems than ours.

Sorry Keith, just cant agree with you on this mate. Personally I think you’re way off. I dont wanna go over stuff I’ve already noted but to my eyes he has treated the club and the situation with the respect it deserves. He’s actually been the only redeeming factor in this whole farce by keeping his and his agents mouthes closed during the entire Summer, doing things the liverpool way dare I say? Compare this to the pathetic school girl like flirting that Mascherano and has agent have engaged in all Summer with Barcelona and a more suitable target for your ire becomes apparent. Now that was what you would classify as trying to engineer a move. Fucken despicable from both of them (masch and his agent).
I view the transfer request as a mark of respect to Rafa Keith. We all know Rafa wanted Alonso to make his intentions publicly known – ‘you have to ask him that’ – in an attempt to expedite the situation. And to be fair to him he did and in doing so renaged on all sorts of financial incentives as a result. This is not a player who ran down his contract (kewell, pennant) or said ‘I’m off’ with one year left on his contract thus fucking us out of 20mil (owen). This is a player who for whatever reasons has come to the end of his tether with this manager and has done everthing in the resulting fallout with honour and dignity. I’m not gonna blame either one cos theres 2 of em in it but this relationship has run its course and thats about the size of it. Alonso is doing the right thing by us Keith and he’s doing it in the right fashion.
I will agree with you on one thing; I too wish ta fuck it was just over. In fact I’m a little surprised and frustrated if I’m honest, that Rafa hasnt put a deadline on this and so ended this ridiculous Summer long farce. Without stating the obvious here but surely Rafa realizes the longer this goes on the less time he has to obtain a replacement? My only explanation for a lack of a deadline from Rafa is that, as I stated earlier, this relationship has run its course and they’re both just at a point of no return thus Rafa will let it go as long asit takes provided it results in the departure of Alonso. I dunno, a dangerous game methinks….
Anyway, good debate Keith, but thats the way I see things. BTW, how do you know of a behind closed doors deal struck between Rafa and Arbie whereby he convinced him to stay this by now infamous one more year? Just curious but I dont recall any reports of such a sweet heart deal. Do you have a link or an article?
Good night and good luck men.

Bit of a change of subject…
Saw a report on Sky this morning that Joe Cole is being frozen out band will be available for sale. Now okay, its Sky, so why even discuss fantasy football, but….

I know most of you will be all “fuck off he’s a chav” but frankly Cole and Essien are the only Chav’s I’d even consider.
I reckon Cole at a decent price would be a good buy. Counts as a homegrown player… can unlock defenses… Relentless energy ala Kuyt.???

Aitch – yes, agreed Cole would be a great buy even if he’s as fragile as Jamie’s Redknapp’s left ankle. But read today Cole has said he’s going nowhere.

Anyone think David Bentley is worth a punt? Should be available cheap given his shite season. Could come good given a change of environment or is he just another Pennant without a ‘fro?

Lurg I think the predict the score thing is a thing you take on agaings everyone else in the league but Il look into it

I was thinking maybe if Gerry has a paypal ac we could send a tenner there but thats up to the man himself (else we could just do it for bragging rights)

Fatty as yoda ‘It is Cattermole it is’

Thanks for joining up on the league lads theres a forum too for us too have a banter too Ill start the 1st one today

Cheers lads but you’ll never beat ‘the muck savages’!

Over and out

Thanks for Joining up on the fantasy league lads

Check out the rules

http://fantasy.premierleague.com/M/rules.mc

Over and out

BTW I thing JCole is a great player perfect for the in the hole role but unfortunately he’s way too injury prone

Great player though

Yeha you win prizes from the site if you play ‘know the score’

heres the rules http://iknowthescore.premierleague.com/

Over

Just set up a Kopblog know the score league

enter your team in this league for extra craic

FB63B-YTT (thats the password)

Holy shit

Its been reported we’ve already signed Aquallini for 15.3 mill on the BBC website

anyone know if this is true or a load of bollix it is Fat Scouser?

I know nothin about the lad only what Fatty said earlier and that he’s a kinda Stevie G of Roma but not as good a boxer

Over

Morning chaps. Looks like I missed a good banter there last night. And fuck me, will wonder’s ever cease… I agree with Digger. Well, don’t go writing the headlines just yet. I sort of agree with Digger…

I don’t think Xabi has done much wrong here. Yes, in an ideal world, he would have slapped in his request immeadiately. But it’s strange for a player who has given a club the sort of service Xabi has given us, to have to do that and forego the loyalty bonus. And I could go on about it a bit (Don’t I fucking always) but, I think it’s been done to death and like everyone else I just wish it would get finished off now – one way or the other.

I did read something the other day saying it was a done deal, but I haven’t heard nothing about Aquallini being a done deal. It was me that said about Arbie staying the extra season though. It came through me mate, so I have no links. But I stand by it because, if you think back Dig, I said it in here before there was any thing said about Arbeloa leaving. I think me and LB was speaking about how much Arbie had developed and the next thing I heard was the lad was going to leave. And it is sort of common knowledge around Anfield now that that is what happened.

How many of you Irish lads can make it to the Dumanway game? I bet that’s going to be a great craic. Gutted I couldn’t get over there. I’d have got a load of T-shirts made up, made a few quid, and had a couple of days on the ale. Fucking credit crunch… fucking everything up. Oh well.

Have you heard about the advice given to the Russians coming over to watch them play Wales? I kid you not. Russian’s health minister has told them to drink gallons of “Welsh Whiskey,” to fend off swine flu! Straight up, gospel. Boggle springs to mind.

Anyway how do I get this fucking footy thing going? I’ve never done this melarkey before and I’m still using the old coal driven type of computer. I’ll have a go, but might need instructions later.

Oh and another quickie for the Irish lads… is it right they turn the Curragh into a market on a Sunday? I haven’t been to Ireland in about 4 or 5 years now. I fancy a trip over, but I always try and pick up some excies wherever I go. Can’t help it, I’m Scouse. So if I came over I’d bring a van full of gear and get a days work in. I always want to work the ploughing championships. Great show, but dead expensive to graft.

fatty click on me #207 link it’ll explain it all

any other bother just email me

over

Lads you’ll have to help out the aul fella. Got as far as learning you have to Log in and Register, but well… remember, I’m still trying to set the clock on the betamax.

Thought BM would have been in though to drop a few chemicals on me van remark. I’ll be sending out a search party soon.

once you register and log in pick your team you can change it until the start so dont worry

then click on ‘my team’ on the right you’ll see ‘join league’

click on it and enter the password 577752-164796

and youll be in the Kopblog league

you can make 1 free transfer each week and any more you’ll be deducted 4 pts

your captain will earn double points

you can only pick 3 players from 1 team and you have 100 mill to spend

so go hog wild!!

Oh yeah before you pick your team you have to pick your colours and team name

Its easy if you give it 30 mins of your time

Over

Easy if you know how to log in and register!

Sussed it

atta boy!!

What’s the craic though. Do you have to pick players that you think will be man of the match for their teams?

nah they get pionts for each game

clean sheets goals and assists etc

so pick the team you think is the best and you can change one player a week

for example you could buy a cheap defender for a team that gets clean sheets and you’ll get points

your players must play

read the rules bud it’ll explain it all

Over

Donal, thanks. Good idea on fantasy football, but…I have too little time on my hands and am too lazy to play fantasy football.

Ahh fuckinell I just done the lot and then lost it. I’ll try again but then it’s bollox to it

Great idea Donal. Logged on the league with name Koppool F.C. Hope to win this league for sure.

How can I have a look at some other players team?(You know for some ideas).

Right I’m in but I’ve ballsed it all up. I thought you picked players that would get Man of the match for thier teams and I’ve ballsed the line up and everything. But fuck it… football, small boys in the park, jumpers for goalposts. Ron manager’s on board

Lets play Fantasy Football without picking any manc bastards!

I picked one cos I was trying to do it on the cheap. I’ve cocked it all up and don’t know how to change, so fuck it, will go with what I’ve got.

Just came back in to say this though… It’s started already, Frank Lampwick has just been on the radio saying he is determined to win the world cup for Sir Bobby… Now there’s fantasy bloody football at it’s finest!

Fatty your team is enteres you can change players at any time before the start

Just click the ‘transfers’ on the left

Kopking you cant see other teams until the season starts

Sorry to hear Knight mate but it only takes about 10 minutes of your time each week
Although in fairness your are the buisest lazy man I know!

and its good craic

13 players so far

fair play to ye lads

over

Respect to the would be mullet FS. I didn’t realise it was you who dropped the Clattermole idea in on us. I’m sure KK was in agreement tho’ !
I am also in agreement with Digger … these are golden days of wonder indeed.

Yep I’m going to Dunmanway. Got baby-sitting duties (theoretically) on Thursday morning so I gotta find a way around that. Been banned from even considering bringing little Lucie to the game. My breastfeeding skills not the best anyway.

FS there is a “reset” button on the fantasy league site where you can pick your team again.

My team is unbeatable.

Hart Birmingham 4m.

Ikeme Wolves 4m.

Edgar Burnley 4m.

Duff Burnley 4m.

Dann Birmingham 4m.

Hill Wolves 4m.

Foley Wolves 4m.

Cho Wigan 4.5m.

De Ridder Wigan 4.5m.

Brown Wigan 4.5m.

Pugh Stoke 4.5m.

Diao Stoke 4.5m.

Cresswell Stoke 4.5m.

Vaz Te Bolton 4.5m.

Bent Birmingham 4.5m.

Which leaves me 36m for wages. Ha! You never thought about wages, your teams are all going into administration and I win by default. Which as we all know from Homer, are the two greatest words in the English language. DE FAULT! DE FAULT!

