Showing posts with label Albert Riera. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Albert Riera. Show all posts

Monday, August 10, 2009

Liverpool FC- the powerhouse of unfolding events!

My dear readers, here I am again. It's been quite some time since I've dropped a few words here. Let me begin with yet another Liverpool defeat. So, we've lost again. I was quite sure Torres' former team would beat us. Was there any positives to take out from this match? Probably Lucas's late goal. Is this a sign that the man is improving as a player? Remains to be seen when the PL kicks off on Sunday. Apart from that I do not see how Liverpool could have beaten Atletico Madrid especially after both Carra and El Nino limped of the field due to ankle injuries. Liverpool's injured list has now increased with El Zhar, Skrtl, Agger, Carra, Riera and Torres all found on that damn list.

Rafa was very positive when asked about the injury update concerning both players. He said the injuries were minor and both players could be fit for the Spurs match during the weekend. The decision to take out Torres had been taken with a view not to risk the player because he needs to be fit on Sunday. As for Carra, I am sure he'll make it to the starting line-up as he is 'Mr Liverpool' and a very tough man.

Liverpool's latest signing, Alberto Aquilani has been hailed by Capello as a great acquisition by Liverpool. Alberto is quicker on the ball than Alonso and if he remains fit, could quickly become a true fans favourite. Aquilani will be in playing form in about 4-8 weeks. Until then dear Reds, let's have some patience because I know we all want to see him in the Red shirt playing some world class football. Contrary to what I thought in the beginning, now I believe Rafa must have really analysed the player before buying him.

Due to the lack of defensive cover, Liverpool are reportedly on the chase of Hull defender, Turner. I for one, do not know this player well. Is he a bargain? Hull are said to be wanting around 12M pounds for him, a valuation which Rafa is, as per different sources, refusing to meet. Moreover, Liverpool are said to be on the chase of Japanese playmaker Honda. It's the first time I've heard about this player. Is this just speculation or does it hold some truth? Liverpool have also concluded the sale of another player. Liverpool have sold winger Hammill to Barnsley for a six figure fee. The player said he's learned a lot at Liverpool FC but knew he would face a tough fight breaking in the first team. Leeds were also said to have been chasing the player.

Elsewhere, young Liverpool defender, Martin Kelly has been given the call up to the U20's England squad as his performances have been impressive. Glen Johnson and Gerrard have also been called up to boost Fabio Capello's England squad for a friendly on Wednesday.

Looks like Rafa is trying to further bolster the squad before the PL begins. This time round everyone knows Liverpool don't have the room for any mistakes. So let's sit back and see what happens on Sunday.

Monday, October 27, 2008

Atletico Madrid 1-1 Liverpool FC, a fair Liverpool performance.


Once again Liverpool showed why they are one of the most respected teams in Europe. The first half of the game at Vicente Calderon saw Liverpool control the game and dominate possession. The blistering pace of Gerrard was always going to setup Keane for a magnificent occasion which he made no mistake to convert. Albert Riera was instrumental in the wide area giving problems to the defenders. But Liverpool should have killed the game in the first half when a superb cross by Gerrard was wrongly negociated by Robbie Keane who failed to make it 2-0. While this seemed to be the miss of the night, there was plenty of positives to take from the match even though Atletico found the equaliser in the dying minutes of the second half.

Atletico played well in the second half as they introduced Aguero who helped to create enough space on the pitch. On the other hand Rafa had to substitute three key players in the name of Gerrard, Keane and Alonso. Gerrard was tired while Alonso had received knocks and Keane had a muscle problem. This definitely provided enough area on the pitch for Atletico to build their game. But from my point of view, Liverpool played well and a draw at Vicente Calderon speaks for itself.

With three matches already played and 7 points safely in the bag, Liverpool FC have confirmed a good start to their CL campaign. Liverpool's 2008-09 campaign will undoubtedly send a warning to all those doubters. Has the giant finally woken up? I have not stopped saying: this can indeed be our year. So let's keep on watching. Next up is Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Can Liverpool break Chelsea's home record of 86 unbeaten matches? Let's wait to get this answer on Sunday.