Anfield Roar - February 2014

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Wow! It’s nearly March and we are still in it to win it. We are the Chihuahua in the title race according to some, but personally, I think we are a much bigger and stronger animal than our rivals suspect…

It’s not often that you can say that getting knocked out of the FA Cup is a blessing, but this season is such an occasion where, as nice as it would be to win a trophy this season, I would gladly sacrifice it for the sake of being involved in the business end of the season, guaranteeing and top-four finish, and essentially giving us the best signing we will make of the summer (persuading Suarez to stay) as well as the muscle, money and renewed prestige to attract bigger, better, world class players to Anfield!

The FA Cup will, after all, be back up for grabs next season, but these are vital strides forward that we need to make NOW! As I write this, we are 4 points off the top, which, after 26 games, shows we are genuine title contenders. From this stage in previous seasons we’ve seen swings as big as 13+ points as teams lose their nerve, so let there be no doubt: we are in this to win it.

Along with the FA cup no longer being a distraction, our title rivals also have to contend with playing in Europe, with games coming thick and fast. That brings physical and emotional tiredness: after Man City crash out to Barca and Arsenal despair against Bayern, how can that not affect their form in the premier league?!

Throw in the fact that our fixture list is easier than our title rivals, and we play Chelsea and Man City at Anfield – where we can beat anyone - and suddenly it doesn’t seem like such a big task after all…

Just make sure you enjoy this feeling of being in the mix – it’s been a while since I felt like this! YNWA

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Message from the Editor

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Excited for the new season!

Postbox

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Fan rants and opinion

On Our Way?

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After all the hard work, is a top four spot within our grasp?

Squad Depth

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Do we have the squad to cope with the biggest 12 games of the season?

Forgotten Scorer

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Just what does Daniel Sturridge have to do to steal some of the lime-light?

JFT96

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We look at the latest news from the police inquest, with some interesting developments

Staying at Anfield

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We’ve been dreaming of a new stadium for years, but it looks like we’ll be staying put.

For The Fans Is it all about money nowadays? Is there anything that can be done to help fans?

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Selling Out

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Are corporate deals with Dunkin Donuts and Garuda good for the club?

On the Pitch

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A look back on the last month’s games.

We’re in it to win it!

Oh Kolo...

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It was all looking so good (and solid) just a few months ago…!?

Focus on: Henderson

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Will he be the future of both Liverpool and England’s midfield?

The Month Ahead

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

Koly-Who?

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He might well be Liverpool’s big summer signing. Is Yevhen Konoplyanka any good?

Best of Youtube

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Our pick of the best Youtube footage of our Champions Leage matches.

As Clear as Day Gavin takes a glance at international football, and the pride of playing for your country.

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Dear Anfield Roar, All Liverpool fans are extremely cautious and making every effort to play down our chances of winning the title this season. I have not met one fan who confidently says we have a good chance of winning the title this season. I think perhaps all the rhetoric about Liverpool fans being deluded has probably gone to our heads and we don't want to be put in that category again.

This is all fair enough. I would myself in this same category too.

The principal reason being of course our defence which is really prone to conceding silly goals; two classic examples provided just the other day. I don't believe the return of our first choice defence will make that much of a difference either since they are not really greatly better than the current second string.

Having said that this season is also the most tight and closely contested I have seen since I don't know when. Every time you think a team will run away with it they get pulled back. Arsenal, Man City and now Chelsea. In the meantime Liverpool are playing probably the best football we have played since when Rafa was in his prime. In some of the games anyway.

And although none of us are willing to admit somewhere deep down we harbour a little hope, just a small one, a tiny, minuscule hope, that we could just, just sneak it. On the final day, in the final game, in the final minute in the final shot.

Of course it's not gonna happen, is it. It's all fantasy. Just like the first 20 minutes of football we played against Arsenal on Sunday.

Cameron Laner, Merseyside 6

POSTBOX Dear Anfield Roar As a Liverpool fan, as much as it pains me to say it, and as much as I would love Gerrard to get the one medal he so richly deserves, Liverpool will not win the premiership this season.

It will be one of the moneybag clubs Man City or Chelsea as they have the depth in their squads due to the enormous outlay of their owners in readiness for the fair play rules. Liverpool are in a dogfight with Arsenal, Spurs and Everton for 3rd or 4th.

If they cut out the individual errors from defenders and Suarez and Sturridge continue their amazing form, they may even scrape 2nd on goal difference.

As long as they finish in a Champions league position and Man Utd continue to employ Moyes, I will consider this a successful season.

Will Evans, Liverpool _________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, I no longer buy the argument that Liverpool wont win the title because of their lack of strength in depth.

There are only twelve games left, and there is more chance that Liverpool will keep their first XI together than City, Chelsea (and Arsenal) because they are not competing in the CL. Increasingly, it will be about the players holding their nerve under pressure. The focus is now shifting to Liverpool and we will soon see how they cope - with a handful of games to go - without the 'dark horse' tag.

Agger back, Sakho two league games away, Johnson two games away, Lucas back in March I think (not sure if early or late but he is ahead of schedule), Enriques return is unknown as far as I can see.

To be honest I'd sooner this notional title charge was not a talking point, but the media just love this sort of build 'em up nonsense.

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POSTBOX For Liverpool the mantra should just be play to win every game and let the other results look after themselves.

Robrob, Manchester _________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, The best Liverpool can hope for, and even that is a fool's hope in many ways, is a top three finish.

What is interesting, and what hasn't been picked up by the media, is the age of Liverpool's team relative to the other contenders.

Surely it hasn't escaped journalists that Liverpool have been fielding two teenagers every week, a 21-year-old Brazilian, a 22-year-old Englishman and a number of other fringe players from the academy?

Liverpool have the second youngest squad (with an average age of exactly 24) in the PL, behind Arsenal in 16th (24.61), and way ahead of Chelsea (26.77), City (26.84) and United (26.24). This might lead to more careless errors and silly mistakes, although it has to be said it's the more experienced players that seem to be making those lately, but it certainly leaves more room for improvement.

With two world class central midfielders, another winger and a clear out of dead wood, I think they might have a realistic chance of winning the league in the next few years.

Ritchie Trout, via email

Contact us Email: editor@anfieldroar.com Tweet: @anfieldroarmag Web: use the contact form on our site 8

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.

Fans Blamed by Police Senior police officers will accuse Liverpool fans of drunken behaviour at the Hillsborough disaster.

Families at the hearing in London shouted "disgrace" at John Beggs QC, representing match commander David Duckenfield and ground commanders Roger Greenwood and Roger Marshall, as he said he would be making the suggestion that the drunkenness of spectators contributed to the disaster.

Paddy Shennan slammed the QC and the officers - "This was beneath contempt - an absolutely appalling assault on the memories of the 96 and all the survivors."

Pete Weatherby QC, representing the families in the Hillsborough Justice Campaign, said experts had analysed tapes from the day of the 1989 disaster. He said he one of the tapes, which had footage from the Leppings Lane end and inside the stadium, was thought to have been edited. He said: "The facts the edits are of a different nature points away from an innocent explanation."

Sponsored Tattoo A Liverpool fan who bears an uncanny resemblance to Luis Suarez is begging his fellow supporters to leave him alone after continually being mistaken for the star striker.

The Iraqi man, who has not been named, is such a dead ringer for Uruguayan Suarez he is constantly pestered by fans demanding photos and autographs.

