Anfield Roar - April 2014 by Anfield Roar

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Wow! Another month has passed us by, and here I am again, talking about how confused, dazed and elated I am about LFC being perched on top of the Premier League table with just THREE games to go! Three wins is enough to finish this season off with aplomb and to guarantee an amazing summer, regardless of what happens at that other footy tournament…! Two of the final games are at Anfield, where, I suspect, if things aren’t going to plan, the fans will literally suck the ball into the back of the nets! There can be no ground more intimidating that Anfield at the moment: a squad of strutting, dynamic, offensive players; a calculating yet mesmerising master-tactician; and four walls of fury, noise, and excitement. Better teams than Chelsea and Newcastle will come here in the future and be completely fazed by all that. In this issue, we look at the tactics we will need to beat Chelsea this weekend, how Brendan Rodgers is the new Jose, what it means to be top of the table after all these years, coping with pressure, and how we can dare to dream! There’s also features on local lad Jon Flanagan and not-so local Phillipe Coutinho, which are all great reads! Added to the trophy (nearly) in the bag, there are more things to be positive about: Luis will undoubtedly be staying (Yay!), there is talk of spending BIG in the summer to make us even stronger and better, and plans for renovations to Anfield are gathering pace. What’s more, our under-21’s are also top of their league (and certain to qualify for the play-offs), and obviously our womens team are current WPL champions! All fantastic news, and signs that the club is progressing nicely in every way. Enjoy this issue of Anfield Roar, and let’s hope that the lads do well at the weekend! YNWA 3

Message from the Editor

Excited for the new season!

Postbox

Fan rants and opinion

Dare to Dream

No Prem team has ever won 14 in a row - will we be the first?

Do It For Stevie

Its been trending for a while - this is why all the players should #doitforstevie

Coping with Pressure

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have many seasoned champions in our ranks - does that count for much?

At the Top

Who would have thought we would be sitting pretty at the top of the table after 35 games?

Chelsea Next

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a MASSIVE game - Chelsea arrive at Anfield on Sunday...

Master vs Pupil Has Brendan Rodgers learnt enough from Jose to beat him at his own game?

How to beat Chelsea

Five key points to beating Chelsea - keep the tempo high for starters!

On the Pitch

A look back on the last month’s games. We’re still there!

Best in the World

Is Luis Suarez the best in the world? Surely his goals count for something?

Liverpool’s Future: Flanagan

Is Jon Flanagan the future of Liverpool FC and England?

Liverpool’s Future: Countinho

Getting excited about our little Brazilian, and just how good he might become...

The Month Ahead

We preview the big fixtures, and predict the results (and we’re only slightly biased!)

Best of Youtube

Our pick of the best European action - we’ll be adding to it before too long…!

As Clear as Day Liverpool are doing it the right way - and its nice that other fans recognise it.

Dear Anfield Roar, As a neutral I would love Liverpool to win it just because of their style of play this year. They have not had CL football this year like the teams around them, but they also don't have the same squad size. Man City & Chelsea can afford to have high cost players on the bench (Aguero at ÂŁ37m, Chelski have Torres keeping it warm at ÂŁ50m). Yes I know the swap players about, but the quality of the Liverpool bench alone is no-where near the others. That said, I think Liverpool will miss Henderson a lot over the next three games, but win or lose the league, most people thought they would struggle for 5th with the amount of players Spurs were buying. Daniel Rogers, London ________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar Brendan Rodgers is embarrassing so many men of English football. Alex Ferguson - "Liverpool are at least 8 players short of a team that can challenge" Mourinho - "I need more money to compete with Manchester City's mass spending" Wenger - "We can't compete with Chelsea and Manchester City whose money will make them better than us, we are doing well to be where we are, how do you expect Arsenal to win the league etc etc etc" 6

POSTBOX Today Liverpool formally qualified for the Champions League group stages ending years in the wilderness. He is also on the cusp of winning the most sensational league victory in memory, taking a team that finished in seventh place to champions (the last thing comparable to this is I think Bryan Clough and Derby) and doing it playing the most sensational, exciting, skilful attacking football. He has done this with essentially the same team that ended last season, only Sakho has played a major role of his summer signings, and he's missed a third of the season with injury. The man looks like he's coaching the seventh best team last season into becoming champions and snatching the wigs off billionaire bloated oil baron football teams and others in the process. He's a genius. Liverpool have found a new Shankly. Ric Thomas, Liverpool __________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, There has been all sorts of talk about Liverpool being ina better position because of the lack of European football, but when you compare the squads you can see that we simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compare to either of the Manchester clubs: Forwards Utd: Rooney, Welbeck, Rvp, Hernandez City: Aguero, Dzeko, Negredo, Jovetic LFC: Sturridge, Suarez Midfield Utd: Mata, Giggs, Young, Nani?, Cleverly, Januzaj, Fellaini, Carrick, Kagawa, Valencia, Fletcher City: Toure, Fernandinho, Nasri, Navas, Silva, Rodwell, Garcia, Milner, LFC: Sterling, Allen, Lucas, Gerrard, Henderson, Coutinho 7

POSTBOX And yet people say Liverpool have had an 'advantage' not playing CL this season. One other point I would like to make is how CL football can transform the team - Mkhitaryan; Willian; Salah; Costa - missing out on these players was the big downside of not being able to offer CL and CL wages. Of course not playing in Europe helps, but if you gave Liverpool fans the option of CL footy and four high class signings (not suggesting we'd have bought all these specific players), rather than having to shop in the sale section (Apas, Alberto, Moses loan, Kolo free), we'd have been able to cope with CL.... do you see the glaringly obvious point here? Humphrey, Sheffield _________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, Anyone who's watched Liverpool regularly this season knows that the midfield has looked imbalanced when Gerrard has played in a two. For England, he needs to play deep with two ahead of him doing the running and pressing (Henderson and Chamberlain for me) and to be fair to Hodgson he has been for the majority of games. The big problem I think is Hodgson's inability to have some balls and drop Rooney. Hodgson could copy our diamond and play two up top, Sterling in behind, Henderson and Chamberlain in the middle with Gerrard sitting but Hodgson likes to use wingers and this system is a bit too innovative for him. Mark Anderson, via email

This is a new community section of our Fanzine, where we highlight issues or news on behalf of other LFC fans around the world to show that we are, indeed, not walking alone. Make Us Dream A few dedicated Anfield fans got together to wish their side luck ahead of the Chelsea clash by draping a banner on the walls of the club's training ground. The huge banner with 'Make Us Dream' on has been featured at a number of the Merseysider's fixtures this season, before making an appearance in front of the team as Brendan Rodgers got his side ready for their next challenge. Parkhead to Anfield LIVERPOOL and Celtic supporter Iain McGovern will walk 232 miles from Celtic Park to Anfield to raise money for The Lola Commons Fund for the charity SiMBA. and remember the 96 fans who died in the Hillsborough tragedy in 1989. You can donate here: http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/ fundraiser/ showFundraiserProfilePage.action? userUrl=IainMcGovern

If you have an issue or idea that you would like to share with fellow LFC fans, then please get in touch!

