#but his teammates are all origis or something

[the-ic-corner]

.... Ante is too good for these guys

[kloppool]

Essay - One of Our Own: Jurgen Klopp and his influence

It is a special thing to have a manager that fits so seamlessly with what a club is. Football clubs are much more then just men chasing a ball. They’re pillars of the community, an important social gathering spot, an event and oftentimes, stand for something socially and politically. There are few better examples of this then Liverpool. The motto says it all. “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” And indeed, they have proved this. Time and time again former players will recall how much they love and miss Liverpool. Bill Shankly was famously a socialist and many of Liverpool’s managers since have expressed similar sentiments. Liverpool is known as a working class city and the fans reflect this in not just their passion for the club, but what they expect of the players and manager. All of this is to say Liverpool has an incredibly strong identity Which is why its so very special that Jurgen Klopp has not only fit flawlessly into this identity, but enhanced it. Everyone knows Jurgen Klopp is German, born in Stuttgart and raised on the borders of the Black Forest. But everyone also knows Jurgen Klopp is a Scouser, reborn in Liverpool and raised on the banks of the River Mersey.

The primary reason for Jurgen Klopp’s success and ascension to something beyond a manager can, in my opinion, be summed out with one word: vibes. It sounds a little stupid, maybe, but it's true. There are so many things you can quantify in football. The “stats revolution” has made us hyperaware of every single footballing aspect of a player, allowing clubs and players to maximize their effectiveness. Obviously, vibes are different. There’s no such thing as “expected vibes.” Oftentimes, you must read between the lines or pay close to attention to off-picth happenings to be clued in. However, despite not being as easy to feel out, vibes are undeniably incredibly important. In fact, they can make or break a club. And, usually, the vibes are dictated by the manager, simply by the way they choose to do things. Playing style, how training is conducted, rules, involvement with team matters and decisions. 

Jurgen Klopp’s approach, as we well know, is all encompisng. His influence is felt all over the club. This is partially why so many players are able to buy into Liverpool’s playing style ad culture so easily. Klopp’s playing style is very intense and requires high energy. Naturally, over the course of a long season, this can be hard to maintain. This play style requires a complete buy-in from players at all levels. Football is a game of trust in your own abilities, but just as crucially, in those of your teammates. In order to ensure players buy into his system, Klopp himself needs to be energetic and intense. It’s why he goes off on rants during press conferences. It’s why he ran onto the pitch to hug Alisson after Origi’s Everton winner.  

Vibes also very much depend upon the players at a club. Prima-donnas with egos the size of Jupiter may score goals, but cause chaos in the dressing room. There are countless examples of teams that have been brought to their knees because of behind-the-scenes-drama. Now, a little bit of conflict is inevitable. Footballers need to be overconfident, and at times, a little selfish, in order to succeed. But constant disharmony, angry inetrvies and arguments will sink a squad, no matter how many star signings there are. 

Known to be a very passionate figure, Klopp exhibits a warmth and love for this club, its players and Liverpool as a city that is truly special. He’s charming and funny. In one of his first press conferences he famously called himself “The Normal One.” Mid-game, he will turn to the fans at Anfield, and let them know his feelings. Klopp does this because he understands how essential the supporters are in a football game and knows there is no better 11th man then a roaring Anfield. 

Alexis Mac Allister was at Liverpool for only a few months when he gave an interview talking about how his teammates tease him “They say he’s my dad now.” Naby Keita, who struggled with injuries while a Liverpool player, said he had tears in his eyes when Klopp announced his departure. Many of Klopp’s former Dortmund players still talk about him fondly and with the utmost respect. He hugs his players (and sometimes the opposing teams’ as well) like there’s nothing else in the world. 

Speaking of players. Klopp seems to have a knack for picking (and helping create) leaders, both on and off the pitch. 5 players are captains for their national teams, including Virgil van Dijk, the current Liverpool captain. The Liverpool leadership group is composed of Egypt captain Mo Salah, Scotland captain Andy Robertson, Brazil goalkeeper Alisson and the vice-captain, Trent-Alexander Arnold. Robertson and Alexander-Arnold stand out here and are perhaps the best pair of players to showcase Klopp’s success. Robertson was signed from Hull for a only 8 million pounds. Alexander-Arnold was a Liverpool academy player. Neither were flashy signings. But they’ve both grown into leaders, have become renowned for their styles of play and are now occupy the first and second spots for most assists by a defender in Premier League history. 

Klopp gives all of himself to his players, his team and his city. And that’s why he’s leaving. In his announcement, he said he was running out of energy. Klopp knows that in order to get the most of out of this team- to give them what they deserve, he needs to be 100%. And he’s not. It’s a product of not just aging, but having been a manager at a high level for so long. It’s hard to find the words to say how horrible it feels knowing he’ll say goodbye. But Klopp is getting to do something incredibly special in football- leaving on his own terms. He has never been sacked. He’s beloved by millions. He stands out in a line not just of legendary Liverpool managers, but managers in general. His influence will continue through the players he has become a father for, a club he has become a hero for and a city that calls him one of their own.

[thefinishedarticle]

Depth

In Jules Verne’s novel of the same name, the protagonists journeyed Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. The title is popularly thought to refer to the ocean’s depth, but actually refers to distance travelled: the greatest depth actually reached is four leagues.

In my analysis of the depth of European national teams, I’ve gone one further: I’ve looked at Europe’s top five leagues, home to the fifteen top-ranked teams under UEFA’s club coefficients. They’re all familiar names. The top tier is Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, and Man City. The next rung is made up of Atlético Madrid, PSG, Manchester United, and Liverpool, Sevilla, followed by Arsenal, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund, Spurs, and Roma.

I have looked only at regular players. This means at least 25 appearances so far in the 2020/21 season, including all competitions and sub appearances - these teams have all played over 40 games, so this allows a fair discount for rotation.

Only three national teams can make up a 23-man squad from these teams. 

This will come as a surprise to many. In the build up to Euro 2020, there has been plenty of discussion about the teams to watch. One of the first names on anybody’s list is Belgium, who are seen to have some of the best depth of any squad. They don’t even come close to making the cut. They only have five regular players in the top 15.

This is not the last decade, when every Premier League club seemed to have a Belgian star. Courtois and Mignolet kept goal for Chelsea and Liverpool respectively. Kompany and Vermaelan were the rocks at the heart of City and Arsenal’s back lines, and Alderweireld joined Vertonghen at Spurs. Hazard, de Bruyne and Lukaku were the centre of Chelsea, City and United’s attacks. The same clubs picked up Boyata, Fellaini, Januzaj, Chadli, Benteke, Origi and Bashuayi as part of the world’s new footballing superpower.

Courtois now plays for Real Madrid, and Alderweireld and de Bruyne are still in place, but other than Origi’s spot on Liverpool’s bench the rest have fallen out of the spotlight. Eden Hazard has struggled with injuries since his own move to Madrid, but most have simply passed their prime, or failed to realise their potential. 

Leicester City are leading a second wave with Tielemans, Praet and Castagne.  Mertens is 33 and still a regular at Napoli. Lukaku deserves recognition at Inter Milan, whose coefficient should be higher. Hazard’s brother Thorgan has 19 appearances for Dortmund. But by the terms of this search, only his teammate Meunier and Atleti’s Carrasco join Courtois, de Bruyne and Alderweireld in making the list. They still have some big hitters, but the wave of talent has passed.

Portugal are another team considered amongst the favourites. They have Man City trio Cancelo, Dias and Bernardo Silva, Liverpool’s Jota and United’ Fernandes, some of the best players in the league this year, together with the likes of Atlético’s Felix and Juventus’s Ronaldo. But again, they are nowhere close to having a whole squad of top level players. Only 9 make the list. As with Belgium, they make up the rest of their squad from their own domestic league, and players from second-string teams (including what seems like half of the Wolves squad).

You could argue that it’s more important to have five world-class players than 50 decent ones, and that’s a fair point, but it’s not what I’m looking at here. I’m talking about squad depth, and Portugal simply don’t have it. Neither do Belgium, despite what many of us suspect, given our recent memory of their players’ dominance.

There are two other sides of a similar class. Wales, Scotland, Croatia and Denmark have three players on the list, which is an interesting comparison to Belgium’s five (although, as noted above, a dominant midfield was enough for Croatia’s first team to go far in the 2018 World Cup). Portugal, on nine, are sandwiched between two other big footballing nations: the Netherlands (7) and Italy (11). 

The former aren’t exactly a shock, given that they met Portugal in the 2019 Nations League final. But after the break-up of the Ajax side that starred in that year’s Champions League, they look a little less secure. They should really have another player on the list in the form of de Vrij, with Inter Milan harshly marked down, like we saw with Belgium and Lukaku. But the injury to van Dijk is a massive blow, like Hazard is to Belgium, and they are otherwise fielding a lot of squad players: Bergwijn, van de Beek, Wijnaldum and Ake all technically play for the Premier League’s biggest teams, but they aren’t exactly their star players. They have de Jong at Barca and de Ligt at Juve, but not a great deal more.

It’s perhaps unsurprising that the top five teams represent the top five leagues. You could say it’s inevitable, that even the biggest teams will have a preference for domestic players and so these nations will have players at those teams. You could argue that Portugal and the Netherlands might be better represented if only Porto or Ajax had made the cut. 

Indeed, 7 of Italy’s 11 come from Juve and Roma, with PSG contributing Kean, Verratti and Florenzi and Chelsea’s Jorginho making up the set. Not that half the Juve team is something to be lightly dismissed, and if anything there can be an advantage to having a squad used to playing together. But Juve aren’t quite what they were, and that famous Italian rear-guard are well past their prime, with Barzagli retired, Chiellini and Buffon warming the bench and Bonucci now 33. 

Italy also have the benefit of players at other domestic clubs, like the two Milan teams who are at least the equal of a Porto or an Ajax, and others like Lazio’s Immobile. They’re short on star-power, but they have an actual world class manager in Roberto Mancini, and their recent results have been consistently impressive. They are one of four teams with a chance of winning the 2021 Nations League after the Euros are done, but everybody seems to write them off because they lack Portugal’s big names.

Germany have a similar story. Their list is much larger, jumping from 11 to 21 players, but again there is a domestic advantage: nine of those players come from Bayern, and a further four from Dortmund. But as Bayern may be the best team in the world, having nine of their regulars less a caveat and more of a boast, with that same advantage of having existing relationships and fluency. Adding the likes of Toni Kroos, Ilkay Gundogan and Julian Draxler to Bayern’s midfield, and Germany are as impressive as any team in the world.

But again, they aren’t really rated as one of the sides to watch in the tournament. This might be because of how the numbers are distributed: having 21 players at top sides is impressive, but they can only play three or four midfielders at a time, so having nine or so of the best midfielders in Europe doesn’t really help them more than Portugal having a few of them. They also have three of the best goalkeepers, but look a little bare in defence and up-front, not helped by the decision to exile Boateng, Hummels and Muller since 2018 (a self-inflicted punishment no other nation has to face).

France are the first team to clear the hurdle of 23 players for a squad, with one to spare. They are also the first to have those players spread relatively evenly over all of the required positions. In fact, their squad depth is deeply impressive. Using only Premier League players, they could select a fairly decent group: Lloris, Areola, Fofana, Zouma, Digne, Laporte, Mendy, Saliba, Doucouré, Mendy, Guendouzi, Kante, Pogba, Ndombele, Sissoko, Martial, Lacazette, Giroud. Not all world-class footballers, but that would still be one of the top handful of sides in the Euros.

But then they have players across the rest of Europe. As well as two Man City defenders, they have two defenders at most of Europe’s biggest clubs. PSG just beat Bayern Munich with Kimpembe and Dagba in their backline, and played Kurzawa against Barcelona in the previous round. Bayern have Hernández and Pavard, who won the 2018 World Cup final on either side of Barcelona’s Umtiti, since displaced by Lenglet, and Real Madrid’s Varane, who shares his club with Ferland Mendy.

Further forward, those four teams provide the firepower of Mbappe, Toilsso and Coman, Dembele and Griezmann, and the exiled Karim Benzema (as with Germany, a self-inflicted punishment, although in this case it doesn’t seem to hold them back). A.C. Milan, currently top of the Italian league, have another two defenders in Hernandez and Kalulu. Atlético Madrid have Lemar and Moussa Dembele. Juventus have Rabiot. 

Then there are highly rated players like Upamecano, Aouar, Fekir and Ben Yedder at other sides across the German, French and Spanish leagues. I went with regulars from the top 15 clubs as a rough metric for the best 159 European players, on the basis that football is a meritocracy and the best players tend to either increase the standing of their club or move to a bigger one, but obviously there are big fish in small ponds as well - the exceptions to the rule, and much harder to quantify.

France could probably field two or three squads and they would all make it out of the group stage. Before Belgium and Portugal, they are the first team which get mentioned in terms of Euro 2020 squads, and in their case the hype is fully vindicated. But, strangely enough, they are only third in terms of this list. England pip them by just one player, although that’s two if you subtract Benzema.

Weirdly, England are ahead of them. Again, this is thanks to having a lot of domestic teams in the selection, and indeed almost none of the English players are abroad: Tripper at Atléti and Sancho and Bellingham at Dortmund are the only three of the twenty-five, and they might not even make the squad. That’s less than any of the other comparable nations. 

But the Premier League contingent are also spread out between the teams, so there is no teamwork advantage like Germany have with Bayern. Instead, there is the potential disadvantage that England’s team is made of club-level rivals. As with Germany, the distribution of the players is a problem. It is no good having 50 players on the list if they are all strikers, and England’s list of 25 has five right-backs and no goalkeepers (the opposite of Germany).

The English list is forward-heavy, and most of them won’t make the squad. Kane, Rashford, Sterling, Sancho, Foden, Saka, Nketiah, Hudson-Odoi and Abraham appear for the top clubs in the same positions, and face competition from the likes of Grealish and Calvert-Lewin from elsewhere in the league. In the absence of the injured Joe Gomez, England really only have two top centre-backs, with Curtis Jones and Rob Holding unlikely to even appear as subs. 

The base number is therefore not as impressive as it seems, and about eleven of these players aren’t in Gareth Southgate’s plans. But perhaps that is testament to the depth at other club sides, with players like Rice, Phillips and Lingard appearing in midfield as well as those up front. It’s also true that England only have four players in the top 5 clubs, compared to five for Portugal, ten for France and Spain, and twelve for Germany. They may have more decent players, but fewer superstars. 

