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www.liverpoolfctalk.com

www.liverpoolfctalk.com

It’s odd that, despite finishing seventh in the League, and below Everton, there is still a positive air around Anfield. We can’t say that this season has been one of our best, and we have no silverware to show for it, but I think everyone will regard the season as one where we made great progress. Winning the league is not as easy for a club like LFC any more: the money that the richest clubs are spending means that we are struggling to obtain the best talent, and there is a vicious cycle in that the rich are getting richer, and the poor are getting poorer. To compete at the moment, we need to develop a system of play-ing which will get us results, regardless of whether we have one Suarez or eleven. It would be nice to be in the mix to buy a Bale or a Ronaldo, but first we have to get back in the mix for regular Champs League football, and then challenging for the League. And we ARE doing that. Brendan Rodgers has done a good, and noticeable job, in turning us into a team of winners. We have a young squad, and they will get better with age, and once Rodgers has had time to work his magic. And that’s why there is a real belief amongst LFC fans that things are on the way up. This is the final Anfield Roar of the season, and we’re rounding off in style! We review the aspects of the season that worked well, and the bits of the season which, ahem… didn’t work so well! Our team of writers also offer their own opinions on the best and worst of the 2012/13 season. After this issue, we’re taking a month or so off, and will be back with a summer issue which will be full of sizzling hot transfer gos-sip, an analysis of the players we have bought so far (Kolo Toure to date), and more thought-provoking news, reviews and opinion about LFC! If you are signed up, you’ll get a notification of when the next issue is ready, so make sure you sign up! YNWA

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Message from the Editor We ARE making progress.

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Postbox Fan rants and opinion

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Transition Over It’s been the a roller-coaster season, but are we finally moving out of being in ‘transition’?

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Keepers How did we do between the sticks? Is the life after Pepe?

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Defenders Daniel Agger has had a great season, but Martin Skrtel fell out of favour...

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Midfielders Ronan McCourt runs the rule over the midfielders.

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Strikers Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling, Coutinho, Borini...Do we have strength in depth?

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Fan Index We’ve asked fans the questions - here are the results this month!

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On the Pitch A look back on the last month’s games. Finally things are starting to look up.

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How was it for you? Janoo Wasan, Christopher Mullan, Michael Reid, Ronan McCourt, Toby Stables, Ross Webber & Gavin Day give us their thoughts on where it went right, where it went wrong, and where we need to improve next year

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The Academy We’re still in the top four, but have some MASSIVE games coming up.

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

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Dear Anfield Roar, Just to say, thanks for everything Carra! Also one interesting stat for you: Carra: 150 games in Europe Everton: 71 YNWA Jack Blood, via email _________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar Next season does not bear thinking about now that JC has retired - I dread to think of the the state we would be in had it not been for him!? Two things I will miss next season are the clearly audible tones of Carra marshalling the troops in defence again and when it seems inevitable the oppo-sition will score, from nowhere there will be a blur and the ball will ricochet to safety. Only for Carra to bounce straight up and be ready to help again. He was truly a massive figure in the clubs history. Simon Hayworth, Hale _________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, Whilst I love Jamie Carragher a lot, I just can't buy into the current love-in for him. 6

Hero

He has undoubtedly been a great servant for the club, but in other ways he has hindered us - most notably by helping to push Rafa out. It's preventing me from loving the guy 100%. Seemingly him and Purslow did a deal: Carra would get a new long term contract (which Rafa was not offering) if Carra (and Gerrard) used their considerable influence to pave the way for the removal of Rafa. Considering Rafa was easily the best manager we have had since the 80's, it's a massive blemish on Carra's career. On purely football terms, he was a collosus. His best years were charactised by having the best strikers in Europe in his back pocket time and again in the CL - the same strikers who always filled their boots against Ferdinand. Robert Thompson, Liverpool __________________________________________________________________ Dear Anfield Roar, This May I am feeling rather more chipper - there has been definite progress, like ending the season 8 games unbeaten! We’ve also won more games by 2+ goals than since 2008/9 (10 times in all), scored the most goals since 2008/09, have a goal dif-ference of +28, and managed to notch up 16 clean sheets. Brendan Rodgers has proven himself as a manager who has tweaked his own philosophy as the season progressed. The signings of Coutinho and Sturridge were good ones, and the return of Lucas and the gradual rehabilitation of Henderson and even Downing will leave us in great shape next season. Richard Smallman, Fazackerley

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Pushed out?

