Just some views and opinions on the various matches as the season unfolds. Everyone is most welcomed to post their views and critics

Erm. The game against Sunderland was disappointing for me. The first half we were good but in my opinion not amazing. We were not creative and we did not create any clear cut or one on one chances. Carroll's goal is debatable. The second half we started well with Adam nearly putting us 2 goals ahead. But it all got bad from there. We were poor and Sunderland deserved the point.

Our next game could not have come at a better time to be honest. Gibbs Djorouh Wilshere all injured. Gervinho suspended. And Nasri looking to leave and no Fabregas I think we stand a chance of getting all 3 points on Saturday. But I think we should change the team that played vs Sunderland. Kelly should come in for Flano. Not bcuz of the mistake he made but for me Kelly is more of a threat going forward and more solid at the back. He's also faster and more physical than Flano. We should go from 4-4-2 to a 4-2-3-1. KD should consider putting Meireles instead of Adam. Because him and Lucas were good when they played together last season. Kuyt should come in for Henderson. Because he'll track back and help Kelly when needed. Something Henderson failed to do vs Sunderland. And either Aquilani Maxi or Adam should play in the hole behind Suarez. I really do not like Carroll leading the line. Because we are to predictable when he plays. It's either we just pump the ball forward and hope for him to flick it on. Or play the ball out wide and cross it into him. But With Suarez we are way more creative. Like most of our great performances last season came when Suarez was leading the line. And when Meireles and Lucas were our Central Pair

KOP analysis :- Liverpool fc v/s Sunderland

Certainly leaving the pub last night I had a bitter sweet taste in my mouth, no not the countless JD and coke I had before and during the game, but certainly a taste of wanting more…a little bit disappointed and sad. But then I thought long and hard about the game and the smile is back.
Okay we didn’t win and get the dream start. We didn’t take that first half fiesta into the second half, but we did come out a better team. Football and most importantly this year is all about progression. This new set of players will take some matches to gel and turn into a very good unit. When you look at the replay with a more objective eye you can see the talent, the progress we already have done in such a short time.
That first half was arguably the best football we have played for a long time. We were playing at a high tempo, fighting for the second balls and putting pressure on the opposition, and what can I say of our passing. If someone was colour blind you could have forgiven him if he thought it was Barcelona playing at times. We had Adams and Lucas dominating the midfield and releasing Suarez who was industrious up front. Henderson and Downing were giving us good width with Carroll trying his hardest to make the oppositions defenders life’s as hard as possible.
We were creating chances without giving away too much at the back. They say there is always a turning point in a game and that came when the man of the match so far, “Suarez”, missed the penalty. From that moment you could tell that the gods of football were not on our side. We did score soon after and even could have got a third, but for various reasons the second goal wasn’t to go in.
During half time sipping ever so quickly on my bourbon in one hand, ciggy in the other trying to have a conversation with my now none voice from singing du du du and all the kops song all buzzed up on that extravagant and exquisite display from our first half, I still had that gutt feeling that something was going to go wrong. We had done everything right up to now except one thing, killing the game.
“Killing the game”, “clinical” those are two words which separate champions from the rest. Those two qualities don’t come with just buying a couple of good players, but it takes time for a team to get to that level. This is at the moment the missing ingredient of our team. We never finished the game when we had the chance to, and 9 out of 10 times you will pay for it in football, specially in the EPL. We gave our opponents the chance to come back and fight for a share of points and that’s exactly what they did.
We were never going to be able to sustain that level of football we played in the first half. It’s too early in the season and some legs were always going to get tired. Sunderland took the game to us for the first 15 minutes and we had to defend. They eventually got their goal which was a spectacular one. We can go on and on on who was to blame, but at the end of the day it was a good attack which caught us abit squared and one of their players scored what could be a contender for the goal of the season.
From then on we tried to get back to that first half performance but didn’t. Sunderland were playing really well and closing down all the spaces. We could have hit them with a couple of counter attacks but it didn’t happen. Carroll was running tirelessly up front and was guilty of more than a few wrong passes and poor finish. But he was putting in the effort. Carroll is not my kind of player but a necessity for the Epl. It’s abit too early to judge if he is a success as I personally think a player like him will nedd up to 15 games under his belt before he starts to fire on all cylinders, but so far he has shown the qualities required and is trying as hard as he can. His fitness also is slowly coming back and we should expect him to have a bigger impact on our games as the season goes on.
The game ended on a draw, and the feeling then was we lost two points. But today I look at it as having won a precious point. No one will win all their matches, we are going to lose games and draw games. Our players will make a few mistakes as they continue their progress and getting used to playing together. This is a season of translation and there will be up and downs. The good thing is we are definitely heading towards the right direction. We saw good passing, good movements, players trying different tactics; all those will make us better.
The king knows what we need and certainly has a plan. For those who expects instant gratification, I’m sorry to burst your bubble, maybe take a plane go to Thailand and have a 6 months holliday. The team will need time to get to the level where we want to be, the only thing we can hope is that we are in and around the top when it happens, otherwise as long as we keep progressing that’s the most important part.