DARE TO DREAM! Ross Webber dares to dream of what might be the start of something big... Liverpool fans have been dreaming about winning the Premier League title for the first time since 1990. However, with the Reds in touching distance of the trophy, dreams are almost turning into an exciting reality. After Liverpool’s breath-taking 3-2 victory over title rivals Manchester City, the league is very much in their hands. Steven Gerrard’s visible emotions following the result reflected just how close he is to that long awaited lifting of the Premier League title. But rightfully so, Gerrard is staying focused on the final games which are by no means straightforward. The Reds managed to pull through on a tough day against Norwich City when many would have predicted a comfortable Liverpool win prior to the game. Nevertheless, Gerrard and co left with all three points extending their lead at the top of the table to five points following Chelsea’s dramatic defeat to Sunderland. It all means that the Reds can afford to drop points and still manage to lift the trophy. Liverpool’s remarkable 11 victories in a row has lead them to the strong position at the summit. No team has ever won 14 consecutive games in the Premier League and with three games to go, Rodgers will be hoping for a maximum nine points. 10

DREAM Owner John Henry stated midweek that Liverpool were well ahead of schedule in their long-term plans. Wind the clock back to August and the primary objective for Liverpool was to fight their way back into the Champions League. Several would suggest that Rodgers had failed in the transfer window, disappointed after missing out on key targets and questions over squad strength.

No team has ever won 14 consecutive games in the Premier League But with that vital win over Norwich, Champions League football is guaranteed for next season, which is now a minor achievement given the prospects for the rest of the campaign. The Reds are now just three games away from ending the long drought without a Premier League title but this looks to be Liverpool’s best chance of landing that 19th win. With various rival sides failing including Manchester United and Spurs, the Reds have taken full advantage.

United and Spurs, in particular, are expected to strengthen next season and given the financial powers of Manchester City and Chelsea, the league will most definitely be that much more competitive next year. But Liverpool fans will be hoping their side will be heading into the new campaign as defending champions. No one expected the Reds to be in the position they’re in at the start of the season, but the Liverpool fans are absolutely loving their Premier League dreams slowly turning into reality. Rodgers and his men are within touching distance now after a quite remarkable season at Anfield, and with three games to go there will need to be one last push before the biggest Liverpool fan of them all, Steven Gerrard, can lift that trophy at long last. Expertly written by: Ross Webber Ross’s site is liverpoolnewsandviews.tumblr.com

# doitforstevie Janoo Wasan thinks one Premier League footballer deserves to finally be picking up a medal... Since joining Liverpool FC in 1998 (…yes 1998!), Steven Gerrard has made over 650 appearances in all competitions and has scored over 170 goals. Though he predominantly plays in the central midfield role, sitting in the heart and soul of the team, he has played in almost every position for the club. When called upon, he has played as a makeshift right-back, winger, wide midfielder and second striker! Even now, as he is getting older, Brendan Rodgers has started utilising him as a deep-lying/holding midfielder, and at times, he even drops in as a covering or 3rd centre-back to aid his team in any way he can. He has been the first-team captain since 2000 and has won 2 FA Cups, 3 League Cups, 2 Community Shields, 1 Champions League, 1 UEFA Cup and 2 Super Cups. The word ‘legend’ is often overused, but surely, there is no other appropriate way to justify Steven Gerrard’s role and importance for Liverpool FC. He has been a loyal and mighty servant from the club. He is arguably the greatest player to play for Liverpool Football Club. 12

#STEVIE Yet…one trophy still eludes him. The domestic league trophy. The English Premier League. In his stupendous and highly successful career at the club, he has never won the Premier League. Most ‘legends’, most of the greats at Liverpool have won the domestic trophy, and often on numerous occasions… Yet this prized possession has somehow escaped the hands of Steven Gerrard during his career at Liverpool FC. This may be why Alex Ferguson (in his recent autobiography) doesn’t regard Gerrard as a “top, top player.” [In much the same way as Fergie regards Moyes to be a ‘Top, top manager’!]

The word ‘legend’ is often overused, but surely, there is no other appropriate way to justify Steven Gerrard’s role and importance for Liverpool FC. But, this season, much to everyone’s surprise, Liverpool are in with a huge chance to win the league, and Gerrard, may finally get the opportunity to add a Premier League medal to his collection, as he slowly and sadly draws closer towards the end of his playing career. With Liverpool edging closer towards the Premier League crown, many players and fans are ecstatic at the fact that the local lad, Gerrard, may get the opportunity to win, and lead his side to the trophy.

They will be a bit bigger now…!

But what makes the players and the fans so excited and thrilled to “Win it for Stevie!”? Aside from the statistical evidence above which illuminates Stevie’s career and successes with the club, there are 13

#STEVIE many in-game instances which prove Stevie’s importance. Former England manager Graham Taylor was right when he said that Gerrard “has a track record for delivering on the big occasions.” Look no further than Istanbul (Champions League Final 2005), where Gerrard inspired a desolated Liverpool side with a powerful header to give Liverpool a glimmer of hope at 1-3 against Italian giants, AC Milan. Gerrard inspired belief into the side, provided a glimpse of hope for the fans and sparked fear in the AC Milan side. With his ability to change and influence games, Gerrard often carried Liverpool on his shoulders, he was, and is, some might argue, a miracle worker. Even today, at 33, Gerrard still carries Liverpool on occasion, albeit from free kicks and penalties. Though Gerrard hasn’t scored many ‘miraculous’ or ‘spectacular’ goals this season, there is no doubt that he has influenced games and has inspired a sense of belief in the club, its players and its fans. He has scored many match winning penalties and has broken many oppositions with his freekicks and long cross-field passing. On-loan goalkeeper, Pepe Reina put it best when he said “Stevie is the badge of this football club, the soul of this team. Just by the fact that he is on the pitch, it is an inspiration for us. He always leads by example and anything he does, he does with passion and a lot of commitment. He is a born winner.”