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

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a There are just 12 games to go, and all the signs are looking good for a top 4 spot. Janoo Wasan previews our chances...

With just 12 games to go till the end of the season, Liverpool sit pretty in the prestigious 4th place of the Premier league with 53 points.

Tottenham, who have been somewhat rejuvenated by unorthodox boss Tim Sherwood and former out-in-the-cold striker Emmanuel Adebayor, sit just 3 points behind the Reds with 50 points.

Merseyside rivals, Everton are in 6th place with 45 points, 8 points behind Liverpool, but with an extra game in hand.

And finally, the ‘mighty’ Manchester United are in 7th place with 42 points - a whole 11 points behind Liverpool in 4th place. These are the teams in the race for 4th…These are the teams in the race for a prized place in Europe’s illustrious Champions League!

With just 12 games left to go, Liverpool FC (who in fact are only 4 points from league leaders Chelsea) are in prime position for a Champions League place.

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ON OUR WAY? With more favourable fixtures in comparison to the likes of the other 4th place contenders, it can be said that 4th place is Liverpool’s to lose really.

In fact, with Liverpool being only 4 points off the topspot, many of the more enthusiastic Liverpool fans have half an eye on the title.

Following Liverpool’s 5-1 drubbing of thenleague leaders Arsenal at Anfield, the pundits and even the players and staff have marked down Liverpool as the ‘dark-horses’ for the title. Surely, with Liverpool’s current form, 4th place is just the bear minimum?

Surely, with Liverpool’s current form, 4th place is just the bare minimum?

However, we mustn’t ‘dream’ too much and overlook the likes of both Tottenham and Everton, who have been continually pressing for a place in the top 4.

Throughout the season, new boss, Roberto Martinez, has settled in well with his Everton side, and they have remained fairly, yet quietly consistent. In the race for the top 4, they are arguably the ‘dark horses.’

Spurs, on the other hand, have had patches of terror and brilliance, and at current, having had a run of games facing relatively weaker oppositions, Spurs have shown their quality and continue to fight with Liverpool for the 4th place.

Surprisingly, Man Utd have had an indifferent season and see themselves 11 points adrift the 4th place. With only 12 games left to go in the season, it should be safe to write off David Moyes’ Man Utd side, who have been lacking on all fronts this season.

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ON OUR WAY? That leaves us with just Tottenham and Everton rivalling Liverpool for 4th.

Looking at the fixtures of these three clubs, Liverpool have the easier of the other two (considering their prolific home record…).

Liverpool face tough tests against Manchester City, Tottenham and Chelsea at Anfield. They also face tricky encounters against Manchester United and Southampton away.

Everton have a much more difficult last 12 games, facing Chelsea and Southampton away and holding host to Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City.

However, factoring in tiring Thursday Europa League fixtures, Tottenham have a more troubling end to the season. They face Chelsea and Liverpool away and also face Arsenal and Soton at home.

Looking at the fixtures of these Liverpool, Everton & Spurs, Liverpool have the easier run-in.

Though Liverpool do face three big clubs in Manchester City, Tottenham and Chelsea at home, Brendan Rodgers’ side have shown resilience and dominance against similar big oppositions at Anfield. Additionally, Brendan Rodgers’ side are 3 points to the good of Tottenham and 5 points good of Everton, assuming they win their game in hand.

With the fixture list in mind, Liverpool’s current position and advantage over their top-4 rivals, Everton and Tottenham, can we say that Champions League football next season is guaranteed yet? …

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ON OUR WAY? With the way the league has gone thus far, it is difficult to guarantee anything really.

Given the form the Reds have been in, they could and should even considering finishing higher up the table! Let’s hope that Rodgers’ side keeps up the bright form and don’t lose their heads towards the tail-end of the season…!

If Liverpool are to get Champions League next season, this would be a massive boost for the club.

Firstly, the Reds would be returning to a competition they have traditionally been expected to be competing and challenging for. Moreover, a CL spot would ensure more revenue into the club (in the form of TV revenue and prizemoney from finishing 4th and being in the Champions League) which could be reinvested into the stadium plans or transfers.

But most importantly, Champions League football would positively influence Liverpool FC’s transfer dealings. In the recent years, we have seen Liverpool suffer in their pursuit of players, failing to Champions League clubs like Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund. If Liverpool are to get back into the Champions League, this would act as an incentive for potential signings, who, now, mostly desire Champions League football.

CL football would act as a further incentive for star striker, Luis Suarez to stay at the club. If Liverpool don’t get Champions League football next season, there is no doubt in the mind of many fans and pundits that Luis Suarez will leave to pursuit bigger and better things. However, the desire that Liverpool have shown this season inspires confidence in fans and players alike, that Liverpool will return to their old successes, and a Champions League spot is another step in the right direction.

Expertly written by: Janoo Wasan Tweet Janoo - @janoow10 13

SQUAD DEPTH Next Considering Chelsea just let a World Cup, Champions League and European Championship winner leave to join a rival, what exactly is squad depth? He was also their Player of the Season.

In back-to-back seasons!?

As Juan Mata departs Stamford Bridge, they might not even notice he's gone. First choices Eden Hazard, Oscar and (ex-Liverpool target) Willian won’t be complaining. Schurrle, Ramires, Lampard and Van Ginkel may get a few more minutes too.

Another ex-Liverpool target Mohamed Salah passed Mata in the revolving door.

And let's not forget that Nemanja Matic, David Luiz and even John Obi Mikel are also vying for midfield roles. Is this true squad depth?

Jose Mourinho's 'little horse' is trotting along in a manner that many would consider a stallion's gallop. Their squad depth is obviously driving them forward, right?

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SQUAD DEPTH Now let's look at Brendan Rodgers' 'Chihuahua', in the same department. After all, our beloved Liverpool are hot on Chelsea’s heels (or hooves to continue the pun!)

Liverpool midfield contains Lucas, Henderson, Gerrard and Allen.

And at a push, Phillipe Coutinho. See the difference? The theme stretches across all positions.

Liverpool have loaned in a Chelsea outcast, attacker Victor Moses.

He joins the following out on loan from Stamford Bridge: • • • •

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois Defender Ryan Bertrand Midfielders Marko Marin and Oriol Romeu Forwards Lucas Piazon and Romelu Lukaku

What makes interesting reading is that Chelsea have made 78 changes substitutions after 26 games. That is highest number in the Premier League. This means that Mourinho makes 3 changes every game. When he looks at his bench, he will always have options to change the momentum of a game.

In comparison, Liverpool had the lowest total of changes: 60, at an average of 2.3 changes per game. So what does this tell us?

Team Chelsea Tottenham Hotspur Arsenal Manchester United Manchester City Everton Liverpool

Games 26 26 26 26 25 25 26

Subs 78 74 71 71 70 68 60

Pos 1 5 2 7 3 6 4

Well, first things first, it tells us that ‘squad depth’, in the Premier League alone, does not mean anything. Yes, Chelsea are at the top of the table, and top of the changes.

But, they sit just 4 points clear of Liverpool, who are at the bottom of the substitutions table. No correlation there.

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SQUAD DEPTH The other top 5 teams for substitutions are West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Fulham and Cardiff City. So, unless you are making changes of the highest quality, change is not always a good thing. The figures prove that.

Mourinho makes 3 changes every game. Liverpool have the lowest total of changes, an average of 2.3 changes per game. So what does this tell us?

