Jurgen Klopp recently claimed that the depth in his current Liverpool squad was the best that he has had available during his managerial career.
The Reds decided against replacing Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho during the January transfer window, but they did spend £75m on Netherlands centre-back Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool currently sit third in the Premier League table – two points off second-placed Manchester United ahead of this weekend’s home match against West Ham United.
The Merseyside club, meanwhile, have more than one foot in the quarter-finals of the Champions League following their 5-0 victory at Porto in the first leg of their last-16 European tie.
Klopp has a lot of reasons to be feeling positive at the moment, but his comments about squad depth have not gone down too well with the club’s supporters.
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Indeed, the Liverpool fans are not convinced that their current squad is capable of challenging for major honours.
A selection of the Twitter reaction to Klopp’s comments can be seen below:
Danny Welbeck’s deadline day move to Arsenal has produced a plethora of diverse opinions.
The England international’s scoring record is the greatest source of division, some suggesting it shows great promise, others arguing it’s further evidence of how Arsene Wenger takes unnecessary short-cuts in the transfer market.
The pro-Welbeck camp certainly have a valid point. 26 goals in 116 Premier League appearances is hardly a return worthy of an international forward who has featured in the Champions League for the last three seasons, yet few of the 23 year-old’s Red Devils appearances have actually come in the striking role – the position he’s now expected to take for Arsenal with Olivier Giroud sidelined until the new year.
Instead, Welbeck has become a victim of his own versatility and broad range of skills. Rather than Sir Alex Ferguson or David Moyes attempting to hone the youngster in on his finishing ability, both United managers utilised him in the same way – a hard-working, athletically-gifted wide man, often employed in crucial marking roles, to improve United’s shape off the ball. It’s a forte Welbeck has largely excelled in – despite the limits of his goal tally – the most predominant example being his shackling of Xabi Alonso in the quarter-finals of the 2012/13 Champions League at Old Trafford.
That considered, reaching nine goals in two of the last three Premier League campaigns is a rather impressive feat, a contribution, in combination with his defensive work-rate and positive link-up play, that should not be sniffed at. Last season, amid demotion to a bit-part role under Moyes, Welbeck netted 0.55 goals every 90 minutes, which was actually more proficient rate than Olivier Giroud (0.47), Theo Walcott (0.52), Aaron Ramsey (0.51) and Mesut Ozil (0.21) – four of Arsenal’s five top scorers in the league.
Thus, the prevailing theory, as the title of this article suggests, is that Welbeck could undergo a similar transition to Daniel Sturridge upon his integration in to the Arsenal team, a hypothesis argued by The Telegraph’s Jeremy Wilson, Chris Cutmore of The Daily Mail and mentioned, albeit in passing, by The Guardian’s Amy Lawrence.
Indeed, there are key similarities between the two cases. Sturridge’s pedigree was obvious throughout spells with Manchester City and Chelsea, but unable to break up expensively-cast, well-established strike-forces at both clubs – in direct parallel of how Welbeck has had to contend with Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney – it took a move to Liverpool in January 2013 for the Premier League public to truly take notice of the England international.
Sturridge never claimed more than 13 goals in a season for Chelsea, finding himself playing out wide in an unfavourable position as third fiddle to Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres. But upon his Anfield switch, which coincidentally came at Welbeck’s age of 23, Sturridge reached 30 Premier League goals for Liverpool (his overall return now being 32 in 46) faster than any striker since the 1890s. In the space of just over 18 months, he’s transformed into the most exciting home-grown striking talent of his generation.
So, can Danny Welbeck do a Danny Sturridge? Could his move to the Emirates instigate a metamorphosis of a forward, often maligned and rarely praised for his exploits in front of goal, into one of England’s and the Premier League’s leading net ripplers?
Well, although there are glaring similarities – Sturridge left Chelsea with a rate of just under one goal in four games, Welbeck leaves United with just over one goal in every five – there are also intrinsic differences that cannot be ignored, the most predominant being that the Liverpool striker was born to score goals.
With the exception of aerial prowess, he’s a very complete centre-forward who links well and can be as impactful in supporting or wide roles. As well as 21 goals, he found seven assists last season, creating at least one chance per match whilst averaging one key pass and 1.3 successful dribbles per match. But, due to his proficiency in front of goal, that side of Sturridge’s game is often overlooked; common opinion appears to be that he’s a more athletic reincarnation of Jermain Defoe, a striker famed and flawed by his limited contribution to open play.
But that in effect is an enormous testament to Sturridge’s quality as a finisher, and epitomises the gap between himself and Welbeck. At Chelsea, determined to prove his credentials for the central role, the 25 year-old was stigmatised as arrogant for his perpetual obsession with trying to the net from the most acute of angles – all the more considering he was yet to make 100 top flight appearances in a team assembled of multi-Premier League winners, but had the audacity to shoot from 20 or 30 yards out several times per match rather than pass the ball.