Expertly written by: Janoo Wasan Tweet Janoo - @janoow10 14

COPING WITH Pressure Michael Reid knows we haven’t got the experience to match City or Chelsea, but can we do it anyway? Three games left and we’re top of the league. Regardless of the result against Chelsea, we will be top of the league with two games to go. We are two wins and a draw away from guaranteeing that we win the Premier League for the first time in 24 years. Had someone said that Liverpool would be this close at any stage of the 2013/14 season back in August, even the most diehard Red would have sniggered. But that is the worry – it has been 24 years since Liverpool last won England’s top division, a timespan that goes beyond the Premier League era. It has been 5 years since Liverpool even finished in the top 4! So do we have the experience, the know-how, the ability to cope with the pressure of being title favourites? Man City have been there, done that and bought the t-shirt (or took it off in Sergio Aguero’s case in the 94th minute against QPR) a mere two seasons ago. 15

PRESSURE Chelsea last won it in 09/10 – indeed, more recently than Liverpool have earned a Champions League spot! Jose Mourinho himself has won it twice. By contrast, Brendan Rodgers has only finished two complete Premier League seasons – one of which wasn’t even with Liverpool, but with then newly promoted Swansea City. So by recent history, Liverpool stand no chance. Manchester City and Chelsea have a vast advantage when it comes to experience, not to mention squads that have cost hugely more than Liverpool’s – and the Merseyside club’s current crop of players haven’t exactly come cheap. With this in mind, it would be no surprise if Liverpool were to lose out on glory so close to the finishing line. To say the game against Chelsea is huge is an understatement. On current form, a night game away at Crystal Palace is fraught with danger. And any final game of a Premier League season with the title on the line will be nervy to say the least; Newcastle coming to Anfield will be no different. Three immensely important matches, three more banana skins Liverpool could yet slip up on.

So by recent history, Liverpool stand no chance. What have Liverpool got that enables us to deal with the newfound expectation of potential history in the making? Let’s look at the players. How many have been in, and indeed won, title races before? Glen Johnson has won the Premier League with Chelsea, as has Daniel Sturridge. Kolo Toure has won it twice; once with Arsenal and most recently with Manchester City. Aside these, any more players that have experienced top-flight title glory in Europe have done so in other competitions than our beloved Premier League. Luis Suarez has an Eredivisie winner’s 16

PRESSURE medal in his time at Ajax, Martin Skrtel has won Russia’s top flight with Zenit, Daniel Agger’s Brøndby side won the Danish Superliga and Aly Cissokho won the Portuguese Liga with Porto. Mamadou Sakho is the most recent title victor with PSG last season in Ligue 1. However, with all due respect to the respective countries, none of these are Premier League standard club championships. The quality and competition in England’s top flight is arguably unmatched, and Liverpool have just three previous winners. But Liverpool have shown that they can cope with the pressure when you would naturally expect it to overwhelm them. Our last three matches show this. Against Man City, we saw a two goal lead to the most expensive wage bill in world sport slip, and yet still fought on to conquer that humongous obstacle. Against Norwich, we saw a team fighting for their lives in a fiercely close relegation scrap put us under as much pressure as they could – again, we passed this test. We have shown that our footballing ability under Brendan Rodgers is good enough to cope with anything the Premier League can throw at us – physicality, quality, determination, you name it. And there is one more factor that sets the Reds out from Chelsea and Manchester City. One thing that money cannot buy – not at the level that Liverpool have it. Proud, loyal support. Liverpool have two home games remaining, so the Kop and the home crowd can will the players across the line. The fans can be the 12th man, ease the pressure, and overwhelm the opposition. The players can feed off their energy. Liverpool CAN win the Premier League. Expertly written by: Michael Reid Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com 17

AT THE TOP Paul Baker spells out just what it means to be top of the league this far into the season. As a lifelong Red, the experience of this season is what dreams are made of. The current position and form the team are in is fantastic, a huge step forward has been made both as a team and by some individual players. The number of Liverpool players in the England squad is proof of that! At the start of the season, I, like most supporters would have happily taken 4th place and the chance to play in the final qualifying round for the Champions League. That would have been classed as progress and a job well done. The very idea we would be leading the charge for the title would have almost been too much to hope for. What a season it has been! We had a promising start, the return of Luis was all we had hoped it would be, then a bit of a post-Christmas hangover and slip-up. We then went into the home straight in great form. Eleven wins from the last eleven games have seen us turn from a top four side into genuine title contenders. High praise is due to the Manager for his knowledge and management skills. I am sure he will be rewarded with a new and improved contract during the summer. 18

AT THE TOP Being a supporter of Liverpool, it is not like supporting almost any other team. We as fans expect the club to be challenging for the title and playing in Europe every season. When we are not, it hurts, plain and simple. We are due a place at the top table in football,

We as fans expect the club to be challenging for the title and playing in Europe every season. When we are not, it hurts, plain and simple. our history and record gives us that right! The last few seasons have been painful. Yes, we have won some trophy’s, Yes, there has been some amazing games at Anfield and we have Istanbul to always think back to, but for too long the club has not been where it belongs, top of the League and looking like real title challengers. The real pride will be when this side makes history. It may be this season or maybe next, but it’s going to happen. This side can only get better and better! For too long we have had to suffer and watch our arch rivals outperform us, both on the field and in the transfer market. The current policy in some Premier League clubs seems to be ‘let the Liverpool scouts find the players, watch the games, and do their homework, only then to come in at the last minute and outbid the club’. There are many reasons why the Reds have not build on the past history and glory, we all can talk about the past and the mistakes made with previous owners, but for the moment, the focus should be on this season. The club, Brendan Rogers and his team have put themselves into the position where the Premier League could come to Anfield. To put this potential feeling into words is not easy. Are we looking at the birth of a new great side that will go on and dominate for years to come? Or is BR building a team with limited financial resources, which will work for each other and do their best to keep pace with the big spenders of the league. Only time will tell! 19

AT THE TOP This season, however it ends, will be seen as an important step forward. Nobody at the club or any of the fans would have predicted what has happened would occur this season. Champions League Football will return next season, which will bring in millions of pounds in much needed extra revenues to the club â&#x20AC;&#x201C; plus added kudos to attract players. This vital extra cash will be required as the squad will need to be added to, with top quality players, who have experienced playing in the Champions League. The club will never be able to outbid and outspend some of the other clubs, but hopefully by building something special and remembering the history, we can look to sign the right type of players. Ones that will not look at the salary first, but at the chance to win medals and compete for a place in a top side.