That’s right: Spain are top. They have a massive 29 players on the list, and only 14 of those are at Real, Barca, Atléti and Sevilla. Every team on the list has a player with the exception of Liverpool and Dortmund, and even they have Thiago and Morey just a few appearances short. That shows the depth they have even beyond this list. Chelsea’s Kepa and Alonso, City’s Garcia, Arsenal’s Mari, United’s Mata also don’t make the cut, and neither do 17 players who have appeared for Barcelona or Real Madrid this season.

They could make a back line of Gerard Piqué, Sergio Ramos, Nacho, Dani Carvajal and Sergi Roberto, with the likes of Isco and Ansu Fati ahead of them, and that’s on top of the 29 players who appeared enough to make the list. Atlético have even more, and most sides in La Liga are predominantly Spanish, with the likes of Iago Aspas and Gerard Moreno (one of the most in form strikers in Europe) further down the table. Spain aren’t mentioned in the same breath as the likes of France, Portugal and Belgium when discussing favourites for the tournament, but I think a lot of people are sleeping on the sheer depth they have available. 

They won the 2020 Nations League group they shared with Germany, beating them 6-0 in November, and underperformed in the 2018 World Cup having sacked their manager on the eve of the tournament. They also won all of the games they played at home, and will be playing most of their Euro 2020 games in Bilbao. The host advantage is often a huge factor for international tournaments, and this time around Italy, the Netherlands, England, Spain and Germany will have an edge. In the group of death between Germany, France and Portugal, could playing in Munich make the difference for the Bayern contingent?

[sportsleague365]

This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news… According to The Daily Mirror, Liverpool are interested in signing RB Salzburg’s Takumi Minamino in January. WHAT’S THE STORY? The 24-year-old has played twice against the Reds already this season, and even scored at Anfield earlier in the campaign. Now, it is being said that the Merseyside outfit’s hierarchy are pursuing the Japan international. Apparently, he has a release clause of just £7.75m in his contract. FIRMINO SUCCESSOR Minamino has been in fantastic form so far this season. In 22 games in all competitions, he has nine goals and 11 assists, and he has played just one game up front during that time. As part of a young and vibrant Salzburg side, he has arguably been one of their stand-out players. Can you name the result these iconic Liverpool images belong to? Give it a go now… In Europe, he has played most of his games in attacking midfield, just as he did against Liverpool. In that position, he has picked up a WhoScored rating of 7.31, which is not to be sniffed at. That has allowed him to pick up one goal and two assists as well. In Salzburg’s 4-3-1-2 formation which we saw against the Reds, Minamino almost took up a deep-lying centre-forward role as part of an attacking trio, as you can see in the heat-map below. Much like Roberto Firmino does at Liverpool, as a matter of fact. The similarities between the two do not stop there, either. Both provide more for their teammates than they score themselves – the Brazil international has just four goals but has provided nine assists this term, whilst also contributing 1.8 key passes per match in the continental competition – and, perhaps most importantly, they are both defensive forces as part of their respective teams. Minamino has 1.2 tackles per match, which is clearly more than both Erling Haaland and Hwang Hee-Chan, whilst Firmino has made 1.7 himself. Yes, that may be less than Sadio Mane’s 1.8, but in his case, we are talking about a player who finished fourth in the Ballon d’Or rankings – he is something of an anomaly. As we saw on Tuesday in the Red Bull Arena, Minamino works incredibly hard, which is something the former Hoffenheim man has been praised for. Liverpool currently have Divock Origi as the back-up option for Firmino and, although he has done well, scoring five times this term, he is not the same kind of player as the 28-year-old. For just £7.75m, Minamino would represent a bargain that could slot seamlessly into Klopp’s XI. In other news, this 24-year-old could be the man Liverpool fans wanted Georginio Wijnaldum to be. #RobertoFirmino #RbSalzburg #TakumiMinamino

[junker-town]

Roberto Firmino may be the most imaginative player in the Premier League

Roberto Firmino is among the rare strikers who can open up the game with imagination and audacity.

In the seventh minute against Liverpool, Jetro Willems scored his first goal for Newcastle United with a wonderful rocket. His shot from just inside the left side of the box took his defender, fans, and Liverpool by surprise, turning what should have been an easy victory for Liverpool into a difficult endeavor.

Even with Mo Salah, Divock Origi, and Sadio Mané, Liverpool had a difficult time creating any good chances against Newcastle, who were defending deeply. Steve McManaman, one of the commentators for the English broadcast of the game, mused in the 17th minute that, “It’s really noticeable when Firmino is not there. Certainly in tight games like this.”

In the 28th minute, Mané responded to Willems with a wonderstrike of his own, but then in a bittersweet twist of fate, Origi went down and had to be substituted in the 36th minute. Roberto Firmino came on and proved exactly why his absence was so palpable.

Less than 10 minutes after his introduction, Firmino created Liverpool’s second goal.

After Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain took a heavy touch in midfield, Newcastle won the ball, and Christian Atsu tried to engineer a counter-attack. But before Atsu could turn upfield, he was hounded by a combination of Joël Matip and Firmino, who had dropped down into midfield. Firmino’s first touch of the game won the ball from Atsu. He then quickly played a through ball down the middle, where Mané was making a run behind the Newcastle defense, taking advantage of the space Firmino had vacated and the confused central defenders who couldn’t find anyone to mark.

With only two touches, Firmino showed off the dimensions that makes him such an incredible player. Mané scored the second goal to put Liverpool up for good (and admittedly, got lucky that Martin Dubravka made a mess of the save).

When life gives you lemons, Sadio Mané puts them in the back of the net. pic.twitter.com/QfhnF4DLff

— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 14, 2019

Firmino is a hard worker. During a game, he can often be seen chasing the ball all the way back to his own box, and running at defenders to force them to play into dead ends. He sometimes looks more like a box-to-box midfielder than a forward.

Industriousness is often a compliment reserved for players who aren’t talented beyond their engine, but Firmino also has an elite striker ability to score goals. A third factor makes him truly special: his imagination. Winning the ball back from Atsu was great, but where Firmino stands out is his ability to play the pass afterwards.

Darren Fletcher, the co-commentator for the game, praised Firmino for exactly that ability after the goal:

“We talked about the impact Firmino is likely to have coming off the bench, but of course he’s done something there that you wouldn’t see Divock Origi do — that little ball he threaded through to Sadio Mané’s second goal. Perfectly weighted.”

Many players in world football have the skill to do everything Firmino does, but they lack the same imagination and courage. The little things he does often show up in the flicks that open space for his teammates. He’s in the rare category of strikers who are also their team’s playmaker.

As well as defensive support for the midfielders, Firmino also provides proper support for Mané and Salah. Before he came on the field, Liverpool’s attacks were largely direct and pragmatic. They tried several times to create with Trent Alexander-Arnold by sending long balls into the box. Then Firmino came on and opened up a realm of possibilities. His presence allows Liverpool to be more intricate and breathtaking.

As seen during Mané’s second goal, when Firmino drops down to midfield, his two forward colleagues can use their speed to take advantage of the empty space, knowing Firmino can play the necessary pass.

He also gives the two, especially Salah, someone to play one-twos with. In the 49th minute, Salah got the ball from Alexander-Arnold on the sideline, and after turning to the outside, he came back in and played the ball to Firmino, who had run out to support him. Firmino returned the ball to Salah, and a backheel from Salah almost found Chamberlain in the box, had it not been for an outstretched defender.

Soon after, in a wonderful sequence, Firmino scooped the ball over a defender to send Andrew Robertson in on goal:

The play of the game came in the 71st minute when Firmino and Salah combined yet again. This time, Salah played a ball to Firmino under pressure and made a run to his left. Firmino was surrounded by two defenders, and it seemed he had no choice but to touch the ball backwards, away from goal and out of pressure.

Instead, he stopped the ball with the bottom of his right foot, pulled it back with the same foot, and then flicked it between the two defenders and into the path of the streaking Salah. Salah took a few touches to get into the box, then slotted the ball into the bottom right corner for Liverpool’s third goal.

Firmino then had an even better flick — in my opinion — towards the end of the game, even though it didn’t result in a goal.

Firmino combines tenacity with the old Brazilian tenets of creativity and imagination. He’s ruthless and disciplined and exemplifies the team’s pressing strategy, but he can entertain at the same time. He sees ways past a defense that many elite players do not, and he has the audaciousness to try the flicks, passes, and dribbles necessary to create those paths.

Firmino breathes new life into how the game is played and seen. The world he sees is not the same as that of most fans and players, and when he’s about to receive the ball, he makes you think of the possibilities of what he can do. So often, he does something beyond those possibilities. He finds another way, and it’s delightful. Suddenly, you realize that you don’t understand the game as well as you think.

[walkonwalkonwithhopeinyourheart]

Liverpool Panini Stickers 2019/2020 - All of the facts via /r/LiverpoolFC

Liverpool Panini Stickers 2019/2020 - All of the facts

Hello all,

Today I finally completed my Panini sticker collection for the 2019/2020 season. Fulfilling a promise to my younger self that I would collect all of the stickers when Liverpool won the league. I started collecting during lockdown and, although childish, opening a few packs each week was something to look forward to during that time.

I believe the 2019/2020 season is the first premier league season where Panini have produced the stickers. I have fond memories of the Merlin sticker albums, particularly 2004/2005. Have to say I've been impressed with the quality of the Panini stickers.

Each sticker is printed with a fact on the back, I thought it would be fun to compile all of the facts for Liverpool stickers into one post here on Reddit. So here goes:

Liverpool FC Badge - Sticker 284 - "Famously breaking away from Everton in 1892, John Houlding was responsible for forming Liverpool FC"

Alisson - 285 - "Starting as he meant to go on, Alisson kept a clean sheet on his Liverpool debut against West Ham, the 4-0 curtain opener in 2018"

Adrian - 286 - "Last season, Liverpool's first-choice keeper wore the number 13 shirt - a number now claimed by Adrian"

Clyne - 287 - "The Kop was given a roof in 1928 - amplifying the already deafening roar of the passionate Liverpool fans!"

Van Dijk - 288 - "Virgil van Dijk was a vital part of Liverpool's defensive team last season, missing only 35 minutes of Premier League action!"

Lovren - 289 - "Dejan Lovren is good friends with Mo Salah off the pitch - they love to make fun of each other on social media!"

Gomez - 290 - "Having represented his country throughout the age groups, Joseph Gomez is now an established England squad member"

Robbo - 291 - "Andrew Robertson and his colleague Trent Alexander-Arnold have a competition running to see who can contribute the most assists"

Matip - 292 - "Did you know? The term coconut can refer to the whole coconut plant, the seed or the fruit... Defender Joel Matip isn't shy in coming forward, opening his account for the Reds with a powerfully headed goal against Palace in October 2016"

Trent - 293 - "Liverpool born and bred, academy product Trent Alexander-Arnold was handed his senior debut in October 2016"

Fabinho - 294 - "Towering Brazilian Fabinho was signed by Liverpool on 28 May 2018, making his debut four months later"

Gini - 295 - "Consistent Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum secured European football for Liverpool in 2017 with his goal against Middlesbrough"

Hamez Milnerinho - 296 - "Ever dependable, last season James Milner marked an incredible 500 premier league appearances"

Naby - 297 - "Liverpool won their first competitive match, a decisive 8-0 victory against Higher Walton in September 1892"

Hendo - 298 - "Club captain Jordan Henderson had a tough act to follow in Steven Gerrard, but has made the armband his own"

Ox - 299 - "Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has come back from a horrible knee injury to claim a regular place in this season's team"

Lallana - 300 - "When Adam Lallana lived next door to the gaffer, Lallana's son used to shout 'Klopp!' when he saw him putting out the bins!"

Cube - 301 - "On Xherdan Shaqiri's debut - in a pre-season friendly against Manchester United - he scored a spectacular bicycle kick!"

Bobby - 302 - "Roberto Firmino's best man at his wedding was former Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho"

Sadio - 303 - "Sadio Mané won the Golden Boot last season in a three-way tie with teammate Mo Salah and Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang"

Mo - 304 - "Mohamed Salah has been named one of the 100 most influential people in the world, gracing the cover of Time"

Brewster - 305 - "Just eight years after joining the Football League, Liverpool were crowned champions for the first time in 1901"

The GOAT - 306 - "Two of Divock Origi's previous five seasons as a Red have been spent on loan, but when he plays for the Anfield side, he makes a vital contribution!"

Squad picture - 307 - "Iconic manager Bill Shankly took over in 1959 and oversaw 783 games, only losing 178 of those"

Liverpool Home Kit - 308 - "The liver bird has always been a feature of Liverpool FC's crest. In fact, the first version boasted two of them!"

Captain Hendo - 309 - "A rare goal from the skipper bagged Jordan Henderson a Goal of the Month award in September 2016; a stunning long-range effort against Chelsea."

Virgil (Key Player) - 310 - "Virgil van Dijk's defence conceded only 22 goals in the 2018/2019 season - the lowest in the league"

Robbo & Trent (Power pair) - 311 - "Liverpool secured their name on the FA cup for the very first time in 1965"

Anfield - 312 - "Anfield has been home to Liverpool FC since the club's formation in 1892. For eight years beforehand, the ground was actually home to rivals Everton!"

Mo Salah (Elite) - 322 - "After joining Liverpool from AS Roma in summer 2017, Mohamed Salah scored 44 goals in his debut season as a red"

The GOAT (PL by numbers) - 343 - "Divock Origi has scored on all seven days of the week for Liverpool!"

EDIT:

Forgot to include Taki & Joe Hardy who were update stickers:

Taki - U20 - "Takumi Minamino is Liverpool's first Japanese player and the ninth to have played in the Premier League"

Hardy - U21 - "Joe scored 40 goals in 80 games for Brentford's B-team"

Submitted September 09, 2020 at 02:14PM by Trimalchio8 via reddit https://ift.tt/35qml3j

[tipsoctopus]

Bargain Liverpool transfer target might be perfect long-term Roberto Firmino successor - opinion

This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…

According to The Daily Mirror, Liverpool are interested in signing RB Salzburg’s Takumi Minamino in January.

What’s the story?

The 24-year-old has played twice against the Reds already this season, and even scored at Anfield earlier in the campaign.

Now, it is being said that the Merseyside outfit’s hierarchy are pursuing the Japan international. Apparently, he has a release clause of just £7.75m in his contract.

Firmino successor

Minamino has been in fantastic form so far this season. In 22 games in all competitions, he has nine goals and 11 assists, and he has played just one game up front during that time. As part of a young and vibrant Salzburg side, he has arguably been one of their stand-out players.

Can you name the result these iconic Liverpool images belong to? Give it a go now…

In Europe, he has played most of his games in attacking midfield, just as he did against Liverpool. In that position, he has picked up a WhoScored rating of 7.31, which is not to be sniffed at. That has allowed him to pick up one goal and two assists as well.