Jesta Analysis: Arsenal v Liverpool 20 Aug 2011
(I hope I havent infringed on any copyright or trademark there Kop )

Reina – A relatively quiet day for Pepe but was reliable when required. Pulled off a great save from Frimpong’s long range effort and had a couple of decisive punches from corners.

Kelly – I am a big fan of Martin and I was happy to see him back in the side, even if it was at the expense of Flano. Looked very solid defensively and we again saw glimpses of his pace, despite being quite a big guy. While it wasn’t an outstanding performance (understandable considering the vast majority of Arsenals attacks were down the right and through the middle) he reaffirmed the view that he is at least #2 right back at the club, if not #1. I would have loved it if he had scored but great effort early that almost broke the post.

Carragher – Just like last week, Jamie did what he needed to do. Kept the dangerous Van Persie at bay and when he did have to make a clearance he did so emphatically. Nothing spectacular but good leadership from the stand in skipper.

Agger – I was surprised at how quiet Dan seemed to be after that early dash through the middle which was only halted by Frimpong hacking him down. I thought it was a major statement of intent but didn’t seem to get involved in many more pushes forward. That being said, he was there to defend and that he did. I can’t wait for the day he finishes off a run forward like that with a goal though.

Enrique – Its hard to believe there was so much doubt about this guys credentials. Many people thought he wasn’t up to Liverpool standard when names like Coentrao and Cissokho were being thrown about but Jose looks like being one of the bargains of the season. He had the pace to match Walcott, kept a cool head at all times and his run up the left wing that took him past two or three Arsenal players was great to watch and shows how potentially devastating our new left wing will be when the team properly gels together. Another impressive performance.

Henderson – Like Flano last week, Jordan is copping some criticism which is understandable. His confidence looks to be well and truly down which is disappointing early in the season, so much so that he looks tired and seems to hesitate on the ball. That being said though, his movement has been relatively good and there is no doubt he has loads of potential. We are keen to avoid another Ryan Babel situation but we need to show some faith in this guy because once he gets in to the swing of things I’m sure he will be a good player for us.

Lucas – I thought this was a relatively good performance from Lucas. He did his job and made things difficult for Ramsay, Frimpong, Arshavin etc. Was outpaced a couple of times and gave away fouls in dangerous areas as he tried to chase back but on the whole he was good. His occasional push forward was good as well and was rewarded by playing a hand in the goals.

Adam – I was going to talk about how he seems to be adding a degree of midfield control that we have lacked since Alonso left but considering his attempts to score from the half way line there’s really no need to point that out, it’s a comparison that speaks for itself. Good game all up but not as impressive as the first half last week. Some of his set pieces were surprisingly poor but still played an important role for us.

Downing – It is a credit to Stewart Downing that every time the ball is at his feet, you can’t help but feel like something good is about to happen. Another very good performance from him. Good movement, good passing and vision, he’s the type of player that always looks like a threat. Debut goal is just around the corner I’m sure.

Kuyt – Like last week, looked a little rusty. I don’t even have to mention the work rate though, that goes without saying. Personally though, I hope that in our next match Dirk will start on the right in place of Henderson with Suarez up front with Carroll. Luis and Dirk worked so well together last season that a reunion between the two might be enough to spark Kuyt’s season into life.

Carroll – A bit of the good, the bad and the ugly about Andy’s performance today. I thought he worked relatively hard early on and his header on goal was very well taken and forced a good save from Schs…Sczhy…um…the Arsenal goalkeeper. I was disappointed though that he went down very easy at times…as a friend of mine said to me, “why are you doing that when you’re built like a freaking wardrobe? ” The yellow card was just stupidity, plain and simple. All that being said though, I find it very very disappointing that so many people, Liverpool supporters included, are already declaring Andy to be a waste of money and “flop of the season”. After two matches it is far too early and very unfair to be making calls like that. There are two things working against him at the moment and that’s the brilliance of Luis Suarez who has adapted immediately and cost less money, and that 35 million pound price tag. Now, I understand the concern. We were all hoping for a few more convincing performances and goals by now but to bring up his price each and every time is unfair. Any other player at that age would be given more of a chance to prove themselves before they received such condemnation. Hopefully we can stop focusing solely on the negatives and look at the few positives that have arisen. After all, we have seen what he is capable of in that Man City game last season. Who knows, maybe he will score a hat trick next week and all of this will be forgotten. 

Suarez – Once again the Uruguayan shows that he has some sort of magical power because when he is on the field Liverpool score goals. In fairness, he arrived at a time when fatigue was setting in and Arsenal’s weakened side was further depleted by Fringpong’s dismissal but credit to Luis, he made sure he took advantage. The luck that deserted him during that spot kick last week returned with the Ramsay own goal and he was good enough to finish them off, sparing us a nervous finale. Its your move now Sergio,

Meireles – Like Suarez, I was glad to see him come on and take advantage of the situation. Honestly, by the time Arsenal were reduced to 10 with Liverpool on top of possession, bringing on Suarez and Raul, a win was going to be the only acceptable result. Credit to Raul, he played a role in making sure that win did happen. I do have to make one critical remark though…Raul, get a haircut. That is all.

