Welcome Home Liverpool FC! Champions League Preview

It’s been 157,550,400 seconds or 2,625,840 minutes or 43,830 hours or 1,826 days; Or more simply five years. Five long years since Liverpool have heard the Champions League anthem; Five years since a brace by Fiorentina’s Stefan Jovetic drowned Liverpool...Five years of hurt. Mr Brendan Rodgers has brought joy back to the club and its supporters who have waited too long for Liverpool’s return. Five years were too long for the five time champions. But now they are back home to where they belong; The UEFA Champions League, searching for their sixth success in Berlin next year.

Beautiful Sight

Yesterday the Champions League Group Stage draw was held in Monaco where Europe’s elite clubs waited to see who they would face. The total of 32 teams were divided into four pots, the first pot contained eight of the best teams in Europe, who include the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Barcelona. The second pot had the next eight and the same applied with the next two pots. Liverpool were placed in the 3rd pot because of their low UEFA Co-Efficiency ranking, this also meant that it was likely that Liverpool would have the so-called ‘Group of Death’. Potentially Liverpool could’ve had Barcelona, PSG and Roma in their group. Many pundits and rival fans had the idea that we Kopites would be afraid of the potential ‘self-destruct’ group however it was the complete opposite. Since Liverpool has been out of the competition for so long, world class teams such as Barcelona and Real Madrid would’ve been welcomed with open arms at Anfield. The ‘Group of Death’ would’ve been the dream.

The dream wasn’t fulfilled much to Liverpool’s delight as they received a kind draw. Real Madrid, FC Basel and Ludogorets are Liverpool’s group stage opponents for the upcoming Champions League group stage. Real Madrid are the standout team of that group because they are of course the holders of the trophy which they labelled; La Decima or The Tenth Champions League victory. Liverpool vs. Real Madrid will be the heavyweight clash out of all the groups with a gigantic total of 15 titles between them. Furthermore if you want the prime definition of a majestic Champions League night look no further than Liverpool vs. Real Madrid under the floodlights of Anfield. Basel of Switzerland has proved over the years that they are a true Champions League club by producing many stunning results over the years. Ludogorets are the final team to finish Group B whom beat Steaua Bucharest on penalties to qualify for the first time in their 13 year history. I believe that Liverpool can qualify and possibly tip Madrid of their potential top spot. Basel will be tough to handle, but I reckon they can be seen off by the Reds particularly at Anfield. As for Ludogorets, I think it’s fair to say that they are there to complete the numbers. It could either turn into a successful campaign or a repeat of 09/10 which saw Liverpool failing to qualify out of their group. They are some similarities of that group; Real Madrid as 09’ Lyon, Basel as the surprise team like Fiorentina and Ludogorets being pointless as Debrecen. Very similar but I believe Brendan Rodgers could have a memorable campaign this season.

Champions League Nights are back at Anfield

For the other English clubs they were many repeats from last year carried over to this. Firstly for the Premier League Champions, Manchester City, their poor luck in Europe’s prestigious competition continues following the draw. The Citizens got 5 times Champions League winners and current holders of the FIFA Club World Cup, Bayern Munich, who like Liverpool, are seeking their sixth Champions League. Russia’s CSKA Moscow and a very strong returning Roma led by Francesco Totti are the others who complete the ‘Group of Death’. For Arsenal they qualified through their annual play-off win to cement their status in the group stage for an impressive 17th season in a row. But of course successive qualifications don’t mean anything if they don’t win it. So Arsene Wenger hopes to finally win the trophy that has eluded him for 16+ years by going over the hurdle including Dortmund, Galatasaray and Anderlecht; all genuine Champions League teams. Chelsea are the last British team for the Champions League group stage (Celtic didn’t qualify and Manchester United are irrelevant). Chelsea got the kindest draw out of the Premier League teams; all three of their opponents are easily beatable with the quality of Chelsea’s players. Players such as Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard and Diego Costa could turn their games versus Schalke, Sporting Lisbon and Maribor into exhibitions.