Away for my medication now.

I have just joined the Kopblog 2 fantasy league as well. Watch out for the Inver-Vegas SharkZ.

I hope the Xabi saga is sorted tonight so Rafa can get the new guys in place before the start of the season.

I can’t wait for the start of the season.

Alright lads.

When tickets went on sale for the Dunmanway game i was working nights so i didn`t bother trying.”Its only the kids anyway” i told myself.

I`m bloody gutteed now.The Hysteria is gone crazy over this game.The little town of dunmanway is covered in red flags,banners you name it.The town is turned into `Little Liverpool`.The atmosphere around the place will be brilliant.

What a coup this is for a team that would be considered a pub/sunday league team in engand.Initially there was 3000 tickets on sale but after they had 27,000 enquiries inside 24 hours they had to get a temperary grandstand and increase capacity to 7000.

Hope it goes well for the lads.

Marcus Berg scored 54 goals for Groningen during the past 2 seasons and has been bought by Hamburg for 10 mill euro.He would of been a great purchase,doubling in value within 1 year, check him out on Youtube.

Go on Burgerman lad,i was starting to miss you.In fairness mate youtube could make Fatty 8 stone!

Heh heh! Wonders will never cease eh Fatty?! Mickey Thomas you crack me up! I’ll sign up tonight when I get in from work Donal. And no Keith before you ask, Lucas will not be in my team lol!

Dig,

I am beginning to wonder if you are really Burgerman in disguise ????????

Fellas,

Havent involved myself with all the transfer discussion cause im sick of the malarkey. But I do enjoy you guys discussing and analysing, so keep it coming.

Got my team up and running, no where as good as last year but we shall see. Good work setting it up Donal.

Timmy i was about to say the same thing mate, ahah.

But seriously Burgerman, you havin a laugh?
BTW, there is a lad in my local league who has scored 20goals this year, i reckon Rafa might just use his Alonso money to buy him.

I stood in the rain for 3 hours last Month in Bantry and missed out on Tickets for the game in Dunmanway, people we in line from 3AM.
Luckly in the mean time I got my hands on a few, so I’ll be taking 4yr old corklfc to the game, he is all excited, but expects Torres to be there!

Why Tim?

Watch Berg score for fun in Germany this season, 25 -30 if he doesn’t get injured.

Hello there fellas.

Right now, you guys are much more updated on the current state of the club. So, I will prefer not to discuss on that atleast. Just got this news, that Rafa can make a move for either Alberto Aquilani or some young lad, Defour, who plays for Standard de Leige. I don’t know this guy’s first name, but he’s a nice mid-field player. His position is obviously CM and is just 21 yrs old. Even Real were considering him as an alternative choice for Alonso.

Holy moley, I’m sat here watching ‘Morning Joe’ on msnbc (american political morning show) when during the sports section host Joe Scarborough says; ‘well my favourite sport starts next Saturday – the English premier league! And good news for Liverpool Alonso is not transfering to Real Madrid’ Eh……do you know something we dont know Joe?! Wow, the EPL mentioned on American political network and Liverpool specifically, I nearly dropped my coffee!

Wonder if rafa would consider Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh as a option to bolster our attach.

I watched a couple Bordeaux matches at the business of the season and he stood out. He wants to move to the prem and i think he has the versatility to hold the line, play in the hole or on the left.

Plus for E10million he wouldn’t be to expensive.

Every time BM`s in the vacinaty you seem to be too.

Don`t get your knickers in a twist,your comments are much better than your alter ego.

I wear adult diapers Tim not knickers, remember?!

Vicinity, not vacinaty.I’m in Monte Carlo,not Nigeria.

Right job Dig!

Thanks for the speeling lesson BM.How silly of me.Say hello to the Prince for me.Who said you was in Nigeria,don`t think it was anyone here.Maybe it was the friends in your head.

Too many Chemical Burgers pal!

He may well do Burgerman but I cannot see where he would fit in @ LFC.

From what I have seen on youtube, which is not a good guage, he seems to lack a bit of pace to play upfront on his own, which is what he would have to do in FT’s absence.

I am not sure how good he is at holding up the ball, since there was no clips of him doing this. Weird!

He seems to be a good finisher with good movement and knows how to play on the last man and his timing of runs is good. Not a bad player by any stretch but not sure he is what we need.

BTW, #247 was about Burgerman’s man of the moment, Marcus Berg.

Of course, I knew you’d be there Dougal. Shame I only thought of the T-shirt melarkey last night. Well, that’s always on me mind, made a nice few bob over the years, but with not going I never bothered thinking. Shame that. You could have kopped a few bob there mate. Anyway, should be a great crack and would have loved to have been over there with you lads.

KK His name is Steven. Madrid are only using him as a tactic to get the Xabi price dropped. But he like Cattermole would be a great signing if we had the dough to use him as an understudy for a season. We just don’t have that sort of cash. But stop fretting on it mate… Rafa will sort it.

Digger and Burger never seen in the same room at the same time, hhhhmmmmmm?

But come to think of it… The DiggerBurger sounds like some sort of new combo coming to your nearest drive thru soon

Never really heard about Marcus Berg BM.As i said before i don`t think there is any point checking players out on youtube because they`re all made out to be world beaters.

Anyway rafa has his scouting network if he intends to bring in a striker so we and all the rags are
just guessing at this stage.

We`ll just have to wait and see.

Aquilani has averaged 16 league appearances in the past 3 seasons and has scored a total of 6 league goals.Very injury prone.I judged Berg on his scoring stats on Wikipedia-which check out .Never met Mr Digger.

BM,

Get in touch with the real world will ya,it`s called a wind up!

this player look great!

.youtube.com/watch?v=UjFQJnfrFyA

youtube doesn’t lie

A Diggerburger?! I’ll take 2 of those with extra cheese!

Who’s this guy called Berg? Never even heard of him. Are you crazy BM?

No he`s just misunderstood!

Looks like Michael Owen is very happy with his transfer to Manure. The a** has placed an order for a Californian(??) Ferrari for which he’ll pay $170m.

L’il Mo, rot in Old Trampford.

$170M are you sure KK,you`d buy a country for that.

Fucking hell if he can afford to pay that for a car he could probably buy Liverpool

1.7 mill I reckon Kopking

Donal i joined the know the score league.3 of us in there at the mo.

Myself ,NigeriaKopite and i`m guessing your War Donkey?

We`ll have a good craic with this.You in yet Fatty?

He sorry guys, my bad!! Kind of suck at times!!

I wrote $170m by mistake. Obviously if the shorty would have been having this kind of money, he wouldn’t have been playing football after all.

The real amount is a mere $170,000.

Which one of you has kept his team’s name Lucky Bastards?
Nice thought!! Really!!

Got there ahead of you Kopking.

The Lucky Bastards are primed to win the big one this year.

Alonso was interviewed by a Spanish reporter who asked him for his reactions to the comment made by Rafa when he said that we wanted Xabi to remain a Liverpool player. The player’s comment was “Ya veremos” with a rather smirkish look. This means something like “Well, we’ll just see”.

I must admit I’m beginning to go off Alonso, a player and person I’ve always admired. He’s basically renegading on his contract and now rather implying that it’s all Rafa’s fault. Why doesn’t he put that pressure on his suitors, Real Madrid, to fork up the few million quid between the two sides? It seems like RM are using him as a go-between to drive down the price which is by no means excessive considering the recent inflationary spiral that RM have themselves sparked off this season. They did pay 80 mil stg for a player that cost Sir Alexander Chapman Ferguson, or Lord Chapman of Govan and Salford, 12.4 mil and are now moaning about Alonso’s increase in valuation! Fukem!

I say get a replacement for him before he’s sold and don’t budge an inch on the price. I’m sure Alonso could be sold next year easily enough if necessary. I don’t know who that replacement should be because I’m rather suspicious when a club like Roma are so keen to offload a player, but I’m sure Rafa knows the score.

RM have transferred Heinze to Marseilles on what looks like a freebie! Of course their wage bill is now so astronomic they’ve just got to offload but it seems that other top European clubs are not rushing in to buy their cast-offs at the prices they expect. Ha ha! This may yet all blow up in their greedy arrogant faces.

Rebel, the war is yet to start

yeah Timmy im the war donkey amongst other things!

I haven’t heard of this fella Berger either. But I used to live in Gronigen many many moons ago. It’s about the size of Trumpton, but I think it’s got a smaller population than Pew-Pew-Barney-MGrew-Cuthbert-Dibble and Grub. Mind you, it did have some great bars and a red light area – that I kid you not is on Fucken Straat. Good people the Dutch.

And yeah Timmy, Hugh Jarse and his team The Chubby Chasers is indeed in the league and on top where it intends to stay until May.

Has Andy already left on his trip? I think I have lost his email address and I’ve got his tickets sorted.

You need the accent…

Paddy’s wife was ready to give birth so he rushed her to hospital.

On arrival the nurse asks, “How dilated is she?”

Paddy says, “Oh Jaysus, sure we’re both over the fookin moon!”

I know her mate. She gave the culchie a pot of paint and asked him to paint The Porch.

He came back and said, All done missus, but that’s no Porche it’s a Ferrari.

Krap but… anyway found Andy’s email but does anyone know if he’s still about or has he left already?

I’m deeply offended

Paddy English man Paddy Irish man and Paddy Scots man walk into a bar………….

The barman says

“Whats this lads some kind of joke?”

Jaysus lads
I’ve spent so much time in here today that me missus is starting to call it cockblock instead of Kopblog!! ( I thought it was funny anyways)

Hey lads is this a Football blog or a joke factory?