POSTBOX

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Dear Anfield Roar, I enjoyed this season more than any of the last 4 years. The regrettable rot of last year has been stopped, and the squad looks much healthier; I cannot wait to see more of Coutinho, Sturridge, Sterling, Suso, Ibe, Wisdom, the improving Henderson etc. and hopefully our recently upturned transfer acumen will continue on over the close season. The actual football - as will happen with an upper mid table side managed by a young, debut season coach - was occasionally frustrating but frequently it was enthralling. When we were on, we were really on. And we got better as the year went on. Rodgers certainly deserves another year. We live in a culture of hysteric binaries; either something is the best thing ever, or the worst. Rodgers has talent, though of course is not without his flaws. As a young manager, we hope he will grow and improve in the role, but for me he's already demonstrated a knack of getting good performances on a player by player basis - he has turned Downing and Henderson right round, and its easy to overlook how uniformly the young players performed when given the chance; also easy to overlook that the likes of Gerrard and Agger had their most sustained, steady campaigns in years). He got us 61 points. A nine point improvement on last year. With a much less volatile summer, he can hopefully finesse the squad into an outfit capable of another 9-10 point jump next year. That will put us right into genuine CL contention. Andre Rodgers, via email

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

POSTBOX

Player of the Year Liverpool supporters have voted Luis Suarez as their Player of the Year for 2012-13. The 26-year-old, who was included in the PFA Team of the Year and finished second behind Gareth Bale in the PFA Player of the Year award, scored 30 goals in all competitions for the Reds this season. "It's incredible for me," Suarez told LFC TV. "I know I have the sup-porters helping me - it's so important for me. My work is helping the team and I try my best on the pitch. I hoped the team would be in a better position but we tried our best. We are all ready for next season. Sue the South Yorkshire Police? Some of the 766 hurt in Britain’s worst sporting tragedy have lodged personal injury claims against South Yorkshire Police fol-lowing last year’s report, which confirmed spectators were not to blame for the events of April 15, 1989. David Greene, partner at class-action firm Edwin Coe LLP, said: “We have started and served proceedings on South Yorkshire Police. They deny liability, suggesting claims are time barred. It would be a disgrace for the police however to rely on their conduct of vilifi-cation to suggest the victims of that vilification have no claim any more.” Norwegian Match announced LIVERPOOL FC have added another date to their pre-season tour this summer with the announcement of a visit to Norway for a game against Vålerenga in August. The match is scheduled for 7pm local time on August 7th at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo. 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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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.

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Liverpooltees.com

Proud to be helping fundraise for the Hillsborough Families Support Group

www.liverpooltees.com

Well the season has ended and for the first time in 4 season I believe we have actually made progress. Brendan Rodgers has certainly made mistakes this season but then every young manager does that, and what is pleasing is that he has learnt from those mistakes. I don't know what the Liverpool fans who are calling for Rodgers to go have been watching this season or really understood how deep a crisis we have been in for the last 4 years but I would suggest we have made major progress. Liverpool as a team are finally beginning to play really exciting football and there are a number of young talented players coming through the ranks. In the second half of the season we probably played the best football we have played in the 13 years or so I have followed the club, so I am pleased with that.

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Gary McParably gives us his view on the 2012/13 season, and looks ahead to an exciting summer and close-season

Transition over?

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SEASON

We started off the season horribly, which was compounded by the transfer debacle (or lack of). For that, you have to lay the blame at the feet of FSG - we had no scouts in place when BR came in and a lack of confidence in giving him money at the start ultimately cost us. When he finally got a chance to spend, he spent well. Coutinho is a real find and playing along side Luis (if he stays) next season, he will get even better. Sturridge has proven himself to be an adept in-the-box goalscorer too. If my Auntie was my Uncle etc etc, but if only Coutinho and Sturridge had been bought last Summer...!

Should we have finished above Everton? Well, dropping points against Reading, Southampton, WBA, Everton and West Ham cost us a higher position. If we had won all of those games we would be in Europe, but we didn't. It's true that much of this season has been frustrating. In many ways the fact we've played some of the best football in the league makes it even more annoying that we've only finished 7th. We need to learn the lessons from those games and convert draws into wins next season. Whilst it was admirable for Rodgers to stick with Suso, Sterling and Wisdom in the early season (and arguably he didn’t have much choice!), there were games lost/drawn in the first half of the season that a more experienced team wouldn’t have let happen.