The Stadium where the best team in Europe will be revealed

The other groups are worth looking out for and most of which define what the Champions League is all about. For example Group A has last year’s runners up Atletico Madrid who are looking to go one better and win the Champions League but Juventus, Olympiacos and Malmo will be hoping to do their job to deny them from qualifying. Also Group F is another group which has European heavyweights (and Ibrahimovic’s former clubs) in Barcelona, PSG and Ajax. Cypriots APOEL Nicosia completes this tough group, but they can surprise many like they did in 2012 by reaching the quarter finals.

Champions League Group Stage in Full

This has the prospect of becoming a memorable season for Liverpool or a horrible one. But whatever happens, I think every Kopite is proud to see their team back in the big time. Anfield nights, Kop singing YNWA, Champions League anthems etc. are back! And boy they have been missing. See you all for a magical return of the Champions League at Anfield vs. Ludogorets and hope to end the journey in Berlin for triumph number six.


HERE'S THE FIXTURE LIST FOR LIVERPOOL'S CONQUEST FOR TITLE #6:
September 16: Ludogorets (H)
October 1: Basel (A)
October 22: Real Madrid (H)
November 4: Real Madrid (A)
November 26: Ludogorets (A)
December 9: Basel (H)

Number 5, Could we see Number 6?

BPL MATCHDAY 1: Liverpool vs Southampton

Liverpool got their season onto a winning start against the Saints with the SAS on show (No, not that one), however it wasn’t a smooth ride as many would’ve hoped for.

Alas the Barclays Premier League season began for the previous season runners up; Liverpool, who look to go one place further than last year; that too without the best striker in the world, Luis Suarez. The first opposition of the season was Southampton who themselves enjoyed a fabulous season under Mauricio Pochettino and with top players such as Adam Lallana, Jay Rodriguez and Rickie Lambert eventually finishing a highly respected 8^th place. However Pochettino left for Tottenham Hotspur and the majority of Southampton’s best players from last season have left, three of whom have signed for Liverpool (Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Dejan Lovren). Southampton are significantly weaker from last season but now with experienced Ronald Koeman at the helm and new signings set to be made they look to replicate last season’s wonders.

Ronald Koeman’s last visit to Anfield was a defeat for Liverpool in a Champions League Knockout stage clash with Benfica in 2006. Moreover Southampton won the three points at Anfield thanks to a Dejan Lovren header set up by Adam Lallana, both Liverpool players now. If that was to go by, then Southampton were on their way to another win with the omens by their side. But Liverpool has shown how much of a fortress Anfield is in the last couple of years.

Despite Liverpool signing three big signings of Southampton only Dejan Lovren started as Adam Lallana was out injured and Lambert was on the bench. For Southampton they have also made some signings such as Fraser Forster, Pelle and Tadic who all started.

The game got underway at a vibrant Anfield and it was Liverpool back from where they left of last season in dominant possession. Although it wasn’t the fast flowing the fans were used to last season. Eventually a goal came at the 23^rd minute, Jordan Henderson pressurizes the Saints midfield to win the ball, a trait he excels at, and finds a running Raheem Sterling with a pinpoint Gerrard-esque pass. Sterling then finished with accuracy and composure beating the unit, Fraser Forster. Liverpool slacked soon after when it was Southampton asking the questions. Victor Wanyama and teenager James Ward-Prowse were exceptional in the midfield where his dipping free kick from quite a distance was tipped over by Simon Mignolet. Soon after Morgan Schneiderlin, another class Southampton player looking for the exit, had his shot also tipped by the Belgium Mignolet. Frustration grew heavily among the Anfield faithful when the away fans were singing their anthem, “When the Saints go marching in” whilst the rest of Anfield was silent.