Overall – Not the most impressive display I have ever seen from Liverpool, luck played a big role in the result. That being said though, I have seen too many Liverpool sides drop points because they lacked the ability to take advantage of a favourable situation. This was the type of game that we have a habit of grinding out to a draw so I’m pleased to have the three points. Furthermore, you get the feeling that we have got some real quality and depth and when this team gels together properly we will be a force. If it happens sooner rather than later then there is no reason why we can’t set our ambitions higher than just Champions League qualification. We can’t get carried away of course, next up is Exeter, bring them on. 

Here is what I felt about arsenal game :-

Pretty mediocre first half comparing to what we we had against sunderland, although we didn't had meireles and suarez, but still penetration wasen't much and that definitely affected carroll, and as a result many fans did criticized him, though he had one chance and he struck the header very well, but scez(whatever) made a beautiful save.... But after that carroll was kept very much tight lipped....

Although I would have enjoyed watching him if he would have played with suarez, he is the one catalyst upfront for us in any attack, and Andy is lethal in the box.

The one most impressed me was jose enrique, I would say he is very much calm composed and his defending almost made walcott's pacey effect invisible.... Also lucas was pretty instrumental as he always have been since last season.

Kelly is the one genuinely promising package from the academy, and since last season's match against chelsea he made his mark and proved his potential.

But after meireles and suarez arrived it was game, set, match arsenal where already 1 men down with jenkison(I think) was struggling and could hardly move, I also feel sorry for arsenal but apart from that we where ruling them in the possession so we got well deserved victory....

And hhhhmmmmm lalall, duddduuuuuuu, we are ruling and kenny is our ruler making people happy, he makes the fans singing.... Can't get enough

Ynwa

In my opinion the game against Arsenal was very impressive. Yes we might be lucky but everyone gets lucky in football. We were solid at the back. Kelly was a rock at the back. And was also a threat down the left. Enrique was even better. Walcott could not do anything down the right. And had great moments down the left. For example when he did a nice lob into Kuyt that nearly let Henderson to score. Or his cross for Carroll. Or when his lob attempt for Suarez nearly worked in the second half. And Suarez nearly scored from his nice through pass. I think he has been a great addition to the team. Our midfield was not bad. It was not great might need some work. Maybe we need to blend more. Adam and Lucas were great defensively but not that creative. I really love Meiereles when he came on. Carried on where he left off. Solid when it came to defending and great up front. Making those runs from deep like he used to do last season. I really think he should start when fit instead of Henderson who in my opinion has to do more for me. So does Downing. But he has been better than Henderson. He needs to run more at the defence. And to round this all off Carroll should not lead our front line. Because some times we are to predictable with our play. We either player long balls. Or play it out wide and cross it to Carroll. That is why it was easy to deal with us. Cause they knew what we were going to do. But when Suarez comes on we are every unpredictable. We play nice slick football. And his extra skill adds to our play! Hope we can play more of a 4-3-3 formation on Saturday. With Henderson Lucas and Adam as our 3 mids. And our front 3 should be Kuyt Suarez and Downing. Carroll for me has been disappointing ever since he has come to Liverpool

My thoughts on the Bolton match:

Liverpool 3-1 Bolton @ Anfield
Sat 27/08/11

Reina: Once again it was relatively quiet for Pepe but did well to save Petrov’s cracking volley. Really deserved a clean sheet so he will be a little disappointed with that late Klasnic goal but at least he looks as reliable as ever.

Kelly: Damn injury! Martin has looked good this season so far and was on the verge of being called up to the English national side this week so it’s really annoying. That being said, these things happen and I’m sure he will have a bright future for England, even in spite of this setback. I don’t know how serious it is but I hope he’s back for the Stoke game.

Carragher: Jamie, Jamie, Jamie…91 minutes of solid, consistent and strong defending but most people will remember one really disappointing moment that cost us our clean sheet. We don’t have to be too critical towards him though because I’m sure Jamie’s toughest critic is Jamie Carragher and he will be determined as anything to make amends and get that clean sheet next time. That’s why he’s got the armband in Stevie’s absence.

Agger: To be honest, I get very anxious watching Dan play because I’m always scared the camera is going to cut to him limping off the field . Today was another excellent performance though and if he maintains his fitness throughout the season he may start getting recognised as one of the finest centre halves in the world game. Furthermore, he has sent a message to Coates that he is not giving up his spot in the side without a fight.

Enrique: Three games in red, three excellent performances. How could you not love this guy already? I know its still early days for him but he once again showed how capable he is defending as well as pushing forward. He seems to have that perfect balance for a full back. We have always said that someone like Glen Johnson is a great attacking full back but struggles defensively. That is not a worry for Enrique because he closes people down and makes opposition strikers and wingers really work for any opportunity. We even saw his strength today as he completely outmuscled Klasnic on a couple of occasions. Keep it up.

Lucas: It’s already been said but what a good performance from the Brazilian. His first half especially I thought was outstanding. Every tackle was clean and clinical and every pass found its mark. The Bolton midfield must be frustrated because most of the times they had the ball Lucas popped up out of nowhere and took it back. Very impressive.

Adam: Got the goal he deserved I think. He has been solid in each game so far and today was no exception. He was able to capitalise on Lucas’ hard work on several occasions and does actually look threatening if he has space moving forward. I do find it amusing though that we all knew his debut goal was coming and we all assumed it would be a long range shot…but no one would’ve though he’d do it on his right foot.