Nobody at the club or any of the fans would have predicted what has happened would occur this season. With the redeveloped Anfield due to happen in the next few seasons, the time is now set for the owners to continue their support and give the manager the funds and backing to sign the players required. A long term replacement for Steven Gerrard will also need to be found. As the season draws to a close and a World Cup to look forward to, the future looks bright in L4. Expertly written by: Paul Baker Feedback? Send your feedback to : @paul_baker

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CHELSEA

NEXT Emma Rhodes looks forward to THE match of the season. It’s make or break time! It’s August 2013 and Liverpool are ready to face their first game of the season, Stoke City at Anfield. Having previously endured a poor season compared to the high standards set at the club and with a turbulent summer with the constant unrest with Luis Suarez, kick-off early on that August afternoon could not come fast enough. The season’s objective: qualification for the Champions League and to rub shoulders with Europe’s elite once again. Fast forward to April 2014 and not only have Liverpool achieved that objective but they are now looking down on the rest of the league with a five point cushion. The Reds have battled their way to 11 consecutive wins including a nail biting clash with Manchester City at Anfield. Marking the 25th Anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster, emotions were already high and those at Anfield gave a fantastic tribute to the 96, with a stirring 22

CHELSEA NEXT rendition of that famous anthem. This was the match that could define Liverpool’s season, the turning point where a dream could yet become reality or another familiar sight of a season being ended prematurely. With Sterling, Skrtel and Coutinho all contributing to the final score with an own goal from Johnson and City’s Silva both adding to the tension. It was a tough game and at the final whistle, Gerrard was visibly moved, showing just how much it means to him to potentially lift the trophy that has eluded him for so many years. The Captain was also caught giving a rousing speech to his teammates that it does not end there and pushing them to perform at the same level at their next game, Norwich “we go again!” Bottom placed Sunderland may yet hold a place dear in all Reds fan’s hearts at the end of the season. By claiming a deserved draw away at Manchester City and in the same week putting an end to Mourinho’s unbeaten home record in the league (thanks in part to Fabio Borini), the Black Cats have aided Liverpool’s title challenge and made the fans start to dream.

The Black Cats have aided Liverpool’s title challenge and made the fans start to dream. Liverpool returned the favour, going to Norwich and claiming 3 points. Liverpool returned the favour, going to Norwich and claiming 3 points. A stand out display by Sterling, including a brace and a customary Suarez strike saw off the relegation strugglers in a tense game that ended 3-2.

CHELSEA NEXT With guaranteed European football next season, Suarez is over the moon with the team’s unexpected progress “Very happy for the great effort from everyone and for being in the Champions League next year!!!!! YNWA.” Liverpool now benefit from being able to lose to Chelsea, as long as they win against Crystal Palace and Newcastle, regardless of other match results within the league. The last time Liverpool met Chelsea was during Christmas at Stamford Bridge when pantomime villain Howard Webb refused Liverpool a blatant penalty after Eto’o tripped Suarez. Instead of ignoring the tackle, Webb added salt to the wound by waving his finger at the tackle, showing that he acknowledged the tackle but refused to act on it. Webb also made a similarly poor decision against Liverpool during an FA Cup clash with Arsenal. Mourinho has previously stated he does not believe Chelsea can win the League this season. The Chelsea manager has stated throughout the season that Liverpool are in a precious situation by not having to play in Europe and that his team are at a major disadvantage with the additional games. Chelsea recently dispatched PSG to set up a meeting with Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League. Chelsea’s late involvement in the competition will be of benefit to Liverpool as the crunch clash at the top of the Premier League is sandwiched between the two legs of the semi-final. However, Mourinho is unlikely to go down without a fight and every fan of the Premier League knows that the self-appointed ‘Special One’ would love to ruin the Reds party. Whilst Rodgers’ men will have a full week to prepare for one of the biggest games of their season, Mourinho may be faced with a selection dilemma. With this seen as the major hurdle of the three remaining games, could the league title be heading back to L4 for the first time in 24 long years? ‘Make Us Dream’ reads a very clear banner stretched across the Kop and with three games to go, it’s over to you Brendan. Expertly written by: Emma Rhodes Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com

Master vs Pupil Thomas Jordan reckons Brendan Rodgers has picked up at the skills he needs to beat Mourinho at his own game... With that unique, sport-induced euphoria doing its best to blind any common sense as I leapt about in joy through my local pub, I turned to the first red shirt I saw and exclaimed: “Did you know we are the only team to beat City in the league for 23 games, apart from Chelsea?” Our slightly lighter blue title rivals had an unexpectedly poor start, but since then they have annihilated almost every bus (bar Chelsea’s) that has rolled in and been parked across the opposition goal, scoring at least three times on 11 separate occasions. I didn’t get much by way of a response as the man continued to cheer ecstatically at the TV. Nevertheless, the importance of this stat remains: not only are the Blues the only other team to beat this 25

MASTER Manchester City side since November, but José Mourinho is the only other manager to beat this Manchester City side since November. And when you are dealing with Mourinho, the word is not ‘beat’, but rather ‘outthink’. Following Brendan Rodgers’ success over City, we must now put him in that same category of tactical genius as the Chelsea manager. Calmly putting the immensity of the occasion aside, the Rodgers’ once again ‘outthought’ his opponent to engineer a stunning 3-2 victory. This is something that the Northern Irishman has done with increasing success this season, shifting his team around like a grand chess master, carefully placing his pawns in the perfect formation to undo a specific type of opposition.

Following Brendan Rodgers’ success over City, we must now put him in that same category of tactical genius as the Chelsea manager Sometimes it has meant using players in unconventional or seemingly uncomfortable positions. Many think of Raheem Sterling as a winger, but recently he has more often been deployed at the tip of a midfield diamond which has brought out the 19-year-old’s creative side, while the career of Steven Gerrard has been saved by Rodgers’ creation of the quarterback role for his skipper. These are the actions of a tactical architect of increasing confidence, who is set to become one of the most sought-after managers in world football. For Rodgers, the upcoming game against Chelsea will, on the surface, be no different. An opposing team will arrive with a particular set-up and he will try to find a system that takes advantage of any apparent weak spots.