The second half commenced and Liverpool weren’t at their best yet again, a similar feat to last season where Liverpool performed exceptionally in the first half but not in the second. It showed when the Saints equalized through Nathaniel Clyne. A great run from the full-back wasn’t seen by any Liverpool player particularly Lucas but was seen by Tadic who’s backheel found Clyne to then smash it into the back of the net. Mignolet had no chance. The team from the south thought they could go on to grab the winner and it almost arrived too. A great passing sequence reached Steven Davis to finish but instead of going for power he went for placement providing keeper practice for Mignolet and the chance went begging.  Liverpool needed to change something fast and that’s what they did; Rickie Lambert came on to fulfil his childhood dream, a debut for Liverpool FC. Rodgers changed the formation into a diamond with two up front. Not only did the formation change but the chances were being created for Liverpool with a goal finally coming for the Reds. Attack, attack, attack was the call and Southampton couldn’t clear. 10 minutes from time Sterling’s header landed to Sturridge who with the slightest of touch beat Forster. Liverpool was in the lead and Anfield woke up yet again.

Southampton were not going to give up so easily, Schneiderlin blasted the ball towards goal but it hit the crossbar and debutant Shane Long couldn’t finish off the rebound. Last year Simon Mignolet was the hero on the opening day with his penalty save vs. Stoke, this was just as good. Replays showed that it was Simon Mignolet fingers that saved Schneiderlin’s drive and the ball landed outside the line.

Liverpool managed to survive and gain the massive 3 points. This game was a real exasperating game for all but Liverpool began to play like Liverpool which is a real positive even with some quality players out of the team. Southampton deserved at least a point from this game with their performance but the Premier League is never a forgiving league. The season is up and running for the runners up, can they go one better from last season? We shall see; 37 cup finals to go with a trip to the Etihad next on the agenda.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Dejan Lovren was brilliant at the back and is the perfect player Liverpool need, today showed his class despite the jeers from the away fans. However although he was a strong contender for MOTM other players such as Manquillo and Henderson also impressed. But it was Raheem Sterling who won the award; he put in a real shift for Liverpool today and looks like he will be an important player for Liverpool in the season ahead. And to sum up his game he got a goal and an assist.

Verdict on squad: Glen Johnson wasn’t that bad today but he wasn’t good either, I believe he needs to be replaced by someone at LB and that man is our new signing Alberto Moreno. Javier Manquillo played well but his lack of experienced showed. Lucas Leiva I believe missed his chance to impress Rodgers. Lucas did his job in intercepting tackles and finding passes, but he often was ball watching with a prime example coming from Southampton’s goal. Emre Can could replace Lucas in that position; with his physicality I believe he can fit in perfectly in the Premier League. Liverpool needs to sign a top striker within the next two weeks then they are set to go again.

RougeMen Blog IS BACK!

Regular readers of this blog may have noticed the severe lack of posts on this blog (none since February to be precise) which I am not pompous with. There were many posts and topics to write about such as the bittersweet season Liverpool encountered or the sensational World Cup triumph for ‘Die Mannschaft’. However due to personal circumstances none of this could’ve been executed. But the new season has arrived bringing a new start for the clubs, players and fans. Also a new start for this blog; RougeMen: Everything Football, where I hope to post on a regular basis even with the important academic year on the horizon. RougeMen is back with a bang.

See you around and be sure to follow @RougeMEF

Do the Liverpool fans Dare to Dream?

Over the last couple of years Liverpool have been in the Europa League a couple of times, finishing mid table, having their season end by February, and don’t forget the mediocre players they  have bought in too such as Andy Carroll, Milan Jovanovic, Paul Konchesky, Charlie Adam and many more. Painful in short. Brendan Rodgers came in the summer of 2012 replacing the King that is Kenny Dalglish determined to bring Liverpool back to their best again with his playing style and philosophy. Liverpool had a taste to what Rodger’s  will bring to the club in a Europa League qualifying home fixture versus Belarus side; FC Gomel. Fans had hope but that season in the league particularly began slowly but gradually picked up the pace as games went by. Liverpool were creating chances, they were playing pure football. Daniel Sturridge “the gamble signing” and Philippe Coutinho joined and helped goal scoring machine Luis Suarez and Liverpool score goals. The season was well and truly over but there was hope going into the next season.