Kuyt: The interplay between Kuyt, Suarez and Downing was a joy to watch at times. Early on, Dirk was involved with everything and I was predicting he would at least have an assist by the end of the match. The couple of shots that he did have were decent but lacked the class we are used to. Still not quite at his best but with his workrate I’m sure its just a matter of time before he gets back to scoring and creating goals.

Henderson: Three league matches under his belt and he has improved slightly in each one. He was very good today, especially as Liverpool dominated the first half. On a couple of occasions though, when we had a fast break on he seemed to slow the play down rather than attempt the breakthrough pass to Suarez and co. One thing is for certain though, he seemed a bit more comfortable in a more central role and his goal was very well taken. Congratulations are in order for him I think.
(I did find it amusing though that the camera was showing Suarez on the bench, looking disappointed at being subbed off, while Jordan sat in front of him fixing his damn hair, lol )

Downing: Probably his quietest performance in a Liverpool shirt…that being said he was still quite good. That, I suppose, highlights how well he has done so far. He is still waiting for that duck-breaking goal though but you get the feeling when it does arrive it is going to be spectacular. As happy as I am that Hendo got the goal I would’ve been delighted if Downing’s first attempt from Suarez’ brilliant pass had gone in. We could’ve been talking up goal of the season in just the third game.

Suarez: Man of the Match. He was everywhere and drove us forward time and time again. He is class and he is elite. Nuff said.

Skrtel: A shame that his return to the EPL came at the expense of an injured Martin Kelly but he did a damn good job today. I was shocked to see him move straight to right back, I had assumed Carra would take that spot and Skrtel would move into the middle. It turned out to be a brilliant move though because he played with a freedom he would rarely experience. He actually wasn’t bad on the overlap and he looked threatening when he tried to cut into the box. Great powerful header that gave us the all important second goal. He must have enjoyed scoring because he then tried to barge his way through defenders, not around the like Suarez would do, but straight through them to try and score again. Really good performance I thought.

Carroll and Maxi: Neither had much of an impact in the short amount of game time they got but Andy looked eager and Maxi almost did his ninja style trick of appearing invisible before striking.

The Ref: I actually thought he got all the penalty decisions correct and didn’t give any unnecessary cards. However, the backpass decision (or lack thereof) was utterly absurd. Furthermore, at one point the Bolton defender was trying to move the ball out of defence when it got caught between the ref’s legs and it took him a couple of seconds to get out of the way. It was hilarious but showed he wasn’t paying attention at that particular moment.

Overall: Undoubtedly the most convincing performance of the season and I think its now 10 wins in a row against Bolton. The only concern is that now we have a stupid international break. I hope this doesn’t break up the momentum we have established early in the season. I suppose all we can do now is sit back, enjoy top spot for however long we are there and hope it’s a bad day for the city of Manchester tonight.

We had an amazing game against Bolton. Best game of the season so far. We were good in every area of the pitch. Skrtel at RB and doing well there was the biggest surprise. Through out the game we were great. We played nice creative football. With Kuyt and Suarez playing well up front. Henderson Adam and Lucas were all good in the middle of the park. Downing and Enrique were amazing down the left. Everything about our play was just good. Just one thing. I am still not convinced with Andy Carroll. Without him we're more creative and less predictable

Stoke City vs Liverpool, Sat 10th September, 2011
Brittania Stadium

Form: Both sides are unbeaten in the league this season. Stoke have picked up a win and two draws while Liverpool have the opposite, two wins and a draw. However, the international break and the new signings made on deadline day may make form irrelevant. This game is almost unpredictable.

Possible Liverpool formation:

------------------Reina-----------------
Flanagan Carragher Agger Enrique
-------------Lucas Adam-------------
Henderson-----Suarez-----Downing
------------------Carroll----------------

(Bellamy is almost certain to start on the bench according to some press rumours)

Unlikely but I wouldn’t mind:

----------------Reina---------------
---Carragher Coates Agger------
Johnson--------------------Enrique
----Henderson Lucas Adam------
------------------Suarez-------------
-------------Kuyt--------------------

Absentees:

Stoke won't be able to call on Ricardo Fuller or Danny Higginbotham and there is a question mark over Rory Delap.
Liverpool will be without Steven Gerrard and possibly Martin Kelly who has been left out of the provisional squad. Glen Johnson is likely to return.

What Kenny says:

On playing Stoke at the Brittania:
"It's a really difficult place to go and play, Tony Pulis has done a fantastic job and we've got to go there in the right frame of mind.
We know what we're going to be up against, which isn't a problem as far as I'm concerned. I'm not going to dictate to anybody or preach to anybody how they should play. It's their football club and Tony Pulis runs it brilliantly.
"They've got into Europe this year and they've got a style of play that suits them very well - and it's a great credit to them that they have done so well. It's up to us to compete against them."

On Capello’s criticism of Andy Carroll:
"I think he appreciates Fabio Capello's advice. He's got great respect for Fabio Capello - and I think Fabio Capello has great respect for Andy Carroll.
"For us, as we've said often enough but it falls on deaf ears, Andy wasn't properly fit last year because of a knee injury.
"We've been very pleased with his level of fitness this year because he's lost that knee injury. I think his fitness now would stand up against anybody's."