One thing Liverpool have going for them is familiarity and continuity. Liverpool’s performances prove that if you have the right ingredients, you don’t need to chop and change so much.

The critics may argue that Liverpool don’t have the necessary depth to make changes – but whatever they are doing, it is working.

So, are Liverpool on to something here? Is squad depth an illusion?

Are signings necessary this summer?

In theory, the first part of the answer depends on how lucky you are with key players remaining injury free. This season, Liverpool have thrown that notion out of the window too. The Reds have coped without Gerrard and Luis Suarez, and Daniel Sturridge.

Lucas, Coutinho, Glen Johnson and Mohammad Sakho have spent time out too. So again, does squad depth have the effect that modern day fans and media perceive it does?

Another consideration is how many players a team uses over a season, and yet again, the stats are not painting a vivid picture.

Using a list from December 2013, the highest number of players used by a club was Fulham and Sunderland with 26. The lowest was Aston Villa and Southampton with 20. The swing of 6 players, and no rhyme or reason between the highest lowest again proves unfruitful.

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SQUAD DEPTH Perhaps the answer to that depends on how many fronts you are looking to challenge on. This season, lack of European participation has played a role. Liverpool had the chance to focus on domestic competitions. And, they have been able to take advantage of early exits in both cup competitions.

Next season will shed more light on the squad depth conundrum.

Liverpool are almost certain to embark on a European campaign.

With it comes midweek games, shorter rest periods, but even higher expectation! Will that result in greater player fatigue, and additional squad shuffling?

Ex-Liverpool players said they preferred the routine that comes with playing game after game.

Again, no compelling evidence there. In fact, in a recent ‘5 Times’ podcast, ex-Liverpool players said the opposite. They spoke of players preferring the routine that comes with playing game after game.

It appears that squad depth, defining it, and it's advantages has many different aspects to it. Is quality on the bench offset by players finding continuity and familiarity?

Can you actually challenge on various fronts with a shallow squad? And does a harmonious squad, comprised of a collection of star players, hungry youngsters, with a collective vision trump everything?

Time will tell… YNWA

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

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THE FORGOTTEN SCORER With all the talk about Suarez becoming the best in the Prem, Ronan McCourt looks at someone who is being overlooked...

In a season where we find ourselves in the midst of a title challenge and looking odds on for a top 4 finish, we can attribute our success to a number of key factors, but none more so than a fearsome attack, spearheaded by The SAS. With Suarez taking the majority of the plaudits - understandably so, for his at times ridiculous form - it can be easy to underestimate the form and importance to the team of his fellow goal machine Daniel Sturridge.

With just under a third of the season to go, it would not be unwise to proclaim Suarez as nailed on favourite for the Player of the Year Award. The Uruguayan sits comfortably atop the scoring charts in the Prem despite missing a number of games due to his ban.

Although the goals have dried up recently, his performances have been no less eye catching.

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FORGOTTEN The reason his drought hasn’t negatively impacted the team is due to the almost as ridiculous form of his English strike partner.

Up until the defeat to Arsenal in the FA Cup, Sturridge had scored in all of the 8 games since his return from injury after a month out of action, equalling a long standing record of consecutive goalscoring set by Dick Forshaw almost 90 years ago.

At the time of writing, he sits on 16 league goals, 2nd only to Suarez, and with an impressive record of 30 goals in 38 appearance for the Reds in all competitions. He is without doubt the best English striker in the league and is also arguably the most in-form striker in Europe at the minute given his recent streak. He will travel to the World Cup not only a guaranteed starter for his country, but also with an eye on the Golden Boot should they progress from a difficult looking group.

He is without doubt the best English striker in the league and is also arguably the most in-form striker in Europe at the minute given his recent streak.

He has proven himself almost irreplaceable at club level this year.

The absence of Suarez was forgotten at the start of the season due to the start made by Sturridge, and he has continued that form alongside the returning Uruguayan to form what is statistically the deadliest strikeforce in Europe this year, scoring 42 league goals between them to date.

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FORGOTTEN While Suarez is likely to beat his mate to the individual honours this year in terms of goalscoring and best player, Sturridge would be disappointed not to be included in the nominees for both awards, and providing he stays injury free from now until the seasons end, he will do all he can and will no doubt run Luis close.

Indeed, the form of The SAS has led to a possible late title charge by the Reds, with the goalscoring exploits of the duo and the improved form of the likes of Raheem Sterling and Stevie Gerrard compensating for the defensive shortcomings of the team in recent weeks.

The sheer volume of goals scored this year is almost as good as an extra point, and given how close the League is this year, could prove crucial in the end.

It is vital that Sturridge remains fit until the end of the campaign in order to possibly lead a title charge. Suarez’s drought will surely end sooner rather than later, but even so the goals of Sturridge will prove vital regardless and given that he has been remarkably consistent since his arrival last January, he could prove arguably even more important than Suarez in the run in.

His place in LFC folklore will be assured should he continue his incredible form throughout his career at the club, and who knows, he could well write his name into legend this season should he help bring back the League title.

Expertly written by: Ronan McCourt You can tweet your responses to @anfieldroarmag 20

Emma Rhodes takes a closer look at the inquest, whats being said, and when we’ll find out some answers...

The Hillsborough disaster is a globally known incident in sporting circles and after over twenty-three years, on 12 September 2012, the word justice finally had a meaning that the people of Liverpool could believe in and the Real Truth was revealed. The Hillsborough Independent Panel finally revealed to the world what everybody associated with this island of a city had known for over two decades: that the deaths of 96 brothers and sisters was of no fault of their own.

Although part of the battle had finally been won, few could have been prepared for what would be revealed. Police led a campaign to remove any blame associated with themselves and instead unfairly accused the innocent of mistakes made from within.

Masses of altered witness statements, police intimidation across all levels and blood alcohol tests on victims as young as ten made up just a part of the biggest cover up in sporting history.

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JFT96 With the truth finally in the light of the public, those in charge of safety on that fateful day are still reluctant to stand up and take responsibility.

Senior police officers including Chief Inspector David Duckenfield and former Inspectors Roger Marshall and Roger Greenwald continue to claim that alcohol contributed “significantly” to the disaster even though evidence obtained in the Independent Panel’s report states the contrary.

During the official inquiry Lord Justice Taylor dismissed all allegations of alcohol having any part in the incident. Family members of the deceased expressed their shock at the actions of the self-obsessed officers.

Margaret Aspinall, who lost her son James in the tragedy, believed that as formerly respected members of a police force, “you cannot sink any lower.”

The realisation that statements had been altered was shocking enough, but to learn that police video tapings of the disaster had also been edited was yet another slap in the face of justice.

Pete Weatherby QC is representing over 20 of the 96 victims’ families and has inspected the video recordings. He noticed that pictures had been edited revealing yet another twist in this, the grandest cover up that has finally been exposed.

The realisation that statements had been altered was shocking enough, but to learn that police video tapings of the disaster had also been edited was yet another slap in the face of justice.

The inquest has revealed that a further 74 police statements were also allegedly altered on top of the 164 statements which were already notified as altered last year. This means a new total of 238 statements have now been determined as altered in order to defend the South Yorkshire Police.

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JFT96 This can only serve to prove the true amount of intimidation against those who tried to reveal the truth in the first place.