“We started off the season horribly, which was compounded by the transfer debacle (or lack of). For that, you have to lay the blame at the feet of FSG.”

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If we are to challenge then we need to stop giving away silly goals. At times our back-four looked very weak and the midfield also looked lightweight. But as frustrating as it has been this season we have made real progress. I suspect next season will be far more open and no one team will dominate which might mean the standard of the PL will actually improve. The odd tweak here and there and a bit more luck and I don't think it would have taken a huge amount for us to have competed properly with Spurs/Arsenal this season. The summer transfer targets will be really important and how well Brendan does in that department will determine if we will push on next season. It will also determine if he has a long term future at Liverpool.

Now it’s over the FSG... I’m not that confident they’ll allow much (if any) of a net outlay on players this Summer, and they clearly still want the wage bill to be lower. Money in for Carroll will help (as well as knocking £100,000 of the weekly wage bill), and the likes of Steward Downing and his high wages and mediocrity will I’m sure be let go if anyone is bold (or stupid) enough to give us £8 /£10m. I would sell Skrtel if the right offer comes in for him. Coates has not really delivered so far but he is a young player and simply lack-ing in confidence.

SEASON

“The summer transfer targets will be really important and how well Brendan does in that department will determine if we will push on next season.”

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Loaning him out would probably undermine him, so it's better to keep him in the squad and give him loads of support. Saying that I still think we need at least another centre back, a midfielder and another striker to increase competition within the squad. It will really come down to how much BR has to spend in the summer and who we buy. If names like Xabi Alonso and Cristian Eriksen turn up and our best players stay on for another year then we may finally be out of the ‘transition’ and it could actually be a season of realisation and properly competing with the big boys (and Everton). I suspect BR will get at least another 2 seasons before he comes under serious pressure. Turning a team from one full of promising players into a top four side isn't impossible. There is nothing about the sides in front of us at the moment that we should be worried about, all have their problems, whether it's new managers or too many big egos in the dressing room. The summer will be key to seeing how we develop over the next few seasons. I hope Brendan gets the backing he deserves from both the fans and FSG, and we're talking with enthusiasm and excitement when the season starts in August!

SEASON

Dreaming?

Expertly written by: Gary McParnaby Feedback? Send your feedback to : editor@anfieldroar.com

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This season has been a tale of two goalkeepers for the Reds. After the first choice keeps, Jose Reina, picked up an injury mid-way through the season, then we all held our breath and prayed that we would find someone who was equally capable to hold the fort. Step forward, Brad Jones – previously, and more generally in his career, used as a bit part player, or for the odd occasion in the league cup – the Australian international played in fifteen games for LFC. Jones proved to be a dependable force, which meant that we didn’t need to rush Jose Reina back from his multiple injuries. So much so, that, we almost missed him when Jose came back and made a shaky start.

Darren Anderson takes a closer look at how our goalkeepers fared this season.

Jones has always been on hand, and, with Gulacsi still young and untested, it was good to have someone with more experience on the bench should the unthinkable happen. So Brad Jones gets a solid 7/10 for his season from me. Reina, obviously, has been our first choice keeper for the best part of the last decade. Now 30 years old, he has the experience and reputation of a world class goal-keeper. Reina oozes class and his very presence in the first eleven is a massive boost for our back four. Although there have been a few dodgy decisions this season – such as that one against Man City – Reina has tended the goal with fastidious agility, and the world seems a safer place when a tall, bald guy is standing in front of our goals. So Reina gets a good 8.3/10.

As I write this, there are rumours that Reina might be on his way out of the club – which would be a shame as he has been a great servant to the club, and is loved by the fans. I would fancy that we will be in the market for a big name keeper if Reina decides it’s time to leave Merseyside – Jones is a good substitute goalkeeper, but he is no Jose Reina…

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KEEPERS

“It's that silly season now that starts up all the rumours and whatnot but Pepe's not for sale. He's got three years left on his contract here, he's happy and obviously there's speculation but it's not worth commenting on." Rodgers on the transfer rumours