Brendan Rodgers got rid of the dead rubber in the team by selling the likes of Andy Carroll, Charlie Adam, Alberto Aquilani and Joe Cole. His philosophy was becoming apparent; he was making Liverpool into his own. Before every season began I, like many, use to say ‘This is our season’ but we have been let down one too many times. So to avoid any heavy disappointments the majority have targeted a Champions League place rather than the title. From last season’s 7^th place to title is quite ambitious but there are some deluded fans out there who believed that Liverpool could win the title. With Manchester United looking to regain their title, Arsenal hunting for a trophy, Spurs spending more than £100m, Mourinho’s return at the Bridge and of course Manchester City who are looking to take back what was theirs. Liverpool I believed had no chance. But with the win at Stoke thanks to Mignolet save and constant wins beyond that, there was something special in this season. Liverpool just kept on winning and in style. The S-A-S (Suarez and Sturridge) were in full flight scoring from left right and centre, players were improving such as Henderson and Sterling, and new players are emerging like Joao Carlos Teixeira, Jordan Ibe and Jon Flanagan. Liverpool were averaging at least 2+ goals a game and they have been magnificent goals too (You’ve just got to see Suarez’s quadruple vs. Norwich to see why). Manchester United and Spurs are surprisingly having an average season allowing Liverpool to rampage up the table. If this wasn’t any clear to see what changes Liverpool have made under Brendan Rodger’s then all one has to see is the league table at Christmas where the Reds were the star sitting on top of the tree in comparison to the previous season where there were 11^th under Fulham, Swansea and West Ham at the same stage. The last time a team has failed to win the Premier League after being on top at Christmas was in the 08/09 season where Liverpool were so close to reaching the Premier League title but consistent draws didn’t allow them to do so.

After losing to Chelsea (due to poor refereeing decisions) and Manchester City (where City got outplayed at the Etihad) Liverpool have been unbeaten in the F.A Cup and the league playing marvellous football. Liverpool have had some slip ups whether it’s going 2-0 down to Villa, eventually earning a point in a 2-2, or grabbing a late win at Craven Cottage. Liverpool have shown character and determination that they want to finish in the Champions League something that has been missing ever since that 08/09 season. But fans believe they can go one step further and chase the title. Surely not? It’s certainly possible, Liverpool have thrashed teams this season not only the small teams but the Champions League contenders like Everton  4-0 and Spurs 5-0. What’s more even Arsenal who were the leaders at the time conceded four goals to Liverpool in under the first 20 minutes eventually they got battered by five goals to one! Liverpool only have the League and F.A. Cup to play for whereas the challengers beside them Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Spurs have European football also to worry about, this without a doubt will prove to be important as we head into the business end of the season. Liverpool’s previous seasons have finished by this time with nothing to play for, but with away fixtures to Fulham labelled as a must win and the team within a shout of the top four, this is an exciting season for the Scousers. If Liverpool do get knocked out this Sunday to Arsenal in the F.A. Cup then there’ll be only 12 games in the league to play, but it would be great to still see them compete in the best cup competition in the world. Whatever happens from now till the end will all rely on the remaining 18 games (if Liverpool make it to the F.A. Cup final). The Liverpool fans want Champions League football, but Brendan Rodgers doesn’t have a marker he just wants his Liverpool team to finish at the “highest place possible”. Does that mean the title? The season end is quickly upon us, those who targeted the title in the beginning of the season are actually starting to believe, do the Kopites dare to dream?  