Senior IPCC investigators also believe that a number of fans statements have also been tampered with and are now asking any witnesses to come forward as they are treating this case with the greatest care and are trying to get to the bottom of what they hope to be the final and conclusive inquest.

On Wednesday 12th February it is believed 1600 witnesses have since responded to this appeal, and from this number, over 250 people who have never given accounts before. This comes as more than 2500 police pocket notebooks are believed to have been recovered after being hidden by former police officers of West Yorkshire police officers as they contain important information and vital details about that harrowing day in 1989.

Steven Kelly, the brother of victim Martin, explained to the media that the inquest is absolutely “shocking” as with every new inquest there is new evidence revealed which all show ever more information about this huge cover up. Steven also explained he has total confidence in Lord Justice John Goldring who has assured families that he is absolutely “committed” to making sure the new inquests start on 31st March 2014 in Warrington.

This year will mark the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster as the new inquest will have started and it is predicted to be the largest memorial service yet with 30,000 attending.

Anne Williams will also be remembered after she passed away during her brave fight for the justice for her son Kevin, one of the 96 victims. Friends, families and both sets of fans from the city of Liverpool and beyond will come together to remember those who were unforgivably taken and constantly fight for justice for their loved ones. Justice for the 96, may they rest in peace.

YNWA Expertly written by: Emma Rhodes Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com 23

Liverpooltees.com Proud to be helping fundraise for the Hillsborough Families Support Group

www.liverpooltees.com 24

BREAKING: LIVERPOOL STAYING AT ANFIELD! We were promised a new stadium way back in the dark old days of Hicks and Gillett. Now it looks like we’re staying...

Well it looks like we are staying at Anfield for the foreseeable future. My thoughts on this are ‘Thank God!’, because going to watch Liverpool at home and not going to Anfield would just be unthinkable!

I know an all-singing, all-dancing new stadium would probably be the sensible way forward, but who wants the sensible option when it means tearing down Anfield and tearing down the Kop? The history that has been made at Anfield would probably for most people disappear with stadium. Obviously we would have all the trophies from all the great league and cup runs over the years, but when you're sitting at Anfield thinking about those great nights it won’t / can’t be same if you were sitting in a different stadium.

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ANFIELD I couldn't imagine the thought of going to watch LFC and not going to Anfield and I couldn't begin to think what a long term season ticket supporter would make of it.

From what I can make out most of the Liverpool supporters favoured the expansion option, and even John W Henry has always preferred the idea of staying at Anfield. (But that’s probably down to financial reasons more than anything else!)

Anyway..... from what I can see Liverpool hope to submit plans to expand Anfield by the end of this season and complete the work by 2018.

Above - 2003 plan. Below - 2012 plan

That will take the stadium from 45,276 up to a 55,000-seater, moving us from seventh largest capacity football stadium in England to fourth (and that’s counting Wembley).

I’ve just noticed that Manchester city have applied for planning permission to take the Etihad stadium to 60,000, so that'll put us in fifth (what are they like, they can't see s@!t).

From what I read on the internet there's also plans for a "96 Avenue" in honour of those who died at Hillsborough. The wide, high-quality avenue would run behind the new Main Stand between Stanley Park 26

ANFIELD and Walton Breck Road and would be a major focal point for the area.

I'm not too sure if all the i's are dotted and the t's crossed at the time of writing, but it is believed that one of the key hurdles in place to seeing the proposals come to fruition could be removed within weeks after Liverpool City Council unveiled the blueprints. If the Council can’t push this development through – who can?

If the Council can’t push this development through – who can?!

I really hope that this is the case because if this option stalls then the only other option would be for a new stadium and after all the messing about with that other bunch of muppets a few years ago you have to think what would the realistic time frame be for this to come about...

You're talking quite a few years and then the extra cost on top of this would leave us with a limited budget in the transfer market for a couple of years at least. As I said previously, I'm glad we're staying at Anfield because I feel that there's just to many memories to walk away from.

Obviously there may well come a time when Liverpool have to up sticks and leave Anfield, but with this expansion work taking place I'm hoping it won’t be in my lifetime.

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

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FOR THE FANS!

Paul Baker questions whether clubs have time for the Fans?

Or does money win every time?

I would like to offer my thanks to the Spirit of Shankly Union for their excellent work in regards to the upcoming F.A. Cup tie against Arsenal.

Due to the pressure applied on the matter of ticket costs, Arsenal have agreed to categorise the match as a Category B rather than category A. While this is good news for the travelling supporters, a ticket will still cost between £34 and £54 – but let’s hope this is a sign of the times and supporters power can increase.

In terms of the kick-off time for the game, it is currently to be played on Sunday 16th of February at 4pm. This will cause no end of problems for the Reds fans travelling home on a Sunday using public transport.

At the last fixture in SoS Campaign November at the Emirates, many fans were forced to use rail replacement bus services in order to travel hom, which adds time and stress onto an already long and costly journey.

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FOR THE FANS To improve the overall game and to improve relations with supporters, I would like to suggest a panel or a committee being set up within the game. It could meet when required to, such as the Cup tie against Arsenal. It would not need to discuss every game played.

It could maybe include representatives from the fans, the clubs, the F.A, the television people and the sponsors, so that agreements could be reached in respect of kick off times, TV coverage and ticket prices. They could meet to ensure all parties are given a voice and the decisions taken are not all one sided.

It could include the fans, the clubs, the FA, the television people and the sponsors to ensure all parties are given a voice One of the items it maybe could consider is the time the game starts. If the away team has a large distance to travel, the kick off time should reflect it. Nobody wants to be travelling halfway across the Country on a Monday night.

It may not work for all games all of the time, but the majority, with careful planning, should be able to be agreed upon. Where agreement can't be met, the cost of travel could maybe be subsidised by the clubs and the sponsors - what a great advert for the game that would be - the corporate side reaching out and supporting the very people, who without, the game would mean very little.

Staying with the F.A. Cup tie, is was very disappointing to read that Liverpool have only been given 5186 match tickets. Under F.A. Rule section 21 (a) "The Visiting Club shall have the right to claim up to 15% of all accommodation for which tickets are issued providing these tickets are in a fully segregated area" 29

FOR THE FANS Using this rule, the club should have been given 9000 tickets. The stated reason for the reduced allocation is "Arsenal's Safety Advisory Group, which is made up of representatives from the club, local authority, police and transport, reduced the standard 9,000 away allocation under the competition rules due to fears over safety issues from supporters standing in the upper tiers.

Arsenal Football Club have a history of reducing ticket allocations for visiting teams. This season Arsenal have been drawn at home for three F.A. Cup matches. The ticket allowance was reduced for both the Tottenham Hotspur and Coventry City.

8686 for Coventry and 5185 for Spurs. It surely can't be safe for one set of fans and then unsafe for another?

There was an allocation of 8686 for Coventry and 5185 for Spurs. It surely can't be safe for one set of fans and then unsafe for another?

The Emirates is one of the newer grounds in the Premier League and while safety for the supporters must always come first, how are they allowed to host music concerts, where fans are able to stand up and dance? It seems the rules depend on who is the opposition. It would be interesting to see the figures from other stadiums in the top flight, which use their upper tiers for visiting fans. To compare when ticket allowances are reduced and which teams are affected by it.

While we can take some limited positives regarding the reduced prices for the forthcoming game, too many decisions in football are taken with the sponsors and TV companies first, then the clubs and finally, at the bottom of the list, the hard-working fans.