In Salzburg’s 4-3-1-2 formation which we saw against the Reds, Minamino almost took up a deep-lying centre-forward role as part of an attacking trio, as you can see in the heat-map below. Much like Roberto Firmino does at Liverpool, as a matter of fact.

The similarities between the two do not stop there, either. Both provide more for their teammates than they score themselves – the Brazil international has just four goals but has provided nine assists this term, whilst also contributing 1.8 key passes per match in the continental competition – and, perhaps most importantly, they are both defensive forces as part of their respective teams.

Minamino has 1.2 tackles per match, which is clearly more than both Erling Haaland and Hwang Hee-Chan, whilst Firmino has made 1.7 himself. Yes, that may be less than Sadio Mane’s 1.8, but in his case, we are talking about a player who finished fourth in the Ballon d’Or rankings – he is something of an anomaly.

As we saw on Tuesday in the Red Bull Arena, Minamino works incredibly hard, which is something the former Hoffenheim man has been praised for. Liverpool currently have Divock Origi as the back-up option for Firmino and, although he has done well, scoring five times this term, he is not the same kind of player as the 28-year-old. For just £7.75m, Minamino would represent a bargain that could slot seamlessly into Klopp’s XI.

In other news, this 24-year-old could be the man Liverpool fans wanted Georginio Wijnaldum to be.

from FootballFanCast.com https://ift.tt/34lObJH via IFTTT from Blogger https://ift.tt/36tpCfg via IFTTT

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Arsenal transfer news: Nicolas Pepe is blisteringly quick with a devastating left foot

Nicolas Pepe follows Eden Hazard from Lille to London … Arsenal fans want the same thing from the lightning-fast winger with the devastating left foot for a huge £ 72 million deal

Arsenal coming closer on signing Lille forward Nicolas Pepe in £ 72 million deal

The Ivory Coast was in London on Tuesday for his medical Arsenal

He has 35 goals scored in 77 Lille appearances – even though he mainly played widely

He will follow the footsteps of former Lille star Eden Hazard in the Premier League [19459008volgen)]

By Joe Bernstein for MailOnline

Published: 08:07 BST, August 1, 2019 | Updated: 08:10 BST, August 1, 2019

Nicolas Pepe is about to become the most expensive signing in Arsenal [Deillinehistoryof but fans of the Premier League may not know much about the 24-year-old Ivory Coast international who was born and brought to France in and earlier in his career was noticed by Marcelo Bielsa.

Sportsmail takes a look at the £ 72 million ahead that follows the cross-channel journey of Eden Hazard from Lille to London .

WHO IS NICOLAS PEPE?

He is a highly valued 24-year-old attacker on the verge of joining Lille for £ 72 million.

He can play the front three anywhere, but is probably the best right of any 4-2-3-1 where he can incise with his deadly left foot.

Born in France, he plays International Football for Ivory Coast through parenthood and went to the recent African Cup of Nations, although he was omitted from the team that lost to Algeria in the quarterfinals.

Lille Forward Nicolas Pepe set to sign Arsenals club at £ 72 million

IS HE LIKE A PLAYER?

Six feet tall and limber in construction, Pepe is a blisteringly fast-attacking player whose goal ratio in Lille – 35 in 77 appearances – is excellent, especially since he often plays on the right side where he cuts into his favorite left foot. with devastating effect.

He scored 22 times for Lille last season, as they finished second to qualify for the Champions League. In particular, his pace at champions PSG apart in April 5-1 win in Lille.

Pepe was always on the shoulder of the last defender and defeated Juan Bernat to get the PSG defender to 1-1. He then scored the second goal of Lille by racing once again against goalless and goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.

The combined pace of Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will give defenders nightmares next season and give someone with the death of Mesut Özil

Pepe can also just hit the ball from a long distance – reminds to Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona – and don't mind having a doll, something that Arsenal lacked.

Devastatingly fast, the attacker also has an eye for goal – the 35 goals in 77 Lille matches proves

WHAT IS THE MARCELO BIELSA CONNECTION?

Bielsa eagerly looked at Pepe when he started his career with Angers and the iconic Argentinian, now the boss in Leeds, decided to sign him for Lille.

Bielsa did not last long and his time in Lille is considered a failure, but he admired Pepe and tried to lay the foundation in his game that has served him well since.

& # 39; It was a dark time for results, but we respected his reputation, & # 39; Pepe said.

Pepe was brought to Lille by manager Marcelo Bielsa (center) in Lille spent his time at the club in

LILLE IS A GOOD BREEDER FOR PREMIER LEAGUE PLAYERS

The most obvious example is Eden Hazard who lit up from Lille in 2012 As Pepe de Hazard had no complaints from Arsenal supporters

Hazard, whose talent in Northern France was immediately recognized by his teammate Joe Cole, is not the only successful graduate from that club.

Yohan Cabaye, Idrissa Gueye and Liverpool & Champions League's Divock Origi have all come directly from Lille to the Premier League and have been successful.

Eden Hazard (pictured on the right in 2012) ) shone for Lille before he excelled in the Premier League

ANY WORDS THAT WILL ADAPT?

The only question mark against Pepe was his performances in the African Cup of Nations where he struggled on the opposite flank of Wilfried Zaha after a long club season in France

After playing 45 times last season , whose last performance will not be released until July 8, Arsenal fans will fervently hope that Pepe is fresh and ready for the coming season. The Premier League is no place for fatigue.

Pepe was replaced after 68 minutes of an ineffective performance against Mali and fell for the next game against Algeria, where his replacement was Max Gradel. Last year, Gradel left Bournemouth for Toulouse for £ 6 million – less than a tenth of Pepe & # 39; s market value.

Despite an impressive club season, Pepe was tired at the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast

WHAT DO UNAI EMERY THINK OF HIM?

The Spanish manager of Arsenal rarely goes over the top with his praise, so we can make his comment that & # 39; we only want players who really, really improve the team and Pepe is very good & # 39 as an extremely positive testimony.

Certainly, Emery needs the Arsenal & # 39; project & # 39; have sold to convince Pepe to join them instead of Napoli.

]

Arsenal manager Unai Emery spoke positively about the imminent arrival of the attacker

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Seven teams poised to challenge for the Premier League title

A year after Leicester City surprised everyone with a shocking championship run in the Premier League, the order of the high-powered teams was restored. Chelsea took the crown last season, book-ending Leicester City’s improbable title with two championships in the past three years. Can they repeat as champs? Or will familiar faces like Manchester City or Manchester United claim the crowd.

With the 2017-18 Premier League set to get underway on Friday, here’s a look at seven clubs poised to challenge for the league’s title.

1) Manchester City

After winning their first six league games under Pep Guardiola, Manchester City looked like heavy title favorites. They promptly hit a poor run of form, slipped to the point where Champions League qualification was in some doubt, and then finished the season losing just one of their final 16 games — and that loss came at Stamford Bridge to the eventual champions, Chelsea.

Still, a third-place finish was not what City’s ambitious owners were looking for after investing over $200 million into the squad and bringing in Guardiola, who had been the most sought-after manager in world soccer. As such, even more money has been invested this summer — to the tune of $275 million and counting — with the intention of winning the club’s first title since 2014.

They have brought in three new full backs after not buying any for six years. They brought in what they hope will be a long-term answer at goalkeeper in Ederson, admitting that the Claudio Bravo experiment failed miserably. They added yet another attacking talent in Bernardo Silva to go along with Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva, already two of the most dangerous players in the league. Rumor has it they’re still in the hunt for another defender and keen to sign yet another forward, be it Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez or Monaco’s Kylian Mbappe. In short, another trophy-less season will not be tolerated.

If anything holds City back, it will be the same thing that has held them back in years past. They still have yet to sign a new center back, meaning they’ll again rely on injury-prone captain Vincent Kompany, unproven talent John Stones, and the occasionally rash Nicolas Otamendi. New full backs Benjamin Mendy and Kyle Walker should help, but City are definitely taking a risk relying on the same unit that got them into trouble far too frequently last season. If it improves, City might be favorites for the title — their attacking play will be something to behold.

2) Chelsea

Have Chelsea done enough to retain their title? While reigning champions like to make a statement of intent that is as psychological as it is adding talent, the Blues have mostly settled for replacing outgoings.

Young midfield destroyer Tiemoue Bakayoko enters as a replacement for Nemanja Matic, while striker Alvaro Morata is in to replace Diego Costa, who is soon to depart the club after falling out with manager Antonio Conte. They’ve also brought in Antonio Rudiger. But none of these players are enough to make you jump out of your seat in excitement. Losing out on striker Romelu Lukaku after looking to be in the driver’s seat all summer was also an embarrassing affair for Chelsea. They’ll also have to contend with the Champions League this season after not appearing in Europe last term, which could have a profound impact on a squad that didn’t have to rely much on depth as they marched to the title.

The summer, plagued at one time by rumors that Conte could depart after leading the club to the title, has not been what Chelsea was looking for. Still, writing off the Blues would be a big mistake. This was a historically great team last season — their 93 points was the second-highest tally since the Premier League came together in 1992 — and that core of players led by Eden Hazard remains in place, with a manager who has a penchant for winning. There’s still an odd feeling around the club, and with the Manchester clubs spending so freely, expect Chelsea to come back to the pack this season, though they’ll still easily qualify for the Champions League.

3) Manchester United

After a surprising and disappointing sixth-place finish, Jose Mourinho managed to lead Manchester United to a Europa League title, ensuring they’d appear in this season’s Champions League. It was a vital moment for a club that have been missing from Europe’s premier club competition far too often since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. The finish meant United were prepared to heavily invest in the squad with the intention of making a run at multiple titles in 2017-18.

The signs were there for United last season. Only Tottenham lost fewer games in the league, as United’s problem was easy to diagnose — not enough goals. 54 goals in 38 teams actually gave them one fewer than Bournemouth, and a string of home draws to lesser squads led to a lot of points dropped. United’s defensive effort was second only to Tottenham in the division, but their league-leading 15 draws cost them a title challenge.

Romelu Lukaku has been brought in to rectify that. He scored 25 goals for Everton last season, and United were happy to spend nearly $100 million to bring him into the club. The other signs are good, too — Marcus Rashford looks poised to break out, goalkeeper David De Gea leads a strong rearguard, and the hope is that players like Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was inconsistent in his first year with the club, will really be settled in and ready to roll now.

Still, United have not, on paper, improved quite as much as City have, though their improvement is clear. They should find themselves in a close title race with City and Chelsea. Remember, Mourinho has won the title in his second season at every club he’s been at — and he knows it, too.

4) Tottenham

Tottenham’s lack of summer investment — to date, they have yet to sign a single new player — definitely looks very bad on paper. Sure, this was a squad that collected 86 points last season, a tally which would have won them the league a year before. They have also kept the team pretty much intact, with right back Kyle Walker the lone notable departure, a player with a ready-made replacement in Kieran Trippier already at the club. However, as with Chelsea, it’s easy to look at Spurs, then at their rapidly-improving rivals, and be disappointed.

In doing so, you also have to remember that Mauricio Pochettino is one of the best managers in England; Harry Kane is a two-time Golden Boot winner; Dele Alli has attracted interest from the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid for a reason; and no one, not even Chelsea, scored more goals or allowed fewer than Spurs did in 2016-17. Over the last two seasons, they have comfortably accrued more points than anyone else in the league, and that talent and successful bond forged between teammates should be enough to keep them in the top four.

One important thing to note — Tottenham will spend the season playing their home games at Wembley as they await the construction of their new permanent home. The Spurs played their Champions League home games at Wembley last season and struggled in them, never looking comfortable on that stage, which could be a factor this year.

5) Arsenal

The inevitable finally came to pass in 2016-17 — Arsene Wenger could no longer drag Arsenal into the Champions League. It was the first time in the Wenger era that Arsenal had finished outside of the top four, but it’s unlikely to be the last.

To their credit, the Gunners, plagued by a reputation of being too miserly, went out and spent a big sum of money on French striker Alexandre Lacazette, but that will not be enough to help them. The rest of the club has more or less stood still. Arsenal have won a staredown with Alexis Sanchez over a potential move to Manchester City, a scenario in which the club would have folded many times in the past. Still, Sanchez is indisputably Arsenal’s most vital player. He is entering the final season of his contract and appears to have no desire to sign a new deal right now, having spoken publicly about his desire to play in the Champions League. There is a very real chance that they lose him for free next summer, which would be a body blow to the club. Couple that with Mesut Ozil’s future also being up in the air, and you have a recipe for lots of distractions and incessant questions that Wenger will not like.

Already coming off a fifth-place finish, they’ve likely fallen behind Manchester United now as well. Wenger, back for another year, has lost the support of portions of the fanbase, often coming off as aloof and indifferent to the problems that plague the club. Once a revolutionary, Wenger has failed to adapt along with the sport, and while their decline is certainly not all his fault, Arsenal are paying the price for years of questionable decisions.

6) Liverpool

Liverpool finished in the top four for the first time since the 2013-14 season and, as they did after that year, look set to sell one of their best players in response. Reports are indicating that the Reds are poised to sell Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona to replace Neymar — just as Luis Suarez went to the Spanish giants in 2014. Couple that with the fact that Liverpool have spent the summer in doomed pursuits of defender Virgil van Dijk and midfielder Naby Keita, and you have a lot of red flags.

Liverpool still have talent in attack, with a unit that dazzled at times under manager Jurgen Klopp last season. When Sadio Mane was on the team, Liverpool were a different beast, and it’s fair to say his absence in January to play in the Africa Cup of Nations had a palpable impact on the club’s form. Mane, Roberto Firmino, and Divock Origi will once again join together to create a frightening attack, joined by new signing Mohamed Salah, who should have a much better time of things at Liverpool than he did at Chelsea in his previous Premier League spell.

Liverpool’s defense conceded 42 goals in 38 games, the second-worst mark of any top six team, and they’ve done little to address that over the summer. Klopp’s intense style of play seemed to wear on the team after the new year, which could become an even bigger problem this season with Liverpool having added little in the way of depth and now having to balance Champions League obligations with league games. These factors could keep them from finishing higher in the table.

7) Everton

Everton probably don’t have a realistic shot at winning the title, but could make a run at a Champions League spot if they have an excellent year while one of the bigger teams has a bad year. Everton lead the charge among this group, having reinvested the money they got for Romelu Lukaku into three major signings: creative midfielder Davy Klaassen, defender Michael Keane, and young goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. All of these players are young — Klaassen and Keane are 24, while Pickford is 23 — and Everton clearly have an eye on building a successful core for years to come.