MASTER On this occasion, an area to consider may be isolating the pace of the three S’s (Suarez, Sturridge and Sterling) against the ageing John Terry, as opposed to the rather nippier Gary Cahill. Rodgers, therefore, may look to recycle the Sterling-tipped diamond formation. This could allow the versatile midfielder to be released from deep and get in behind the former England centre-half in a similar fashion to his opening goal against City, even if the Blues play a deeper line. However, Rodgers is confronted with a unique problem that he has faced on just one other occasion this season: ‘The Special One’. That Rodgers is now matching up to Mourinho as the only other true strategic genius in the Premier League is not particularly surprising. Having worked under him as head coach of the Chelsea youth and reserve sides until only six years ago, the Reds’ manager is beginning to show signs of the tactical sharpness and insight that has given Mourinho the CV of ‘guaranteed titles’ wherever he goes in Europe. Rodgers is surely the natural successor of this epithet. The two are now preparing not for a mere game of football, but for a mental confrontation. This is not only Liverpool versus Chelsea. This is Rodgers versus Mourinho. New versus old. If Brendan Rodgers manages to outthink his former master, then no one could deny that his team deserves the title, and no one could deny that he is the next great tactician of English football. Expertly written by: Thomas Jordan Tweet Thomas - @teejbusbys1

HOW TO BEAT CHELSEA

Aizaz Sheikh looks at how Brendan Rodgers should approach the big match against Chelsea. The final Sunday in April could be a landmark moment in Premier League history: a win over title rivals Chelsea, followed by a Manchester City defeat, pretty much hands Liverpool the title. We would need one more point. If City drop points, we could even win the title by losing or drawing at Chelsea. Chelsea have to win this Sunday to stand any chance of winning the league. The team that boasts the best record against the other ‘big teams’ this season, will have to come to win. They have to, right? In a traditional Chelsea preview, the focus would be their airtight defence, or their discipline. We could touch on the fact that they are downright boring and that they don't care that they are. In theory, all that should now go out of the window. They have to win. To compound things, their Champions League Semi-Final first leg didn’t go to plan. A 0-0 result against Atletico Madrid was what 28

BEAT CHELSEA they wanted. But, injuries to Peter Cech and John Terry is a heavy price to pay. And, Chelsea's main Achilles heel still exists - they still lack fire power. So, all this considered, how do we set up to play them? Here are a few key points: Be unselfish in attack: This has been a thorn in our side lately, and somehow we have got away with it. So far. There is a reason why the "SAS" have dried up a little. It's not just that they have both suffered a slight dip in form. That is forgivable. What isn't is that they have not been looking to play as a unit over the last few games. At times, Suarez looks like he has goal records, or even the World Cup in his sights. Sturridge looks like he wants to outdo Suarez. The result? Individual play that is far easier to defend. Hence why Sterling and Coutinho have become more important in recent weeks. To beat Chelsea, the most frugal team in the league, the SAS will have to be on song, and playing in tandem. Play at a high tempo, especially in midfield: Not only are we at our best and most dangerous when we are playing at a high tempo, it's going to be the only way to pierce Chelsea's rearguard.

We at our best and most dangerous when we are playing at a high tempo, it's going to be the only way to pierce Chelsea's rearguard. In Jordan Henderson's absence, Joe Allen will need to carry the ball, but look to pass it off, quick and simple, and be available to receive it back. His forward passing needs to be on point. 29

BEAT CHELSEA What is common with Henderson and Allen is that they are not going to win you a football match. The quicker Allen can get the ball to the danger men, the better. Sterling Gold: We have the most inform player in the league. Sterling's speed and power will pull people all over place. Not only will he be a danger, but at the tip of the diamond, he will make room for our other attackers to strut their stuff. The best Sterling-inspired attacks are quick and direct. He is less effective when we hold onto the ball for long periods, which we sometimes can at Anfield. Thus, giving Chelsea the ball, at least in patches, wouldn't be a bad idea. It favours us that Chelsea have to win this game. Sterling is the key man to exploit that.

BEAT CHELSEA Play narrow and press, press, press: This isn't Man United, so crossing is not a major consideration. Chelsea have only scored six headers all season. On the flipside, they have taken more shots than any other Premier League side. This includes the second most from outside the box. They are wasteful - they average one goal every nine shots. Considering they have to win, and are not blessed with the greatest attackers, they will look to shoot often. This should make us play narrow, at least in defence. This also helps us have the bodies there to press quicker. We should also be able to double team the person on the ball. If we are able to steal the ball early, block the shot or rush the shooter, we not only nullify the attack - we can launch dangerous counter attacks off the back of them. In closingâ&#x20AC;Ś Truth is, having touched on many of the ways we can beat Chelsea, the real M.O. is to be ourselves. Being Liverpool no longer means a bad reality TV show. It means a bright start, playing on the front foot, with swagger and style, and it means scoring more goals than their opponents. We go again!

Expertly written by: Aizaz Sheikh Tweet us your thoughts - @anfieldroarmag

How did Liverpool do on the pitch over the last month? Gary McParnaby guides us through our wins, draws and Liverpool 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Sunderland Liverpool reclaimed second position in the Barclays Premier League and closed the gap to leaders Chelsea to a single point with a 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Anfield. Steven Gerrard broke through the away side's stubbornness via an outstanding set-piece with moments remaining in the first half, then Daniel Sturridge doubled the advantage minutes after the restart with the help of a deflection. When teamsheets were handed in to the referee, the one bearing Liverpool's name confirmed that Brendan Rodgers had selected exactly the same starting XI and substitutes as the group that racked up a 6-3 victory over Cardiff City last weekend. The home fans were in uproar when Santiago Vergini was shown merely a yellow card when he hauled down Suarez as he bore down on goal, but their annoyance quickly turned to joy when Gerrard stepped up to curl over the wall and past Mannone. 32

ON THE PITCH Sunderland responded strongly and Simon Mignolet was at full stretch to push away a deflected hit by Connor Wickham from outside the penalty box, to ensure that Rodgers' charges preserved their slender advantage heading into half-time. A mere three minutes of the second period had passed before the Reds had a cushion, however; Jordan Henderson fed Sturridge in the right channel and the Englishman let fly with an effort that clipped off Wes Brown and nestled into the corner for 2-0 and his 20th league goal of the campaign. As the game entered its final quarter-hour, the travellers secured a lifeline - Substitute Ki Sung-Yeung capitalised on too much space from a corner to the back, but it just served to give a fraught ending to a fairly straightforward victory for the Reds. MOTM: Gerrard - Ran himself into the ground and helped us to keep our composure in the dying minutes Liverpool 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 0 Spurs As on so many occasions this season, the hosts burst out of the blocks, registering in a matter of seconds; possession was smartly worked to Glen Johnson, raiding down the right side and the No.2's low delivery into the area was turned into his own net by Kaboul with just two minutes on the clock! Shortly after, Suarez was celebrating for the 29th time in this campaign; it was a goal of his own making, winning the ball with his body strength in the left channel, sprinting forward and dispatching precisely past Hugo Lloris and into the far corner. The third came courtesy of a shimmy at left-back by Flanagan, which kick-started the attack with a pass to Coutinho in the middle; the Brazilian took control, picked his spot and drove a clinical finish searing into the bottom corner.