While most would agree that the TV money has changed the game and the standard of football for the better, the playing field needs to be levelled: If this was a football match, the fans would lose 100! (at least!)

The amount of money in football nowadays is quite frankly amazing. The average turnover of a Premier League club in 201112 was ÂŁ115 million!

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FOR THE FANS The total leagues revenues are well over £3bn, per year. This money of course is paid by fans, through TV packages and match tickets.

The team finishing 20th will pick up £60 million in TV money, with the league Champions (Yes we all can dream) pocketing a massive £95 million! These figures are set to increase with new markets and TV deals opening up in China and India in the next couple of seasons.

This amount of money makes it more important than ever, then, that the people running the game reach out and interact with the supporters.

If nothing is done and the money increases, which it will, the average fan across the country will be slowly pushed out altogether.

Many of us know people who have cut down or stopped attending games due to prices, rather than through choice. Match tickets will start to be sold to fans who attend maybe one or two games a year.

The voices on match days will slowly disappear from the stands.

A balance must be in place, so the clubs can fully benefit from the investment, but not so the fans are marginalised.

Expertly written by: Paul Baker Feedback? Send your feedback to : @paul_baker

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SELLING OUT? George Way reflects on the need for making money from sponsors - any one heard of Garuda airlines?!

We all know that in the modern day, money and financial power can be the difference between a top 4 finish and lingering in mid table. Teams like Manchester City and (going back further) Chelsea have had their fortunes completely turned around by a big spending foreign billionaire.

Although Liverpool haven’t been lucky enough for this, it is clear that the current board are eager to boost the income and world-wide popularity of the LFC brand.

Examples of this include the January deal with American business Dunkin’ Donuts; though this was not the business most fans wanted to see during the window, officials within the club seem to think that (in order to stay in line with financial fair play rules) it is in fact necessary and important.

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SCORING Some however have the opinion that since the takeover by our current owners, the club has begun to grow into more of a franchise than a club – this certainly may be the case overseas where people now may only see the name of the club as they buy their donuts, or the like.

But it is not only in America that Liverpool are going big in terms of corporate partners; following the pre-season tour of Indonesia, an airline in the region has become our official ‘training kit sponsor’.

This adds fuel to the fire of the argument claiming that the current owners are involved with our club for one main focus. The large scale of LFC followers in Asia is well-known, and signing a deal with a popular business in the area can only benefit that, as well as the income to the club from that region.

In spite of this, we may have to wait to see the true gains from our corporate deals; this may be the case as other clubs perhaps may begin to struggle with expenses as they start to feel the full effects of the new financial guidelines.

From a fans perspective though, we will be hoping to see the fruits of our sponsorships leading to big money being spent in the next transfer window, and windows for years to come.

Given the countless millions they are getting from corporate sponsors, it does beg the question that maybe they could start to be slightly less unscrupulous with the fans, and start to charge prices that are fairer and more affordable... It is fairly basic maths, but we will start to see whether the owners see the club and fans as something to be nurtured, or solely a cash cow. Time will tell.

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

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How did Liverpool do on the pitch over the last month?

George Way guides us through our wins, draws and losses...

Bournemouth 0 – 2 Liverpool 15/01/14 - FA Cup After a win against Burton in the last round, AFC Bournemouth set themselves up with a glamour game against one the biggest teams in the country. But for Liverpool, going into the game it looked like it would be just another step on the journey through the F.A Cup. The game started in the way many expected it would; Bournemouth quickly out of the traps led to their winning of several corners to challenge Brad Jones’ goal. This pressure seemed like it was beginning to tell, as the inexperienced Jones didn’t seem to have confidence in himself, nor his defence.

In spite of this, Bournemouth simply did not have the quality to make the most of their chances. By comparison, a Liverpool side who started with Suarez and Sturridge had no trouble when they attacked; on one of the Reds first attempts, Victor Moses managed to find the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

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ON THE PITCH Whilst some thought that this would quiet the home side, it did just the opposite: Bournemouth gave it all they had to get an equaliser, but still they couldn’t get the goal that many say they deserved.

Despite the lead, Liverpool had never really got out of 2nd gear, but whenever they did we saw the talent that Liverpool process in midfield working exquisitely with clinical finishing. The best example of this perhaps was a 2nd goal for the Reds, when Daniel Sturridge finished perfectly after being played through on goal by Luis Suarez.

After victory at the Goldsans Stadium, Liverpool can now look forward to a tie against Arsenal to reach the quarter final of the F.A Cup. Liverpool 4 - 0 Everton 18/01/14 After an incredible game over the park at Goodison in the reverse fixture, many expected a close fought battle between two teams fighting for a Champions League position. The reality however, was far from that.

Whilst Everton quickly had their first attempt saved by Simon Mignolet, Liverpool drew first blood; Gerrard scoring with a header after 21 minutes. It was obvious to everybody how much the game meant to the captain, and Liverpool looked to use their greater desire to push further ahead.

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ON THE PITCH It certainly did not take long for Everton’s defence to collapse after the calamity of the first goal (Gareth Barry injuring Lukaku whilst he should have been marking Gerrard); by the 33rd minute Liverpool had another clear goal scoring opportunity – and Daniel Sturridge made the most of it. The prolific Englishman using placement and power to beat Tim Howard.

Furthermore, within 2 minutes, the tally increased again; this time Sturridge looping the ball over the helpless goalkeeper. At this point the game was all but won, and it seemed like this was to be one of Liverpool’s most convincing performances all season.

But as the second half began, it became apparent the Reds wanted to further humiliate Everton; Suarez finishing superbly after carrying the ball half the length of the pitch.

Following this goal, Liverpool saw the game out without issue and, in doing so, began to suggest to league that this year we were aiming for more than just 4th place.

“It's a massive victory over rivals close to us. If you look at Everton they've only conceded 11 goals away from home before tonight and for us to get four and to maybe have had a few more is very pleasing.” BR WBA 1 – 1 Liverpool 02/02/14 Morale was amongst the Liverpool camp, following the midweek annihilation of the neighbours, and so West Brom looked like another opportunity to pick up 3 points in the race for the top 4.

In spite of this, the Baggies (now managed by Pepe Mel) had taken points off the likes of Everton in previous weeks, as well as scoring 3 in their own derby, only days before this encounter.

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ON THE PITCH From kick-off, it was apparent that of the Liverpool front three, it was Raheem Sterling who was getting the most joy from the West Brom back for.

As a result of this, a common feature of Liverpool’s play was to spread the ball out to the right, providing the Englishman with a chance to run at the defence. This tactic played a part in the opening goal, as Sterling found himself in the penalty area with the ball at his feet; he quickly gave it to Suarez, who picked out his strike partner Sturridge at the back post for an easy tap in.

Following this goal, Liverpool (much unlike against Everton) failed to convert their chances, and in doing so it seemed that they left the door open for West Brom to steal an equaliser. In the second half, Toure opened this door fully with a horrific mistake; an attempted pass across the back four went astray, and Anichebe took full advantage.

The game ended with both sides taking a point from the Hawthorns, and Liverpool were left wondering how vital those 2 points may prove to be at the end of the season.

Liverpool 5 - 1 Arsenal 08/02/14 Following the disappointment at the hawthorns, Liverpool’s next fixture couldn’t have come round soon enough, but Arsenal seemed like one of the toughest tests the league could provide. In spite of this, Liverpool went at the game like their lives depended on it, and certainly got their reward.