The trick for Everton will be replacing the goals they lost when Lukaku moved to Manchester United. The Wayne Rooney signing will provoke a lot of sentimentality for the club, but he’s not the player he once was and will not be able to do it all by himself. They’ve also brought in 22-year-old forward Sandro from Malaga, where he scored 14 goals in La Liga last season, but the adaptation to the Premier League will be difficult. If Everton can find enough goals, they’ll be okay, but Lukaku won’t be easy to replace.

from Larry Brown Sports http://ift.tt/2uo3e8C

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Southampton 1 Liverpool 0, EFL Cup semi-final: Nathan Redmond gives Saints first-leg advantage

Some(nathan redmond goal) Some(Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

This was about Redmond and not the Red Men - or rather the ‘toxic thunder’ men as Liverpool’s lurid third kit is officially known – as Southampton claimed a vital lead in the first leg of this EFL semi-final.

With a second leg to come at Anfield then Liverpool are most definitely still in this tie and will be confident of over-turning this deficit at home – and with Jürgen Klopp hoping to protect a record of never having lost a semi-final – but they were overwhelmed at times by a vibrant, rejuvenated Southampton who struck the only goal through Nathan Redmond.

Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Nathan Redmond, 20 min)

Southampton could have had more – Redmond had three clear chances – and will rue those misses as Liverpool struggled with Daniel Sturridge a shadow of the formidable striker he can be, dominated by the outstanding Virgil Van Dijk, and captain Jordan Henderson, out injured, desperately missed. Emre Can was a disappointing replacement. It was Liverpool’s first defeat since early December and as poorly as they have played all season.

Liverpool overwhelmed Southampton on their way to last season’s League Cup final, with a resonating 6-1 victory here in the early months of Klopp’s stewardship, a real marker of intent and purpose, and they have evolved since then to be thrilling Premier League title contenders.

They arrived with even Southampton manager Claude Puel conceding they were favourites for the tie, while he had also taken the bold decision not to select captain Jose Fonte given he has submitted a transfer request.

Credit: REUTERS

With a defence that has been vulnerable, and a dismal run of form, Southampton were on a knife’s-edge and there will have been a pang of panic when Virgil van Dijk went down holding his side in the opening minutes as Liverpool ­began to quickly dominate possession and territory.

The first chance had arrived for Adam Lallana, one of three former Southampton players in Liverpool colours – with a fourth Sadio Mané absent on duty at the African Cup of Nations – as he half-volleyed from a knock-down with Fraser Forster pushing the ball away for a corner. It provoked an immediate response from Southampton with Dusan Tadic’s cross flying across the penalty area to the unmarked Nathan Redmond. He steadied himself but Loris Karius did well to rush from goal and save with an outstretched boot.

Attempt Saved: Southampton 0 - 0 Liverpool (Nathan Redmond, 19 min)

It proved a temporary reprieve as Southampton seized the advantage, aided by a terrible Liverpool mistake, and scored. Tadic lifted the ball forward with Ragnar Klavan making a terrible hash of clearing it, allowing it to run to Jay Rodriguez on the edge of the penalty area who deftly played a pass inside to pick out the run of Redmond. Suddenly the forward found himself clear on goal before, this time, coolly tucking his shot beyond Karius and into the net for his first goal in 15 games.

How would Liverpool react? Once again they began to dominate possession.

Possession: Southampton vs Liverpool

This time Southampton, though, had something to hold onto with, time and again, Oriol Romeu tenaciously winning the ball back in midfield while Liverpool’s front three of Daniel Sturridge, Roberto Firmino and Lallana laboured.

The next two efforts on goal, in fact, also came from Southampton with a deflected Rodriguez shot dragging wide and then Karius holding onto Jordy Clasie’s crisp half-volley from outside the area. At the other end, Firmino failed to control Lucas Leiva’s through ball into the box and it ran out of play to sum up Liverpool’s sudden lack of cohesion.

And so Southampton could well – should well – have doubled their lead when again the ball was ­allowed to run across the area from Tadic’s sharp turn and low cross, with Redmond meeting it with a powerful side-footed shot only for Karius to adjust superbly to beat it out. Understandably, Klopp was not happy. Southampton deserved to be in front and took that lead into half-time.

Credit: REX

In fact they probably should have been further in front and almost achieved that when both Van Dijk and Rodriguez came close to heading home a corner that Karius flapped at early into the second-half. They continued to threaten with the impressive Van Dijk – dominating Sturridge – bursting into the area only for Karius to cut out his cross and Dejan Lovren having to react quickly to block from Rodriguez.

Liverpool’s lethargy was spreading. The dominant players were in stripes – Van Dijk, Clasie and Romeu – with Forster easily holding onto a low drive from Firmino, Lallana snatching at another chance and Sturridge claiming a penalty after he was simply eased off the ball by Van Dijk.

Klopp had seen enough and ­inevitably turned to Philippe Coutinho, fit again after his ankle injury that has ruled him out since November.

Credit: GETTY

But it was, again, Southampton who should have scored as they rapidly countered from a Liverpool corner – won by Coutinho with his quick feet – with Redmond surging down the right to slip a pass to Cedric Soares who had kept pace with him. Through on goal, from the angle, the right-back slashed his shot wastefully into the side-netting. Rodriguez, in the centre, should have made himself more available.

A piece of paper was passed to Sturridge from the Liverpool bench as they frantically sought a change of direction for this tie with Divock Origi eventually also called for but it was Southampton substitute Shane Long who made the first impact as he skipped down the left and centred for Redmond, again. The forward chipped the ball over Karius but it cannoned off the under-side of the cross-bar, with Lovren on the goal-line, and away. Even Liverpool’s Twitter account admitted they were “lucky to still be in this”. Southampton won the match but should have won the tie.

9:35PM

FULL TIME

Southampton have the advantage! An excellent win for Claude Puel's side.

9:33PM

90 mins +2

Still nothing from Liverpool. They can get to the final third but they look devoid of ideas when they do. Coutinho boots a shot way over the bar from 30 yards.

9:31PM

90 mins

Coutinho is trying to create something out of nothing but his teammates don't seem to quite be on the same wavelength. Liverpool have really missed the energy and calm leadership in midfield of Jordan Henderson tonight.

9:29PM

88 mins

The tension is starting to build in St Mary's now. Liverpool push everyone forward but still can't quite make the magic happen. Sturridge has been really poor this evening in particular.

9:27PM

85 mins

SOUTHAMPTON SHOULD BE 2-0 UP! I'm not even sure how they aren't! Long gets in behind the defence as Lucas slips and into the box but is wide of goal. He looks up, bends a smart pass across the area and Redmond just has to put the ball past Karius from a tight angle. He dinks it into the air and he comes off the bar and is scrambled away.

Post: Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Nathan Redmond, 83 min)

  9:23PM

82 mins

Rodriguez comes off. He's worked very hard tonight and on comes Shane Long, who will make a tired Liverpool defence work that much harder for the final 10 minutes. Steven Davis is also coming off to be replaced by Ward-Prowse.

9:19PM

79 mins

Nothing's clicking for Liverpool here tonight. Lallana has tried a little flicked pass down the wing but it goes straight out for a goal kick. There's no momentum to their play, almost as though this game doesn't matter too much because the real one is the second leg. At least that's how I think of it anyway. 

9:16PM

76 mins

Daniel Sturridge has been passed a piece of paper and is wandering around the pitch reading it. It's come from Jurgen Klopp and is probably tactical but may also very well be "DO SOMETHING FFS"

9:14PM

73 mins

Redmond has just been played in behind the defence thanks to a really clever back heel pass from Rodriguez but takes too long to decide what to do with the ball and loses the chance to do something useful with it. Liverpool take control.

Clasie is down with an injury, or cramp. He's going off to be replaced by Pierre-Emile Hojberg.

9:09PM

70 mins

OOOOOHhhhhHHhhhhh that is a waste. Southampton attack superbly from the corner, Redmond takes the ball forward but takes up the space that he should leave for the overlapping run of Cedric. Cedric bursts forward from his own box to join the attack, gets ahead of Redmond and takes the throughball to feet... but shoots into the sidenetting rather than squaring it for Rodriguez.

Out: Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Cédric Soares, 66 min)

  9:07PM

67 mins

Tadic is booked for whining, loudly, about not being given a free-kick for Clyne cuddling and then throwing him to the ground while competing for a ball. 

Karius catches a cross and throws the ball 30 yards to start a counter-attack - it's a great throw - and Coutinho wins a corner.

9:05PM

64 mins

Coutinho! Here he comes, on to replace Wijnaldum. Can he unlock the Southampton door? Lallana has dropped into a deeper midfield role to give Coutinho the attacking space he craves. 

Liverpool are starting to look more dangerous as the game goes on. Coutinho finds Milner with a lovely outside of the boot pass but he was offside.

9:02PM

61 mins

Lallana forces a shot on goal! It's awful. But at least he's trying. 

Miss: Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Adam Lallana, 59 min)

And a shot has just opened for Firmino on the edge of the box! It's a great chance but he shoots low and too central giving Forster an easy save.

Keeper pick-up: Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Fraser Forster, 60 min)

  8:59PM

58 mins

Daniel Sturridge keeps throwing himself around the penalty area and it's really annoying to watch. He makes half hearted claims for a penalty but he's just not strong enough or balanced enough to stay on his feet while chasing the ball. 

8:57PM

57 mins

And now Van Dijk is playing as a forward! He dribbles pas the Liverpool defence and gets into the box via the left wing but his cross is caught easily by Karius. 

Southampton vs Liverpool shots on goal

  8:40PM

Klopp looking happy

Credit: rex

  8:35PM

Average positions

Average touch positions (half time)

  8:33PM

Shots on goal

Southampton vs Liverpool shots on goal

  8:32PM

HALF TIME

Sturridge loses the ball and Clasie takes it off him and starts a counter-attack with a lovely little back heel drag-back flick. A forward pass nearly gets Rodriguez in behind the defence but can't quite reach it. And that's the last action of the half! Southampton are good for their lead here.

8:29PM

44 mins

WHAT A SAVE!!! Wowzers. It should be 2-0 but Karius has just pulled off a wonder save. Redmond finds space at the back post and a low ball across the box finds him - again - but he fires his shot in the middle of the goal. So in retrospect it's more of a miss than a save but Karius was there, dived well and got the shot away. 

8:24PM

41 mins

Klopp is angry on the sidelines. Most of his fury is being vented at the fourth official but he won't be happy that his team has had so much possession but had so little action in front of goal.

8:23PM

38 mins

OOOOHHHHHH. Nice effort from Clasie. The ball sits up perfectly to be smashed on the volley and he duly delivers from distance... but it drops into the hands of Karius and all is well in his goal. For now.

  8:21PM

35 mins

Southampton are back in counter-attack mode.

Southampton vs Liverpool

Liverpool have stepped up the pressing a bit as well as they try to win the ball back when a hopeful cross or forward pass is cleared. Rodriguez has just managed to get a shot away from 25 yards but it's well wide.

8:17PM

32 mins

Lucas goes down in the box off the ball as a free-kick is chipped into "the mixer" and he can't escape the attentions of his marker. It's not a foul though and Lucas is annoyed when he is penalised for actually committing a foul.

8:14PM

29 mins

Credit: AP

There are shouts for a penalty as a cross comes off a Southampton defender but it's one of those where only one set of fans actually thinks there's been a foul. 

A Liverpool corner is cleared and then kept by the away team. A chipped pass comes to the edge of the box and... Lovren has tried to score the best goal ever by volleying first time from 25 yards. It does not end well.

8:10PM

26 mins

15 – Nathan Redmond has ended a run of 15 games in all competitions without a goal for Southampton. Overdue.

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 11, 2017

Liverpool try to fight back straight away but crosses from wide are easily dealt with and Southampton have found their rhythm now.

8:07PM

GOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLL!

REDMOND HAS DONE IT! 

Southampton 1 - 0 Liverpool (Nathan Redmond, 20 min)

Rodriguez pokes the ball through Lovren's legs and Redmond is onside, moves into the box and finishes low past Karius. Great finish! 

8:05PM

20 mins

Redmond takes on Lovren for pace, wins (easily) but is off balance as he goes past him and gets a little nudge which sends him flying. Play continues. 

SOUTHAMPTON SHOULD SCORE! Redmond controls a cross at the back post and space and time to line up his shot. He shoots low and Karius saves really well.

8:03PM

18 mins

Redmond nearly takes advantage of a ropey bit of Clyne defending but the Liverpool man manages to swing a clearance away after failing to get a decent head to a loose ball. 

CHANCE FOR FIRMINO! The ball is played over the top, Lallana heads it down and Firmino shoots on the volley from inside the box.

Attempt Saved: Southampton 0 - 0 Liverpool (Roberto Firmino, 18 min)

Forster pushes it over the bar!

8:00PM

15 mins

Credit: AFP

 Southampton still struggling to get out of their own half here but they're limiting Liverpool to space in the final third so they can't really shoot or do anything particularly dangerous. 

7:56PM

12 mins

Uh oh. Van Dijk has gone down and is holding his back. He looks to be in a spot of bother after landing awkwardly when trying to win a header in the middle of the park. Cut to a few moments later and he's absolutely fine. So don't panic everyone.

7:54PM

9 mins

Possession: Southampton vs Liverpool

Liverpool are definitely in control here, Southampton set up to try and counter-attack. They must have watched Plymouth Argyle the other night.

7:51PM

6 mins

Liverpool are starting to take charge of the game now. Milner finds himself playing as a left winger for a while as Lovren and Karius push up to the halfway line. Clyne tries to shoot from 30 yards and it's so hard that he falls over himself.

7:47PM

3 mins

Good start to the game from Southampton! Virgil Van Dijk nearly pulls off pass of the season with a long ball over the top towards Nathan Redmond. He just can't reach it but he was in behind the defence.

Keeper pick-up: Southampton 0 - 0 Liverpool (Loris Karius, 1 min)

  7:45PM

KICK-OFF

Eight goals in six League Cup appearances for Liverpool for Daniel Sturridge. Will he add to the list tonight?! Let's find out. KABLAAAAAH!

7:41PM

Here come the teams 

James Milner is in charge of Liverpool, Virgil Van Dijk for Southampton.

7:36PM

Coutinho warming up

Credit: REX

  7:23PM

Jurgen Klopp says

When you can smell the final you do everything to get there.

On Coutinho:

Yeh, it's early, it's possible, which is why we have him. If we need him and there's opportunity for him we will.

I've never played for a result or do this or that, you take what you can get. If we can win we should try it and if a draw is it we should take that. We have to be concentrated but that's clear and it's not that big a difference to a normal league game.