Source: Link: www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/kenny-new-boys...

Key Players:

Stoke’s key man may prove to be Peter Crouch. We all know how often people seem to score against their former clubs and Crouchie is a chance to be on the score sheet in his debut for the Potters, especially with Rory Delap’s (if he plays) long throws and Jermaine Pennant’s crosses.

For Liverpool, I’m thinking a little differently to the usual playmakers and/or strikers. The in-form Jose Enrique may prove crucial in this match. It is extremely difficult for opposition sides to score away to Stoke but in the likes of Downing, Suarez, Carroll and Adam etc there is enough talent to threaten the Potters defence. This won’t be like the Bolton game however; chances will be at a premium. Therefore it is absolutely vital to get a clean sheet here. Stoke possess a real threat with Crouchie in the middle and the in-form Jermaine Pennant on the right delivering crosses to him. If Enrique can keep up the strong performances he has managed in his first few games and he shuts Pennant down then we can deny Stoke a potentially fruitful avenue to goal.

What the Papers might say on Sunday:

‘Crouch nets winner against old club.’
‘Gritty win at Brittania shows Kenny’s Liverpool is well and truly back in business.’

Unlikely Headline:
‘Brittania Stadium collapses after Crouch, Coates and Carroll collide after competing for same header.’

Question Marks:

How quickly can Crouch, Jerome and Palacios adapt to Stoke’s style of play?
How well can Liverpool shut down the likes of Crouch if he does gel with his new teammates? In theory, Stoke have a great chance to worry Liverpool’s defence but will that translate on to the field or can Liverpool maintain their strong start?

Watch out for:
A brilliant match winning performance from Andy Carroll…which the big man will dedicate to Fabio Capello in his post match interview. :P

Predictions:
Head says, 1-1 draw, Crouch to cancel out a Charlie Adam free kick. Heart says, 0-2 win for Liverpool with Andy scoring a brace

Alright everyone Tottenham vs Liverpool should be a cracking match can't wait. Let's get the discussions started the forum has been a little dormant before such a big match.... Let's fire it up!

Of course one of the biggest stories will be if Stevie G makes his triumphant return at the lane. Even his presence will lift us so much, we'll see if he plays a don't expect him to start but it would be an awesome boost if he did. Even if Stevie plays it will be a tough match, we have lost our last two at the Lane, and they beat us at Anfield during the twilight of last season. They seem to have our number recently, but I think it will all change on Sunday. Here is why I think so:

Our team defence is amazing only silly mistakes have let in goals. This will be crucial against a team like Tottenham, they love moving the ball so we have to close down the space and win the ball which we have been doing a great job of. Harry likes to attack and if we can neutralize them there will be a lot of space of our own to exploit especially out wide. VDV Modric Lennon Bale all very good attacking players but they don't bring much defensively to their midfield. Our possession has been great this season, and the passing and fluid style is beautiful we need to continue that against Spurs. Style is nothing without substance though and the finishing hasn't always been there, we need to be clinical and ruthless. Freidel is a great goalkeeper but hopefully Suarez, Andy and the whole gang will be putting goals away he can't deal and has no chance of stopping. I expect it to be a very free flowing match, we'll take advantage of that.

Lucas has been a rock this season, he will be a key player. So will Luis Suarez, the man is a beast everyone knows that, hopefully he can get a few goal because his performances deserve more than the two on his tally. Best thing about Luis is even when he doesn't score he creates so much, what a player.

Another interesting one is who will be the other center back next to Dagger. I have a feeling Kenny will choose Carra, but Coates would be nice as well. It is nice to have options, and I think Carra has still got it so it is up to Kenny Coates does look like a world beater though from what I have seen. Adebayor would be a good introduction to the prem de la prem for him.

Also if Andy or Bellamy or Kuyt will be the other attackers with Suarez. I would love to see Andy given another start, I think he can really trouble the back line and his confidence can be lifted if he scores in such a huge game. Assou Ekouto and Hutton are pretty quick so Bellamy may not be the most effective. Could do work though, we'll see what Kenny does again.

What do people think though, I would really love to hear people's opinions. I am feeling a 4 2 win to us it's ambitious but we'll see how it plays out. A clean sheet would be perfect but it will be tough against a team like Tottenham. They haven't been that high scoring of affairs in the last few years but it could happen. Just what I am thinking. What does everyone else think, post your hopes, worries, line ups, predictions whatever. Let's get the forum going. LFC for life, death and beyond YNWA

-----------Reina---------
Kelly--Coates--Agger--Enrique

Kuyt---Lucas---Adam---Downing
\----------Suarez-----
---------Andy---

Gerrard, Carra, Hendo, Bellamy, Skrtel, Maxi, Doni

I know Kenny hasn't really used the 4 4 2 much this season but I wouldn't be surprised and I like this lineup

Tottenham vs Liverpool, Sun 18th September, 2011
White Hart Lane

Form: Spurs are coming off their first league win while Liverpool had their first defeat. Tottenham's most recent outing though was a midweek goalless draw in the Europa League, albeit with a weakened squad.

