We round up the latest Liverpool news and transfer rumours on Thursday, as the Reds prepare to host Southampton this weekend.
Main Headlines
- Reds officially begin work on new training ground
- Ambitious Van Dijk on desire to “win everything”
- How Milner has defied expectations to hit the peak of his career in his 30s
- How Liverpool are using UEFA Youth League to improve Curtis Jones and Co.
- Lovren denies wrongdoing after being charged with perjury
Robertson Hails Sturridge’s Impact
Daniel Sturridge played a starring role in Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, proving what a good option he can be this season.
Someone who was impressed is Andy Robertson, who told Liverpoolfc.com that the striker epitomises the squad depth and competition for places:
“Behind the scenes and at training we’re all hungry to go for starting places.
“Some people won’t play as much as they want, especially when it has been Saturday to Saturday and the gaffer has kind of stuck with his team.
“But we have got a lot of games coming up so everyone will be required.
“Studge sums it up – he comes on, plays 70 minutes and does unbelievably against a top side and two very good centre-backs. Credit to him and I’m sure all the boys sitting on the bench can look at him and they’ll make similar impacts when called upon.”
Milner Up For Award
James Milner has arguably been the Reds’ best player so far this season, following a string of magnificent midfield performances.
The 32-year-old was again in formidable mood in midweek and his efforts have been rewarded, albeit for a fairly low-key gong!
Milner has been nominated for the Champions League Player of the Week award, along with a certain Lionel Messi, Liverpool transfer target Nabil Fekir, who tormented Man City for Lyon, and Man United‘s Paul Pogba.
To vote for Milner, click here.
Firmino’s Eye-Catching Statistic
Roberto Firmino was Liverpool’s match-winner in midweek, with the Brazilian firing home in stoppage time against PSG.
The 26-year-old has found his feet after a slow start to 2018/19 by his high standards, with three goals to his name already this season.
Firmino’s strike on Tuesday was his 11th goal in just his 14th Champions League appearance – the playoff win over Hoffenheim last season isn’t included – a record only bettered by one player.
Former Lazio striker Simone Inzaghi registered 12 times in his opening 14 matches in Europe’s premier competition, meaning Liverpool’s No.9 is ahead of some pretty illustrious company.
His winner at Anfield also drew him level with Dirk Kuyt as the Reds’ second all-time top scorer in the Champions League, behind Steven Gerrard (30).
Ince Tips Liverpool To Challenge
Liverpool have made their best start to a season since 1990/91, winning all six games to date and winning new admirers along the way.
One of those is former Reds midfielder Paul Ince, who hailed their bold style of play and believes a Premier League title challenge is on the cards.
“A lot of teams would’ve settled for a point and a draw at home to PSG, but Jurgen Klopp wanted to get the winner and go full throttle, and that’s impressive and frightening for their opponents,” Ince says.
“It shows the mindset of Liverpool this campaign, they won’t take no for an answer. You could sense the frustration and anger when they conceded two, but they still got that goal when they needed it most.
“Liverpool fans are right to be excited. There are a lot of positive signs coming out of the club at the minute. For the first time in a long time, people you speak to are fancying them to win the title.
“I can’t see anyone coming close to them and Man City to be honest. The signs look great for trophies, the best they’ve looked in years, and fans should be feeling very hopeful.”
Darby’s Wife “Overwhelmed” By Support
The sad news that former Liverpool youngster Stephen Darby has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease has led to endless support from the footballing community.
Darby’s wife Steph Houghton, captain of Man City and England women, took to her Twitter account on Thursday to leave a message of thanks:
“Thank you everyone for your messages over the last few days. We can’t thank you all enough for your love and support. We are overwhelmed.
“We will keep fighting and most of all keep smiling!”
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