24 players so far in the fantasy league

shows how much theres actually to talk about in the real world of football

It’s a joke factory!

23 to be precise, Donal

Yeah and your Charlie

Good precision Kopking

Maybe I should enter that team from above that has 36m to spare and see how many of you I beat.

Hah! Sure MTMMC! This team of yours is world-class

Lads,The Alonso deal is off it was just announced on TimmyTorres.tv!

Sorry couldn`t resist,there`s feck all to talk about.

Any more jokes Donal,i cant remember any!

Thanks KK. I love you too.

Get a room will ye!

Ok Timmy what do you get when you cross C, Ronaldo and a Gorilla?

go on?

I think, that this season Arsenal will come out strong in the league. They might have lost Adebayor and Toure, but with their sales, Wenger will get a lot of money to spend. 25m for Adebayor and 17m for Toure. 40-42m is a hell lot. And Wenger is known for good signings for a small amount of money.

He already has Van Persie, Eduardo, Vela and Bendtner in attack. There are reports that he will be bringing in Chamakh and Kalou as well.

In mid-field they have Rosicky, Nasri, Fabregas, Diaby Walcott, Arshavin, Denilson, Song-Billong, Ramsey, Wilshere. And word is, that he’s about to sign Patrick Vieira as well.

In defence he has Vermaelen, Gallas, Djorou, Senderos, Clichy, Sagna, Traore, Gibbs, Silvestre, Almunia, Fabianski.

This is a very strong squad. They might be young and inexperienced, but they have the depth to fight for atleast two cups.

Many other clubs have underestimated them, but I think they will bring some surprises next season.

a retarted Gorilla

(no offence meant to anyone especially Burgerman)

Lol!!! Donal, that was pretty funny

Get the razors out lads. Tatty bye Xabi…
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N165303090804-1808.htm

The follow up was funnier than the answer Donal..kudos

KK,Their defense to me still looks a bit paper thin.Wouldn`t rule them out though.

That Vela lad looks savage

Goodbye Xabi! Thanks for all your hard-work and commitment(at least for the past five years).

Fatty,

Feck the razor blades mate,i`m just glad its over and we can move on.

Time to look forward not back.

Sky sports reporting we’re in for Christian Paulson?

From the Official (Fatty’s Link):

Liverpool Football Club this evening confirmed they had reached agreement for the sale of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid, subject only to a medical.

The terms of the deal will remain confidential and undisclosed.

Fucking right Timmy
feck the razor blades
lets have a pint and move onwards and upwards

I think it was fatty that said before that a more attacking option would help rafas evolution

I’m seeing that idea too

and I trust Rafa will be on top of his shit

over

To any cork lads there is a 16 page special on liverpool in todays (Cork) Evening Echo.Great read a lot is about the reds visit to cork in `86.My first official Liverpool game.I was hooked from then on.

Don’t know how to take the terms “will remain confidential and undisclosed”?

Did someone get fleeced on the deal?

Is it Madrid’s request so they don’t look like they had to pay up to get what they wanted?

Is it Rafa who got below his minimum asking price?

Is it Rafa’s request so that no one knows how much dosh we have to spend?

Feckin transfer season. Even when things appear to be resolved, there’s still a mystery.

I just thought Donal that a more attacking midfielder would force us into playing more like we did at the end of last season. Still gutted though

24 now Kopking

Good bye and thanks for the memories Xabi. In your defence, at least you kept your trap shut and did not publicly bad mouth Rafa and the club, no matter what grievance you had with them, unlike that cocksucking Cristiano Wanker.

But still, Rafa will prove that your decision to leave was not ill-advised by winning number 19 without you. Remember that we trashed the Scum with you absent.

I am too Fatty Alsons was a classy player and seemed like a good guy so I’m gutted he’s gone

One of Rafas 1st signings

But now we’ll have a fair bit o money for a disquibllantry or what even you call it

Im looking forward to seing what Rafa has in store but I couldnt be fucked making predictions as I already have a fantasy league on the go

Over

Tell you what? Wenger is a true shallow-minded bull-headed bastard. He’s taking a lot of chances. Bordeaux are asking him to pay 15m for Chamakh and he’s adamant only on 5m. Chamakh’s contract runs for another five months, and then he will be up for grabs.

If this guy gets out of Wenger’s hands then he’ll pay for his foolishness.

Real agree Alonso fee. Its sad.

Just read this article on this website reported in the mirror on Alberto Aquilani.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2009/08/04/alberto-aquilani-profile-10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-liverpool-target-115875-21571103/

He could be truly an amazing signing for us.

Kopking no disrespect bro but fuck Aresenal
they can buy him for 200 mill for all I care

Liverpool will still kick their arse this season

A typo, I meant “ill-advised”, not “not ill-advised”.

Adios Xabi! Ah well, I think we got the best of him.

Good you corrected that Kinny before Burgerman spotted it!

Gutted to see Xabi go, I really loved to watch him play and make no mistake about it, we will miss him. Best of luck to him. He’s been a great servant and as long as our paths don’t cross in the CL I hope this move works out for him.

Time for the boss to get to work. No doubt he already knows what he needs to do and he’s got his plans in place. Should be a busy few days?

As it stands now, our central midfield consists of Lucas, Masch, Spearing, and Plessis. I’m confident with the first two in our starting 11, but the other two scare the shit out of me if we need to depend on them for a title run.

Aquilani could be just like Totti in aspects of his game, his playing style, technique. He will bring a lot of potential to Anfield, plus he’ll also get his super girlfriend. Man she’s beautiful.

Alonso`s old doll wasn`t bad either KK.I met him after the Madrid game in the Sam thomas hotel in Liverpool.Just a brief meeting,a handshake and quick photo but his bird was unreal.

Sad to see him go obviously but i will say Rafa has been ready for this of that,their is no doubt.

Sly sports pricks”TAXI FOR ALONSO” just because they spotted him getting out of a cab at melwood today.Oh ya its news that “they broke in the last hour”.

Oh where would we be witout Sly SN.

How good is tis danish fells there`s talk about him.

I know,talk is cheap!

Ivjmac…
“As it stands now, our central midfield consists of Lucas, Masch, Spearing, and Plessis. I’m confident with the first two in our starting 11, but the other two scare the shit out of me if we need to depend on them for a title run.”

Qouted that just to highlight something, not to spread anymore doom and gloom right now but…

That’s the problem in a nutshell. Our first 11 are a match for anyside in football. But when we lose any of them the difference between them and most of our squad players is light years in quality.

But having said that, I’m still confident we have every chance this season. And of course, it’s all only my opinion, but…
1: All 11 won’t get injured at once, at most we would be looking at 2 injuries at any one time. And depending upon who them injuries are too, we should have enough strength in depth to cover for them.
2: The only positions I think we could really struggle to cover is Central midfield, Centre back and right back… 2 good buys could/should take care of that.
3: The lose of Xabi and the way we played at the end of last season, might now force us into playing the way we did then.
4: The squad and the kids will probably used more in the Carling and FA cups, leaving the senior players to concentrate on the league and Champion’s league.
5: United and Arsenal will be considerably weaker (Yes KK. Arsenal – they will struggle come January Febuary unless they seriously strengthen their squad).
6: The experience of going so close last season should, by all statistics and history, see us step up a gear.
7: Agger should see more playing time, and with Masch staying, this should be enough to cover for the loss of Alonso.
8: Rafa will have been working on this for months.

And I could go on, but I’ve said all that and more before. And the fact is… this could turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

Sure doesn’t feel like it right now though. But oh well, it is what it is and we will have to get on with it.
3:

At least it’s now done. I had been waiting on the transfer to go thru’ and it’s a pity that it ran for so long.

Anyway now we will see what Rafa has up his sleeve.

A bit worrying about the comment, “The terms of the deal will remain confidential and undisclosed.”

Is this the borrowers keeping their cards close to their chest, so we don’t know how much Rafa should have got from the transfer? In truth, I have no idea.

I hope the Christian Poulsen link is inaccurate.

First thing I saw when I seen the news Lurgan… “We’ve been fucked.”

But that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, I think Real have far much more than us to hide. Have you seen how bad it is in Spain right now… Huge recession. Terrible inflation. 18 million unemployed. And people are getting more than pissed off.

So I think they don’t want to disclose, unless like you said the other two shitehawks are keeping it dark. But I can’t really see Rafa letting them away with much.

FS, I hear that Dagger has done his back in. Do you know if it is serious?

Anyway, the lad seems to pick up quite a few knocks, so we need to get an experienced backup for the forthcoming season. Just off the top of me head, what about Sol Campbell?

Yep, it’s a difficult one to call but if Rafa spends 40 odd million in the next few weeks, we will know which party wanted to keep stum.

Here’s hoping anyhow.

Don’t know about Campbell Lurgie, but defo someone like that. I was thinking more Distan meself. As for Agger, did you see the fall the lad took against Singpaore. It would have killed most people. So I imagine his back is pretty sore still from that, but I’m sure it’s something he can soon get over.

And I seriously don’t want to speculate as to who Rafa should bring in, but even with no one added…
Reina

Johnson Carra/Skrtel/Agger Insua

Mascherano

Kuyt Gerrard Riera

Benayoun

Torres

Should be enough against anyone, and I’d actually like to see that team and formation against Spuds. No need to settle anyone in. Still gives Gerrard the scope to get forward. But Rafa will know best. And, there’s plenty more teams/formations you could come up with from what we’ve got. So, really I’m just trying to point out that, despite the lack of decent cover in a couple of positions, we can cope without Xabi.