ON THE PITCH A comprehensive win morphed into another rout as the clock ticked into a 75th minute, with Henderson making amends for his earlier miss by delivering a set-piece that travelled beyond his waiting teammates - and Lloris - and home for 4-0. Flanagan kept out Soldado as the Spaniard rushed into space with a phenomenal covering challenge, and the Londoners were left to play out time as Liverpool cruised to top spot in the Premier League with just six games left to play.

“To perform like we did right from the first whistle was immense and I`m very proud of the team. It was a wonderful team performance. We`ve shown flexibility in the way we play, we flipped back to 4-3-3 today and everybody knows their job."BR MOTM: Henderson - He ran tirelessly once again pressing the Spursmidfield, but also made room for himself, getting into good positions during Liverpool’s attacks.

West Ham 1 – 2 Liverpool Liverpool claimed their ninth consecutive Barclays Premier League victory and moved back into top spot with a hard-fought 2-1 win against West Ham United at Upton Park on Sunday. Steven Gerrard handed Liverpool an advantage seconds before the first half concluded, converting with a spot-kick conceded with a handball by James Tomkins - to move onto 172 goals for the club, level with Kenny Dalglish. But, instantaneously, the hosts levelled as Guy Demel bundled home from close range despite claims from Brendan Rodgers' charges that goalkeeper Simon Mignolet had been fouled by Andy Carroll during the build-up. 34

ON THE PITCH Determined not to release their dominance of the fixture, the away side were in control after half-time and grabbed their rewards by securing another penalty, which Gerrard dispatched with typical aplomb to ensure three more points for his team. The Reds marched on! MOTM: Gerrardâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Took the pressure when it mattered, and secured us three points with two goals from the spot.

Liverpool 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Man City Philippe Coutinho decided a remarkable football match and earned Liverpool a 10th successive Barclays Premier League victory, as the Reds dramatically saw off rivals Manchester City 3-2 at Anfield on Sunday. Brendan Rodgers had maintained faith in exactly the same starting XI that successfully downed West Ham United last weekend, although vice-captain Daniel Agger returned to the group and took his place among the substitutes. Before the match kicked off, the entire stadium observed an impeccable minute's silence in memory of the 96 supporters who lost their lives at Hillsborough, while the Kop formed a special mosaic reading '96 - 25 years' in tribute.

ON THE PITCH When the action got underway, the home side used the remarkable atmosphere inside the ground to catapult themselves into an early lead; Raheem Sterling kick-started another relentless 90 minutes in L4 when he converted from close range after collecting a Luis Suarez through ball, before Martin Skrtel glanced a header into the net at the Kop end for double Reds delight. David Silva required 12 minutes of the second half to haul City back into the affair, converting from close range, and the Spaniard was at the centre of an equaliser, forcing home at the near post via a Glen Johnson deflection. But, against a mounting comeback by the Manchester club, Coutinho found a pivotal winner, lashing home with barely 10 minutes remaining of the encounter to settle a tie to remember, and unleash emotional scenes for Kopites. After the final whistle, Stevie Gerrard led a rousing team speech, and everyone wants to win the Prem for Captain Fantastic. We go again! MOTM: Brendan Rodgers - Got it spot on. Again.

“My message to the players is to continue. We don't need to change. We played with no fear. You can see that, whether it is the big opponent like Manchester City or at Norwich City next week.” BR Norwich 2 – 3 Liverpool Liverpool opened up a five-point lead at the summit of the Barclays Premier League and ensured Champions League football next season by beating Norwich City 3-2 at Carrow Road on Sunday. Steven Gerrard was selected for his 666th appearance for the club, taking him into outright third place in the all-time list, behind only 36

ON THE PITCH Ian Callaghan and former colleague Jamie Carragher. As has occurred so often in home fixtures this season, the Reds laid the foundation for their performance within minutes of kick-off, and in keeping with recent weeks, it was the boot of Sterling which provided the breakthrough with a thunderous piledriver from distance on four minutes, before paving the way for Luis Suarez to double the advantage with a simple conversion from the youngster's delivery into the centre. Within 10 minutes of the second half beginning, the Canaries hauled themselves back into the tie, with Gary Hooper taking advantage of a defensive scramble. But a determined run brought Sterling the luck of a deflection which racked up a 3-1 scoreline. Back came Norwich and the tension was cranked up when Robert Snodgrass headed home with a flick into the far corner with 12 minutes remaining, but the travellers held firm for three more vital points in East Anglia and an 11th straight victory. Liverpool now sit TOP of the Premier League with just three (massive!) games to go…!

“The objective at the start of the season was to qualify for the Champions League—that was always going to be an incredible task but now we know we cannot finish lower than third. We will go into the next three games looking to perform well. We want to continue to fight and now look to Chelsea next week—where it will be an incredible atmosphere at Anfield.” BR Expertly written by: Gary McParnaby Send your feedback editor@anfieldroar.com

Best in the World? Paul McFarland questions whether Luis Suarez is the best in the world... Luis Suarez....is he the best footballer in the world? Even I (a fanatical Liverpool supporter) know that there's going to be a lot of people who think he's not even in the running for the top three or four. But it's us, the Liverpool supporters, that know how good he is because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s us that watch him week-in, week-out doing the business in the English premier league. His stats for this year so far have been phenomenal: Goals

Shots

Mins / goal

Assists

136

89.79

The guy is just a goal machine and even without his goals just take a look at his assists. On those alone he would get into most teams in the premier league. He would possibly even get in to Man Utdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hall of fame the way things are going for them at the minute! 38

SUAREZ I know this time last year he was public enemy number one, and it was really hard to defend the way he got on. But I'm talking about from when he came back this season from his ban. He seems to have got his head on and focused and he really seems to be enjoying playing for Liverpool again.