Image Credits: http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2011/7/16/1310830867710/Charlie-Adam-007.jpg 

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@MostarLFC

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Daniel Sturridge- The Next Liverpool Superstar

Over the years Liverpool have had superstar strikers that come and go, whether it’s world class strikers such as Hunt, Rush, Fowler, Owen or Torres. Or ones that weren’t regarded as the best around the world always damaged defences when they wore the Liverbird on their shirt such as Baros, Aldridge, and Crouch. Whatever it is Liverpool always have that man upfront that will get goals no doubt about it.

So today Liverpool has Luis Suarez as their next superstar who has so far done a great job succeeding the goal machine that is Fernando Torres particularly last season where he scored a massive 30 goals for Liverpool. However since last season’s infamous incident with Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic he will miss the first six games of this season (Already missed two, four left). Because of this many pundits and fans have wondered what Liverpool will do without Suarez? Will they lose every game? Who will score? This was to be no problem at all because Liverpool also had Daniel Sturridge who was also scoring for fun ever since his move from Chelsea for £12m in January 2013.

Daniel Sturridge’s move was called a ‘gamble’ from Alex Ferguson and a blessing from some Chelsea fans but since then Sturridge can’t stop scoring and silenced all doubters in style. To sum it up in 18 games he has scored 13 goals and got 5 assists, whereas for Chelsea in 4 years he got only 24 goals. Daniel Sturridge has always been a top class player ever since his days at Manchester City, so good that Barcelona wanted him before he made his move to Chelsea. Due to the competition for positions Daniel Sturridge found it hard to earn a place in the squad but Liverpool have saved him by signing him and now he’s scoring left, right and centre and could become the next Liverpool star striker.

So far this season Liverpool have made a 100% record to their season winning 2 out of 2 in the league (Their best start since 08/09, season we came 2^nd) thanks to Daniel Sturridge’s winning goals. Liverpool are also looking like a classy outfit creating many chances hoping to increase on the 71 league goals from last season and most importantly finishing in the top 4. With a great start like this who knows where they can finish; What’s more is that Luis Suarez is yet to return! Next up though for Liverpool is a test against old rivals Manchester United, come Sunday I would like to see Liverpool maintain their 100% record by being on 9 points. Many strikers have punished Manchester United; Fowler, Owen, Torres it’s now Daniel Sturridge turn to do the same.

Review: Steven Gerrard Testimonial

Yesterday Anfield paid tribute to one of Liverpool’s greatest players of all time, if not, THE GREATEST; Steven Gerrard
August 3^rd wasn’t a day for transfer speculation or Luis Suarez it was all about Steven Gerrard. A player who has graced the Anfield pitch for 15+ years. His opponents were the Greek outfit Olympiacos a team who Liverpool beat dramatically to progress in the Champions League campaign of 2005 of which Liverpool won remarkably. The match was best known for his late wonder goal (also for Martin Tyler and Andy Gray’s brilliant commentary) which is arguably his best ever goal in his long, eventful and legendary career. To make it more special Liverpool Legends Jamie Carragher and Robbie Fowler were also in the squad. In a sell-out crowd at Anfield, Steven Gerrard received a huge reception as expected and Anfield was rocking from start to finish; absolutely extraordinary scenes in Liverpool.

Over to the match it was a great one to watch, chances from Liverpool came left, right and centre. Iago Aspas, who has impressed a lot since his move from Celta Vigo was on top form again leaving defenders for dead with his dribbling skills. His brilliant flick on set up Joe Allen who missed a sitter, however moments later another brilliant pass from Aspas set Joe Allen, who was in the centre of Liverpool’s chances, up for a tap in. As usual Steven Gerrard with Lucas were bossing the midfield and Philippe Coutinho was working his magic not allowing the Olympiacos players to have a sniff of the ball.