Even if we did get £30m Lurgan i`m not sure Rafa will see all of it will he?

FS, the only problem with bringing in Distin is that he’s a CB/LB, and right now we seem to be quite stocked at LB (Insua, Fabio, and Doss).

Arbeloa was a big loss, although he was right footed, he was comfortable playing on the Left (see Messi/Camp Nou) and could play all three positions back there.

I guess if we’re in a pinch, we can just throw Stevie back at RB should Johnson get injured. (Just kidding….)

My wish list for this “war chest” of Rafa’s is not quite as sexy as most people’s.

I’d like to see us bring in another attacking middie (either Aqualani or Javi Martinez), another defensive middie (Cattermole) as well as a utility back who could give us cover at RB/CB (although I don’t know who that person would be).

The only reason I would look at Cattermole is because I believe Masch may pull the same shit next summer and it would be good to get someone to bed in this season. Cattermole is English, which is going to be important over the next few years.

I don’t want to offend you English dudes (I know, we’re not English we’re Scouse), but there aren’t a lot of quality English players out there. I think UEFA/FIFA is really going to push the homegrown issue over the next few years and we need to start preparing.

The only squad who would be ready if this change came through would be Villa. MON will buy anything, as long as it’s English.

I know it’s not as fun as Villa/Silva, etc, but I think those three additions would cover some of the cracks our squad is currently showing.

Depending on Plessis, Spearing, San Jose or Kelly for a league or CL match doesn’t fill me with a ton of confidence.

That’s why I named Distin, at least he can play at fullback. I’ve been sayin all along, with Arbie and Sami going it leaves us with a headache when injuries hit the defence. Carra’s too old for RB. The kid’s are too inexperienced to rely on for any real length of time. I’ve also been going on about Cattermole as a understudy for Masch. But 40 odd million, summising Rafa sees it all, will only stretch so far.

As for depending on any of the kids for the odd game in the top competitions, I don’t think that’s a big problem. Look at Plessis and Spearing’s performances when they did have to fill the breach. They didn’t do bad. It’s just not something I’d like to do for any length of time.

As for the plus 5 rule I think it’s not worth worrying over something that hasn’t even happened.

In fact my only real worry right now is… Rafa getting all the dough. Work out how much he should have had this season…
Usual 20/25 million – the least we should always get every season.
The Keane money (Approximately 15 million)
Money from sales, around 8/10 million so far.
The Xab money 28/30 million.

We could have been rivalling City and Real in the sales departments but what has Rafa had so far? Probably about 7 mill.

So no disrespect to you either ivjmac, but I’d say our problems are more to do with the presence of 2 fat old americans more than a lack of English kids

FS, yep you’re right, I did not see the Agger incident but he does seems to pick up injuries, unlucky or not. So we defo need a backup.

I think that we both agree that an experienced CB who has played recently in the premiership, who is coming to the end of their career and is willing to spend a bit of time on the bench, would tick all the boxes. Will let Rafa sort out the details.

lvcjmac, Distin was played primarily as a CB at Portsmouth, alongside Campbell, and performed very well there. So I do not see this position being a problem to him. Anyway we are all speculating at the moment.

Timmy, totally agree with you, that’s why I said ‘Here’s hoping anyhow’ as a parting comment.

Hope nobody stuck Xabi in their Dream team,well maybe one of us probably did…….

Fatty i tried putting in a team of Carraghers but they wouldn`t let me

If Rafa does get the 40m then spend 15 on Aquallini 25 on silva and maybe an experienced CB on a free.

C`mon Rafa log on to your database or log on to kopblog your welcome in here pal!

Well, that’s me done for the day. I can’t be arsed speculating anymore. But I tell you what, I’d give me eye teeth, and the real ones not the glass one and falsies, for someone like this to fill that spot…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuSbsp7FHbI

Terry Mac,before my time but i seen enough footage to realise ow good he was.What a player FS,one of the best.

That goal against spurs at the Lane has to be my favourite from the old footage.

I agree with both of you, Lurgan and Fatty. Distan does fit the bill as cover at CB.

He did well at Pompey and Citeh, and he would be great experienced cover should Carra/Agger/Skrtel get injured for an extended period. Does he want to come here to sit the bench, that’s the big question.

I was just pointing out that we couldn’t use him as cover at RB should Johnson get injured. I believe he’s a left footed player (correct me if I’m wrong).

It would be great if we could find back up for both those positions with one guy? I hate to use the guy as an example, but someone along the lines of John O’Shea. Not stellar, but capable of filling in anywhere across the back when needed.

Right you are again FS (#322).

Our main problem is still my fellow compatriots, Mssrs. Hicks and Gillette. Sadly they appear to be here for a lot longer than any of us like.

Here we are speculating how Rafa will spend the money from the sale of Xabi to strengthen the squad. Deep in the darkest regions of all our hearts, we all fear that he may not.

Yep, H&G ‘promised’ to repay 60m of the RBS loan with their ‘own money’. If Rafa contacts LB about potential cover, then we will know firmly where we stand i.e. in the shite. No slur intended LB.

Timmy, watched the clip of TMcD, scored 4 with his left and 7 with his right. Where could you find that now? The mind boggles – footballers playing with both feet!!!!

None with his head though, must be useless

apart from the best goal of all time against spurs in that 7-0 thrashing.

Ya spurs loved Terry mac!

Off to bed. I’ll try and dig the clip up from somewhere. I know it’s on the net. I’ve seen it before, but one season a Liverpool goal won goal of the month every month on match of the day. So when they done goal of the season at the end of the season, they only had LFC goals to show… needless to say it didn’t go down to well outside our selves.

Xabi was my favorite player in a Liverpool shirt and it’s a shame to see him go, but if we get another quality midfielder who can run our team from the middle, we should be alright. Hopefully Javier commits himself to giving his all for the team now that he knows he’s not going anywhere. Aquilani sounds like the shiznit and he also has an eye for the long distance goal so Liverpool will survive the departure of a truly unique type of player. I think Rafa messed up a bit by putting him on the display case last season but he did do well by not bending over for those bastards and getting a cool 20mill profit from the deal. Nicely done!

I think Xabi deserves all our respect, gratitude and accolade. It’s a shame, as always, to lose such a cultured player in every right, but we should take heart from the fact that he will no doubt become our highest selling player of all time.

Now we have some fun to look forward to in terms of the inevitable new personnel that will come in.
Will it be aquilani as has been reported, or will it be a rabbit from a hat signing?

Sad to see xabi go, he was tremendous last season but he was not up to his own high standards for the previous two seasons. However I would wish him all the best and good luck.

My wish list as a replacement would be
1. Yoan Gourcuff (Bordeaux). However he just made his loan deal permanent with a 4yr contract. The guy is class. His goal against PSG is the best goal of last year french league. He was also elected the best player.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN6xm710z1I

I know its just the french league but doesn’t some guys called Zidane, Benzema and Ribery come from there?

2. Cesc Fabregas (since arsenal seems to be willing to sell their good players .

I think wenger is on an agenda here. He tries to sell all the ‘good’ players that he brought to emirates then he flies off to R.Madrid who would have sacked Pellegrini in the mean time. Hmm now this is a real conspiracy theory

YNWA

Well sadly another player I like has gone, seem to be the death of them, well I want it on record now, I no longer like SG, Torres, Pepe, Cara, Mash or anyone else we currenty have.
.
Ps I do like Voronin.

Hey you guys!

Xabi Alonso gave us five good seasons for our memories. Sadly he’s leaving us now, but it’s pointless to keep on remembering him rather than moving on.

Obviously this has left our mid-field quite weak. However, I have to but don’t want to put SG back in the CM position. I like him only in the front with Torres.

We need a player(CM) who’s range of passing is brilliant, who can fill in our game, who can also score goals when needed, whose long-range shooting is good enough to score winners and who can also make his presence in defense.

This being the case, Gerrard and Torres would be free to attack in the box. There will be no pressure on them to make chances and also score goals.

Aquilani would be brilliant. We have Benayoun, but seriously does any one of you think he’s world-class? He’s a good player, but we need someone who can fill the void left by Alonso.

SG should be left in the front. What Say?

The Alonso saga had dragged on for too long but now I’m actually relieved that there has been an agreement.

Lately the possibilty of Lescott moving to City has actually made me think that they can become serious contenders after already signing Toure as well in the one area they look particularly thin in.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/e/everton/8183638.stm

If City sort out their defence and the team gel they will seriously threaten to break into the top 4.

Anyway, I scoured the net in search of a reliable website for all transfer activity and came across this site:
http://soccerlens.com/english-premier-league-transfers/#ixzz0NGl1zCKg

Liverpool

In: Zsolt Poloskei (loan, MTK Hungaria), Glen Johnson (£18.2m, Portsmouth), Chris Mavinga (undisclosed, Paris Saint-Germain), Stephen Sama (undisclosed, Borrusia Dortmund)

Out: Sami Hyypia (free, Bayer Leverkusen), Godwin Antwi (released), Ronald Huth (released), Gary Mackay-Steven (released), Miki Roque (released), Paul Anderson (£250k, Nottingham Forest), Sebastian Leto (£3.3m, Panathinaikos), Astrit Ajdarevic (free, Leicester City), Jack Hobbs (£800k, Leicester City), Jermaine Pennant (free, Real Zaragoza), Itandje (free), Ryan Flynn (loan, Falkirk), Alvaro Arbeloa (£3.5m, Real Madrid)

Summary (my speculation of existing funds):

TOTAL FUNDS:
1. Just short of 8m recouped from transfers out + Alonso (30m)+4m performance bonus
=38 (42)

2. Usual 20 million on transfers
3. 12 million recouped from Keane last year + performance related bonuses
4. Money owed by Portsmouth for Crouch 10-11 million written off in Glen Johnson transfer.

