By Kieran Thorne
So the end of the season is approaching, rumour mill started months ago but what do we really need. We have one of the best academy structures in the world that was implemented by Rafa and King Kenny. Everyone was wondering what Kenny’s role as ambassador was but now I believe we are starting to see what it truly was.
It wasn’t to thrust LFC into the limelight, public appearances etc. it was to make sure that the future is bright. We are now starting to reap the benefits with Kelly, Spearing, Shelvey, Flanagan, Robinson excelling when called upon. That’s without the other youngsters who haven’t played for the first team yet: Suso, Sterling, Morgan, Coady etc.
The average age of the team that started against Arsenal on Sunday was 26 against Arsenals, which was just under 24. Arsenal are referred to as the young pretenders but with 2 years difference we are not looking too bad. The thing that excites me is these young players are getting a chance and not looking out of place.
Talk about a game of 2 halves, this has been a season of 2 halves and we have seen the deepest darkness and the lightest day. With the end of the season approaching there could be many permutations for qualifying for the Europa league but from what I have seen this season in that competition, I do not believe the players wanted it and it was more a hindrance rather than a competition that you wanted to go all out for. Yes it is always nice to win a piece of silverware but did we ever go into Europe and show the kind of performance that we showed against the 2 Manchester teams and the grit and determination that was shown at the Emirates on Sunday, I don’t think so.
As mad as it may sound, I would prefer us not to qualify for Europe and concentrate on that League finish and the FA Cup and also give the aforementioned young players a chance in the league cup. Anyone remember Fowler against Fulham, this is our chance again.
Onto the summer, transfer rumours flying about everywhere but do we need as many players as people think. I am 95% confident from what I have been hearing that Reina will be at Liverpool next season and captain in 3 years. With the defence, we only need a left back; we don’t need the Aly Cissokho’s, Michel Bastos who have been rumoured. I would suggest going for Wayne Bridge or someone of that mould who is late 20’s to early 30’s to help integrate Robinson into the first team. With the midfield, Ashley Young who we have been linked with would be perfect for the right wing to help Sterling come in. Also I like the idea of Downing who has one of the best deliveries in the premiership. We also need a backup striker and I think there is a certain Ruud Van Nistelrooy who is out of contract in the summer. I know he played for Manchester United but what better goalscorer to lead the way for our young strikeforce and youngsters coming through.
Here is to a successful 2011/2012 campaign
YNWA
Kieran