7:13PM

No Jose Fonte

Claude Puel says he's looking for stability from the Southampton team he's named tonight. No Jose Fonte... but Jay Rodriguez is back! And yes I did write James Rodriguez just then. Uh oh.

Southampton XI

Forster, Cédric, van Dijk, Yoshida, Bertrand, Clasie, Romeu, Davis, Tadić, Redmond, Rodriguez.

7:03PM

What to expect

Hello everyone! It's a cup semi-final! Wow! Aren't you excited?! No?! Oh that's because it's the EFL Cup.

I bet you are a bit excited though because even though it's a two-legged semi (why god whyyyyy), it's still a semi-final. Here's a video about it.

  6:35PM

Southampton team

The teams are in! Here's a look at how #SaintsFC line up for tonight's #EFLCup semi-final first leg against #LFC: pic.twitter.com/OewVGtjTkU

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 11, 2017

  6:35PM

Liverpool team - Coutinho returns to the bench

��Here's tonight's #LFC team… #SOULIVpic.twitter.com/LhfoM763iA

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 11, 2017

  6:32PM

Preview

What is it?

It's the first leg of the second EFL Cup semi-final between Southampton and Liverpool.

When is it?

This one is on Wednesday January 11.

What time is kick-off?

The St Mary's clash begins at 19.45 GMT.

What TV channel is it on?

This one is on Sky Sports 1 or Sky Sports 1 HD. Alternatively, you can follow the action right here. 

Coutinho is back in the Liverpool squad following injury - but is likely to have to settle for a place on the bench Credit: Getty Images

What is the team news?

Southampton:

Southampton will be without captain Jose Fonte and midfielder Sofiane Boufal when they face Liverpool in the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

Manager Claude Puel does not intend to include Fonte, who put in a transfer request last week, until after the transfer window closes and Boufal has pulled out of playing in the African Nations Cup due to a knee injury.

Charlie Austin (shoulder), Matt Targett (hamstring), Cedric Soares (head) and Alex McCarthy (hamstring) all remain sidelined.

Provisional squad: Forster, Van Dijk, Bertrand, Martina, Ward-Prowse, Hojbjerg, Romeu, Taylor, Yoshida, Davis, McQueen, Reed, Long, Sims, Redmond, Rodriguez, Tadic.

Pick your Southampton team to face Liverpool in the EFL Cup semi-final

Liverpool:

Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho is set to make his return after nearly seven weeks out with ankle ligament damage but is likely to be on the bench for the EFL Cup semi-final first leg at Southampton.

Manager Jurgen Klopp is likely to recall most of his first-choice players having rested them for the weekend's FA Cup tie but Loris Karius is set to continue in goal having had an inactive afternoon against Plymouth.

Captain Jordan Henderson (heel) will not resume full training until Thursday but centre-back Joel Matip (ankle) could make the squad as he seeks to prove his fitness ahead of Sunday's trip to Manchester United.

Provisional squad: Karius, Alexander-Arnold, Lovren, Klavan, Milner, Can, Wijnaldum, Lallana, Coutinho, Ojo, Sturridge, Firmino, Mignolet, Clyne, Gomez, Moreno, Lucas, Stewart, Ejaria, Origi, Woodburn.

Pick your Liverpool team to face Southampton in the EFL Cup

What are they saying?

Claude Puel:

"We played Liverpool in the Premier League and it was a strong game for us with organisation," said the Frenchman.

"We played strong and were strong in defence.

"We played at a good level but it will be important for this game to have more of the ball and try and have control of the game.

"Their ability to control the ball along with good pressing, with technical players, is exciting. We want to exploit them.

"The players are ready for the game. It is an exciting challenge for us. The Premier League game was strong, there are many games in January, different possibilities.

"This game is important and I think my players are ready for the game."

The top 100 targets in the January transfer window

Jurgen Klopp, on drawing with Plymouth:

"We made mistakes in the game and always with the boys the good things they are responsible for and the bad things I am responsible for.

"If you want to see it (the result) in a bad way then I am 100 per cent responsible, I have no problem with that.

"I always choose line-ups to win the game and I accept that it was not to see in all situations but in a lot of them it was.

"There is a long season still to go and we need to change. If you make that many changes, it doesn't make it easier for the boys - I know this - but they need this experience and now they have it so we can go on.

"We didn't think for a second about the age, they are important players in our squad and that's why we used them."

What are the odds?

Southampton - 13/5

Liverpool - 5/4

Draw - 28/11

What's our prediction?

Expect Liverpool to bounce back with a strengthened team to secure a narrow first-leg advantage - 2-1 Liverpool.

[hallier23-blog]

Making the grade

Kind of bummed about the last week. Since beating Manchester City, Liverpool have played a pair of stinkers, a 2-2 league draw at Sunderland and a 0-0 FA Cup home draw against Plymouth.

It’s long beyond time for me to blog about my team, so with a break in league play, I thought this would be a good time to issue some midseason grades. Grades are based on expectations and how the player is living up to those.

Only those who have played in 10 games or more are graded. Let’s start at the top.

A grade

Sadio Mane, forward. The Senegalese came to Liverpool from Southampton and has been electric. Although not quite the poacher Liverpool so badly has missed since Luis Suarez left, Mane still has a team-leading nine goals. He has a tremendous change of pace, and his speed is something few players have. He will be missed while playing in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Adam Lallana, forward/midfield. It’s quite possible that Lallana is England’s best player right now. Who saw that coming? Lallana fits beautifully in coach Jurgen Klopp’s system, and when he missed a few games with injury, Liverpool wasn’t the same. He has seven goals, all in league play. With Mane gone, Lallana cannot afford to drop his level.

James Milner, defender. Admit. You laughed, scoffed, facepalmed when you found out Milner would become starting left defender. Not many of us thought this experiment would work out. If anything, pray he would be good enough to get us to the January transfer window and go from there. But Milner has proven to be a solid, reliable defender. Probably the biggest surprise of the season so far.

A-minus grade

Phillippe Coutinho, midfielder. The dazzling Brazilian was well on his way to an outstanding season before suffering a November foot injury. He’s nearly back, which is vital to Liverpool’s championship hopes. He has six goals so far, and he can score in a variety of ways. He’s cut down on needless long-range efforts but still can score that way. His free kick stunner against Arsenal is a goal-of-the-year candidate. Maybe Liverpool’s most important player. He’s certainly the most gifted.

Roberto Firmino, forward. His play has dropped a bit in the last six weeks, but he’s also been shifted around the front line. Much better when in the middle, Firmino has tallied seven goals so far. He’s still young with much upside, but with Mane gone for awhile, Firmino needs to return to his early-season form.

B-plus grade

Georginio Wijnaldum, midfielder. He’s a guy who does a lot of the dirty work, the stuff most fans don’t notice. They see his two goals and consider the Dutchman a disappointment. But Wijnaldum keeps everything together in attack and on defense and has been a worthwhile signing from Newcastle. His goal against City was world-class. If he can get to five goals for the year, could be bumped to an A.

Joel Matip, defender. The Cameroonian was Liverpool’s best defender until he suffered injury. He’s nearly back, and Liverpool needs him. He’s the strongest and fastest central back they have. 

B grade

Ragnar Klavan, defender. Not much was expected of the Estonian when he joined the club this season. But Klavan has been a pleasant surprise. He’s savvy enough to overcome his weakness (speed). He’s often well positioned and good in the air. Gets a slight deduction for his silly foul at Sunderland that led to a penalty kick.

Divock Origi, forward. He hasn’t played as much, as he has been featured more as a sub than a starter, but he still has seven goals in all competitions. Has the tendency to go missing over long stretches, but you can’t question his seven goals.

Nathaniel Clyne, defender. He’s probably the most reliable, steadiest player on the team. You know he’s going to be solid on defense and make some clever runs in attack. But his service has been borderline awful. For a guy who loves to attack, Clyne’s services need rapid improvement.

Simon Mignolet, goalkeeper. The Belgian was placed on the bench early this season but has been moved back into the starting role with Loris Karius being awful. Mignolet has responded too. The goal against Stoke City aside, Mignolet hasn’t been at fault for many goals. He’s showing more confidence on crosses, and his distribution has improved. Being benched may have been the best thing for Mignolet. He’s not a true No. 1 for a Premier League contender, but he’s a valuable asset this season.

B minus grade

Jordan Henderson, midfielder. The skipper isn’t bad by any stretch. He’s a good, smart passer but there’s little creativity. He seems to have the respect of his teammates as captain, but if you’re going to wear the Liverpool captain armband you need to show more than being a solid player and solid leader.

Daniel Sturridge, forward. Sturridge has started just six times this season and appeared in 15 matches. He still has six goals, so he can do what he’s paid to do. Clearly not Klopp’s top choice, but nobody can benefit more from Mane’s departure more than Sturridge. He’s always looking to score and can create problems, but he needs to stay healthy and stop getting hurt with every flareup. 

C grade

Dejan Loven, defender. Solid but unspectacular. When Loven is off, he’s awful and a liability. When he’s on, he’s a good player. He partnered well with Matip and Klavan at times, but looked lost others. Klopp should at least look at Matip and Klavan together when Matip returns.

Lucas Leiva, defender. Lucas has given Liverpool a lot of years. He’s probably about to  head out during January’s transfer window. He’s featured 14 times this year, mainly as a late defensive replacement, and he’s basically done what has been asked.

C-minus grade

Emre Can, midfielder. This was supposed to be Can’s breakthrough season in the midfield. But injury has slowed that development, and he just doesn’t appear to have the speed needed to be an every-game starter. Not a bad player, but so much more has been expected of the young German.

D grade

Alberto  Moreno, defender. The Spaniard will get more chances going forward with a clogged match schedule in January. Moreno is known for making some clever runs from his wing position, but  his service is often jaw-dropping bad. He also doesn’t exert much confidence as a one-on-one defender.

F grade

Loris Karius, goalkeeper. Karius came over to become Liverpool’s undisputed No. 1 goalkeeper. Right now, he’s the unquestioned backup. I do agree with patience, and perhaps Karius in the long run will be an elite goalkeeper. But right now, this signing has been a disaster. Karius has looked sloppy, shaky and does not display much confidence.

[sportsleague365]

On an average weekend, The Guardian receives around 12,000 photographs from Premier League matches via its staff, agency and contributor photographers. That’s almost half a million images per season. Some capture extraordinary joy and despair; some bear witness to defining moments in the title race; some owe greatly to the creativity of the men and women behind the lenses; and some, like this first one from August, feature the rare but always amusing sight of a referee nearly getting thwacked by a ball. August____________________ September____________________ The most nauseating picture of the season came at Wembley in September when Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen inadvertently gouged the eye of Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino. As picture editors we can become inured to violence and physical injury on the picture wires, but there was something particularly wince-inducing about this shot. Luckily, the Brazilian escaped without serious injury and went on to celebrate his late winner against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League group stage a few days later with an eye-patch celebration. Elsewhere in September, Sir Alex Ferguson was given a standing ovation at Old Trafford following his return to the club after emergency brain surgery in May. United finished the month in 10th place with 10 points from their opening seven fixtures – nine points behind the early pace-setters, Manchester City and Liverpool. October____________________ The first meeting between the league’s top two sides was a tight affair in which Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez missed a last-minute penalty. He rocketed his effort over the bar – his fifth miss in eight spot-kicks. October was also marked by the death of the Leicester City chairman, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, whose helicopter crashed as it departed the King Power Stadium following Leicester’s match with West Ham, killing all five people on board. The floral tributes at the stadium reflected the deep affection felt by Leicester supporters for the man who fuelled their title success in 2016. My favourite image of the month came at Stamford Bridge where the Manchester United manager, José Mourinho, had to be restrained as he launched himself at a member of Chelsea’s backroom staff following a raucous goal celebration. It’s not so much Mourinho’s aggression that I like; rather, it’s the panic-stricken guy in the foreground on the radio. I have no idea who he is or what he’s saying but in my mind he’s radioing for back-up. November____________________ November saw Tottenham spank Chelsea at Wembley and Manchester City claim victory in the first Manchester derby of the season. It also saw a miracle under the floodlights at the John Smith’s Stadium where Huddersfield beat Fulham to claim their first win and first home goal of the season. Yet the best image shot that day is, in my opinion, the one below – the silhouette of a solitary man, cigarette in hand, wandering before the glow of a distant floodlight. The old-school bank of floodlights seems to imbue the shot with nostalgia – it reminds me of traipsing home from winter fixtures in my youth. December____________________ December was a month stained by abuse. First, a banana was thrown onto the pitch by a Tottenham fan after Arsenal’s Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had scored against Spurs in the north London derby. Then, later that same week, Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling was subjected to a torrent of insults by a section of Chelsea fans after winning a corner. Sterling, to his credit, reacted nonchalantly, and the incident ignited much-needed debate about how to curb abusive behaviour and racism within football. The best action photos of the month came at Anfield amid the pandemonium of Liverpool’s last-gasp win over Everton. The substitute Divock Origi scored in the 96th minute after Jordan Pickford’s error, and Liverpool’s relief was perfectly distilled in the shot below (featuring Virgil Van Dijk) with their sprawling, swirling mess of bodies and arms creating a dynamic image. Normally you’d want to see “clean air” around a subject to make them stand out, but not in this instance. January____________________ January: a month when millimetres mattered and when the title race swung in Manchester City’s favour. John Stones’s clearance off the line following a penalty box scramble against Liverpool helped City to become the first and only team to defeat Jürgen Klopp’s men all season. Elsewhere, the game of the month – if not the game of the season – came at Molineux where Diogo Jota’s 93rd minute strike gave Wolves a pulsating 4-3 victory over Leicester. The image of delirious Wolves fans is layered with great facial expressions and is neatly juxtaposed with the image of a crestfallen Leicester manager Claude Puel, head in hands; the two extremes encapsulate the universal agonies and ecstasies of football. February____________________ I’m not sure if the shot looking down on the tattooed Manchester City fan was set up or happenstance (presumably the former); either way it’s a cracker. City won their match with Arsenal 3-1 that day thanks to a Sergio Agüero hat-trick – his 14th for the club. Yet City still trailed Liverpool by two points having played a game more. By the end of the month, the gap was down to one point after both teams had played 28 games. Also worth a mention is the shot of Newcastle United’s Miguel Almirón being royally upended by Huddersfield’s Tommy Smith. Needless to say Smith got a red card. March____________________ With Huddersfield and Fulham cut adrift long before Spring, Cardiff were the only team in the bottom three with any hope of staying up. Predictably, Neil Warnock flipped when Chelsea were wrongly awarded a late goal, despite it being clearly offside, as the Blues came from behind to beat the Bluebirds 2-1. Warnock stormed onto the pitch at the final whistle and stared at the officials before aiming his wrath at poor David Luiz. Forget the goals, Warnock going ballistic was the defining frame that day. April____________________ Many months overdue and with their brief title hopes having already evaporated, Tottenham finally exited Wembley and moved into their new home. And what a home. Costing £1 billion and designed by Christopher Lee, the 62,062-seater stadium was lit up by pre-match pyrotechnics for its first Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace. Tottenham’s Son Heung-Min became the first player to score there as he guided the Lilywhites to a winning start on home soil, but the back pages obviously lead with the immense spectacle which preceded it. May____________________ Vincent Kompany’s unexpected howitzer against Leicester was a pivotal goal in the title race. Yet the strike was so unexpected that almost no photographers were ready for it. To be fair to them, nor were Leicester’s defenders. Kompany hadn’t hit the target from outside the box since 2013 and even his manager and teammates were begging him not to try. The resulting image, seen from the opposite end of the pitch, captures the net bulging. Of course we would much prefer to have received better images of the strike itself, but somehow this one of the aftermath – a moment when no one in the stadium has fully comprehended Kompany’s success from 25 yards – feels quite apt. Though the final day of the season gave Liverpool fans brief hope, it was Pep Guardiola, not Klopp, who was pictured being thrown into the air in celebration at the final whistle. Source link The post Unforgettable photos: the best of the 2018-19 Premier League season | Football appeared first on 10z Soccer. #PremierLeague #ManchesterUnited #CrystalPalace

[torentialtribute]

Real Madrid new boy Eden Hazard is all smiles as Belgium prepare to face Scotland

Something to laugh about, Eden? Real Madrid & # 39; s most expensive Hazard ever signed looks good while Belgium prepares for Scotland in Euro 2020 qualifier on Tuesday

Eden Hazard joined his Belgian teammates as they prepared on Scotland

The new signature of Real Madrid will be unveiled by the club on Thursday week

[bovenaan]] [top]

Published: 19:13 BST, June 10, 2019 | Eden Hazard has had enough to smile lately The 28-year-old was finally confirmed that he was on his way to Real Madrid about a five-year deal, about a five-year deal, about a five-year deal, after negotiating a fee that could go up to �� 150 million.