In the second half legends Jamie Carragher and Robbie Fowler made their appearance which was met with a huge roar from the Anfield faithful. Robbie Fowler wasn’t up to his usual best as anticipated but it was great to see him back in Anfield once again. Also coming on was Luis Suarez who has been linked with a move away from Liverpool to Arsenal. Many, including myself, expected Suarez to receive jeers and boos but it was the complete opposite as his appearance made Anfield go wild in cheers and even the Kop started to sing his song; it was as if it was his testimonial. If that doesn’t persuade him to stay I don’t know what does because as preseason so far has proved, Liverpool have the best fans in the world and he won’t get the same reception at the Emirates that’s for sure.

Along with those big names substitutions Jordan Henderson also came on. Within 12 seconds of his appearance he scored letting the Kop know that he came on as well. In form Raheem Sterling pass broke through the Greek defence and Henderson’s cool finish made it 2-0. Olympiacos had some recognizable names in their ranks such as Vladimir Weiss, formerly of Rangers and Manchester City, and former Real Madrid and Barcelona star, Javier Saviola, but they couldn’t do anything against a strong and organised Liverpool.

The match ended with Steven Gerrard taking a lap of honour around the pitch, with 45,000 applauding the Scouse Icon. Although it was a special match business was done for Liverpool who have had a great preseason thus far winning 5 out of 5 scoring 13 and conceding none. Next up for the Reds they travel to Oslo, Norway to face Valerenga on Wednesday. The Testimonial was a match that I won’t forget in a long time, the only thing that was missing was Robbie Fowler scoring in front of the Kop or Steven Gerrard, one of the greatest footballers of all time, scoring a thunderbolt from 30 yards.

The Season Ahead 2013/2014

Less than two months to go till the Premier League season begins and it promises to be a great season. New managers, new signings, and new clubs I’m sure that it’ll be a great season. For Liverpool it’s another season of progression and targeting the Champions League place.

So far Liverpool have signed four players; Iago Aspas from Celta Vigo, Simon Mignolet from Sunderland, Luis Alberto from Sevilla, and Kolo Toure from Manchester City. Brendan Rodgers has promised there’s more to come; rumour has it that Shakhtar Donetsk’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Papadopoulos of Schalke and many more are also on their way to Anfield. Luis Suarez on the other hand looks set to leave Liverpool unfortunately unless Brendan Rodgers persuades him to stay we shall wait and see. By the looks of things Liverpool mean business coming into the 2013/2014 Premier League season.

The fixture list has been harsh on Liverpool in recent years however this year I believe (I’m sure many will agree) that is has been kind on Liverpool. The Reds begin their campaign at home to Stoke City and it’s a match that they can win. Liverpool haven’t won an opening day fixture since 08/09 let’s hope it changes this year with a win. From then on to October they haven’t got a tough fixture excluding Champions and rivals Manchester United who Liverpool plays in their third fixture and no disrespect to the other clubs. So if they can win those games it’ll certainly bring momentum to the club and hopefully go on to win the games against the top opposition. Also November and December can shape Liverpool’s season as they play Arsenal, Everton, Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea in the space of two months, but winning the previous games can provide confidence that’s needed into the team. It’s easy said than done but the team have the talent and are capable of winning every game. Drawing is no option and losing is out of the equation Liverpool has to have that winning mentality going into this season. Furthermore they have to be efficient in front of goal and take every chance they get and play like the team we had for the second half of last season showing teams no mercy and making Anfield a fortress again.

 

Next season will be great not only in England but around Europe, Neymar to Barcelona where everyone will be watching magician from all around the world or in Germany where we’ll see if treble winning Bayern Munich can do it all again especially with the arrivals of Pep Guardiola and Mario Götze. Also could this be the season where Liverpool returns to the Champions League after a four year absence or go one better by winning the league; highly unlikely. Whatever it is 2013/2014 is going to be a great season and with the World Cup at the end of it, the fans of football couldn’t have asked for more.

 

 

Credit to OvertimeOnline.co.uk @TheAsianKop @MostarLFC for the Images