Money (In) Total = GBP 80 million approx (not including loans or performance related money from Keane) and a possible sale of Dossena.

TOTAL SPENT:
1. Glen Johnson 18.2 million
2. Chris Mavinga Undisclosed: ??
3. Stephen Sama Undisclosed: ??
4. Aquilani 18-20 million ??
5. Improved contract renewals of existing players as well as Rafa’s long term deal.

Money (Out) Total = GBP 40-45 million approx

There are quite a few unknown factors, undisclosed fees but I am pretty optimistic that Rafa will have enough to get us a couple of high profile signings and give us a great chance of winning #19.

I think many are concerned whether Rafa will actually have all the player sales recouped money at his disposal. A lot also depends of course on whether all the sales are paid in installments rather than one big lump sum, meaning there will probably not all be at his immediate disposal.

I do believe Rafa has a considerable amount of power for negotiating the transfers now that Parry has gone and there must have been assurances by Hicks and Gilette for funds available this summer and the amount he can spend from recouped player sales in his own contract extension. We can only hope and speculate.

It wasn’t that long ago when Rafa was talking about breaking the club record and this must have been in addition to Johnson and not depending on the sale of Alonso.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/liverpool/5358436/Rafael-Benitez-to-break-Liverpool-transfer-record.html

If he really meant that then we can be in for a real surprise or two this month.

We have been linked with 100s of players this summer but I do hope we can find the right players that will fit in for a few key positions. In order of priority I think finding a replacement for Alonso is the most pressing, a reliable deputy striker, a high profile attacking MF/winger, a utility DF or cover at right back, a reliable 4th central DF (to replace Hyppia) unless a utility DF can fill in and possibly another left back.

Alonso replacement: Aquilani (the most likely), Poulsen, Javi Martinez
Future Mascherano replacement: Flamini, Cattermole, Michael Johnson
For the striker role: A young Brazilian striker not owned by a mob cartel i.e Cruzeiro’s Kleber. Tuncay.
Cover for Hyppia: Distin, Wheater (both are large and strong in the air)
Attacking MF/winger cover: Ashley Young, Juan Mata , David Silva, Ibrahim Affelay (Ajax), Gourcuff, Niko Kranj?ar (due to Portsmouth financial difficulties)
Left back: Taye Taiwo (Many may think it is time to bed in Insua but this player is a powerhouse that would be a great addition)

“ALEX FERGUSON told Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez: You have no chance of winning the title.”

The Manchester United boss is chasing a fourth straight Premier League and says Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea are this term’s big threat.

Fergie said: “It will be hard for them to match last season, let alone improve on it. Other teams will know more about them.”

Benitez’s Liverpool ran United close and finished second in the Premier League table last term.

Ferguson appeared as a celebrity in the British Par 3 Championship yesterday.

He added: “Liverpool had probably their best season for 20 years and still finished four points adrift.

“It has to be Chelsea as the main threat. Ancelotti will change how they play.They will play the Milan way. It brought him two European Cups – it should have been three, because they should never have lost to Liverpool. So why should he change?”

However, Fergie is not convinced the loss of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid will seriously affect Liverpool.
He added: “The thrust of their team is all about Gerrard and Torres.”

The scum is seriously getting on my nerves. This season we will show him what Liverpool is by beating his ass again and again and again……..

Playing them 3 times this season are we?

Yeah! In the CL final. This will be purely “A Happy Ending” to this season. Beating Manure in CL final by 3 goals to nil.

YNWA!!

Fergie saying that we are not a threat. Best news that I have seen all week!

Looks like the kecks are getting pebbledashed already eh mate.

Yep, looks that way and it’s music to my ears. Every year until now he has said that we would be challengers, when, realistically, we had little or no chance to bring home #19.

Keith, maybe you could split your adult diaper batch in two. Half to Slur Alex (no offence Ataturk) and half to Digger

Busy today, and I’ve said it before but just wanted to say this before I go…
Better grow a thick skin. That’s just the start.

The “newspapers” who queued up to tell the world LFC are a one/two man team, will now be fighting each other to tell us we’re fucked now that alonso is gone.

Like The Tramp, they’ll concentrate on the Gerrard Torres partnership being broke up and ignore the fact we scored over 60 goals in the league not including there’s.

In fact, they’ll be sitting there now, scheming and plotting what they can come up with to undermine our challenge. How much attention you give it is up to yourself. But I know we’ve got a manager that – no matter what the setbacks on or off the field – has kept on improving constantly season in, season out.

I have no cause to think that’s going to change this time round. And as you can see, old shitty arse doesn’t either…. he’s not a bad judge.

LMAO. Fungus has totally lost it. Let’s admit, the guy has a talent for crackers. Even my Manure fan mates are laughing at this. The season hasn;t started that he is already pissing his pants. Now lets sign Silva

The links prevented my comments from going up so I will attempt it again without the “h”.
—-
The Alonso saga had dragged on for too long but now I’m actually relieved that there has been an agreement.

Lately the possibilty of Lescott moving to City has actually made me think that they can become serious contenders after already signing Toure as well in the one area they look particularly thin in.

If City sort out their defence and the team gel they will seriously threaten to break into the top 4.

Anyway, I scoured the net in search of a reliable website for all transfer activity and came across this site:
ttp://soccerlens.com/english-premier-league-transfers/#ixzz0NGl1zCKg

Liverpool

In: Zsolt Poloskei (loan, MTK Hungaria), Glen Johnson (£18.2m, Portsmouth), Chris Mavinga (undisclosed, Paris Saint-Germain), Stephen Sama (undisclosed, Borrusia Dortmund)

Out: Sami Hyypia (free, Bayer Leverkusen), Godwin Antwi (released), Ronald Huth (released), Gary Mackay-Steven (released), Miki Roque (released), Paul Anderson (£250k, Nottingham Forest), Sebastian Leto (£3.3m, Panathinaikos), Astrit Ajdarevic (free, Leicester City), Jack Hobbs (£800k, Leicester City), Jermaine Pennant (free, Real Zaragoza), Itandje (free), Ryan Flynn (loan, Falkirk), Alvaro Arbeloa (£3.5m, Real Madrid)

Summary (my speculation of existing funds):

TOTAL FUNDS:
1. Just short of 8m recouped from transfers out + Alonso (30m)+4m performance bonus
=38 (42)

2. Usual 20 million on transfers
3. 12 million recouped from Keane last year + performance related bonuses
4. Money owed by Portsmouth for Crouch 10-11 million written off in Glen Johnson transfer.

Money (In) Total = GBP 80 million approx (not including loans or performance related money from Keane) and a possible sale of Dossena.

TOTAL SPENT:
1. Glen Johnson 18.2 million
2. Chris Mavinga Undisclosed: ??
3. Stephen Sama Undisclosed: ??
4. Aquilani 18-20 million ??
5. Improved contract renewals of existing players as well as Rafa’s long term deal.

Money (Out) Total = GBP 40-45 million approx

There are quite a few unknown factors, undisclosed fees but I am pretty optimistic that Rafa will have enough to get us a couple of high profile signings and give us a great chance of winning #19.

I think many are concerned whether Rafa will actually have all the player sales recouped money at his disposal. A lot also depends of course on whether all the sales are paid in installments rather than one big lump sum, meaning there will probably not all be at his immediate disposal.

I do believe Rafa has a considerable amount of power for negotiating the transfers now that Parry has gone and there must have been assurances by Hicks and Gilette for funds available this summer and the amount he can spend from recouped player sales in his own contract extension. We can only hope and speculate.

It wasn’t that long ago when Rafa was talking about breaking the club record and this must have been in addition to Johnson and not depending on the sale of Alonso.
ttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/liverpool/5358436/Rafael-Benitez-to-break-Liverpool-transfer-record.html

If he really meant that then we can be in for a real surprise or two this month.

We have been linked with 100s of players this summer but I do hope we can find the right players that will fit in for a few key positions. In order of priority I think finding a replacement for Alonso is the most pressing, a reliable deputy striker, a high profile attacking MF/winger, a utility DF or cover at right back, a reliable 4th central DF (to replace Hyppia) unless a utility DF can fill in and possibly another left back.

Alonso replacement: Aquilani (the most likely), Poulsen, Javi Martinez
Future Mascherano replacement: Flamini, Cattermole, Michael Johnson
For the striker role: A young Brazilian striker not owned by a mob cartel i.e Cruzeiro’s Kleber. Tuncay.
Cover for Hyppia: Distin, Wheater (both are large and strong in the air)
Attacking MF/winger cover: Ashley Young, Juan Mata , David Silva, Ibrahim Affelay (Ajax), Gourcuff, Niko Kranj?ar (due to Portsmouth financial difficulties)
Left back: Taye Taiwo (Many may think it is time to bed in Insua but this player is a powerhouse that would be a great addition)

A hard as nails, battling English central midfielder as cover fer Masch?

Joey Barton anybody?

Scouse, freebie etc etc . . .

Yokohoma, Portsmouth – financial problems? Remember, they have been taken over by none other than the mighty Sheikh.

In many ways you are correct, except for the left back cover. I don’t think we need it. We already have Aurelio, Insua, Dossena, Chris Mawinga. This is more than enough. Even if Dossena leaves, we’ll be left with 3 LB’s.

KK #338, first, notice the last two lines.

However, Fergie is not convinced the loss of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid will seriously affect Liverpool.
He added: “The thrust of their team is all about Gerrard and Torres.”

This indicates he’s still scared shit silly.