Every time you see him running at the opposition with the ball, you just know he's capable of scoring from anywhere: either by thumping it into the back of the net from forty yards out, heading it in from the edge of the 18 yard box or dancing around half of the other team and walking the ball over the line. Right Foot

Left Foot

Header

Come the end of the season and he's helped us qualify for a champions league place for the first time since 2009/2010 season then that can only strengthen my argument. Or (not that i want to put a jinx on it) what about if we went on to win the league for the first time since 1990. I'm writing this a week after Liverpool's victory over man city and man city have also drew with Sunderland and tonight Sunderland have just beaten Chelsea 2-1! So what if we do go on and win the league? Surely with all Luisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; skill and goals over this season it should be enough to get him mentioned in the same breath as Ronaldo and Messi come the player of the year awards? I really believe that this year he deserves it because if you think about it, would swap him for any other player right now?! 39

SUAREZ For me the only other players that are in the same bracket as him are Ronaldo and Messi. Both Ronaldo,and Messi by their standards have been quiet lately, so I think this year Luis should be in with a shot of the best footballer on the planet.

For me the only other players that are in the same bracket as him are Ronaldo and Messi. Look at it from another way - if he is the best player in the EPL, and the EPL is the best league in the world, then it makes sense that he has to be in with a shout come the Ballon d'Orâ&#x20AC;Ś? Hopefully, come the summer, he'll go over to Brazil and show the rest of the world what all Liverpool supporters already know! (And when he's finished there he can go home and rest for a few weeks, then come back to Liverpool and show the Champions League how good he is. YNWA. JFT96

Expertly written by: Paul McFarland Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com 40

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LIVERPOOL’S FUTURE:

JON FLANAGAN

Is Jon Flanagan set to become one of Liverpool and England’s main fullbacks? George Way investigates... Jon Flanagan. Paolo Flaldini. The scouse Cafu. Call him what you will, one of the more recent products of the Melwood football factory has grown into one of the first names on Brendan Rodgers team sheet. The story of the 21 year old’s rise to the first team is spread over multiple years, but now, thanks to hard work and the assistance of Brendan Rodgers, the Englishman seems like he is here to stay. It was back in 2011 that Flanagan made his debut for the Reds, in a game against Manchester City; Liverpool emerged 3-0 victors on the day, and Flanagan received praise from then manager and Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish. Kenny said that Flanagan was ‘a reflection of the work being done at the academy’. So from that debut, the signs were good, and injuries allowed Flanagan’s run in the team to stretch for a few more games, along with more appearances as the season progressed.

FLANAGAN At the end of what was a fairly poor season for Liverpool, Flanagan won the award for best young player, a title well earned over the course of the year. However, in the season that followed it seemed the full back’s luck was out: as a result of Glen Johnson’s recovery, the right back spot was filled by an experienced international player, who many considered the better option.

At the end of what was a fairly poor season for Liverpool, Flanagan won the award for best young player, a title well earned over the course of the year. Nevertheless, in the 2011-12 season Flanagan featured in the earlier stages of Liverpool’s F.A Cup run that saw the Reds reach the final. Last year, not even the FA Cup could provide the youngster with consistent fixtures, but his one appearance came on the European Stage, albeit in the Europa League. The game in question was a trip to Moscow to face Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala, and Liverpool won by the narrow margin of 3-2. In spite of this barren spell last year, he has flourished under the guidance of Brendan Rodgers, and has in recent months proved his credentials as a Premier League defender. Again, he stumbled into the starting line-up thanks to the misfortune of others, and again his opportunity came against first class opposition. Whilst Liverpool lost 2-0 at the Emirates, one of the few positives Liverpool fans took from the game was the performance of the young player, who showed composure and quality many did not believe he possessed. Furthermore, if ever a Liverpool player can sway the general perception, it is in the Merseyside Derby – Flanagan did just that, as his class performance against Everton won yet more praise. 43

FLANAGAN Since then, Flanagan has been a regular in the first XI; that is not the extent of his success this season though – he has played on the left side of defence, a position which does not come naturally to the right back. Regardless, playing so well ‘out of position’ is just another arrow in Flanagan’s quiver. Now is the perfect time for him to be showing his full potential as well; Roy Hodgson and his team have no doubt been observing Flanagan over the previous year, and his versatility, courage, and composure could see him earn a seat on the plane to Brazil this summer. Understandably, many would question this, saying his inexperience may cancel out any positives; however, I think that Flanagan’s tough tackling is one of the features that could help slow the fast flowing football of some the opposition England will face. Whilst some may consider his hard hitting challenges a liability, I think it is something that the alternative options lack – you need not look any further than Liverpool’s game with Manchester United for proof of this. Flanagan had (particularly in this game) the ability and fearlessness to challenge players far greater in stature than himself and come out on top. Jon Flanagan is, and will continue to be, a big player in Liverpool’s squad and, if given his chance, the England set up. Expertly written by: George Way - you can send your feedback to us and we’ll pass it on - editor@anfieldroar.com

LIVERPOOL’S FUTURE:

COUTINHO

Ivan Emanuel is excited by how our Brazilian starlet is playing now, but even more hopeful about the future. Coutinho has been a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s midfield department, as he constantly tormented opposition defences with his passing and dribbling skills. Has the diminutive Brazilian lived up to his expectations since the move from Inter Milan? What do you make about his performances this season? Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Manchester City was certainly one of the most crucial battles that Anfield has witnessed during the last seasons of Premier League. As the game seemed to head towards a draw - a result that was promising for Pellegrini’s team - Phillipe Coutinho snatched a snapshot winner in the 78th minute, after a miscued clearance from Kompany. It’s probably the most important goal that he has scored in his 45

COUTINHO career, but it wasn’t all about that, as he displayed another scintillating all-round performance that earned him a spot in ‘teams of the week’ all over the media.

“He has a lot of quality, and knows how to keep the ball, look for the space and give the accurate pass.” Garcia about Philippe Coutinho Since his £8.5 million move from Inter Milan, the midfielder constantly showed that he has the skill and the versatility to compete in the Premier League, despite not being physically imposing. As Luis Garcia - Liverpool’s ex-number 10 - recently pointed out, Coutinho’s ingenuity and flair makes him a constant threat to the opposition defences. For me though, the most impressive thing about Coutinho is that he has the capacity to adapt to Brendan Rodgers’ constantly changing formations. Alongside his ball control, passing and dribbling talent, he showed time and time again that he can have an impact all across the width of the pitch. Games

Goals

Assists

Shots

With five goals and six assists in 29 appearances, Coutinho played a big part in Liverpool’s current campaign. If he will manage to end the season at the same level of performance that he displayed against Manchester City, the midfielder will certainly be in contention for a place in Luis Filipe Scolari’s World Cup team. So, if there were any doubters, the Brazilian has certainly proved them wrong in this final stage of the season. And, at just 21 years of age, Liverpool’s number ten is only going to get better and better.

