Unlike some of my fellow Liverpool-supporting pals, I had a bad feeling prior to yesterday’s EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Southampton. The Saints, to their credit, have become our bogey team. Other than the 6-1 win a year ago, we have struggled to break them down, despite, as some have pointed out, signing a number of their players.
The absence of Sadio Mane is clearly hampering the team’s progress. We desperately need him back quick-fast. What a ridiculous time to have a major tournament in Africa. I believe the players more than the manager should shoulder most of the blame. Klopp has millions of admirers for his geggen-pressing style, but a simple tweak here and adjustment there could have done the trick at an expectant Anfield last night.
As Sky Sports pundit and former Red Jamie Carragher pointed out, Emre Can and captain Jordan Henderson do not work together in midfield. So why play them, Jurgen? I agreed with his decision to shoe-horn Daniel Sturridge into the starting XI. Afterall, we needed a goal in 90 minutes. And he’d have scored one of those chances 99 times out of 100.
But back to the midfield, I’m a great believer of nothing ventured, nothing gained in football. Firmino is a far greater threat down the middle, with Lallana just behind him. And Coutinho floating around. But Southampton sat back and were rarely stretched. And they picked Liverpool off on the break. Home and away.
Although the games have been coming thick and fast since Christmas, Klopp must believe he has the squad to deal with the busy schedule. But now is the time to try something new. The team has lost pace and intensity in Mane’s absence. The fastest players are Divock Origi and Alberto Moreno. He may not be able to defend, but for heavens sake throw him in now. Or sign someone decent, for the present, not only for the future. We desperately need a box-to-box midfielder, a la Gerrard. Henderson has lost his verve and it appears injuries are limiting what he can do.
Can has had a good run, but failed to make the position his own. Some time on the bench may help him reflect on some laboured performances. Why not play James Milner on the right side of midfield, Joe Gomes at left-back, with Moreno just in front. That way you have more of a chance of getting in behind the same defences who were terrified of our attackers during the first half of the season.
Saturday’s FA Cup tie at home to Wolves would be the perfect opportunity to try something new.
A former editor once told me never to blog when I’m angry. But I’m glad I’ve got this off my chest.
Yes it may have only been the ‘Mickey Mouse Cup’ but us Reds never say no to a trip to Wembley.