From what we know now however, it wasn’t overconfidence or greed – Sturridge had to shoot, because that’s what he was born to do. When it comes to finishing, he’s a natural. It is in his blood, after all, with uncles Simon and Dean Sturridge both retired front-men for Birmingham City and Derby County respectively.
Welbeck is more of a team player, which should not be looked at as a disadvantage. But in vital contrast to Liverpool’s leading forward, Welbeck was moved out wide specifically because his finishing abilities were not up to Manchester United’s standards.
Of course, van Persie and Rooney forge mighty competition, but if there’s one glaring, unavoidable weakness to the Arsenal signing’s game, it’s unquestionably his lack of composure in front of goal. His attempt to lob Manuel Neuer last season, despite being instructed beforehand to shoot low against the Bayern Munich No.1, is a key example to bear in mind. A short scan of Youtube will provide you with a plethora of similar instances.
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When Sir Alex Ferguson has you in his first team for two straight seasons, you know you have something important to offer. But Ferguson never selected Welbeck for his goals – in fact, he persisted with the youngster throughout a 2012/13 campaign in which he netted just twice in all competitions. He was chosen for his loyalty, determination, incredible physical talents and positive contribution to build-up play. These are still where the England international’s predominant strengths lay.
And thus, although Welbeck will likely score more goals for Arsenal than he did for Manchester United after his first 100 games through more regular chances up top, paralleling Daniel Sturridge’s proficiency at Liverpool, or even come within its proximity, is a rather unrealistic order.
The Gunners may have found their Salomon Kalou, their Jay Rodriguez or perhaps their Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but not their answer to Daniel Sturridge.
Everton FC striker Victor Anichebe has signalled his intent of continuing to impress with his club, rather than speculating if he will get called up to Nigeria’s African Nations Cup squad.
The 24-year-old has had a difficult time in recent seasons with injuries, but this Premier League term he has remained fit and deputised impressively for Nikica Jelavic, scoring three goals so far, and the Nigerian insists he can form an explosive partnership with the Croatian.
Anichebe was overlooked for the last Nigeria squad, but insists that he is not letting his omission dent his confidence.
“The thing with Nigeria is, I am a fan. I follow the games – I followed the game at the weekend and I was happy Victor Moses scored, I spoke to John Obi Mikel as well,” he told the Liverpool Echo.
“They have done really well to qualify.
“I am more concentrating on here. This is the first time I have stayed fit for a while and I feel good in myself, so thinking of the national side hasn’t come in to my head.”
The African Cup of Nations will take place at the beginning of 2013 in South Africa, and Anichebe is unsure that he will be picked. One Everton player who will not be in the squad is Steven Pienaar, who retired from international football.
Anichebe has signalled that club football is a priority for him, “I want the fans in Nigeria to be happy and they now are we have qualified for the African Nations.
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“The coach there is building a good team. I’m not even thinking about being in the squad, I am thinking of being here [Everton].
“Everton have stuck by me and helped me get back fit so I am thinking about this no more,” he added.
Leeds fans have been reacting to this morning’s appointment of Marcelo Bielsa, and they’re already planning for promotion.
2017-18 was a long, miserable season for Leeds fans. What started out as a possible playoff push quickly spiralled out of control after Christmas, eventually costing two managers their jobs.
Paul Heckingbottom’s tenure was particularly infuriating for fans, as the ex-Barnsley’s lack of experience unfortunately shone through.
Owner Andrea Radrizzani certainly can’t be criticised for not learning from his mistakes though, as he has opted for one of the most experienced managers around this time.
The club officially unveiled Bielsa as their new manager on Friday morning, and fans are absolutely buzzing about the news.
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After suffering through plenty of torrid performances and results in recent years, fans are now finally feeling optimistic about the future.
Bielsa is best known for his trademark 3-3-3-1 formation, which allows rapid transitions from defence to attack.
The enigmatic Argentine is also known to have a short fuse, and lasted just two days as Lazio manager back in 2016 before quitting.
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Either way, fireworks and storylines are guaranteed at Elland Road this season, and fans can’t wait for the Bielsa era to begin.
You can find some of the best Twitter reactions down below…
Tottenham Hotspur star Dele Alli has been at the centre of criticism this season for his various antics on the pitch.The England international is one of Mauricio Pochettino’s key players, but his form has been consistent and there is one area of his game that has been getting plenty of attention of late.On Sunday, the North London club left it late to earn all three points over Crystal Palace in the Premier League.Harry Kane netted in the 89th minute to save Tottenham’s blushes at Selhurst Park, but there was one talking point from earlier in the game.https://video.footballfancast.com/video-2015/harry-kane-100.mp4Alli was accused by many fans, as well as pundits on Twitter, of diving and trying to trick the referee.It is not the first time that the 21-year-old has been under fire for simulation; in fact he has been booked twice this season for play-acting.BBC Match of the Day host Gary Lineker and his colleague Alan Shearer – both ex-England stars – took aim at Alli on Twitter.