The goal scoring started early; a trade mark Steven Gerrard free kick being bundled over the line by Martin Skrtel after only 60 seconds. But the big Slovakian wasn’t done there; after relentless early pressure, Liverpool earned another promising set piece, this time a corner. However, the outcome was the same – Skrtel grabbing his second goal with a brilliant header into the top corner.

As we had done in previous weeks, the Reds looked not only to 37

ON THE PITCH beat, but embarrass opponents who were considered rivals; Everton and Tottenham for example. 6 minutes after Skrtel’s second, it was Sterling’s turn to get on the score sheet: he arrived at the back post just in time to convert Suarez’ ball across the area.

To cap off a truly incredible opening 20 minutes, Sturridge found himself through on goal, and so instinctively passed the ball into the net past a helpless Wojciech Szczesny. At this point, the entire Arsenal 11 looked completely clueless, in shock of what they had just witnessed.

Some predicted a revitalised Arsenal to emerge after the break, but no such thing happened – Liverpool quickly picked up where they left of; a bang in form Sterling added to his tally on the second attempt, to put the final nail in Arsenal’s coffin.

The only response the Gunners offered up came in the 69th minute, when Arteta converted from the penalty spot. Overall, it had been an exceptional Liverpool performance, and people all over the country began to listen when people said we could go for the title.

“The players have been incredible and we just hope to continue with that development and just see where it takes us really.” BR Fulham 2 – 3 Liverpool 12/02/14 Whilst many expected all the mid-week drama to come from the Emirates as Manchester United travelled to London, very few expected the game that played out at Craven Cottage.

With both sides needing wins for different reasons, the game started in electric fashion, and to the surprise of many, the team at the foot of the table took the lead, after a second mistake in 3 games for Kolo Toure, as the Ivorian put the ball through his own net.

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ON THE PITCH An exciting half followed, with the travellers shell shocked; however, as the first 45 drew to a close, an impeccable pass from Gerrard released the clinical Sturridge to add to his remarkable tally for the season.

As the teams emerged, many anticipated the Reds to the build on the late pressure they had enjoyed in the second half, but reality was quite the opposite. A tricky cross left the Liverpool back-line scrambling, which provided ex-United player Richardson to blast home from short range.

With talk of Liverpool challenging for the title in the lead up to this game, this goal seemed like a serious reality check. In spite of this, champions of the past have been distinct for one reason; when it is not their day, they make it their day.

In keeping with this, the Reds managed to step up their game and apply pressure on Martin Steklenburg’s goal; as a result of this, Coutinho found space to curl the ball into the net for the equaliser.

But a draw against Fulham – enough to restore the dreams of Liverpool fans? Certainly not, and this was reflected in the reaction to the goal.

Instead of celebrating, Liverpool eagerly restarted the game; and for this mentality, they soon got their reward: as Gerrard converted a penalty after an irresponsible tackle from Riether felled Daniel Sturridge as the 90 minutes drew to a close.

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ON THE PITCH Arsenal 2 - 1 Liverpool 16/02/14 - FA Cup Along with Manchester City’s tie at home to Chelsea, this was the second major tie of the 5th round, with a place in the quarter finals at stake. Not only that, but Arsenal were looking for a chance to get their own back after the thrashing at Anfield the previous week.

However, the first 10 minutes seemed almost identical to those at Anfield; there was only one difference. The similarity: Liverpool out of the traps incredibly quickly, but the difference was the disappointment of Sturridge’s finishing. The prolific striker uncharacteristically failed to score 2 chances you would have bet on him to score.

But Arsenal, who had offered up very little, managed to get their noses in front, after lazy defending and a lucky deflection gave Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain space to score. As the half progressed, Liverpool seemed like they were going to get back into the game, but there were also mistakes. Not from either team, but from the referee, Howard Webb. Both Podolski and Gerrard could have been sent off, whilst neither were, and Podolski didn’t even get a yellow.

In the second half, Podolski made the most of his break, scoring early on to give Arsenal a clear advantage. But still Liverpool pushed on, showing great spirit as they won a penalty, which Gerrard casually finished.

As we grew into the game, the Reds got more frequent chances, again Sturridge passing up opportunities most expected him to score. But to cap off an awful day for the supposed ‘best ref in the country’, Webb failed to give Liverpool a stone wall penalty, which has been speculated in the media following the game. So, although they crashed out of the cup, Liverpool can take heart from a good performance at the Emirates.

Expertly written by: George Way - you can send your feedback to us and we’ll pass it on - editor@anfieldroar.com 40

Available NOW at Liverpoolshirts.com Liverpoolshirts com

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Oh Kolo…

Was it an accident waiting to happen? Michael Reid takes a look back on THAT moment by Kolo Toure...

Not many Liverpool fans would disagree if you said it hasn’t been the greatest of February’s for a certain Ivorian centre back. Bought for his experience and Premier League know-how, even the most stubborn supporter has to accept that Kolo Toure has shown anything but this of late.

A ten thousand word dissertation could have been written about him after inexplicably assisting Victor Anichebe to cost us two points against a West Brom side who, based on the way the game went, we should have so easily turned over.

Was this just one rare mistake from a usually reliable, solid defender? Regrettably, it was not. Our number 4 went on to make a second calamitous blunder to put us 1-0 down against Fulham.

Thankfully on that occasion, we weren’t punished with a further drop in points!

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TOURE But where has this dip in form come from? Remember, this is the same Kolo Toure who, alongside Daniel Agger, helped Liverpool to three clean sheets in our first three games of the Premier League season (all 1-0 wins of course).

He was arguably one of Liverpool’s best players in this period, restricting an at the time in-form Christian Benteke to just 35.3% ground duels won and 41.7% aerial duels won average (to put that into context, Benteke has averaged 48.5% and 56.5% respectively in those areas over the whole of the season).

This is the same Kolo Toure who helped Liverpool to three clean sheets in our first three games of the Premier League season This is also the same Kolo Toure that limited 2012/13 Premier League top scorer Robin van Persie to zero shots on target over 90 minutes. How many Premier League defenders can say they’ve managed that over the last 2-3 years?

So what is to blame for Toure’s sudden error-strewn run? Let’s look at the two stand out incidents in isolation. We’ll start with the own goal at Craven Cottage.

This mistake is a one in a thousand occurrence. The ball took the slightest of bobbles on what was a pitch showing the effects of a stormy, rainy winter period and this was enough to cause it to rebound off Toure’s swiping right leg and past Mignolet. I’m sure I am not alone in saying that a moment like that has happened to the best of players at the best of times.

It’s a freak, and whilst I do accept that Toure should have done better with it, anyone who has played football on a groggy pitch will know how these things happen. It was horrible viewing (unless of course you’re a Fulham supporter), and Toure will know better than anyone that he is better than what that showed.

The West Brom own-assist, if that’s the right phrase, is a little more complex in its explanation. Should Toure have even received

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TOURE the ball from Mignolet? Should he have just passed it back to his goalkeeper to hoof clear? Should Toure have just cleared it to safety himself? These things have all been mentioned by the critics, but this mistake is more likely down to Brendan Rodger’s tactics, truth be told.

