What do we do if Coutinho gets injured, or the lad just needs a rest from getting mauled each week? With Coutinho, I would like to see this formation in a few weeks time: ---Gerrard---Lucas--- Moses---Coutinho---Suarez ------Sturridge------ BUT, what can you fellows see happening if for any reason Coutinho cant play?? FOOTNOTE: I personally think Countinho has yet to shine, I dont doubt that he will, but it is telling that we have to play him anyway at about 75% form. Also I note that opposition teams like to kick him... a lot
He'll be harder to kick when he floats just behind the main striker, on the wings when they can double team him he's easier meat...
Still think in that team you'd miss Henderson's energy in the middle. Always let Suarez roam and put Henderson in or move Aspas in from one of the wide positions.
I think we have ample cover for him up front. Ibe moses raheem studge aspas alberto Suarez hendo gerro can all jockey for positions. Kuytinho hasn't been his best yet this season... he showed his worth multiple times last season though. Needs to learn how not to be muscled out of the game. Notice this year he is taking a little more roughing up from opponents.
I agree that Hendo's energy lets others concentrate on their creativity. Would Suarez roaming, isolate Sturridge? Or allow him to poach in the box. It will be interesting to see how BR manages both of them. I just wander what Rodgers plan would be without Philippe. He seems like a nailed on starter despite form or opposition.
I actually think Suarez be missing is making teams suffocating Coutinho as they dont have Saurez to worry about they concentrate on Coutinho so when Suarez comes back reckon he might get more space.
its really simple... you just play 4-3-3 with suarez.... no biggie. he's not exactly set the world alight yet this season.
With Coutinho being obviously targeted as the guy to "pressure" in order to stop Liverpool's linkup with the front men, its really up to Gerrard to to fill in when this is happening. Gerrard has been poor compared to last season in this respect but I expect as the season goes on the team will get better at balancing this responsibility depending on the opposition.
Once Suarez comes back, defenders will be pre-occupied with him which will give Coutinho more space to operate. I think Coutinho has struggled slightly this season because he playing out on the wing which isn't his best position. As others have said, we cannot afford to take Hendo out of the team purely because of his energy. Having said this, this speaks volumes about our current central midfield partnership because they should be providing this energy. It's rare that 2 CM's require another person to do the running.