Second, if anyone is in a meltdown, it is certainly them, for Van der Sar is now out for 8 weeks. Ferguscum is trying to divert attention away from them and on us as usual.

ttp://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=665182&sec=england&cc=4716

Now the old Tramp will be forced to use that 80m quid he thought he could save up for his retirement on some keeper, and we know how Ferguscum bumbled for years trying to replace Schmeichel before going lucky with VDS.

@Puchong

Joey Barton is a good player, only if he wants to play rather than beating people in bars, getting arrested, getting booked with red cards time and again. He’s one of the undependable sorts. You never know what he’s upto.

You’re right there Kinny. Slur will have to buy someone. But you never know. He might play Ben Foster or Kuczsak for two months.

Kop King – RE: Joey Barton

Tongue? Cheek?

Extracting the urine?

Yokohama: That was a tremendous piece of work you did there on the cash flows and likely state of our balance sheet. You must be an accountant. Basically you cleared up perfectly what has been on my mind for some time and confirmed what I had suspected, i.e Rafa has spent sweet FA really.

The question is how much of this income will actually be released by the owners for transfers. I’m not wholly pessimistic because I believe the owners, though cunts, are not so stupid to think that Rafa’s just going to stand there and help them clear off their debts by wheeling and dealing in the transfer market.

The key is to get the message across to the owners that a profitable club is a successful one and you’ve got to continually invest as in any business.

So yes, I think you may be right and we could be in for a surprise or two though obviously it won’t come as such a surprise to you.

I’m actually a business analyst that does some accounting. Can’t wait for the new arrivals. Hopefully they can catch a preseason game in time.
KK I actually put left back as the lowest priority yet a position where we can still improve on. Aurelio is brilliant but injury prone, Dossena might be sold and Insua and Mawinga are still young and inexperienced for a title chasing side. just knit picking I suppose.

Like LB and many others on this blog, I too hope these reports linking us to Christian Poulsen are just rumours and don’t have any base to it. We need a player like him, but look at his age. He’s 29, and will be 30 this year. I don’t want Rafa to bring this oldie to Anfield for gods’ sakes.

Great post Yokohama. I pretty much agree; there is no way Rafa would have signed a new contract without assurances, if not written guarantees of funds this Summer. And theres no way he’d lead the fans on with comments about possibly breaking our transfer record. He also said we dont have to sell to buy. Well, add another 30mil to whatever we had. As for the yanks not releasing the money? Not gonna happen. There would be war, Rafa wouldent stand for it. So all in all, its time to unveil the masterplan Rafa..

Donal, You are the most descriptive, most observant and loveable English Professor I know: Busiest lazy man… what a description of me. It is true of each trait. I happen to be 50% Busy and 50% lazy.

Fantasy sale and purchases:

Players sold:
Alonso Stg 30 mill
Dossena 5 mill
Arbie 3.5 mill
Leto 2 mill
Intanje 2 mill
Total sold: Stg 42 mill

Players bought/to be bought:
Aquilani Stg 16 mill
Johnson 12 mill
Silva 20 mill
Left/rightBack 4 mill
Total 41 mill

I’d also like to mention I like Degen too. Gerry when you had the virus in your computer what did it do, mine has gone bonkers it’s quicker to delete a word than type one. Is it my system or the site.

Yokohama, very good post.
I used to be interested in Taiwo as well for left back, but his defense is terrible, mate. A bit iffy in my view.
Besides, you are right in that we are more desperate in other areas.

I am a little concerned whether rafa will be allowed to use all the proceeds from the sale of Xabi.

I’m really busy, so I haven’t even read this meself yet. It was just emailed to me by a member of LFCNY and I had a quick peek at it. It seems to be someone explaining Hillsborough from an American soccer fans perspective. I’ll have to read it later. But thought I would post it in here for, well, for anyone who wants to read it. But I thought our American lads would want to see it…
http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/blog.php?b=6188

I’m not sure, as I never really looked but I think there’s a bit by Nick Hornby in there an all.

Yokohama, Did not read your post. Good job there mate!

Alonso successfully completed a medical in the Spanish capital today after the two clubs agreed the terms of his transfer.

“We would like to keep him but as soon as he told us that he wanted to leave we started working, looking for players and trying to do the best deal for the club,” said the Liverpool manager.

“It has been too long, since May, that he told us he wanted to leave and after the official transfer request we were working very hard.

“The first idea was to keep him, and the second one was to find the best price and the best replacement for us.”

Alonso will be earning £80,000 AFTER tax at Real.

To get £80k per week after tax in the UK would mean wages of £160k per week.

Alonso scored just 3 goals last season, none of which were match winners. Mascherano did not score even a goal. To have two key midfielders who can’t contribute to goals is a key weakness for LFC. We ought to therefore seek out an attacking type midfielder like Silva or Aqualani to get us the goals. Some of these could turn out to be crucial winning goals. Masch can stay and do his defensive duties.
In contrast, all other teams have their top six or seven midfielders who score goals :
Manure: Scholls, Giggs, Ronaldo, Park Ji Sung, Fletcher, even Carrick and Nani. (exception is Owen Hargreaves).
Chelsea: Essien, Lampard, Joe Cole, Ballack, Mikel, Malouda.
Arsenal : Fabergas, Walcott, Nasri, Ashavin, Rosicky, Eboue

Frankly I would prefer an attacking midfielder (ala Silva and Aquilani) to Alonso anytime, now that we play attacking, flowing football. These new players will support Torres and Gerrard upfront and together with Kuyt, Babel, Benayoun will certainly add more goals, hopefully resulting in more wins.

And I am not saying this because of sour grapes now that Xabi is going, but looking at the situation holistically.
Rafa has managed well to sell Alonso to Madrid for Stg30 million + Stg 4-5 million more based on performance. As many of you had observed, Prick Parry would have been happy with half of that and buckled down after one week of negotiations.

It looks like I have a spare ticket for the Dunmanway game tomorrow.
Timmy or anyone else, let me know if yer looking for one.

Sly Sports showed a stat last night.

Over the last 2 seasons: With Alonso we won nearly 70% of our games. Without Alonso we won around 46%.

According to the BBC Liverpool have agreed a £20m fee for Aquilani.

According to SlySports news, Aquilani hasnt played since march following his ankle op …. Is he THAT good that we are willing to risk drafting in a sorta rusty player into our squad to replace one of the best we had in recent years ???
Am not feeling too good wid this purchase at the moment …

Excellent link there FS. Takes a while to read but worth it

Liverpool FC today confirmed they have agreed a deal with AS Roma for the transfer of Italian international Alberto Aquilani, subject to a medical.
Liverpool concluded their discussions with Roma once the sale of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid was finally agreed.

Aquilani, who recently celebrated his 25th birthday, is expected to feature heavily for Italy in next year’s World Cup finals.

Rafa Benitez said: “Alberto is a very good player and I’m delighted we’ve reached agreement with Roma for his transfer. He will travel to Merseyside later this week for a medical. Alberto has a winning mentality and great experience in both Serie A and the Champions League.

“He has long been recognised as a top class talent in Italy, captaining his country at both Under 19 and Under 21 levels before establishing himself in the senior national side.”

Was just about to post that LB… from the official site an-all, so its not rumor!

The statement Rafa made about Alonso is telling as well…. ““It has been too long, since May, that he told us he wanted to leave…”
… with Rafa blathering on and on, the whole time, about how he’s our player and “clearly our idea is to keep him,” when he knew all along he was going….clever sod!

Makes you wonder if a deal for Silva has already been done, what with that whole “break the transfer record” bomb he threw out there early summer…
…hmmm… maybe Burgerman is Rafa in disguise???

Well, it looks like Aquaman then. Always a nervous time losing an excellent player and bringing in a new one. Of course, it’s even more worrying with the lads injury record, but I don’t think Rafa would risk this sort of dough on a crock. In fact, at the sort of dough he’s been forced to pay, reportedly 20 mill, I think Rafa must be pretty confident this is the lad we need to go the next step.

And I honestly don’t know that much about the lad, but I know this… he’s no Xabi. He likes to get forward more, run at the opposing defence, and get into the box…. just the sort of player I was hoping for – the sort that will hopefully help us play the sort of football we played at the end of last season, but consistently and from the start of the season. And, I know he probably won’t play for awhile, but if we play that type of football this season we won’t be far off.

Yay! Rafa has signed a great mid-field player who can replace Alonso. Great thinking that Rafa.

While I am happy about it, I’m also having some doubts about the lad’s fitness. Will he be able to play 3 cup tournaments in a season?(leaving carling cup for the youth players).

First of all, he’ll have to pass the medical properly. Hope he does so and gains that fitness level required for the season.

Rafa had as many as 3 months to think about it. I’m confident, Aquilani will be a good signing for us.

Now that was quick. As noted by Aitch #373, Rafa KNEW Alonso was leaving all along and had already lined up Aquilani, with him coming in at the moment Xabi leaves Merseyside. Now that’s foresight.

What about Ferguscum? He’s still trying to hoard that 80m quid for himself, probably thinking he could fart his way to the title just like that.

For so long Liverpool never even registered on Ferguscum’s radar, until middle of last season when he began paying his respects to us. This time he’s showing his concern before the season even started. Rafa must be feeling grateful inside that Ferguscum is offering to do all the motivational work for us for free.

Well, obviously that is the Scum’s best tactic. Mind games is all he can think of. Now, he considers us to be the biggest threat, so he’s playing his favorite game.

Come you scum, we’re going to show you that we are capable of winning the title by beating your arse twice.

KK, we beat them twice last season and still did not win the league. It was the bus-parkers were we failed last time around. Hopefully Aquilani will help resolve this problem.

