da dobrowin： After Sunday’s underwhelming home draw against West Brom, it would be fair to say that Jurgen Klopp’s honeymoon period at Liverpool is pretty much over.
da leao： That is not to say that Liverpool are performing or will perform badly, it just seems that the recent matches against the Baggies and Newcastle in particular have given Liverpool fans a bit of a reality check. After all, impressive victories away at Chelsea and Manchester City earlier on in the season had them understandably believing that this season could be something special.
As all title winning teams will know, it’s one thing beating the big boys, but it is winning all the games you ‘should’ win that will eventually earn you the title.
Whilst observing this new Liverpool era under Jurgen Klopp, it is clear, not just to me but to many fans, that while some players seem likely to thrive under the German, others just may not be cut out for his ‘gegenpressing’ system. Klopp has stated that he will wait until the summer of 2016 before making any major transfer decisions, but it seems inevitable that those who fail to impress this season may be shown the exit door at Anfield.
Nathaniel Clyne & Alberto Moreno – Under Klopp’s reign so far, both Liverpool full-backs have looked shrewd and astute in going about their roles. Clyne (only 24-years-old) has turned in a 7/10 performance every week, and although arguably he could be more adventurous attacking-wise, has been solid defensively – credit must also go to Brendan Rodgers for such a cheap and valuable signing. Moreno (23) has also maintained a level of consistency that was somewhat non-existent under Rodgers. Although still prone to the occasional positional error, the young Spaniard looks to be a long-term solution to Liverpool’s recent left back problem.
Mamadou Sakho & Dejan Lovren – Arguably Liverpool’s two most impressive centre-backs under Klopp, both Sakho and Lovren look to have given partial stability to Liverpool’s historically leaky back line. Both with reputations for being error-prone, Sakho in particular has become something of a cult hero at Anfield, and Lovren’s recent nomination for Player of the Month shows the progress he has made under Klopp. Both men clearly play off confidence, and Klopp has definitely believed in them both thus far.
Jordan Henderson – Liverpool’s captain has no need to worry about his Liverpool future, his goal and assist on Sunday exemplifying what he brings to the side. His high pressing is perfect for Klopp’s philosophy.
Lucas Leiva – The 28-year-old Brazilian looked to be leaving Liverpool in the summer as he was seen as surplus to requirements under Rodgers, but it seems as though his future is secure after a few underrated but vital performances in recent times.
Emre Can – Any young German would want to play under Klopp, and Can is no exception. He looks to be loving life at Liverpool at the moment, and with the right manager it finally looks like he can fulfil his undoubted potential.
Joe Allen – Surprisingly, the ‘Welsh Xavi’ has won over some of the stauncher Liverpool fans (myself included) with some sterling performances over the last few weeks. Some speculated that his game wouldn’t work under Klopp’s system, and they’ve been proven wrong so far.
Adam Lallana – The former Southampton man is another who looks to be fulfilling his potential under Klopp, with some silky performances during the German’s reign. Lallana’s work can go unnoticed, but he is certainly a crucial part of the team
Phillippe Coutinho – A wizard with the ball at his feet, the 23-year-old Brazilian looks set to play a vital part in Liverpool’s future under Jurgen Klopp. Unsurprisingly targeted by some of Europe’s top clubs, if Liverpool can hold onto him then that long-awaited Premier League title looks increasingly possible.
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