Hazard takes home a hefty £ 400,000 a week, and he seemed understandably satisfied after securing a dream move to Spain when he served internationally with the Red Devils.

<img id = "i-5c67539fa5b7a843" src = "https://dailym.ai/2wMVAmU -1_1560188612773.jpg "height =" 899 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-5c67539fa5b7a843" src = "https://dailym.ai/2wGQyZa 18 / 14612210-0-image-a-1_1560188612773.jpg "height =" 899 "width =" 634 "alt =" Eden Hazard was his usual outgoing self in training with the Belgian national team

Eden Hazard was his usual outgoing self in training with the Belgian national team

<img id = "i -c3956ff941a57812 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2XECfjM "height =" 463 "width =" 634 " alt = "<img id =" i-c3956ff941a57812 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2XECfjM "height = "463" width = "634" alt = "<img id =" i-c3956ff941a57812 "src =" https: //i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/06/10/18/14612164-0-image-a-3_1560188636044.jpg "height =" 463 "width =" 634 "alt =" Hazard has every reason to to smile after securing a club record move to Real Madrid, La Liga "recording to La Liga side Real Madrid

The Belgian star will earn £ 400

<img id = "i-c61de1f23010d3f4" src = "https://dailym.ai/2wMYQie" height = "1006" width = "634" alt = "The Belgian star will earn £ 400,000 a week after securing a move for up to £ 150 million"

The transfer of the midfielder

The transfer of the midfielder will be £ 400,000 per week after acquiring a move for up to £ 150 million

Hazard, who spent seven seasons with Chelsea after he was in Lille in 2013 came, t oe that

& # 39; It's no secret that it was my dream to play for them (Real Madrid) since I was a young boy who just scored my first goal. I have done my utmost to distract myself or the team through this difficult period of speculation and media attention, especially the last 6 months.

& # 39; Now the clubs have reached an agreement I hope you understand that I had to

He added: & # 39; Leaving Chelsea is the biggest and most difficult decision in my career up to now. Now that it is out in the open, I would like to write that one thing was always clear to me, I kept at Chelsea every moment and not once did I ever think about it and I would not have moved to another club. & # 39;

<img id = "i-3b14daf916d0d4d0" src = "https://dailym.ai/2XDjdtS image-a-4_1560188644021.jpg "height =" 432 "width =" 634 "alt =" Kevin De Bruyne (L) joins former teammate and new Anderlecht player-coach Vincent Kompany

Kevin De Bruyne (L) has joined the former teammate and the new Anderlecht player-coach Vincent Kompany

) joined ex-teammate and new Anderlecht player-coach Vincent Kompany

Belgium is preparing to take over Group I against Scotland in a Euro 2020 qualification match "

<img id =" i-68e14b22637e3958 "src =" https://i.dailymail.co .uk / 1s / 2019/06/10/18 / 14612186-0-image-a-5_1560188651287.jpg "height =" 467 "width =" 634 "alt =" Belgium is preparing to classify Group I against Scotland in a qualification competition for Euro 2020 "

Dries Mertens (L) scored in a 3-0 Saturday win of Kazakhstan for to reach the leading group "

<img id =" i-cc84694ff76574d4 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2wJTnJ7 -a-6_1560188662040.jpg "height =" 412 "width =" 634 "alt =" Dries Mertens (L) scored on Saturday in a 3-0 win over Kazakhstan to be the first to cross the line "

Dries Mertens (L) scored a 3-0 win over Kazakhstan on Saturday to go to the top of the group

Dries Mertens, Timothy Castagne and Romelu Lukaku were all gone.

Hazard for Roberto Martinez & side on Saturday during a comfortable 3-0 win over Scotland-conquerors Kazakhstan – one day after his move was announced. the score form when the Belgian Red Devils moved to the top of the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying Group I.

They all joined Hazard in training, with new Anderlecht player-coach Vincent Kompany also in the contingent.

The former Manchester City captain accompanied Citizens star Kevin van Bruyne in training, as well as Liverpool super-sub Divock Origi and Hazard & new teammate and old friend Thibaut Courtois as they prepare for Scotland on Tuesday.

The Scots are on their way to a winning start at the weekend under new boss Steve Clarke, but Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium will be a completely different proposal.

<img id = "i-e04b48948b57a608" src = "https://dailym.ai/2XCRYjg -0-image-a-7_1560188671379.jpg "height =" 760 "width =" 634 "alt =" Super-sub of Liverpool Divock Origi is being followed by Belgian boss Roberto Martinez in training "is being followed by Belgian boss Roberto Martinez in training "

Liverpool super-sub Divock Origi being watched by Belgian boss Roberto Martinez in training

Thibaut Courtois will be reunited with Hazard after the midfielder has followed him to Spain"

<img id = "i-d8d3297f52c4c17f" src = "https://dailym.ai/2wRBSGx -8_1560188759656.jpg "height =" 406 "width =" 634 "alt =" Thibaut Courtois will be reunited with Hazard after the midfielder

Thibaut Courtois will be reunited with Hazard after the midfielder

Thib aut Courtois will be reunited with Hazard after the midfielder has followed him to Spain

<img id = "i-135c28a42b57adb0" src = "https://dailym.ai/2CYdfvj 2019/06/10/18 / 14612824-0-image-a-9_1560188762679.jpg "height =" 434 "width =" 634 "alt =" Danger against Kazakhstan on a day after his transfer news was announced "

<img id = "i-135c28a42b57adb0" src = "https://dailym.ai/2wNrHmB" height = "434" width = "634" alt = "Hazard against Kazakhstan on Saturday the day after his transfer news was announced" class = "blkBorder img-share" /

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[tipsoctopus]

"Joke", "All my respect for you is gone" - Many Liverpool fans react to controversial comments

Liverpool fans have taken to Twitter to slam Italian football legend Andrea Pirlo, after he criticised Divock Origi’s attitude in the Champions League final.

Pirlo said that the Belgian striker was ‘awful’ and that his teammates should’ve given him a ‘kicking’ had he not gone on to score his winning goal; bit weird, in all honesty.

Has Salomon Rondon had a better season than Bobby Firmino? Matt from The Magpie Channel discusses in the video below…

Almost every Liverpool player had a patchy performance in Madrid on Saturday evening, so it is unfair to single out the 24-year-old for his display, which wasn’t even that bad.

The former Lille man came on for Roberto Firmino early in the second half and managed to offer a more direct, physical approach as well as net the goal that sealed a sixth top European Cup – what a finish it was, by the way.

In that respect, the former AC Milan and Juventus playmaker was harsh to pinpoint Origi’s attitude as a problem.

Naturally, Liverpool fans on Twitter have leapt to their No.27’s defence and slammed Pirlo…

Still crying about 05 him lad

— Tim (@timmounce) June 2, 2019

Origi is a legend. Don’t care what the Italian Joe Allen has to say about him!

— Zaid Shahin (@Dr_ZaidShahin) June 3, 2019

If he wants a good example of a player with a bad attitude, should look at his own body language when he missed his penalty in Istanbul…langer

— ToggedOut (@OutTogged) June 2, 2019

This is so random. The whole team didn’t play great so why pick on Origi? Without his goals, we wouldn’t be champions right now.

— Anika (@AbedinOfficial) June 3, 2019

All my respect for you is gone Andrae Andrea whatever your name is! The boy sealed an important win for us!

— Mo Saaaalahino (@fmutengo) June 2, 2019

From the guy who failed to show up in Istanbul and missed a penalty.

— andthesunshinesnow (@astewart72) June 2, 2019

Hahah. He wants to be relevant. “Headlines”

— 4YourEyezOnly+BRACKETS (@Botshelo4Life) June 3, 2019

Pirlo: “I am being paid to say something. What shall I say? Hmmmm. Origi’s awful.” Hahahahaha. What a joke.

— Muhammad Firdaus (@mdfirdaus89) June 2, 2019

from FootballFanCast.com http://bit.ly/314gxYy via IFTTT from Blogger http://bit.ly/2MqEbLo via IFTTT

[torentialtribute]

Behind the scenes in the Liverpool dressing room as the Reds celebrate Champions League glory

The party started for Liverpool and their supporters after they had their sixth Champions League title in Madrid conquered.

Goals of Mohamed Salah and Divock Origi were enough to see the threat of Premier League rivals Tottenham disappear, leading to cheering full-time scenes.

There was noticeable relief on the face of Jurgen Klopp who finally won his first trophy with the Reds, while for the team as a whole there was a feeling of redemption after their defeat in the last year's final by Madrid .

Liverpool won their sixth Champions League title on Saturday after beating Tottenham with 2-0

<img id = "i-da1a1777e09c9f04" src = "https://dailym.ai/2EObaDn -The_Liverpool_squad_began_their_celebrations_in_the_dressing_roo-a-211_1559435672291.jpg "height =" 552 "width =" 306 "alt ="

The Liverpool team started their celebrations in the dressing room in the Metropolitan Wanda "

] The Reds were exceptional all season long and had the misfortune not to win the Premier League "class =" blkBorder im g-share "/> [1

The Liverpool Team

The Reds were exceptional throughout the season and had the misfortune of not winning the Premier League [bewerken] [bewerken] External links Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain captured the team that played the Anfield song & # 39; Allez Allez Allez & # 39; "sings [bewerken] Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain captured the team that sang the Anfield song & # 39; Allez Allez Allez & # 39;"

<img id = "i-4310e72327a322a7" src = "https://dailym.ai/2Xju7VL" = "554" width = "306" alt = "<img id =" i-4310e72327a322a7 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2EPXKql He_joined_the_entire_squad_and_many_backroom_staff_in_a_raucous_-a-208_1559435638446.jpg "height =" 554 "width =" 306 "alt =" <img id = "i-4310e72327a322a7" src = "https://dailym.ai/2uS4u1n /02/01/14249992-7095067-He_joined_the_entire_squad_and_many_backroom_staff_in_a_raucous_-a-208_1559435638446.jpg "height =" 554 "width =" 306 "alt =" <img id = "i-4310e72327a32iail" https // https://support.exe.exe. co.uk/1s/2019/06/02/01/14249992-7095067-He_joined_the_entire_squad_and_many_backroom_staff_in_a_r aucous_-a-208_1559435638446.jpg "height =" 554 "width =" 306 "alt =" <img id = "i-4310e72327a322a7" src = "https://dailym.ai/2WgE5KP /02/01/14249992-7095067-He_joined_the_entire_squad_and_many_backroom_staff_in_a_raucous_-a-208_1559435638446.jpg "height =" 554 "width =" 306 "alt =" <img id = "i-4310e72327a32iail" https // https://support.exe.exe. co.uk/1s/2019/06/02/01/14249992-7095067-He_joined_the_entire_squad_and_many_backroom_staff_in_a_raucous_-a-208_1559435638446.jpg "height =" 554 "width =" 306 "alt =" He joined the entire team and many eight people in a raw choir (19459012)

Alex Oxlade-Cham (19459012)

Alex Oxlade-Cham berlain conquered the squadroor and sang the Anfield song & # 39; Allez Allez Allez & # 39;

Roberto Firmino sprayed his teammates with champagne while the party went on "class =

Roberto Firmino sprayed his teammates with champagne while the party continued "

<img id =" i-6206bda0d0eaef4d "src =" https://dailym.ai/2Xkalt9 02/01 / 14251362-7095067-image-a-217_1559436063074.jpg "height =" 552 "width =" 306 "alt =" He got company from Spanish, he got company from Spanish and he got company from Spanish. Roberto Firmino sprayed his teammates with champagne as the party went on

<img id = "i-21a1bfcf28d989e5" src = "https: // i .dailymail.co.uk / 1s / 2019/06/02/01 / 14251366-7095067-image-a-224_1559436094052.jpg "height =" 544 "width =" 306 "alt =" A young woman with a bottle of champagne during the celebrations behind the scenes "" blkBorder img-share "

<img id =" i-21a1bfcf28d989e5 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2XkvNhz -image-a-224_1559436094052.jpg "height =" 544 "width =" 306 "alt ="

This image has a copy of a signed model. This image is available for immediate download.

<img id = "i-689abacf7a0ae6ca" src = "https://dailym.ai/2EObdPz -223_1559436086271.jpg "height =" 544 "width =" 306 "alt =" Brazilian trio Roberto Firmino, Fabinho and Alisson posing for a photo ", Fabinho and Alisson posing for a photo"

His teammates dived in photos with Fabinho and Alisson

And all that emotion poured out after the whistle and carried away from the field, the Liverpool team also partyed in their dressing room in the Metropolitan Wanda

The Liverpool Team and [bewerken] The Liverpool Team and the Liverpool Team and the Liverpool Team and the Liverpool Team Staff raufously sang another much-loved anthem from the Anfield terraces, & # 39; Allez Allez Allez & # 39 ;, with the Champions League trophy triumphantly raised in the background.

