As the title suggests, for me ( opinion of course, feel free to add), I feel overall pretty good about our attacking options, defensive options and flexibility, and GK seems sorted ( possibly a back up). I do not like, and have not liked our CM's for awhile. I think Lucas does well, I know Gerrard still has some gas in the tank, and Coutinho at no. 10 is the way forward but then what? Is Hendo the answer ( still think more of a squad player but works hard so he doesn't get the grate from me), Allen really worth the 15 mil price tag and what we need? Who else after that? When you think about when we were good under Rafa, I can always point to our strongest point was our CM's ( we did/do have a song about it). Hamann, Gerrard, Alonso, Mascher, Sissoko, Lucas later, so many options and all the varying types of players as well. What do you think is still missing from the CM. If you could add who you would like to add, why you think it is lacking, etc. Hopefully get some good footy debate!
Our midfield needs Henderson at the moment, but it shouldn't. Henderson shouldn't just be stuck in there for his energy, he's coming along fantastically and is growing as a player with every passing match, but he won't ever fully flourish if he's there for leg work. Out of Gerrard, Lucas, Coutinho, Lucas is definitely the odd one out. Gerrard hasn't been at his best but he still holds that match winning ability, and is comfortable under pressure. Now I think Lucas is a great player, but when he's not on song our midfield does suffer, he's looked a tad leggy since he returned which is making our midfield a bit static and predictable.. I will add I don't think the 3-5-2 suits any of our midfield pairings. I'd love Mulumbu alongside Gerrard, but that's more of a personal preference as I think he's a classy player!
Ahhh the central midfield during Rafa's reign was our strength, which allowed us to defend and attack as a unit. Having protection behind in the form of Alonso and Mascherano, Gerrard could go do what he does best. Lucas is a good DM - but he cannot play in a pair. He needs players in front of him, as he is more comfortable sitting in the middle and occupying the space. With Gerrard beside him, he constantly has to cover more ground which he should have to once Gerrard is beaten. If Rodgers persists with this midfield pairing/formation, then he needs players who are better suited. Personally, Lucas, Allen and Henderson are great squad players for us. I don't see them taking us to the next level. First of all, we need an energetic, physical ball winner in the Mascherano mould. My ideal option would be M'Vila. Not only is he a ball winner, but he can play the ball on the deck as well. Classy, young player who fits our transfer strategy. [video=youtube_share;6_C5IoIKhgQ]http://youtu.be/6_C5IoIKhgQ[/video] A more optimistic choice would Matic. Again, intelligent player who defends extremely well but has the extra ability when it comes to attacking passing. [video=youtube_share;VjPS6e4-tvU]http://youtu.be/VjPS6e4-tvU[/video] One of these two players would give us the energy in the midfield area that we desperately need. Currently, we're relying on Henderson on providing the energy that should be coming from Lucas and Gerrard. [HR][/HR] Then along side the DM (again, if we persist with 2 men holding) we need the deep lying playmaker who is always on the move and can nick the ball (thus providing more security from a defensive POV). Alonso is known for his passing and vision, but he was strong, physical and good in the air. Allen could be this player but needs to step it up. Ever Banega would be a very good option for me as he possess these qualities. [video=youtube_share;R6aGREvNpPs]http://youtu.be/R6aGREvNpPs[/video] Koke of Atletico Madrid would be an optimistic choice. [video=youtube_share;XQ-cF1B-tJw]http://youtu.be/XQ-cF1B-tJw[/video]
You missed Lucas on Saturday, as without him Newcastle bossed the middle of the park, as Gerrard & Henderson didn't cover enough ground imo & were consistently missing the second balls. In their defence Moses offered no assistance whatsoever & is never a No.10.
I don't think Lucas would have made any difference. We're being overpowered in the middle due to current tactics and personnel - it's a combination.
