There is nothing more boring than hearing semi-football fans talk about certain Liverpool players not passing forwards.
So, we’re sorry we’re stooping to that level in this post.
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But last night, our midfield was especially unambitious – partly because Napoli were extremely aggressive off the ball, and partly because our fullbacks were not pushing forward and providing passing options.
However, between them, Jordan Henderson and Gini Wijnaldum passed the ball forward 12 times out of 87 attempts, according to Dan Kennett!
There's a gazillion reasons why the team didn't function going forwards. But Hendo & Gini only playing 12 forward passes out of 87 is a big one.
*If* you can keep the front 3 quiet then you're in with a shout because the Milner/Gini/Hendo midfield isn't going to trouble you.— Dan Kennett (@DanKennett) October 3, 2018
That kind of sums up our play at the San Paolo, in fairness.
The players looked tired and it’s probably no surprise considering the number of big matches we’ve had to contest in the past month.
It’s the first time this season we’ve truly had a stinker, so the players can be forgiven.
Of course, they’ll be judged on how they bounce back.
On Sunday, we host Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City at Anfield and all we be forgotten should we get the win.