Oxlade Chamberlain, who was an unused substitute in the final, was joining Andy Robertson on camera before scouring around to reveal medals and potions while the anthem reached his crescendo

The song was followed by the serenade of instrumental defender Virgil van Dijk, who has his own song the melody of The Dubliner's It & # 39; sa Dirty Old Town

Dejan Lovren" class = "blkBorder img-share" />

Roberto Firmino helped with Croatian teammate Dejan Lovren

Lovren joined an ecstatic Xherdan Shaqiri in celebration "class = "blkBorder img-share" />>

[1 9459012]

Alisson celebrated with Divock Origi and called him & # 39; the blessed & # 39; "

Alisson celebrated with Divock Origi and called him & # 39; the blessed & # 39; the blessed" "class =" blkBorder img-share "/>

Lovren joined an ecstatic Xherdan Shaqiri while Alisson celebrated with Divock Origi]

<img id = "i-fc5c39cf1aaf833c" src = "https://dailym.ai/2WPmxkZ /2019/06/02/02/14249988-7095067-Brazilian_midfielder_Fabinho_captured_jubilant_scenes_as_the_squ-a-30_1559437921679.jpg "height =" 550 "width =" 305 "alt =" <img id = "i-fc5c39cf1c833 https: // i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/06/02/02/14249988-7095067-Brazilian_midfielder_Fabinho_captured_jubilant_scenes_as_the_squ-a-30_1559437921679.jpg "height =" 550 "width =" 305 "alt =" The Brazilian midfielder Fabinho has jubilations captured while the team sang the & # 39; campione & # 39; singing scenes while the team sang the & # 39; campione & # 39; singing

Joel Matip came to work at Fabinho for which he posed the camera while the duo celebrated their victory "

<img id =" i-1445fd76a71e8206 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2uS4u1n /1s/2019/06/02/01/14249990-7095067-Joel_Matip_joined_Fabinho_has_he_posed_for_the_camera_as_the_duo-a-207_1559435624669.jpg "height =" 552 "width =" 306 "alt =" Joel Matip started with Fabinho the camera while dosing for Fabinho the camera the duo celebrated their victory "

Brazilian midfielder Fabinho captured jubilant scenes while the team recorded the & # 39; campione & # 39; singing [19459005

Van Dijk has been a revelation for Liverpool since its signature in January 2018, adding a defensive nous that helped the Reds launch an impressive title challenge before securing European glory on Saturday. set. ] The former defender of Celtic and Southampton enjoyed the adulation and orchestrated the team while they sang their name.

In addition to the Anfield hymns, there was time for renditions of & # 39; Campiones & # 39 ;, as captured by midfielder Fabinho, who felt themselves watered by Champagn as Firmino and their teammates conspired while the team gathered around the famous trophy danced.

Old & Large Ears & # 39; was held in safe hands by goalkeeper Alisson, who paraded the trophy through the front of the waiting media package, adding that he could not stop talking as he was supposed to protect the trophy.

The Brazilian goalkeeper sent his pregnant wife home from the field before declaring his love for the iconic trophy of the Champions League. The Liverpool goalkeeper had timed his partner in the face at home

<img id = "i-a4de563c4eedcbba" src = "https://dailym.ai/2uS4u1n /1s/2019/06/02/01/14250360-7095067-The_Liverpool_goalkeeper_face_timed_his_partner_back_home-a-240_1559436198562.jpg "height =" 526 "width =" 306 "alt =" The Liverpool goalkeeper timed at his partner's home "

<img id = "i-bbcae2bf16a1ede5" src = "https://dailym.ai/2XkvOSF 14250354-7095067-He_then_declared_his_love_for_the_famous_Champions_League_trophy-a-241_1559436207498.jpg "height =" 526 "width =" 306 "alt =" He then declared his love for the famous Champions League

[19459012[194512]12][1945

The keepe r van Liverpool looked at his partner at home with a face and then took the trophy and he celebrated on the field "

<img id =" i-c1187cb4ef741aa "src =" https://i.dailymail.co .uk / 1s / 2019/06/02/02 / 14250358-7095067-Alisson_showed_photographers_his_wife_and_family_on_his_phone_an-a-31_1559437921727.jpg "height =" 422 "width =" 632 "alt =" Alisson showed his wife and family on his phone and he celebrated his fourth on his phone and he fourth ted on the field "

Alisson & # 39; s photo of his wife and family on his phone and celebrated on the field

Roberto Firmino colored it with hair spray, something that has been embraced by most of the team, including Mohamed Salah and even the hairless Fabinho.

The party also continued after the changing rooms, when the team again & # 39; Allez Allez Allez & # 39; stopped in the team bus again.

Jurgen Klopp now rattled through a series of interviews after the game, but could not resist jumping into songs himself.

Speaking against Norwegian television, Klopp responded to comments about his inability to win in the cup

He sang & # 39; Let's talk about six baby & # 39 ;, referring to the title of the sixth Champions League in Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp bursts into song during an interview with Norwegian television "with Norwegian television"

Jurgen Klopp bursts into singing during an interview with Norwegian television

<img id = "i-1dc580c38edbedc1" src = "https://dailym.ai/2uS4u1n 1s / 2019/06/02/00 / 14249954-7095067-image-a-182_1559433145585.jpg "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" Klopp sang about his cup final by changing the words to a Salt-N -Pepa classic "<img id =" i-1dc580c38edbedc1 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2EKiNuo "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-1dc580c38edbedc1" src = "https://dailym.ai/2XkvPpH 7095067-image-a-182_1559433145585.jpg "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-1dc580c38edbedc1" src = "https://dailym.ai/2OTvk2r / 06/02/00 / 14249954-7095067 ima ge-a-182_1559433145585.jpg "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" Klopp sang about his cup final by Salt-N-Pepa classic "

Klopp sang about his cup final through the words to change to Salt-N-Pepa classic

The match only lasted 21 seconds when referee Damir Skomina pointed to the penalty.

Tottenham assembled after half

After a long wait, Mohamed Salah stepped up to give Jurgen Klopp the lead and set them on course for the victory. time but their hopes were undermined by the substitute of Divock Origi, who has a good score for the crucial goals, shot a left-handed shot into the net with just three minutes to play.

Joe Gomez (L), Gini Wijnaldum and van Dijk (R) celebrate with the Champions League trophy Gomez (L), Gini Wijnaldum and van Dijk ( R) celebrating with the Champions League trophy "

Joe Gomez (L), Gini Wijnaldum and van Dijk (R) celebrating with the Champions League trophy

Na Cruel-heartedly denied Premier League success thanks to the brilliance of Manchester City, the European glory felt justified for that side, which excelled in all respects this season.

It was difficult for Trent Alexander Arnold to scale the performance

Speaking to BT Sport on full-time, he said: & # 39; It's hard to even articulate what just happened. that are going to happen tonight.

& # 39; The season we've had earned it more than we I have a different team. They have completed an early goal and a late goal.

& # 39; We have probably been dominated by most of the game, but we have shown that we are world class and can win anyway. & # 39;

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[torentialtribute]

Miracles by Liverpool and Spurs remind us why so many love football

It was one of the greatest weeks in the history of English football. Liverpool and Spurs fought miraculous battles to secure a place in the Champions League final in Madrid

ROB DRAPER was with Anfield and then the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam to capture the essence of an exciting double header for the UEFA elite competition

Here are his memories of two nights which I think he loves the beautiful game that echoes all over the world.

<img id = "i-f9653ddb2d3acb79" src = "https://dailym.ai/30ctsHs image-a-2_1557607014128.jpg "height =" 423 "width =" 634 "alt ="

[Lucas] Moura holds onto the match ball after scoring a hat trick in a wonderful victory of Spurs over Ajax <img id = "i-f9653ddb2d3acb79" src = "https://dailym.ai/2Vlfy1P" height = "423" width = " 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-f9653ddb2d3acb79" src = "https://dailym.ai/2Vlfy1P "height =" 423 "width =" 634 "alt =" Lucas Moura holds onto the match ball after having won a hat trick in a beautiful victory of Spurs over Ajax "- win a beautiful victory of Spurs over Ajax

It is around midnight on a Tuesday night and a group of young women, dressed in expensive dresses, are enjoying the evening out. They make their way past Liverpool Lime Street Station, led by a slender woman in her late teens.

& # 39; Allez! Allez! Allez! & # 39; she roars.

Her companions join the chorus. & # 39; Allez! Allez! Allez! & # 39;

Up the road, the 917 bus returns from Anfield to the city center.

They stamp their feet and sing: & # 39; We have conquered the whole of Europe! We will never stop! From Paris to Turkey! We have won the f ** king lot! & # 39;

Their stamps and the rising excitement shake the bus and alert the driver. & # 39; If you don't stop stamping, I won't continue the journey & # 39; I have deadpans everywhere in the irritated monotonous civil service. Apologies are offered. Promises are made to stop the stamping. But the number is resumed. & # 39; Bob Paisley and Bill Shankly! The Fields of Anfield Road! We are loyal supporters! And we are from Liverpool! "

& # 39; In the streets, strangers hug themselves and remind themselves of everything they've seen and everything they've felt. & # 39; What about that! & # 39;

This city has seen almost everything that football has to offer – it has a precursor to the highs and lows – but on Tuesday it experienced something extraordinary – something very blinding and uplifting that not only the city but the whole

<img id = "i-be178775451ac471" src = "https://dailym.ai/30cttLw image-a-3_1557607149726.jpg "height =" 414 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-be178775451ac471" src = "https://dailym.ai/2J2OwKp /11/21/13384002-0-image-a-3_1557607149726.jpg "height =" 414 "width =" 634 "alt =" Liverpool back Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrates after Liverpool beat Barcelona with 4-0 "Arnold celebrates after Liverpool defeated Barcelona 4-0 "

Liverpo ol right back Trent Alexander-Arnold fourth after Liverpool defeated Barcelona 4-0

The story had begun five hours earlier than football fans gathered at Anfield to convince themselves that despite all evidence of on the contrary, their team could emerge victorious. Fans are like this: it is a ritual they undergo before a match starts … a process of convincing themselves that even if all hope seems lost, there is still a point … still a chance.

It is modern folklore and an appeal to blind superstition. They delve into the history of the tribe to support the false sense of confidence. They tell about a semi-final that they played dramatically in 1977 and won against Saint-Etienne, the first year that Liverpool captured the European Cup.

And the semi-final against Chelsea in 2005. Of course, they talk about Istanbul that same year, and the last time Liverpool somehow won the final of the Champions League after being mid-3- 0 had been to mighty AC Milan.

What they are not talking about is how improbable victory against Barcelona. Liverpool is an exceptional side, but in the 3-0 match they go to the best club of the last decade with the biggest live soccer player under their number. Oh, and Liverpool miss their best player and move forward. The opening to the most famous song by Gerry Marsden is eerily abrupt. & # 39; If you walk … & # 39; he sings, acapella, waiting for the piano and the guitar. At Anfield they need that right away. They pick up the song from the first beat, this sentimental music hall from another century that grabs you and shakes you until you shiver.

Barcelona fans are also taking part. English football, this song and Anfield remain a touchstone among foreign fans. & # 39; Continue! & # 39; they sing & # 39; Walk on! With hope in your heart! And you will never walk alone! You will never walk alone.

<img id = "i-34829cae67c4242b" src = "https://dailym.ai/2VdpXgh -5_1557607296085.jpg "height =" 423 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-34829cae67c4242b" src = "https://dailym.ai/2Hf9XXn 21 / 13384036-0-image-a-5_1557607296085.jpg "height =" 423 "width =" 634 "alt =" Liverpool fans play their part with remarkable support during a memorable evening at Anfield.

Liverpool fans play their role with remarkable support during a memorable night in Anfield a memorable night in Anfield

It awakens the senses and generates more false hope. This game was lost a week earlier in Barcelona, ​​but we must behave as if it were not. Then Liverpool scores and we can stop a bit longer.

The volume is extraordinary with Anfield. The ground literally vibrates. But it is not so much the sound that you unconsciously capture and stimulate this Tuesday evening. It is more the roar of collective hope that you turn sideways, through which adrenaline flows through you.

And so until the second half, two goals from Gini Wijnaldum, making it 3-3 on total. Now everyone believes. Then there is Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose corner for the deciding fourth remains a wonderful day after the event.

& # 39; It was just instinctive & # 39 ;, he says later that evening, looking exceptionally good, given what happened. & # 39; I just walked away, looked back and saw that they were eliminated and Div [Origi] was only in the middle of the goal … and I hit it. It is unbelievable that he has just responded to the ball and disposed of it.

<img id = "i-d55e4943f02e43a7" src = "https://dailym.ai/305dr5Y -19_1557609348819.jpg "height =" 458 "width =" 634 "alt =" Gini Wijnaldum (right) shouts with pleasure after scoring Liverpool & # 39; s third goal on Tuesday evening "class = Gini Wijnaldum (right) screams with pleasure after scoring Liverpool & # 39; s third goal on Tuesday evening

Gini Wijnaldum (right) screams with pleasure after scoring it Liverpool's third goal on Tuesday night

Alexander-Arnold pauses. & # 39; I would probably have been called if it never came true. But it was worth the risk, & he adds.

At the age of 20, Alexander-Arnold is young enough to become a relapse into childhood. He is shy, but also playful and cheeky.

In the 79th minute of the game, he performs the kind of movement that we all tried to catch the kids in the playground trying to catch our classmates while contesting a decision with an imaginary referee. Alexander-Arnold happens to play against Barcelona in the semifinals of the Champions League.

As the roar encircles the ground, Lionel Messi waits in the center circle, hangs his shoulders, and shakes his head with contempt for his teammates

<img id = "i -63cf8bc3fc8c06f2 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2VjR3SW "height =" 421 "width =" 634 " alt = "<img id =" i-63cf8bc3fc8c06f2 "src =" https://dailym.ai/2VjR3SW "height = "421" width = "634" alt = "<img id =" i-63cf8bc3fc8c06f2 "src =" https://dailym.ai/30ctwqG image-a-6_1557607375369.jpg "height =" 421 "width =" 634 "alt =" Lionel Messi looks depressed when Barcelona looks like a man from Barcelona

Lionel Messi looks depressed as Barcelona being lashed and beaten from Europe in Anfield

Lionel Messi looks downcast when Barcelona is shot down in Anfield and beaten from Europe

It is the privilege of this job to see how Messi so often defies the limits of this game. For two years, when he was 18 and 19, I lived in Barcelona and saw him play at Camp Nou every week. Maybe it was because my first child was born at the time, but it felt good to be alive and to look at this teenager. And this was in a Barcelona team, before Pep Guardiola, that won nothing.

