Liverpool season ratings: heroes and villains from the campaign so far…
Here is how we think Liverpool are shaping up so far this season, with each player rated out of ten. Who do you think has been the Reds best and worst performers so far this year?
Goalkeepers
Simon Mignolet – 6.5 – Much of the criticism directed at him so far this season has been somewhat unjustified, but it’s hard to argue with the fact that he has only kept two clean sheets in all competitions.
Brad Jones – N/A – Purely a back-up option, and it seems inevitable that Liverpool will bring in stronger competition for Mignolet in the near future.
Full-Backs
Glen Johnson – 6.5 – Has continued to soak up the criticism aimed at his supposedly declining performances, but has been better since his return from injury last month.
Javier Manquillo – 7 – The young Spaniard has been impressive considering his lack of game time prior to the move to Anfield. Definitely looks like one for the future.
Alberto Moreno – 6.5 – Two major errors against Manchester City and Newcastle have taken the shine off an otherwise impressive start to the season. His goal against Tottenham the highlight.
Jose Enrique – 5.5 – As been underwhelming since his return from injury, but definitely needs to be given more time after such a long period on the sidelines.
Jon Flanagan – N/A – One of the biggest disappointments for Liverpool fans has been the injury to Flanagan, which has kept him out all season. After a series of excellent performances last term, it could not have come at a worse time.
Centre-Backs
Martin Skrtel – 6.5 – Has not looked the player of last season, as Liverpool continue to struggle at the back. He is also yet to register a goal, having struck seven times during the previous campaign.
Dejan Lovren – 6 – The £20m summer signing from Southampton has looked a shadow of the player the Reds bought from the South Coast. His positional sense has let him down thus far, and he rapidly needs to improve.
Mamadou Sakho – 5.5 – Liverpool fans were rightly excited when the Frenchman arrived at the club 18 months ago, but he has struggled to settle at Anfield, a situation summed up with him storming out of the ground after not being selected for the Everton game.
Kolo Toure – 5.5 – A cup player for Liverpool, who is clearly not trusted to play a major role in league games after last season’s errors.
Centre Midefielders
Steven Gerrard – 6.5 – Teams appear to be working out how to play against the Liverpool captain, who has been far less effective in the holding role this season, leading to a change in formation from Brendan Rodgers.
Lucas Leiva – 6 – Appears to be out of favour with Rodgers, who has given the Brazilian limited game-time in the Premier League, despite the fact that he can still put in a good shift when required.
Jordan Henderson – 7 – Earned his role as vice captain as he continued from where he’d left off last season, with a series of impressive performances, but has faded slightly in recent weeks.
Joe Allen – 6 – Simply goes missing too often in games, and has disappointed far too often in a Liverpool shirt this season. A better player when things are going well, rather than when backs are against the wall.
Emre Can – 6.5 – Has shown signs of promise after returning from an injury that kept him out for the start of the season. Deserved to be given a more prolonged chance.
Attacking Midfielders
Lazar Markovic – 5.5 – Yet to be given an extended run in the team. Unfortunately, what we have seen of him has been distinctly underwhelming, especially considering the transfer fee.
Raheem Sterling – 7.5 – Has been Liverpool’s most consistent performer, especially during the early part of the season where he was regularly contributing goals and assists. Has faded slightly after being moved out wide.
Philippe Coutinho – 7 – Started the season slowly, but has improved in recent weeks to look the team’s most dynamic and creative performer, even if he is yet to show his best form.
Adam Lallana – 6 – Has shown glimpses of the player Liverpool spent £25m on, but has yet to do so on a consistent basis. To be fair, he missed the entirety of pre-season due to injury and needs more time.
Suso – 6.5 – Has rarely been given a chance so far this season and could well leave in either the January transfer window, or next summer, if he does not receive more game time. But has impressed in the short time he’s had.
Strikers
Daniel Sturridge – 7 – Scored in his first game of the season and looked his normal, impressive self before picking up an injury that has had a major impact on Liverpool’s season.
Mario Balotelli – 5.5 – Has yet to show anything of the talent that tempted the Reds into parting with £16m during the summer. With just two goals so far, the Kop will be desperate to see more from the Italian.
Rickie Lambert – 5 – Looks lost and out of place in the Liverpool team, and has only been used as a bit-part player. Unless he improves he will not be with the Reds next season.
Fabio Borini – 6 – Has rarely been given a chance after choosing to stay at the club in the summer. But has worked hard to prove his worth in the team, and perhaps deserves more opportunities.