Expertly written by: Darren Anderson Tweet us your feedback @anfieldroarmag

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Daniel Agger produced one of his most consistent seasons for Liverpool, staying injury free throughout the campaign. Agger got the season off the a terrible start, conceding a penalty and getting sent off in a 3-0 away defeat to West Brom. The Dane signed a new contract with the Reds in October however, dismissing any rumours linking him with a move away from Anfield, which ultimately pleased many at the club. Other than his impressive defensive displays this season, Agger also contributed in the goal department, grabbing goals against Southampton, QPR and Newcastle. However, for many fans, the most pleasing Daniel Agger moment of the season was the latest of his tattoo exploits, with ‘YNWA’ printed along each finger of his right hand – a sign of dedication to the cause. Martin Skrtel was the unfortunate candidate to be dropped upon the return of Jamie Carragher. It resulted in Skrtel labelling this season as his worst for the club since arriving in 2007.

Ross Webber a closer look at how our defenders got on - will we cope without Carra?

Goalscorer too!

After conceding a penalty against West Brom, Skrtel scored Liverpool’s first goal of the Premier League season with a smashing header against Manchester City at Anfield. Later that month, the Slovakian became the second Liverpool defender to sign a new long-term contract with the club. Skrtel grabbed his second goal of the season with a thumping finish against Fulham, but was soon replaced in the side by the re-emergence of Carragher. It meant that Skrtel only finished the campaign with 33 appearances in all competitions, and questions beginning to circle over the future of the defender.

Jamie Carragher had been a bit part player for Liverpool until announcing his retirement. But when the Red veteran returned to the side, Carragher produced some of the best form of his Liverpool career. The Reds only conceded 15 goals since Carragher return to the first team in January, with his organisation and experience playing a huge role in making the defence solid. Carragher was given a guard of honour on the final day of the season where he captained the side to a 1-0 win over QPR. The Kop displayed a mosaic in tribute to the defender and Carragher came a post width away from scoring a spectacular goal at the same end. Jose Enrique often divides opinion amongst the Liverpool fans, but the Spanish full back has offered a lot to the side this season. Enrique was given more attacking freedom under Brendan Rodgers and replied by grabbing his first goals for the club against Wigan Athletic and Swansea – the latter of which rounded off an excellent Liverpool move.

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DEFENDERS

“He's been outstanding this season, he has got that real warrior spirit. We arrived into the West Brom game with the best home defensive record in the league so it shows there's a lot of great work going on. He's one of the top European centre-halves and we're very happy to have him here.” Rodgers on Agger

The Spaniard also supplied the pinpoint pass for Luis Suarez to score Liverpool’s goal of the season against Newcastle. Defensively, Enrique has in general been very sound, with his power and pace very useful when up against speedy wingers. Aside from a number of niggling injuries, Glen Johnson also produced one of his most consistent seasons for the Reds. Like Enrique, Johnson fits the role of the modern day full back and we have seen the England defender gallivant forward and either scoring or supplying goals on a number of occasions this season. Johnson scored his first goal of the season in the Europa League qualifier with a spectacular volley against Gomel. His second of the season was as special against his former side West Ham. Johnson also memorably assisted Luis Suarez’ hat trick goal against Wigan with a trademark run down the wing. The England full back played all but two league games for Liverpool this season, beating his previous record of 28. Brendan Rodgers also handed a number of youngsters a taste of life in the first team. Andre Wisdom filled in well with some cameo appearances throughout the season as well as a goal on his debut, giving the fans an idea of the future of the Liverpool defence. Jack Robinson also racked up some more appearances in the first team, as well as Sebastian Coates who was perhaps frustrated by the lack of action. In total, Liverpool conceded 43 goals in the Premier League, the same amount as eventual champions Manchester United. The departure of Jamie Carragher means there will definitely be some movement in the transfer window, with a deal for Kolo Toure already agreed as an immediate replacement.

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DEFENDERS

Expertly written by: Ross Webber Ross’s site is liverpoolnewsandviews.tumblr.com

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Steven Gerrard Appearances: 45 Goals: 10 Assists:13 It seems so long ago, and so hard to believe, that at the start of the season people were questioning Stevie G. Has he still got the legs, the ability and can he fit into the system Rodgers employs. He answered those questions. Having played every minute of the Premier League season up until the last 2 games, he notched 9 goals and 9 PL assists, putting in the kind of all action performances that have become his trademark over the years. Write him off at your peril. Rating: 8.5/10 Lucas Leiva Appearances: 31 Goals: 0 Assists:2 Having made a return to action after a full pre season, an injury free campaign was the goal this year for Lucas. However a thigh injury cost him 3 months of the season at the end of August.