So often he is delighted. That's how it was in the first leg. He took a game in which Liverpool was superior and made that fact meaningless.

He is 31. Do not really behave unless you are a professional athlete. Messi stopped running in the second half. I simply couldn't keep up. The intensity was beyond him.

When his shoulders drop and his head falls down, that is a terrible sign. I've seen it before and it happened in Anfield. He turned around the center circle, an observer willing to do his bit if only the team could get the ball to him. But I had stopped defending, stopped pressing.

The game ends with Liverpool having taken no backward step; mentally or physically. There is a danger within that of Liverpool that is limited only to those who have more heart and soul. For the record, Liverpool has driven 69.6 miles to Barca & 65 miles.

The game was about much more than that: part of passing Liverpool from the back was clear and agile as we have seen. Yet it is quite difficult to compete if your field players run about half a mile less than their opposite numbers in less than 90 minutes.

<img id = "i-d4494418867c0fcd" src = "https://dailym.ai/2Vj7K0P -0-image-a-7_1557607502864.jpg "height =" 330 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-d4494418867c0fcd" src = "https://dailym.ai/2CYdfvj 2019/05/11/21 / 13384030-0-image-a-7_1557607502864.jpg "height =" 330 "width =" 634 "alt =" Liverpool players stand in line in front of the Cup while celebrating their victory with Reds fans

Liverpool players stand in line for the Cup while standing in line for the Cup while celebrating their victory with Reds fans celebrating their victory with Reds -fans

After the game, players filter in the dressing room and happily celebrate their way. Jordan Henderson, leading the singing of & # 39; Allez, Allez, Allez! & # 39;

But the crowd remains. And Alexander-Arnold, born in Liverpool, built the suburb of the city, West Derby, standing alone for the Kop. All these players are of course natural. But Alexander-Arnold?

Perhaps he is slightly more special, such as Phil Thompson, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard for him. Alexander-Arnold does not want to leave. He is only 20, but he must have felt that these moments can pass too quickly. So he stands and welcomes the Cup.

And they naturally cheer exuberantly in return. And Alexander-Arnold walks slowly through the stadium, past the Sir Kenny Dalglish grandstand and the Anfield Road End, recognizing his own people and drinking at every moment of a special night: a boy weaned in Saint-Etienne, Chelsea and Istanbul,

& # 39; I was just trying to tell the fans that we couldn't do without them and that it's up to them that these magical nights happen. & # 39;

<img id = "i-1acb54f6c7ab9275" src = "https://dailym.ai/30ctxuK Liverpool_s_Trent_Alexander_Arnold_tries_to_take_in_what_has_jus-a-13_1557301823732.jpg "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" <img id = "i-1acb54f6c7ab9275" src = "https://dailym.ai/2GW1CHV /08/08/13233626-7005009-Liverpool_s_Trent_Alexander_Arnold_tries_to_take_in_what_has_jus-a-13_1557301823732.jpg "height =" 357 "width =" 634 "alt =" Alexander-Arnold is trying to take what has just unfolded while sitting in the Anfield dressing room. Arnold tries to record what he has just unfolded while sitting in Anfield's dressing room. "

Alexander-Arnold tries to take what has just been released while he is sitting in the dressing room of Anfield

On a train to London the following morning, the discussion goes on whether this was the best Liverpool team ever – on the morning after a night like that, successful games must be ranked.

At St Pancras Station, the mood is different, this is the best ever, at Anfield At least, they decide. Tottenham fans stand in line for their Eurostar to Amsterdam, they are excited, expectant, and unlike Liverpool, this is a virgin territory for them. have been the semi-finals of this competition with their best team ever.You should have a vague memory.

In small groups they discuss the events of the night before, of course it gives them hope. from the first at stage 1-0 of Ajax, but in contrast to the task of Liverpool, this does not look hopeless.

Cans of beer are burst open. It is finally 11 o'clock. Enough time to drink to Amsterdam. An over-enthusiastic fan on the phone announces at top volume in the style of Dom Joly, at every intermediate station: & WE WILL ONLY ENTER BRUSSELS! & # 39; and then & # 39; WE DRAW IN ANTWERP. WE WILL BE WITH YOU IN AN HOURS! & # 39;

Tottenham has less reason than Liverpool to be anxious.

Their journey has seen them cross swords equivalent to Bayern Munich and humiliate Real Madrid and Juventus. They are a return to 1995, when the Dutch club won this competition with a team formed by Louis van Gaal, at its peak. They have turned modern football upside down and confused the elite. This is Amsterdam, the walk to the Johan Cruyff Arena has that slightly sickly scent of marijuana. But there is no air of relaxed geniuses that you associate with that scent at a music festival.

Police sirens sound. A group of Tottenham fans are locked up in their rival restaurant groups of Dutch fans fighting outside. Secret police, casually dressed, not like the hooligans they are trying to capture, suddenly reveal lipstick and begin to arrest perpetrators. There is a visceral aggression in the anticipation.

Just like Anfield the night before, the stadium shakes fairly well with noise. It is a cliché to say that football stadiums have become our modern cathedral. They are more like a slightly sinister political rally: fans like to be manipulated into a choreographed display of extraordinary emotions. Songs are sung, flags are waved and the noise is overwhelming. It works however. Ajax flies out of the blocks, Tottenham capitulates.

Matthijs de Ligt comes up

Harry Kane is angry. He was not even on the field.

Another season is slipping away for Tottenham without any chance of a trophy.

Terrible in the first half against Ajax on the new White Hart Lane, they may be even worse here in the opening of 45 minutes here. what he should do.

& # 39; Harry is mentally affected & # 39 ;, Kieran Trippier remembers later. & # 39; Is this how you want to be remembered? After all we have experienced this season! ?

& # 39; We are laughing about it now, but not then & # 39 ;, says Trippier. & # 39; He did not go language [in terms of] people sort out. He was frustrated and right. He was clearly not playing and he had loved but we knew he could do better, so much better. "

Indeed. The party had lost five of its previous six games. And scored a goal in five games since defeating Manchester City to reach this stage. That victory, extraordinary in its own way, seemed to be his Harry Kane is celebrating the season and sucked all the energy away from them.

… but he was not at all happy when Spurs trailed 2-0 " Harry Kane celebrates match after game … but he was not at all happy when Spurs trailed 2-0

Tottenham is in the second half on the field in the Johan Cruyff Arena, Kane said his piece, waiting aimlessly, bobbing up and down , chat with each other. But there is no trace of their opponents.

They wait two or three minutes, highly unusual in these choreographed matters. An element of gamesmanship is on the way. Suddenly the famous opening tones of Bob Marley & # 39; s Three Little Birds lit up and the Ajax team appeared.

& # 39; Do not Worry … about a thing is this white-white crowd of throbbing Jamaican beat. & # 39; Because every little thing will be alright. & # 39;

This is the anthem of Ajax. The game starts, but the song continues without the backing track, 52,000 people sing: & # 39; Get up this morning, laugh with the rising sun, three little birds, pitch at my door … & # 39; It's a stunning sound, Anfield's match the night before, topped with hope and tranquility, which frankly seems inappropriate. Maybe they wanted to send a message to their young players.

Listening to Ajax fans singing the three little birds of Bob Marley before qualifying for a Champions League final after 24 years is what it's all about. you better see it today.

work. The first rocket that hits the coffin lands on Mark Ogden, a journalist who works for ESPN. It falls square on the back of the head.

Fortunately for him, it is a plastic glass, but now we are all steeped in beer. The laptop of the man from The Daily Telegraph, who is sitting in front of him, is drenched and disrupted, which is small with 25 minutes left to play and the London office awaiting his report.

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While the beer bottle attack continues, Lucas is a young man who has a lot of fun. Moura scores twice, the second an excellent demonstration of close technique and footwork to make his way past defenders and leave a clean shot behind.

Moura was thrown away by Qatari-supported Paris Saint-Germain last year to pay the wages of Neymar, whose main contribution to this year's tournament was to banish three games for abusing an official on Instagram when his team went out in the last sixteen.

The goals of Moura came in the 55th and 59 minutes, almost an irror picture of the timing of Liverpool & # 39; s two quick second-half goals from Wijnaldum on Tuesday night.

Now those Ajax fans have to worry. Beer nestles on computer screens and seeps into the keyboards. The smell of old too expensive beer and testosterone fills the air. It is the smell of a football audience that gets ugly.

<img id = "i-d65dc4adaadbe8e8" src = "https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/11/21/13384416 -0-image-a-11_1557608274474.jpg "height =" 423 "width =" 634 "alt =" Lucas appears stunningly close

Lucas shows astonishing close control and footwork to track 2-2 in Amsterdam and footwork to raise Spurs level at 2-2 in Amsterdam "

Lucas shows stunning close control and footwork to raise Spurs level at 2-2 in Amsterdam

it seems that the game will soon be for Tottenham. It is almost over. Their glorious comeback is ultimately nothing but a pointless 2-2 draw – a heartbreaking end to the goal. The referee indicates five minutes of the added time.

Four minutes and thirty-eight seconds of that are shown when the ball is sent to half of Tottenham. In the press box, journalists send their latest copy to newspapers around the world on Spurs & Brave but fruitless combat. A goal kick is taken, the ball is cleared and fought then finds its way to the feet of Moussa Sissoko, who is deep in his own half.

It is the silence that touches you. The stadium bounces and cacophony in celebration; the next it is completely silent. It goes beyond the lack of sound. It is the sound of hope that is sucked from the souls of thousands of people, as one of the mythical dementors of JK Rowling has appeared.

The press box is generally a neutral place. Responses are kept to a minimum. But someone shouts: & # 39; He did it … he did it! & # 39;

There is a distant echo in the midst of silence. The fans are deliberately placed so high in a corner that they are difficult to hear or influence the game. Now there is a vague roar from there and, in the corner, a stack of Spurs players on top of Moura. He has earned a hat trick. On the sidelines, Eric Dier, an unused Tottenham replacement, manager Mauricio Pochettino in a manic dance of joy, grasps their faces in a mix of shock and unbelieving joy.

<img id = "i-e3f6d9e5819e4cf5" src = "https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/11/22/13384510-0- image-a-12_1557608578318.jpg "height =" 634 "width =" 634 "alt =" Manager Mauricio Pochettino (right) stares in the eyes of Eric Dier as the duo-hug Tottenham "(right) stares in the eyes of Eric Animal as the duo hug Tottenham "

Manager Mauricio Pochettino (right) stares in the eyes of Eric Dier as the Tottenham duo hug

Twitter is a cesspool, a public demonstration of our worst instincts, but also, occasionally some of our best.

Their responses to Moura & # 39; s goal are, if you don't understand football, worryingly hysterical, such as one or another primal ceremony. They growl and scream. Nobody has control. Adults hit the floor like toddlers. They run around manically. One struggles his partner on the ground.

This feeling was w at Bill Shankly, who built Liverpool FC, when he made his famous joke about life, death and football. There are both men and women regardless of gender. But you can't help noticing that most are still men. Men who might find it difficult to show emotions in a different context do most of us. So what's this with this stupid game that makes this release of social norms possible? Is this a relapse to being in a tribe? A desperate need to belong to something more important?

How does it feel, people who are not sports fans sometimes ask? It feels like you're alive. More alive than ever before. That shot of adrenaline and joy is hard to copy. Perhaps the birth of a child surpasses the height of a love affair in a wedding or similar ceremony. Not doing much else.

<img id = "i-f6c6ed9888088e24" src = "https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/11/22/13384738-0- image-a-18_1557609297057.jpg "height =" 595 "width =" 634 "alt =" Lucas is lying flat on his back after the last whistle blows in Amsterdam on Wednesday evening "his back after the last whistle blows in Amsterdam on Wednesday night"

Lucas lies flat on his back after the last whistle blows in Amsterdam on Wednesday evening

At the end of all this, Moura is interviewed by Portuguese television and plays it to him comment from his third goal.

The interviewer fixes him with a glance and says nothing The camera moves in his face Now the tears are flowing I try to wipe them out and keep going He is lost for words.

Pochettino is also sobbing.

I want to remember my family , & # 39; he says, his voice creaking like an Oscar. winner. & # 39; It's great for them too. Thank you football. Without football, I think it's impossible to live. "

Kane is standing nearby. He is now happier, sagging grin on his face. He doesn't want to be interviewed because others are earning more. But he stops joking about sprinting over the field to make it at the end, it seems that his damaged ankle ligaments have survived. Will I come back for the finals?

& # 39; I hope so, & he replies confidently.

<img id = "i-5ddb97b3a451af22" src = "https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/11/22/13269238-0-Tottenham_striker_Harry_Kane_is_hopeful_of_being_fit_for_the_Cha6087-1343434343434343 "height =" 356 "width =" 632 "alt =" Tottenham star Kane is hopeful to be fit for the Champions League final in Madrid on June 1 "

<img id =" i-5ddb97b3a451af22 " src = "https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/11/22/13269238-0-Tottenham_striker_Harry_Kane_is_hopeful_of_being_fit_for_the_Cha-a-13_1557608737743.jpg" height = "356" width = "632" alt = "Tottenham star Kane is hopeful to be fit for the Champions League final in Madrid on June 1 "class =" blkBorder "

As a football fan, you are a football fan, you are a football fan , you are a fan of closing a deal. You commit yourself to the result, that at that moment almost everything goes beyond; gamble with your emotions. If you lose, it is desperate and the hangover incomprehensible.

But if you win? That euphoric high is legally difficult to replicate. That must be the reason why we do it. We want to be happy and share that happiness with someone.

Amidst all the corruption and crookedness of the field, the diving and omission of it, the cynicism and soullessness and the really bad screams for money that the game

Like an echo of a pure youth game we thought we had forgotten, it is like a divine moment of fellowship.

While Alexander-Arnold completed that solitary round of honor on Tuesday evening, I approached the area where the Barcelona fans were housed. He initially seemed hesitant and didn't want goad fans at their lowest point. He applauded them carefully.

And before a man and a woman, they stood up and repaid, and saw the scale of the display of this young man and that of his teammates. There was immense dignity and mutual respect at the time. And to a certain extent.

In the midst of tribalism that supports and infects football, there is a common humanity that can bind people even in the sharpest disappointments. After all, it's just a game. Bill Shankly, despite his most famous quote, would certainly agree.

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