Seems that not everyone is happy about the signing.

http://www.liverpool-kop.com/2009/08/great-rafa-benitez-is-about-to-waste.html

I’m going to look like a grumpy old bastard, but what’s new…
KK ffs lad, calm down. Leave that sort of thing to the mancs. Yeah okay I call him a tramp and there’s other names that float round in here, but it’s usually followed by a bit of proper thought.

I’m honestly not picking on you. I’m giving you a tip. This sort of thing….

“Come you scum, we’re going to show you that we are capable of winning the title by beating your arse twice.”

…over and over really doesn’t do much for the forum or yourself. We all dislike the fella. We all hate Man U. There’s no need to do that sort of gash to prove it.

The man may be a nasty, horrible old bully of a human being, but the fact remains… He’s arguably the greatest manager of all time. Take a look at his record. The proof is in the pudding. In fact, just going on trophies collected, if it wasn’t for Bob Paisley’s haul of silverware in such a short amount of time, Ferguson could rightly be called the greatest of them all – NOTE… I said trophy wise.

We all know he would never win any personality contest. We know he isnt’ the greatest tactician. But he is the best at what he does.

Liverpool fans, and some people in the media, have finally noticed The Emperor has no clothes on, but he has earned the right to be such an obnoxious old bastard and still be treated with respect in the media.

I’m not saying you have to. It’s not even really about Ferguson. Just calm down a bit. Your going to get a nosebleed getting all worked up like that all the time.

If you want to say something about Ferguson, well, let’s look at his latest “Mind game.”

This is your post 338 copied and pasted…

KopKing
Posted on August 5, 2009 @ 8:25 am
“ALEX FERGUSON told Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez: You have no chance of winning the title.”

The Manchester United boss is chasing a fourth straight Premier League and says Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea are this term’s big threat.

Fergie said: “It will be hard for them to match last season, let alone improve on it. Other teams will know more about them.”

Benitez’s Liverpool ran United close and finished second in the Premier League table last term.

Ferguson appeared as a celebrity in the British Par 3 Championship yesterday.

He added: “Liverpool had probably their best season for 20 years and still finished four points adrift.

“It has to be Chelsea as the main threat. Ancelotti will change how they play. They will play the Milan way. It brought him two European Cups – it should have been three, because they should never have lost to Liverpool. So why should he change?”

However, Fergie is not convinced the loss of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid will seriously affect Liverpool.
He added: “The thrust of their team is all about Gerrard and Torres.”

1: Where in the article did The Tramp “tell Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez: You have no chance of winning the title.”

He never. That was the usual English media bollax. (TIP: HEadlines in the British press rarely have anything to do with the story.)

But we all know The Tramp only has a go at the teams and managers he fears. And even his lap dogs in the media don’t try to hide that anymore.

So, we can see who he’s worried about. If you read the rest of the story it shows what he’s worried about…

“The Manchester United boss is chasing a fourth straight Premier League and says Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea are this term’s big threat.”

I happen to agree with that. I think Chelsea will be very dangerous this year, but that’s another story. And from what he said, maybe the Tramp doesn’t. I know he’s had love affairs with Ancelotti in the past. But more than anything – that part of the statement is just a veiled dig at LFC and Rafa.

Next point…
He added: “Liverpool had probably their best season for 20 years and still finished four points adrift.

Yep. He knows we are the best now the best LFC he has ever faced. He also knows teams always go close before winning it. So, all that is more worry showing.

Next point…
“It has to be Chelsea as the main threat. Ancelotti will change how they play. They will play the Milan way. It brought him two European Cups – it should have been three, because they should never have lost to Liverpool. So why should he change?”

Well, his fear’s really showing now…
1: Playing the Milan way would never win the league in England.
2: Two European cups – it should have been 3.

Blind man on a fast horse can see it for what it is… a childish dig at LFC and Rafa, not a compliment of Ancelotti or Milan.

Last bit of statement…
“However, Fergie is not convinced the loss of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid will seriously affect Liverpool.
He added: “The thrust of their team is all about Gerrard and Torres.”

I can imagine this coming out of his face, as he looked more and more like a slowly deflating bright red balloon…
1: He slipped up and admitted we can cope without Xabi.
2: He showed he knows how good we are and how good Gerrard and Torres are.

But I must have read the interview in another paper. It went on a bit.

He said teams will suss out Gerrard and Torres this season and cope better against them. But he’s no Rafa. He didn’t give any indication how. In fact, if anything he was desperately calling on his mates like Fat Sam and Redknapp to help him out. And I don’t blame him…
He certainly doesn’t know how to handle them as shown at Old Trafford.

But then maybe his old powers are failing… Torres and Gerrard didn’t even play against them when we beat them at Anfield!

In fact, Gerrard and Torres only played just under a third of the season together. But despite The poor aul deluded tramp thinking all our thrust came from them… We still finished the leagues’ top scorers!

Well, I honestly can’t see them being injured that much this season. Then add to that the form Bennayoun has found, and that we’ve added a more attack minded fullback and (Barring a bad medical and agreeing personal terms) a more directly attacking central midfielder, then you can see why the poor aul tramp is worried that losing Alonso won’t harm us.

So, yes he obviously considers us his biggest threat and before a balls even kicked he’s desperately turning to the tactics that have served him so well in the past. We can all see it. Even the likes of Sly, Talk Shite and The Daily Manc can see it. We don’t need to constantly read things like “Come on Fergiescum. We will kick your arse again and again and again.”

Oh fuck it. Say what you want.

MTMMC… glad you enjoyed it mate. I read it properly an all, and would recommend it to anyone not just our yanks.

Xabi has to say….
“I am very grateful to Liverpool fans, they were very warm during my five years,” he continued. “It will be really difficult to match their appreciation.

“I really enjoyed those five years.

“But a few months ago I took that decision as I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club.

“That’s when Real Madrid came along. Luckily a deal has been done and I’m very happy.

“It is a personal challenge I felt is necessary for my football career.

“I felt it was right so I looked for a change, for a new experience, and when Madrid came in, that’s when I decided to come back to Spain.”

I’m glad he chose not to leave on a bitter note bad mouthing Rafa etc. Has moved on with the same class he displayed on the field… well done.

It’s true, Aquilani is no Xabi. But then again, how many players in world has the same vision, passing ability and game intelligence as Xabi? The only ones that come to mind are those Barca lads, Xavi and Cesc.

I’ve been watching a lot of Roma games the past decade and have therefore seen this lad Aquilani come through the ranks and rising to become a key player in their team. He started out in the same position Gerrard plays in our current formation, but has mostly been playing as a defensive midfielder. If he really will sign for us, it will be a massive disappointment to the Roma supporters. We are talking the same kind of disappointment Liverpool supporters would have felt had Stevie G signed for Chelsea in 2005. When Aquilani is fit, he’s surely one of the finest midfielders in the world.

The injuries has been a major problem for Alberto, however. I would compare it to what both Gerrard and Torres experienced last season. Being such great and important players, I think they were both rushed in their rehabilitation when they got injured, and therefore soon picked up new ones. Aquilani’s had the same problem for several years, but so has the whole Roma team to be honest. I know for sure Alberto was not the injury prone sort of player 3 or 4 years ago, so I really don’t know what is going on.

A month ago there was a short interview with Aquilani in an italian newspaper. He celebrated his birthday along with his missus and family and said he hadn’t had a single day of vacation all summer. He was completely focused in his rehab training, determined to silence all doubters and finally fulfill his potential the upcoming season.

I’m not saying he will instantly adapt to english football. On the contrary I think it will take some time for him to get his act together. But if he can stay fit, Aquilani will be a joy to behold.

Thanks Sachem.
In all honesty, I don’t know that much about the lad. And I would be lying, if I said I wasn’t concerned about all the injuries.

Spending a lot of time out doesn’t necessarily mean a player is injury “prone,” but obviously having so many serious injuries is a worry. And having a lot of them does take it’s toll over the years.

So, all I can say is the usual, I’ll trust Rafa on this one.

But if he gets it wrong, or the lad ends up injured for any amount of time this season, he’ll be in for a very rough ride, indeed. And nevermind the media and the opposition, our own fans, well the usual suspects, will have the knives out before you can say Crock.

FS,you Grumpy old bastard,you write a big long post teaching Kopking the Liverpool way then finish with “oh fuck it,say what you want”…love it.

Corky,Thanks for the ticket offer bud but i`m caught to work tomorrow so i won`t be able to go.

Didn`t see much of Aquallini but looking forward to seeing him in a red shirt.

Anyone in the know about his injury,when will he be available?

Sachem: When will Aquilani be fully fit, any idea?

FS: Ferguson seems to be contradicting himself all the time now, sometimes even in the same rant. I think we’re seeing the typical example of a person hanging on too long in his job. His tactics/ team selections in the finals against Everton and Barça together with his almost nonsensical digs at any team he perceives as a threat, e.g us and City, make him appear a rather sad and comical figure. Furthermore, I too am wondering what is going to happen to all that cash from Winker. He has stated that he’s not going to make any major signings. He’s either lying, quite likely, or colluding with the Glazers to pay off their debts before his rapidly approaching retirement. I’m sure they’ll look after him with a very golden handshake if he doesn’t use up the Winker proceeds.

I don’t think he can be classed as the ” greatest manager of all time” because his record in European competition, about 27 years, can only be considered average at best in spite of being extraordinarily lucky in 2 CL finals.

FS, it has already started about Aquaman being a crock. I can understand the concern but, seriously, from some fellow Reds, not necessarily on this site, I would have expected a little more.