“Kolo is devastated. It’s unfortunate. We made a mistake and were punished. It was a good finish by Anichebe but it’s cost us two points." BR reflects on the og The question on your mind now is probably an obvious one. How? The answer requires a look at the current defensive set-up, using the West Brom game as an example.

From our goal kicks, our two centre backs (Skrtel and Toure in this case) split, with the defensive midfielder dropping deep (Gerrard). The full backs (Flanagan and Cissokho) then push up to made a midfield four with the other two central midfielders (Henderson and Coutinho).

It is a set-up used by most ‘pass and move’ teams in 21st century world football – you only need to look at Spain and Barcelona’s success to see how effective it can be for retaining possession.

However, it does still have its problems; problems that effectively resulted in the West Brom equaliser against us.

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TOURE With the centre backs splitting, they are no longer in a partnership.

Gerrard dropped between them and served only to obscure the vision of Toure to Anichebe – if Skrtel and Toure were closer together with Gerrard in front rather than level, this would have been avoided.

In addition, the full backs pushing up leaves them unavailable for a short 5-10 yard pass. This meant Toure’s options were restricted further. Another difficulty arising from the system is that it invites pressure from the opponent. With the defensive midfielder dropped so deep, the opposition midfield and attack can press higher onto him.

Toure was surrounded before he gave the ball away – if the back four were all in line with him and the midfield three just ahead of this, all of a sudden the wealth of options available for a pass makes it almost suicidal for the opponents to close down and try to win the ball.

Acceptably, this does leave less players forward to try attack. But it keeps your defence as one solid unit, allowing the midfield and wide men to attack together and be joined later by on rushing full backs.

Toure was a victim of a lack of passing choice. Yes, he should have probably passed back to Mignolet to be safe, and no, Mignolet should not have given him the ball in the first place.

However, from time to time, a change of system to help with ball retention, particularly when you’re in front in a match, may just stop the chances of conceding silly goals as we did at the Hawthorns.

Through all this, it has to be admitted Toure has still made a mess of both situations. That cannot be denied. However, it is no reason to single him out. Liverpool win as a team and lose as a team. That has always been the case. It always will be – and it is why we will again see the Toure of the first three games of the season.

Expertly written by: Michael Reid Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com

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Focus on:

Jordan Henderson Thomas Jordan reckons that Jordan Henderson will be central to both Liverpool and England’s future plans.

Since signing for Liverpool in the summer of 2011, many fans from in and outside the club have doubted whether Jordan Henderson’s ability matched his £16 million transfer fee.

Admittedly, his early performances under Kenny Dalglish were not inspiring, but recently he has blossomed into one of the team’s most important players, starting every league game so far this season. Some may see this as a sudden transformation during the 2013/14 season, but in fact the talent has clearly been there all along, which is why he now has the opportunity to develop into a regular England international over the next 10 years.

Henderson was undoubtedly a bright talent at Sunderland, but several factors outside of his control affected how fans saw him during his first season at Liverpool. These stemmed from the inevitable pressure that came with his substantial £16m fee. The young midfielder’s performances were clearly affected by this in his debut year for the club and he was unable to meet the high expectations that came with such a large investment.

Manager at the time Kenny Dalglish clearly had faith in the midfielder and started him regularly throughout the 2011/12 season, but normally on the right side of midfield.

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HENDERSON This placed further pressure upon the out-of-position Henderson as he was quickly forced into becoming a regular within a struggling Liverpool side (the club went on to finish 8th that season).

Unfairly, the Sunderland academy product became a scapegoat for the club’s poor form along with fellow expensive English signings Steward Downing and Andy Carroll as Dalglish’s transfer policy came under criticism. Predictably, Henderson’s tender years were not taken into account and he was simply grouped with an apparent succession of failed transfers by the media.

Yet, that arguably the greatest ever Liverpool player had such faith in Jordan Henderson is clear evidence of the underlying talent that was being suppressed by these unfortunate circumstances. Had he not been so affected by the failures and pressures of others, we would have been seeing what he has been showing us this season much earlier.

As it is, Henderson has finally settled into a comfortable central position in the side and it is difficult to see him giving it up. After encouraging signs towards the end of last season, the midfielder has put in some outstanding performances displaying a level of energy, stamina and work ethic that is unrivalled throughout the Liverpool midfield.

“What Henderson and Suarez have in common is we believe they are two players who need protecting from themselves. They would take the option of not recovering if we gave it to them and work every day between games.” Head of performance Glenn Driscoll Still doubted by fans away from Anfield, however, is his technical ability. For many, he is simply the next James Milner – hardworking, honest, but ultimately so lacking in skill and talent that he ends up with an imitation Twitter account called ‘Boring James Milner’. But it is only his past reputation that masks his increasing confidence and proficiency in this area.

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HENDERSON Henderson is developing into a genuine creative midfielder, boasting a passing accuracy in the league this season of 87% whilst making an average of 54 passes per game. Having created 48 chances in 2013/14, his six assists perhaps don’t do justice to the creative force he has become for the Reds, but his quality on the ball is evident.

Deft touches such as a cute flick to set up Daniel Sturridge versus Aston Villa and excellent vision as with his curving outside of the foot pass to set up Suarez and Sterling against Cardiff City are becoming more and more common.

And if you doubters wanted any more proof of his claim to be an all-round midfielder, one need only point to his role in the 5-0 demolition of Tottenham in which he showed a useful knack of well-time late runs that brought him his first league goal of the season. If cultivated, these late runs could become a trademark area of his game.

If his form continues, it will be soon be difficult for those in the anti-Henderson camp to ignore his obvious talent, and Hodgson should certainly be taking him to Rio. With both Gerrard and Lampard on their way out, places are beginning to open up in the centre of midfield. Henderson’s extreme energy levels coupled with legitimate ability on the ball allow him to occupy an unfilled position in the England team.

Steven Gerrard has grown into a new, deeper role in the past couple of years, leaving the national side in desperate need of a box-to-box midfielder. Henderson is a different type of player to Gerrard, but he may well be able to play that role in his own way.

This summer might be a little early, but as Steven Gerrard begins to fade out, the 23-year-old has plenty of years ahead of him to become the central midfield centerpiece for both Liverpool and England.

Expertly written by: Thomas Jordan Tweet Thomas - @teejbusbys1

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Gary McParnaby looks at the matches coming up - will we still be in with a shout after these…?

The month ahead seems straightforward enough: we play four mid-table teams, and we should be looking for the full 12 points from the next four weeks. Throw in the fact that the masterful BR will have a full week to work out and hone the tactics against each opponent, and this is going to be like taking candy from a baby.

It starts with ‘beleaguered’ Swansea, who are fresh from disposing of their greatest manager since BR (and their most successful manager ever!) by email.

At Anfield. Could we wish for a better mix of factors?

I think not.

So, 3-0 it is then, and with Suarez grabbing two, and even Kolo Toure getting in on the act.

‘Southampton away’ is, similarly, not a fixture to strike fear into your heart. They may manage to scramble victories against lower league opposition, but we have too much class, power and clinicalness (clinicality?) for them, so this will end up being a comfortable 2-0 victory, with both goals being scored in the first 30 minutes and then LFC turning down the pace.

Next up is United away. Previously this was a fixture to get concerned about, but not so this season.

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FIXTURES This match is going to be the latest embarrassment to Moyes and his squad of over-rated and massively over-paid underperformers.