Possible Liverpool formation:

--------------Reina-----------------
Skrtel Carragher Agger Enrique
-------------Lucas--------------
Henderson-----Adam-----Downing
----------Suarez-----Kuyt----------

Expect substitute appearances from Bellamy and Carroll....Not Gerrard though.

Absentees:

Tottenham have a long list of injuries but many are still a chance to pass fit. Van der Vaart, Lennon and Gallas should appear. Pieenaar, Huddlestone and King will have fitness tests but don't expect Sandro or Dawson to appear.
Liverpool will not have Glen Johnson again after he picked up another injury but Martin Kelly is in line for a possible return, probably to the bench though. Steven Gerrard is back in training and might be one of the substitutes but his return to the field is more likely in the League Cup in a few days time.

What Kenny says:

On Tottenham counterpart Harry Redknapp:
"He's a good fella. He's a good character and has done a good job at Tottenham. They are much healthier now than they were before he came in.
He's a good guy and there is a bit of a friendship there. We'll have a drink after the game."
Source: Link: www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/kenny-on-harry...


Key Players:

Tottenham will be looking to Gareth Bale to get back in to form and take advantage of Liverpool's potentially fragile right flank. With Johnson out and Kelly unlikely to be at full fitness, the right back position will be filled by either youngster Martin Flanagan or an out of position Martin Skrtel. Bale aside, if Rafael van der Vaart is back and at his best then Liverpool's defence might be in trouble.

For all of the reasons listed above and more, the Liverpool fullbacks are going to play a crucial role. Liverpool have struggled recently at White Hart Lane and a lot of that has been down to the defence struggling with the pace of Lennon and Bale and co. Therefore, if they handle the pace and shut down that creativity, thus taking Adebayor out of the game also, then Liverpool will be a good chance of snatching something.


Unlikely Headline on Monday:
'Dirk Kuyt plays half-heartedly....90% of population dies from shock'

Question Marks:

How many of Tottenham's stars will shake off injury concerns to play? More importantly, of those that do play, how many will be sharp enough to make an impact?
How will Liverpool respond to their first defeat of the season? Will their defence be able to handle a Tottenham side that has a very good winning record against them in recent seasons?
In general, will we see another penalty? There has been one in each of the last four encounters between the two sides. And finally, can Jamie Carragher continue his good goal scoring form for Spurs against Liverpool? :P

Watch out for:
The officials giving a nervous glance in the direction of Kenny Dalglish if another 50-50 penalty decision goes against Liverpool. :P

Predictions:
Head says, 1-1 draw will be good but recent history suggests Spurs could edge out a win. Heart says, Suarez returns to the scoresheet and sets up a debut goal for Downing in a 0-2 win for the Reds.

Liverpool vs Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sat 24th September, 2011
Anfield

Form: Two consecutive league defeats have dampened Liverpool’s previously bright start to the season. The most recent match though was a hard fought, unconvincing win over Brighton in the League Cup.
Wolves have also lost their last two league outings but smashed Milwall 5-0 in the Cup.

Possible Liverpool formation:

--------------Reina-----------------
Kelly Carragher Skrtel Enrique
-Kuyt Gerrard Lucas Downing-
--------Suarez-----Bellamy-------


Absentees:

Liverpool will not have Glen Johnson or Daniel Agger available…which sounds far too familiar.
Wolves will be without Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, Jody Craddock, Ronald Zubar or Kevin Foley. Steven Fletcher is back though and, like Liverpool, Wolves get their captain (Roger Johnson) back.

What Kenny says:

On Craig Bellamy,
"He had a year out last year when he played at Cardiff rather than in the Barclays Premier League and I think we are getting the benefit of that because he has got a hunger to come in and impress.
He's got a desire because maybe he went away with a wee bit of unfinished business the last time he left here. So he's got a desire to relight that and we'll get the benefit of it.”

On the response to the Spurs match,
"We know it was not acceptable (at Tottenham). But the good thing is that the players realise it is not acceptable. We don't get carried away with the victories we have and we won't get suicidal over the defeats we have either.
At the same time we have to address the problems, if we have them, and we will do. We'll do it properly and professionally.We'll try and get ourselves back up and running on Saturday."

Source: Link: www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/kenny-he-s-hun...



Key Players:

It’s an obvious choice but one I haven’t had the opportunity to make for six months so here it goes. Liverpool’s key may be Steven Gerrard. There are still no guarantees Stevie will start this match but if he does then a good performance will well and truly set up a win for the Reds. Kenny mentioned the hunger of Craig Bellamy but imagine the skippers hunger after six months on the sidelines. Wolves need to be prepared.
Wolves main hope of upsetting Liverpool here rests with Matt Jarvis. He is a very good player, a proper winger. I’m honestly surprised he wasn’t grabbed by a top six club in the transfer window. If he plays well, against a Reds defence that was slaughtered out wide a week ago, then someone like the dangerous Kevin Doyle up front could benefit…and Liverpool could be caught out.


Question Marks:

How will Liverpool react to the complete and utter thrashing they copped last weekend?
How will Kenny react to the loss when it comes to team selection?
Can Wolves repeat their efforts of last season when they beat Roy Hogsons Liverpool?
And the biggest question of all…
Can Stevie make an impact?