Ronan McCourt gives us his run-down on the midfielders - its starting to look very bright...

His return in December saw him continue his good form at the heart of midfield, his reading of the game and no nonsense approach is sorely missed when he is not around. The fact he averaged more successful tackles per 90 minutes than anyone else in the Premier League is testament to his importance to LFC. Rating: 7.5/10

Jordan Henderson Appearances: 44 Goals: 6 Assists: 6 Having been told by Rodgers that he wasn’t part of his long term plans, you could have forgiven Jordan for accepting his fate and looking elsewhere. However he knuckled down and battled on, forcing himself into the first team and doing well enough to stay there, notching a career high goal tally in the process. His attitude, commitment and stamina are first class - he may yet have a good future at LFC. Rating: 7/10 Joe Allen Appearances: 37 Goals: 2 Assists:1 At £15 million, Joe Allen is the biggest signing of the Rodgers era, and a key one in enforcing the style of play the manager uses. After a bright start where he unsurprisingly look the most comfortable in the new system, niggling injuries and a loss of form by his own admission meant his season never really took off. Despite this, he is still only 23 and his talent is obvious. His metronomic style and range of passing is impressive and he can only get better next season, which will be his aim. Rating: 6.5/10

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MIDFIELDERS

“He is the ultimate professional and he is going to be a brilliant player for me in my career here at Liverpool and I’m looking forward to seeing him fully fit. I know every day of his life he is fighting hard to get there, and not only is he a top footballer but a great person.” Rodgers on LucasLeiva

Stewart Downing Appearances: 45 Goals: 5 Assists: 9 As with Henderson, Downing was told his days at the club would be numbered if he didn’t start showing why the club paid so much for him the previous season. And like Henderson, he relished the challenge and improved his performance, finally notching his first PL goals and assists and becoming a regular starter under Rodgers. Still hasn’t hit anywhere the heights he did at Villa but will look to the future in light of probable fresh competition that will arrive in the summer Rating: 6.5/10 Jonjo Shelvey Appearances: 33 Goals: 5 Assists:1 Shelvey’s 2012/13 season was a mixed bag. His early season performances caught the eye, particularly in the Europa League where he was our joint top goalscorer, and this lead to his maiden call up and then appearance for the senior England team. Didn’t see as much first team action in the second half of the season and will be disappointed that he hasn’t pushed on since then. Still very young though and could well have a big future at the club. Rating: 6.5/10 Suso Appearances: 20 Goals: 0 Assists:0 Having been elevated to the first team after Rodgers arrival, Suso looks tailor made for the tiki-taka philosophy. A typical modern day Spanish midfielder, his passing ability and elegance with the football means we could have a real player on our hands. He will have been pleased to have featured as often as he did early on, but new arrivals in January restricted his playing time thereafter. A promising start to a potentially great career. Rating: 6.5/10

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MIDFIELDERS

Expertly written by: Ronan McCourt Tweet Ronan - @ronyb1991

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We have scored the most goals in this season since 2008/09, and it is nice to finally start hitting the back of the net on a more regular basis. It was nicer still to record a number of emphatic victories – 4 or 5 goal margins – which is evidence that we know where the screw is, and exactly how to turn it. There was a worry that we would struggle to score when Suarez wasn;t on the pitch, but the rest of the squad soon took care of that. Whilst Suarez was our top scorer by some way (He scored 30 goals, and the next-closest, Sturridge, only managed to bag eleven), we proved that we can score without him – which might prove useful given that there are rumours of him exiting the club in the close season. Similar to the squad in general, the score card for the strikers is: they did well this year, but you can’t help but feel they will do even better next season! Roll on 2013/14! Suarez Played 44 Goals 30 Everyone knows he is a LFC legend, and he has single-handedly won us games this season. His goals have dazzled the Kop, and sank opposition supporters, in equal measure.

Peter Gruber takes a closer look at how our goalkeepers fared this season.