Manchester United have had undoubtedly their worst season for the past two decades, not good enough to be even involved in the UEFA Champions League after 20 years in the competition.
Now into the quarter-finals of this year’s World Cup, are three any stars that may have emerged from their respective groups to impress new Man United manager Louis van Gaal to go in for a purchase?
From group F, only Argentina advanced to the last eight, but on the way a few players did manage to capture the limelight before being sent home.
Here are SIX WORLD CUP STARS Manchester United should sign from Group F.
[ffc-gallery]CLICK ON RICKY ALVAREZ TO SEE THE FULL LIST!
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Angel Di Maria
Age: 26
Club: Real Madrid
Position: LW, RW
Nationality: Argentina
Estimated Value: £25million
Despite his regular starts and impressive displays for both Argentina and Real Madrid, Angel di Maria is still not as highly valued compared to the likes of Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo. He was the best player during last season’s Champions League final, and with Bayern’s Toni Kroos set for a move to Madrid, could be ready to leave.
However the Argentine will not come cheap, approximately costing no less than £25million to lure the winger to Old Trafford. Yet with already £55million spent on Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw – and another estimated £150million left of transfer kitty – £25million will be peanuts.
//www.youtube.com/embed/-tCIiXNVx54
Javier Mascherano
Age: 30
Club: Barcelona
Position: CB, CDM, CM
Nationality: Argentina
Estimated Value: £14million
Louis Van Gaal’s main priority will be to add quality in the United midfield and defence, and should really consider Barcelona midfielder Javier Masherano as the man to do so.
The Argentine is naturally a defensive midfielder, but has been effectively deployed as a centre-back by both his national team and the Catalan giants. A player with this skill and versatility will do well in the Dutch manager’s attempt to get used to the Premier League.
Miralem Pjanic
Age: 24
Club: AS Roma
Position: CM
Nationality: Bosnia-Herzegovina
Estimated Value: £18million
Already a former Manchester United target, Pjanic became one of Serie A’s best midfielders playing a pivotal role in Roma’s second place finish last season. He would easily fit into the United midfield lacking creativity, with his dribbling and passing un-matched in the Red Devils’ current crop.
The Bosnian scored six goals, providing another six assists for the capital club last season. If he can get anywhere close to those numbers playing in the middle of the Old Trafford park, it would definitely be money well spent by the Dutch manager. A Herrera-Pjanic central midfield would look frightening on paper.
//www.youtube.com/embed/Djq-MkbPh4o
Ricardo Alvarez
Age: 26
Club: Inter Milan
Position: CM, AM
Nationality: Argentina
Estimated Value: £14million
Another Argentinian that should be on the United target list is Inter Milan’s Ricardo Alvarez. Labelled as the next ‘Ricky Kaka’, Alvarez was one of the few stars in Inter’s rather disappointing campaign last season.
However the 26-year-old is quick on the ball, able to take on his marker as well as supplying a key pass during an attack. Alvarez is also extremely hard-working, contributing to the team’s defensive duties with an average 2.5 tackles per game. And although he was deployed in the middle by Walter Mazzarri, Alvarez is extremely capable of playing the wings in the case that Juan Mata or Januzaj is injured.
Ogenyi Onazi
Age: 23
Club: Lazio
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Position: CM
Nationality: Nigeria
Estimated Value: £6million
Manchester United are currently linked with a few high profile defensive midfielders, such as Arturo Vidal and Nigel de Jong. But Louis van Gaal should really consider Nigeria’s Ogenyi Onazi, whose skill-set fits their criteria perfectly.
Onazi is a ball-tackling midfielder that is reliable in possession, able to link defence into attack. The Nigerian is the perfect anchor to a more attacking minded central midfielder, which could allow Ander Herrera to have free reign to do his intricate passing further up the pitch.
Onazi is also only 23 years of age, and with the right coaching and guidance, could anchor Man United’s midfield for several years.
Federico Fernandez
Age: 25
Club: Napoli
Position: CB
Nationality: Argentina
Estimated Value: £5million
If United are looking for a towering defensive replacement to Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, they should consider Argentine centre-back Federico Fernandez.
A somewhat surprise pick for Argentina’s World Cup squad, Fernandez was however essential to Napoli’s third place Serie A finish last season. Even if Fernandez was not to be Van Gaal’s marquee defensive signing, he would definitely add depth in United’s quest to challenge in the domestic cups and would only cost around £5million.