Watch out for:
The continuation of the promising link up play between Suarez, Kuyt and Bellamy…hopefully.


Predictions:
Head says this should be a win but clean sheets seem less and less likely sadly, 2-1 to the Reds.
Heart says the Suarez-Kuyt-Bellamy combo produces three goals, one each. So 3-0…or 3-1…we will see.

I posted my player ratings in the Liverpool forum already.... Might as well have them in here as well, just for them to be on record Track players progress:

Liverpool vs. Wolveshampton match:

Pepe Reina (6. 5): Looked a little shaky at the back, but his distribution was very good today.

Martin Skrtel (6): Generally did well, but I feel he gave away some very careless fouls. I was on the edge of my seat every time he went in for a challenge.

Jamie Carragher (7): A little less careless and generally defended well.

Jose Enrique (8): Played a very small part in conceding. Thought once he had the attacker lose possession, someone else should have pressed the player who got onto the ball. His attacking qualities were great and he has built a good partnership with Downing.

Martin Kelly (7. 5): Generally a solid defensive performance. Did well bringing the ball forward. The only criticism is that he should be a little more aware and forward thinking in seeing what the player he is marking is likely to do. Good performance from him.

Charlie Adam (7): He controlled the game well for the first 30 minutes and then went a little quiet for the rest of the half. The second half was 50/50 in terms of his performance. Couple of careless challenges, but his passing was decent.

Lucas Leiva (7): Made some great last ditch tackles and covered the full back positions decently when they were forward. Thought he gave away too many little fouls, and didn't break up play as well as I'm used to seeing from him.

Jordan Henderson (6): Keeps possession well and doesn't crumble too much under pressure. However, going forward, he seems to be a little scared to try and beat his man. Towards the end of the game he tried to work on that, but if he is playing out wide, we need him to move the ball forward a little more. Seems to pull out from a few challenges as well.

Stewart Downing (8): Thought he did very well. Moved forward well, provided good crosses, good 1-2s with Suarez, Andy & Enrique. Shame he didn't put away his shot.

Andy Carroll (8): His hold-up play was brilliant. Worked very well in trying to stretch the defence and tracked back well. Never stopped running and played some brilliant passes. Shame Luis didn't put away the shot from his pass across goal. Got into some great positions and had two very good headers. The first straight at the keeper and the second against the post. Should have kept it a little simple at the end and taken the shot. Think it would've done well for his confidence.

Luis Suarez (8. 5): My MOTM. Once again, his movement was world class. He doesn't get full marks because he just lacked that wee bit of sharpness when making runs and his passing was a little off. Overcooked a couple of passes. Still, his goal was very well taken and he could've had a couple more. He needs to be a little more ruthless in front of goal



Subs


Dirk Kuyt (6. 5)- (on 71' for Henderson).... Smart decision to bring him on after Kelly got the yellow. He tracked back well and moved forward well. He has a good understanding with Luis and tries his best to play the pass and move game we try to aim for.

Steven Gerrard (7): (on 81' for Suarez).... Made an impact right from the time he got on the pitch. He looked likely to score

My post-match player ratings for the Merseyside Derby @ Goodison Park:

Pepe Reina (7) … Not a lot to do throughout. Claimed a few corners and crosses, dealt with a dipping Cahill shot and had Distin's effort covered. Second-half, dealt with a few long range efforts from Saha and Drenthe. Showed some leadership skills, when Skrtel and Carra stood off Saha a bit on 60' for a free shot at goal, and also reminded Carra a couple of times to keep the defensive line away from the goal. Largely untroubled for a derby game.

Martin Skrtel (7. 5) … Very good in the air and on the deck. Nice to see him growing in confidence again, after having been run ragged at RB recently. Looked assured.

Jamie Carragher (8) … Superb display and has the perfect character for these type of Derby games. Very combatative early on. Hoofed it a bit too much until 20' (when Kenny told him to cut it out.... And in no uncertain terms). Afterwards, he did extremely well and he passed it about very well too. Kept a nice high defensive line as well, though he maybe needed a little encouragement from Reina once or twice here. Old habits etc. Got in a vital headed clearance just before Carroll's goal.

Jose Enrique (8. 5) … MOTM. He used great upper-body strength to shield the ball, at times shepharding it out for a throw-in and at other times playing his way out of tight situations. Great on the ball, very good passing and puts in a mean cross too. Top notch display.combined brilliantly with Bellamy for the opener. Somewhat strangely, didn't get forward as much as he usually does, until Bellamy came on. He racks up a huge number of passes per game (and pass completions) for a LB, probably because his teammates just know he'll use the ball well. Buy of the summer so far.

Martin Kelly (6. 5) … Very solid defensively. In attack, looks to still be missing (some) match sharpness, as his crosses were a little wayward.

Charlie Adam (6).... What a shot onto the bar in first half injury time! A class strike. As with Downing though, it'd be a struggle to name too many other high points. Probably could have been subbed off 15 minutes earlier.