Expertly written by: Ivan Emanuel You can tweet Ivan at @emy_2good 46

Gary McParnaby looks at the matches coming up - will we still be in with a shout after these…? Wow! Unbelievably, my predictions for the last two issues have been absolutely spot on! That’s partly because I am such a massive LFC fan that I have predicted us beating everyone we have faced, but it’s also due to an incredible 11 game winning streak! Three more wins would see us finish the season with a record 14 game winning streak (joint only with Arsenal’s Invincibles), as well as, ahem, a certain piece of silverware which has thus far eluded us… And it all begins this Sunday. A lunchtime kick-off which could well decide the title. The good news is that it’s at Anfield, that it’s against a Chelsea team who are missing a couple of key players through injury, and who have both eyes firmly focussed on winning the Champions League. The bad news is that it’s also against Mourinho, who has mastered the art of parking the bus and snatching goals. Expect more of the same here, and whilst we’d be happy with a draw, I’m going to say that a late Stevie G thunderbolt will win the match. It simply has to. 47

FIXTURES It’s lucky that our next game is over a week after the Chelsea match, because the euphoria from beating the Blues will be exceptional! Man City will drop points later in the afternoon, as well as the following weekend, which will mean a win away at Palace will secure the first Premier League in our history. No team will be strong enough to stand in our way in those circumstances, and least of all Crystal Palace, who have had all their luck this season! A Suarez brace seals the deal :) Which leaves the final match at home to Newcastle less of a match, and more of a carnival. Cut past the four or five nil victory against a bunch of listless magpie’s, and instead focus on Stevie G lifting that trophy. What a month!

Comp Prem

Opposition Chelsea (h)

Date Sat 27th Apr

Time 14:05

Predict WIN

Prem

Palace (a)

Mon 5th May

20:00

WIN

Prem

Newcastle (h)

Sun 11 May

15:00

WIN

Expertly written by: Gary McParnaby - you can send your feedback to us and we’ll pass it on - editor@anfieldroar.com

This month we’ve gone with our favourite European moments! There have been a fair few over the years, but these three are simply unforgettable. Enjoy! AC Milan 3 - Liverpool 3 (May 2005)

Which Liverpool fan wouldn’t want to watch one of our most famous victories in Europe? After going 3-0 down by half-time we had it all to do. Would we be able to claw it back in the second half…? :) 49

YOUTUBE

Liverpool 3 Manchester United 1 (Nov 2001)

Do you remember the team that won back-to-back UEFA Cup and European Cups? McDermott, Smith and Neal are the heroes of the hour. You’ll Never Walk Alone (March 2003)

When Liverpool and Celtic meet in Europe, it’s always an emotional affair...

Send us your favourites - @anfieldroarmag 50

Endless column inches have already been filled this season with gushing platitudes and superlatives concerning Liverpool's amazing season. And rightly so. Such has been our fairytale rise from also-rans, it's hard to imagine what journalists and pundits will have left to convey if, and at this stage it remains purely an if, we do successfully close out the campaign and earn a first league title for 24 years. The swashbuckling style of play, the fervent Anfield atmosphere and the host of British talent within the squad have all received blanket press coverage. As have individuals such as manager Brendan Rodgers, recordbreaking striker Luis Suarez and captain fantastic Steven Gerrard, all of whom won Premier League awards this past week for performances in March. One of the most pleasing by-products of this phenomenal campaign is the boost it has given the club's image in the eyes of rival fans. The past few years have seen Liverpool stumble from crisis to crisis with the football world looking on with a mixture of disgust and concern. It is hard to believe that only three and a half years ago the club was on the brink of going out of business, drowning in a toxic debt of over ÂŁ230million at the time of Fenway Sports Group's intervention.

CLEAR AS DAY Subsequent writs and court cases from former owners Tom Hicks and George Gillette helped to tarnish our once great reputation, but nothing can compare to the public mud-slinging which followed the Luis Suarez racism saga and our botched handling of the situation. Further Suarez-related incidents have followed but even he, after being public enemy number one throughout the country, is now rightly regaling in positive plaudits after letting his feet, and not teeth, do the talking.

It is hard to believe that only three and a half years ago the club was on the brink of going out of business It might be a natural part of the British psyche to root for the underdog but I've still been pleasantly surprised to meet ardent Manchester United fans who've been forthcoming with praise and, although begrudgingly, admit we deserve to win the league. Whether we do so or not remains undecided but this weekend's match with Chelsea will go a long way to determining the outcome. Everyone connected to Liverpool FC, and it would seem the vast majority of neutrals, will be hoping we can pull it off but even second or third position would represent an amazing achievement for a team which finished seventh last season and eighth the year before. Never in over 20 years of the Premier League has a team who finished outside of the top three the season before gone on to win the title the following season. So to do it from seventh would be truly remarkable. Admirably, Rodgers and FSG have even managed to turn the side into title contenders without spending a fortune.

CLEAR AS DAY The Northern Irishman has parted with a net total of just £20million this season and, out of the six notable incomings, only goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has become an established first team presence. By comparison, City's outlay on new recruits during the current campaign is over £100million with a net spend of almost £90million. Chelsea have spent in a similarly staggering manner but have at least recouped some sizeable fees in outgoing transfers for a net spend of 'just' £53million. To put further context against our transfer activity, according to figures calculated by the Transfer League, only four teams in the top 10 – Everton, Tottenham, Newcastle United and Stoke City – had smaller net spends than the Merseysiders. Teams who've spent more than Liverpool in net terms include the likes of Cardiff City, Norwich City, Hull City and West Ham United.

Delia puts her money where her mouth is

With UEFA finally set to start imposing sanctions against clubs who contravene their financial fair play rules, the Reds also appear well placed to go on and prove this season hasn't merely been a freak occurrence. Given I was just seven the last time Liverpool were champions of England, I still cannot fully comprehend the magnitude of what it must be like. It's going to be a nervy few weeks but even the excitement of just being involved is intoxicating. Expertly written by: Gavin Day - tweet him @superbag Visit Gavin’s site at http://www.liverpool.vitalfootball.co.uk

FULL TIME

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