Everyone is obviously disappointed with Saturdays 2-1 loss to Cardiff but some would argue that apart from a couple mistakes it was a good performance.
Ipswich were impressive at times and controlled the game and this has been the case in a few games this season. The tractor boys were decent at times against Brighton, Wolves, Barnsley and Cardiff but in those four games they only picked up two points.
From these performances it is clear that the team do have some quality so it makes you think; where is it all going wrong?
There are two obvious main problems. First of all, really basic mistakes at the back have cost the team so many points already this season. It is amazing how the defence can do everything right for 99.9% of the game but a two second lapse of concentration can cost the team so much.
Looking back at almost every Ipswich game this season you soon realise that on the whole the defence do look solid. However, you also realise that most of the goals the team concede are due to these really minor moments when one or two players switch off momentarily.
The good news is that this is something that can be fixed without having to rip apart the whole team. It is something Paul Jewell should be able to cut down on in training sessions but whether this will actually happen is another matter.
The second part of Ipswich’s poor form has been due to the team not being clinical enough in front of goal. It says it all that the only goal they managed to score against Cardiff was deflected into the back of the net off the hands of an on loan striker. The only reason he scored in the first place was because instead of going up for a header he cowered away and somehow the ball rolled in after hitting his hands.
It is fair to say that with a bit more concentration Ipswich wouldn’t have conceded the two goals that they did in that game but you do have to ask what was going on up front? When you dominate a large period of a game you would expect to score at least two goals during that dominant spell. Ipswich are failing to do this and it is costing them just as many points as their defence is.
Although his goal was pretty lucky, the addition of DJ Campbell should help the team become more clinical in front of goal. He looked like Ipswich’s most dangerous player against Cardiff so chances are, he will get a few goals during his loan spell.
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The main problem is that the team are lacking a lot of confidence and at times the tactics aren’t working. Jewell needs to take the team back to the basics and cut out the silly errors before trying to do much else. Once they are staying solid at the back they can work on what they need to do at the other end of the pitch.
Hopefully we won’t see the same mistakes again from Ipswich but chances are it will be a while before anyone can expect to see a significant improvement.
Leeds fans have been debating a possible summer swoop for Jonathan Kodjia, and the overwhelming majority of fans want to bring the towering striker to Elland Road.
Aston Villa could be forced to sell several of their prized assets this summer, with the club on the brink of administration.
Their most valuable player is certainly Jack Grealish, who looks destined for a big money move to the Premier League, but Leeds fans have been eyeing up a few potential bargains of their own.
Leeds won’t be the only Championship club sniffing around if Villa do indeed have a fire sale to stave off their financial troubles, but fans would love a swoop for Kodjia.
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The Ivory Coast international scored 19 league goals in consecutive seasons with Bristol City and Villa, but had a torrid time with injuries last season, scoring just once in nine Championship starts.
The 28 year-old, valued at £8.1m by Transfermarkt, certainly knows where the back of the net is, and will be hungry to prove himself again after such a poor spell with injuries.
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Leeds fans are clearly hoping potential new manager Marcelo Bielsa takes a punt on the big number nine, as a whopping 81 per cent said they should swoop this summer.
The January transfer window was a chance for David Moyes to truly imprint his ideas on a West Ham squad he inherited from Slaven Bilic and there was certainly some movement at the London Stadium last month.
Indeed, the Hammers parted with two goalscorers in Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho, bringing in £29.52million, while allowing Reece Oxford and Reece Burke to leave on loan for Borussia Monchengladbach and Bolton respectively.
At the same time, highly-rated midfielder Joao Mario arrived from Inter Milan on loan and Deadline Day saw the Irons complete a late swoop for Preston North End front-man Jordan Hugill, after netting eight times during his last 27 Championship appearances.
Overall, that saw the Hammers take in a total net profit of £19.26million last month according to Transfermarkt. But was that an example of good business from the east Londoners or a missed opportunity to further spend as they look to stave off relegation?
West Ham fans, let us know if you’re happy with your club’s efforts in the transfer market by voting below…
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Gary Neville has caused a bit of a stir on Twitter by promoting simulation in football.His comments came after West Ham’s Matt Jarvis decided to stay up in the penalty area, despite Arsenal’s Bacary Sagna tripping him on Tuesday night.Sky Sports pundit Neville admitted after the game that Jarvis did the wrong thing and should have gone down, pointing at the way the game has changed in recent years and that now it is acceptable to dive.But many fans are defending Jarvis’ honesty, despite the Hammers winger potentially costing his side the match, with the Hammers going on to lose 3-1.And the debate moved over to Twitter afterwards, with Neville answering fans’ questions…