Lucas Leiva (8) … An understated performance throughout, which was all about tackling and covering before the red-card. Afterwards, he switched over to Brazilian-mode, averaged a staggering more than a-pass-a-minute and became the undisputed hub in midfield.completed a massive 27 (of 31 passes) in the final third then. The attack misfired a little on the day, but if at first you don't succeed … A clenched fist salute to the fans, a huge smile and a big embrace from Kenny, when subbed off late on.

Dirk Kuyt (7. 5) … Put in a perfect cross for Suarez (who should have scored) early on, then laid it off to Adam for his strike onto the bar. Took a decent penalty.... Maybe Howard's army camouflage jersey put him off. Put in a tireless hard-working display, but did seem to just miss that creative spark in attack. Nice dummy for Carroll's goal though.

Stewart Downing (5. 5) … Made an excellent cross that Suarez just failed to get to (very) early on. After that as with Adam, I'd struggle to think of anything that he created. Switched sides with Kuyt, but that didn't help much either. His most subdued game to date.

Andy Carroll (6. 5) … Decent game from Carroll. Seriously lacked service throughout, but a couple of good headers on target second-half in quick succession seemed to get him going. Then scored a well-taken goal and had some decent passing. Almost got on the end of a Gerrard pass too.

Luis Suarez (7) … A very quiet game by his standards - and yet he was still involved in the red-card (that wasn't), won us a penalty, had a point-blank effort saved and took his goal well (after Everton's comical defensive mixup between Distin and Baines). I'll take a quieter game from him any day though, and if he hits top-form soon …. Defenders watch out. Got to be a hat-trick performance coming soon, it seems overdue. Does seem to get very tired late on in games, but then again, he does put in a massive shift every game.



Subs


Steven Gerrard (6. 5); (on 65' for Adam) … Apart from one great free-kick, he just sat in the middle and played simple passes. He passsed it with speed (and purpose) though, in typical Gerrard fashion.

Craig Bellamy (6. 5); (on 65' for Downing) … A real (if infrequent) threat when he came on and brilliant link up play with Enrique for Carroll's goal.

Jordan Henderson (); (on 85' for Lucas) … Samll cameo in cm

Liverpool vs Manchester United, Sat 15th October, 2011
Anfield

Form: Completely irrelevant. Form has always, and always will, be completely and utterly meaningless in this match. All predictions are wild guesses.

Possible Liverpool formation:

-------------Reina-----------
Kelly Carragher Agger Enrique
-Kuyt Gerrard Lucas Downing-
----------Suarez-------------
---------------Carroll-------

Absentees:

Looks like Liverpool have a full roster to choose from in what feels like an absolute age. Gerrard could start for the first time this season while Johnson, Kelly, Agger and even Aurelio should be ready.
Cleverley, Vidic and Smalling are under injury clouds for United but will most likely be available.

What Kenny says:

On the squad’s availability:
"Everybody's fine. The three boys who came back from South America are all fine. It's only myself that's ill. I can't even get a game in a five-a-side.”

Source: Link: www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11669_7239022,00.h...

On the opponent:
"They are a fantastic team, a hugely successful football club, and we know it's going to be a very difficult game. But I think they'll look at it and think exactly the same thing.”

On the rivalry with Ferguson:
"I don't have any individual contest with Fergie. It's the football clubs who play. We don't play anymore. We can't really influence it other than in the build-up and preparation for the games. The most important thing for us is how we compete as a team on the pitch.”

“This football club is more important than me and always will be. The result on Saturday is more important because it's about how millions of other people feel, rather than how I feel. It's not a boxing match, it's a game of football.”

Source: Link: www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/kd-it-s-not-me...


Key Players:

This is the type of match where Liverpool will definitely need a solid contribution from the entire 11 but you just might need an individual to provide a spark. Last season Suarez and Kuyt provided that, maybe this time though it will be the man who has done it so many times before, Stevie G…if he starts on the field that is. Personally, I would be thrilled if Andy Carroll was the key for us tomorrow. I’d like to see any Liverpool supporter criticize him if he scores the winner against United :P.

For United, there are dangers all over the place from a Liverpool point of view but it would be typical of a certain former Merseyside boy to shine in a week where he is surrounded by controversy. Rooney is in great form and is going to be an ongoing headache for our defence, unless he is sent off first…


Unlikely Headline in Sunday’s papers:
‘Rooney and Ferguson gracious in victory/defeat’ :P

Question Marks:

Can Liverpool make it four in a row against their bitter enemy at Anfield?
Will Stevie be given his first start of the season?
Will Rooney continue his good form or will he be at the centre of more controversy?
Who will Rooney’s dad place a bet on?
Will there be any more red cards in this fixture? (There has been four in the last four matches at Anfield)


Watch out for:
A friendly atmosphere around the stadium with players treating he match like an exhibition with very little…oh who am I kidding?! This could be a bloodbath! Keep an eye out for the first confrontation between Carragher and Nani…Agger or Skrtel might be nearby as well…


Predictions:
When facing a team on top of he table, who have played some incredible football over the past few weeks, your head suggests its going to be tough to even get a point. However, as I said earlier, form is meaningless and predictions are impossible but just for the hell of it I will say 2-1 to Liverpool.
Meanwhile, the heart says what it always says in matches like this, Liverpool 4 or more-0 United. Whatever happens though its going to be a hell of a ride and I can't wait for it. :)