Rafa has got things more right than wrong since coming to the club, which is a massive understatement, so lets see what happens before crucifying the gaffer.

In today’s world everyone is so quick to criticise and it makes you wonder why you bring youngsters into this world!

Anyway, as I said before, I don’t know much about the lad but it will mean a change in style, which may not be a bad thing.

What’s that Slur Alex? everyone will know how to play LFC this year! Wait and see my demented ‘friend’.

It’s not Rafa that worries me Lurgan. It’s the medical staff that passed Degan fit!

Arrrrghhhh Don’t Shoot! I’m only arsing about. But it is a worry. You’d be mad not to, but we’ll just have to wait and see. In fact, the deal isn’t even done, and they’ve back peddled a bit on the official site. But I can’t see personal terms and a medical holding it up.

As for The Tramp fuck him. I’m not even arsed about the aul drunken bastard. But as for he’s 80 million they played Valencia tonight, don’t be surprised if he’s waving a load of it in the direction of their directors and Villa and Silva.

FS,

Great post (#380) … that is the definition of ‘glass half full’ … keep it coming.

Aqualani won’t be available until at least early October 2010.

I think we got the best deal, really.

Aquilani is one of the best midfielders around. In a completely different way to Xabi. Sachem’s post sums it up well. When he first burst on to the scene, he was regarded as being better than Totti. Aquilani can definitely attack– to the extent that he can play further up front in Stevie’s position if he has to. Strangely though, he has been dropped further back, but that is Capello’s way. He likes to have someone with good attacking qualities in the defensive-half position. Which suits our style fine as well.

As long as he is fit, we have the better deal. 20 million is pretty cheap for a big name like Aquilani in these crazy money days. And we still have about 10 million left from Xabi’s sale proceeds.

I think Rafa has done a really good job at this, once he had to accept Xabi’s determination to leave.

Let’s just hope the Italian can stay fit. And don’t be mad if he doesn’t have the cool and calming passing of Xabi. It’s like comparing stevie and Xabi. There’s no point.

Dont wanna be Buzz Killington here but….Ok, lifted this extremely worrying data from the forums (kudos to MPR35U): Aqualanis injury stats: 4oct 07 – 1 jan 08 calf, 24oct 08 – 21 nov 08 thigh, 28 nov 08 – 2 jan 09 thigh, 13 feb 09 – 10 mar 09 ankle, 12 mar 09 – present ankle, currently recovering from surgery. Relax lads, no fucken way this guy passes a medical!!

Alright, Buzz Killington is back. Heres his appearance stats from the same data: Last 3 yrs he started 27 league games from a possible 114 (23%). Last 5 yrs he started 61 league games from a possible 190 (32%). Seriously lads, all joking aside, no fucken way this guy passes the medical!! Ok Buzz is gone Diggers back. Welcome Alberto, you have my support (and my crutches!) but I have major doubts. I hope to God your not (as you appear to be) Degens long lost cousin. At least he was free…

Gaz, what’s that supposed to mean? You’re being sarcastic, if I read correctly, right?

Rafa is, as Lurgan puts it, more right than wrong in his new signings. So we’ll just have to wait and see whether he’s a Mark Gonzalez or another Torres. (And please Fowler, don’t let him be another Kewell + Degen)

I wonder what number will Aquilani be assigned? 3, 4 (Sami’s number), 6, the highly pressurized 7, 14 (Xabi’s) and 17 (Arby’s) are now vacated. And if Voronin leaves, 10 will be available as well, though 10 is usually reserved for strikers.

If Rafa gives him a no. 7, then it could mean something. Or maybe I’m just talking shite out of wishful thinking. (Just look at the previous two owners of no.7 to see what I mean. )

No not really Aquilani is injured and someone asked when he would be back, no sarcasm there.

Yeah right, Gaz.

Source please then? :p

I am sorry to see Alonso go, I have always been a big admirer of his skills, but having said that
If he wanted to go then Rafa has done the right thing in getting as much for him as he could.
Nobody is bigger than LFC.
I don’t know anything about Aquilani, but if Rafa
thinks he will fill the void, then I am willing to give him a chance to prove himself.
If gets forward as much as some of you have stated and can give more of an attacking threat and possibly get us more goals from that Midfield position, that can only be a positive.
What’s the word on Riera’s Aggers and Syrktel’s injuires?

Sorry Kinny your right he should be in the team for the Spurs game. Or are numerous sites claiming he has spent his whole holdays in rehab not enough, I don’t see where the sarcasm shit comes from, I’m just passing on information. If you don’t agree just pass over the information.
.
I know he’s a wonderful player but he’s injury prone, or at least has been for the last 4 years.

I am quite positive with this deal. Aquilani is a great player and like Hyde said, 20m is a bargain.

As long as he’s fit, he’ll be able to replace Alonso very well.

Although, Rafa has spent 20m on him, I guess he’s still left with about 12m from Xabi’s sale. In one of his interviews he said that he has enough money to buy another player without anyone leaving the club. This means that he might be having 10-12m. So, in total, he’s still left with 20-24m. Hope he gets another striker with this money.

FS, #180, got your point mate.

I hope Aquilani is not another Harry Kewell(in aspect of injuries).

400 posts already, time for a new blog, Gerry, no?

gaz, of course I’ve heard about Aquilani’s injury prone history before him coming to Liverpool, but you were saying he’ll be out till October NEXT YEAR just a day after the official announcement his deal is all but done pending a medical.

No offense mate, but if that isn’t cynical sarcasm, I don’t know what is.

Even when you are “passing information from someone”, because you just quoted the thing verbatim without adding any of your thought, I don’t know what you really think about it.

Gaz, you do realize you wrote Oct 2010, right?

That’s another 13 months of rehab, man… that’d be one helluvan injury!

Perhaps you meant Oct 2009?

Pretty shit game v. Lyn.
But quite impressed with Lucas, Kelly, Ngog and Voronin.

But Deggen…. oh dear?
Every member of Custer’s 7th Cavalry was a better at defending his position than this guy … and look what happened to them!

Stats on this Aqualini kid is pretty frightening.

When is the results of the medical be made known?

And what’s the news on Skrtel, Agger & Reira? How bad are their injuries?

Great Chirp Attich. It did not take long for the entire half empty brigade to start up again did it? Aqualani had an ankle injury that wasn’t properly looked after and because Roma did not have that much depth and because he was one of their star players he was rushed back to quickly. Torres had the recurring hamstring injury last year, is he injury prone? It just needed to be sorted out properly as did Torres’s hamstring injury. He’s had the opp, he is determined to prove everyone wrong and has been working tirelessly to be fit for this season. One thing we have to remember Rafa is far from the sentimental type. He would have researched this guy in minute detail, looked at his history and weighed up all the pro’s and con’s. You cannot compare this situation to Degan as that was a free gamble that did not pay off and because he did not have a pot to piss in and had a couple Mars bars left to gamble with. I remember the same shit when we signed Torres, not good enough, doesn’t score enough. I think by know Rafa deserves our trust with what he has accomplished and reading up on this Aquilai I am getting very excited at the prospects and if he is as good as all the reports I have read, the dominating of Lampard and Obie Won at the bridge being compared to Totti we could be in for one hell of a season. Both Chelsea and Arsenal tried to sign him, echo’s of Torres anyone?

Have not had time yet but will join the fantasy league once I get back to SA on Sunday.

Nice one Keith. You’re pretty much correct about this situation.

Digger, we will just have to hope our physios are much better than Roma’s.

Plus, we all know Rafa is very cautious. I am sure he will not push Aquilani when he is not ready for fit, just as he was “stubborn” enough to rest and rotate players.

I have just heard that Rosicky is out for another 6 weeks with an injury. Together with Nasri’s injury I think they might have more to worry about before the season even kicks off.

United also have Van Der Sar out which won’t help them one bit.

Assuming Aquaman will not be fit to start playing until October, 2 months into the season I wouldn’t be at all surprised if we buy additional cover in Defour on top of Aquilani as an insurance policy. It will not hurt to have another creative CMF. This is unless of course Pacheco makes a few more appearances but I see him more as a Benayoun or Silva type player for the future.

It might not be long before Mascherano, his brother and his agent try their luck in wooing Barcelona again in the winter transfer window so easing Plessis, Lucas and Spearing into that position until we can find a suitable combative MF could take place too.

I think we have enough cover on the wings now (touch wood) with Babel seemingly playing with more conviction in preseason and Riera a year wiser. Let us not forget that Kuyt and Benayoun scored their fair share too.

I know it is a questionable source but this wasn’t a bad article

ttp://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1204609/Tax-rise-shifts-balance-power-England-Spain.html?ITO=1490

So Spanish nationals pay 40% tax which is not that different to the British players until of course April 2010 when it goes up to 50%. It is no wonder Brazilians and Argentinians enjoy their low 27% tax rates. I am not sure what South Americans with dodgy European passports get but this could be one of numerous reasons/theories Masch is allegedly pushing for a move to Barca. If so we best get prepard for another departure.

In defence Agger and Skrtel don’t have serious injuries and will be back in time and I think Kelly and San Jose can cover the 4th spot which Hyppia left. Either Degen, Darby or Carra can cover GJ. It seems Dossena is staying put as well so we will have to keep faith in him and Insua until Aurelio is back.

As for the elusive striker we supposedly need, if Rafa is happy with Voronin and Ngog filling in then we could be in for a disappointment. In a World Cup year there won’t be many “quality” or “promising” strikers willing to accept a bench role.

I will be happy with getting one or two of Defour, Mata, Affelay and Silva for the extra depth to push us to #19!! I will patiently but eagerly await any good news in the meantime.