RADIO
Liverpool FC were always going to struggle to replace the goals scored by Luis Suarez and the subsequent loss of Daniel Sturridge to injury. Coupled with the disastrous acquisition of Mario Balotelli, these challenges made qualification for the Champions League a virtual impossibility. The eventual finish when put in this context, whilst of course disappointing, was not necessarily that surprising.
The sale of Raheem Sterling to Manchester City has been a catalyst for more changes in the squad, and $120 million will already have been spent in the close season once the expected arrival of Christian Benteke is confirmed. James Milner brings experience to the midfield following the departure of Steven Gerrard, but it is offensively where unsurprisingly Liverpool have made a number of moves.
Editor’s Note: be sure to check out all of our articles, and read more about English Premier League (EPL, BPL) fantasy analysis and European football news.
It seems that Daniel Sturridge should get some serious competition for his place this season from Divock Origi, Benteke, Roberto Firmino and also Danny Ings. With the craft of Philippe Coutinho, and the explosiveness of both Lazar Markovic and Jordan Ibe Liverpool, Liverpool can return to being the attacking dynamic unit they were two seasons ago. The former is a player we think can thrive in his second season in the EPL.
Simon Mignolet has cemented his place as number one goalkeeper, and needs to continue his progression. The Liverpool style of play will inevitably leave opportunities for the opposition, and defensively we still feel Liverpool lacks the personnel at the highest level to win the matches that count.
Much will depend on how quickly the new additions gel -- and for Brendan Rogers sake, he needs a good start to the season, or he could be the first EPL Manager to face the exit door.
Prediction: Fun to watch and rewarded with a return to the Champions League, but maybe not with Rogers in charge.
Players to watch: Philippe Coutinho (Midfield), Lazar Markovic (Midfield), Divock Origi (Striker)
Football Chat Room
Share Your Thoughts
[iflychat_embed id="c-60" hide_user_list="yes" hide_popup_chat="no" height="400px"]