United are about to be kicked whilst they are down, and by the end, Evra will be begging Suarez to have mercy. Or, at least, he would do if he had heart and wasn’t already busy trying to find a new club… Three points away from home – but it will feel like winning nine points for the fans!

Blimey, three away games in a row! Madness! But given the current form, LFC will play anyone, anywhere, and still win. Cardiff will score first for a bit of drama, but Gerrard will equalise and Sturridge will seal the deal with 25 minutes to go!

Four games, twelve points, taking us into the top two as we approach the business end of the season.

Comp Prem

Opposition Swansea (h)

Date Sat 23rd Feb

Time 13:30

Predict WIN

Prem

Southampton (a)

Sat 1st Mar

17:30

WIN

Prem

Man Utd (a)

Sun 16th Mar

13:30

WIN

Prem

Cardiff (a)

Sat 22nd Mar

15:00

WIN

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

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KOLYKOLY-who?

Ivan Emanuel takes a closer look at one of the next big things we’ve been linked with. Would YOU pay £16m for him?

Honestly, with all the twists and turns that we are witnessing these days in transfer windows, I really don’t know if Dnipro’s number 10 will end up wearing a Liverpool shirt this summer.

Nevertheless, after all the speculation and buzz that was made around this ‘Konoplyanka becoming a Liverpool player’ thing, I guess that it’s worth taking a look at his story.

"The club did everything possible to get the player in. [...] I feel really sorry for the player because he was obviously desperate to come but it's gone now and we will review it in the summer." - Brendan Rodgers 51

KOLY-WHO? Yevhen Konoplyanka started playing for his hometown club FC Olimpik Kirovohrad. In 2006, at the age of 16, he joined Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk for a salary of 300 dollars. Konoplyanka made his debut for the Ukrainian team in August 2007, since then, playing over 120 games, and scoring over 30 goals for them.

The 24 years old winger has been named the Ukrainian Player of the Year on three different occasions: 2010, 2012 (when he was also a member of the UEFA Europa League Team of the Year) and 2013 – in short, he is a class act, who can almost certainly add to our squad.

Another detail worth mentioning is that Konoplyanka has a black belt level in karate, as he took classes alongside football during his youth.

Returning to the transfer story, apparently, Brendan Rodgers and Dnipro’s executive director believe that we will have another go for the speedy wide man in the summer:

"I am a thousand per cent sure that Liverpool will try again in the summer and then we'll let him go. [...] If Liverpool, in the summer, report to us, Yevhen will still go to this club.” - Dnipro executive director Andriy Rusol My concIusion? As our anthem says: ‘Walk on with hope in your heart’, hope that this saga will end up with ‘Kono’ on our Uefa Champions League squad list.

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

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This month we’re focussing on the best of the Champions League - hopefully we’ll be adding to these next season...

YNWA

Nothing says European nights more than singing YNWA, ideally in a packed Anfield with some obliging Celtic fans!

Makes the hairs on my neck stand up. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hS83UR8XAk 53

YOUTUBE Ghost Goal

Luis Garcia somehow manages to score a goal that even the TV cameras didn’t pick up! Made all the sweeter because of the Mourinho-Benitez battle. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9upojC-XBg Istanbul

How could we not have it here? This is the kind of night in Europe we’re dreaming about - and we’ll have it again before too long hopefully! We were 3-0 down at half-time for heaven sakes!? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=to-X2PNDWBE

Send us your favourites - @anfieldroarmag 54

The subject of international football is always a divisive one amongst supporters of the beautiful game in this country.

A substantial number of Liverpool fans, perhaps more so than their counterparts at other clubs, are incredibly dismissive of its merits.

International football is seen by many as a mere inconvenience which breaks up the regular season and results in a number of players sustaining injury. Personally I love it.

Representing your country remains the pinnacle of the game for a player and being able to put club allegiances aside for a few weeks every other summer, if we qualify, is refreshing.

Admittedly all the flags of St George that are suddenly displayed in windows and flown from cars can look a b it tacky, but patriotism is a good thing. Countries are built upon it and arguably it is a sorry state of affairs that we require a sporting event to show ours.

I know many people from Liverpool subscribe to the 'We're Scouse not English' mentality and there are plenty of historical, political and cultural reasons why they do so. But for me, regardless of the way Liverpudlians have been made to feel isolated over the years, solidarity with the rest of the country should remain strong when such occasions call for it.

Although the World Cup is still several months away, there is already plenty of conjecture surrounding the squad which England coach Roy Hodgson will take with him to Brazil.

Much will depend on form and fitness come the end of the season.

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CLEAR AS DAY At the time of writing we look set for a record representation. Steven Gerrard, Daniel Sturridge and Glen Johnson are almost certain to travel, and also likely to be in the starting eleven come the first game against Italy in Manaus on June 15.

The outstanding form of Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling should see them make the plane also; they certainly deserve to.

The outstanding form of Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling should see them make the plane also; they certainly deserve to go.

Young defender Jon Flanagan is also fast becoming a decent outside bet as someone who can offer cover at both right-back and left-back. Even if the 21-year-old doesn't make it, that still leaves Liverpool with five likely participants, barring injury.

That figure would break our current record of four which was set in 2006 when Sven Goran Eriksson selected Gerrard, Jamie Carragher, Peter Crouch and Scott Carson for his travelling party to Germany.

Liverpool's England World Cup Representatives I 2010 2006 2002 1998 1994 1990 1986 1982

= = = = = = = =

3 (Glen Johnson, Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher) 4 (Gerrard, Carragher, Peter Crouch, Scott Carson) 2 (Michael Owen, Emile Heskey) 3 (Owen, Paul Ince, Steve McManaman) Did not qualify 3 (Peter Beardsley, John Barnes, Steve McMahon) None 3 (Terry McDermott, Phil Neal, Phil Thompson)

Gerrard, who is also the current Three Lions skipper, is set to become the first Englishman to play in three World Cups whilst a Liverpool player. It would have been four had a groin injury not forced the talismanic figure out of the 2002 edition.

For what it’s worth, my England line-up would have a strong Merseyside representation and look something like this (4-3-2-1); Joe Hart, Johnson, Gary Cahill, Jagielka, Baines, Gerrard, Wilshere, Ross Barkley/Lallana, Sterling, Rooney, Sturridge.

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CLEAR AS DAY Whoever Hodgson selects, it is very unlikely we will be hoisting aloft the Jules Rimet Trophy come the end of the tournament, but we can still dream!

With the event taking place in South America, the likes of Brazil and Argentina will understandably be amongst the favourites.

Coping with the environmental conditions will be tough from a European perspective but reigning champions Spain and Germany are expected to contend while emerging talent Belgium are considered a dark horse.

Whatever happens, you can rarely beat a major sporting event when it comes to spectacle, escapism or bringing people together. Many a heady summer past is filled with memories of such occasions; from the World Cups of 1966 A hard life... and 1990 to the 2012 Summer Olympics.

Admittedly they often highlight financial and social issues in the host region but that is a discussion for another day and another platform.

In the meantime I'm off to brush up on my knowledge of curling, skeleton bob and switch back 1080 double corks, as the Winter Olympics continue in Sochi.

You'll be hard pressed to beat a bit of short track speed skating or ski/snowboard cross when it comes to intensity and drama!

Expertly written by: Gavin Day - tweet him @superbag Visit Gavin’s site at http://www.liverpool.vitalfootball.co.uk 57

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