Of course, this season will be remembered for the bite incident, and the subsequent matches we played without him in the team, which possibly cost us a place in Europe. But with 30 goals in 44 games this season, he has to be on a 9.5/10 and he our star performer. Sturridge Played 16 Goals 11 With Carroll gone, we were crying out for another striker, and snapped up Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea within about the first six minutes of the transfer window re-opening. And what a signing he has proven to be. Despite missing the whole of the first half of the season, he is our second-top goalscorer, and he has become a fixture in our first eleven: as much owing to his excellent partnership with Suarez as his elevn goals in just 16 games! He has delighted the fans, scored important goals, and scores an impressive 9/10 from me. Borini Played 20 (10 as sub) Goals 2 We started the season with so much hope and anticipation that Borini was going to be the one who would fire us to glory. As it happened, Borini got seriously injured early on, and he never really showed much of what he can do. He will be disappointed with this season, but I am expecting big things of him next year. He scores and average 6/10.

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STRIKERS

Coutinho Played 13 Goals 3 Coutinho was another player who joined us in the January transfer window and who has already blown us off our feet! His pace, his trickery, and all round brilliance have left fans dreaming of silverware next season – when he is fully settled, he will doubtless be more consistent, and this is a player that we can build a team around. We say lots of people are exciting prospects, but in this case, we actually mean it. Coutinho is worth an irresistible 8.5/10. Sterling Played 36 Goals 2 Sterling is arguably a first team player now, having played in 24 League matches, and being a substitute in a further five. He is the not the most prolific of strikers, but his workrate, his flair and skill, and his ability to cross the ball means that he is an exciting player to watch. Sterling started the season with a bang – enough to earn an England call up – but went slightly off the boil as the season progressed. But still worthy of a commendable 7/10. Assaidi Played 13 Goals 0 I was surprised to see that Assaidi had played in 13 games this sea-son. He has yet to score, and yet to really make his mark on the club, but he is rumoured to be a quality player. An average 6/10. Yesil Played 2 Goals 0 Still only a youngster with a great pedigree, Yesil is another pleyar who has had glimmers of brilliance, but who has yet to shine. Maybe 2013/14 will be his year. 6/10.

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STRIKERS

Expertly written by: Peter Gruber Tweet us your feedback @anfieldroarmag

We’re working in partnership with the ‘I Love Liverpool’ Face-book page (the largest Liverpool fans page) to monitor how happy fans are. We’ll be asking the same questions over many months to build up a picture of just how good or bad times are!

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For the last ten month’s we’ve asked Liverpool fans the same question: Do you think Brendan Rodgers is doing a good job? With our final position in the league confirmed, and no chance of a European adventure, an extra 2% of the fans have given Brendan a vote of no confidence. With 88% of fans believing he is doing well, and should be given more time, BR must be doing a few things right though…!

Brendan’s approval graph

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GET INVOLVED If you want to take part in the Fan Index, you need to become a fan of the I Love Liverpool Facebook page.

We also ask Liverpool fans: Where do you think Liverpool will finish next season? We thought it would be interesting to find out, before the transfer window kicks into gear, where fans thought we would finish. As many of our writers have commented, how we do next season depends so much on which players come in, which in turn depends on how many of the out-of-favour players Brendan Rodgers can ship out. If Andy Carroll stays then it kind of ties our hands!? Just under 10% of fans said we’d be champions (it could happen but the bookies aren’t looking too worried - we’re 29-1 fifth favourites at the moment…!) A overwhelming majority (almost 70%) predicted we’d do what we needed to do and finish in a Champions League place. If that happens then when we’re writing this up a year from now it will be with a large smile on my face! As ever we have some doom-mongerers, who presumably haven’t seen us take apart teams a la Newcastle (even without Suarez) and predict we’ll be fighting a relegation battle. Hopefully they will be proved wrong!

FAN INDEX

Everton 0 - 0 Liverpool Sylvain Distin had a goal disallowed as Everton were denied a first league win over Liverpool at Anfield since 1999 in a fiercely contested Merseyside derby. The draw leaves Everton in sixth place, five points clear of Liverpool. With two games remaining they will expect to finish above their bitter rivals in succes-sive top-flight seasons for the first time since 1937. A third 0-0 draw in five matches reflects Liverpool's lack of adaptability when Plan A goes awry, while Everton were once again shown up for a lack of fire-power that has seen them score fewer away goals than any other side in the top eight.

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How did Liverpool do on the pitch over the last month? Darren Ambrose guides us through the wins, draws and losses.

Good (for once)

Liverpool carved out the first opening when a typically incisive long pass from Gerrard picked out Sturridge on the left side of the box, and only a diving block from Distin prevented Jordan Henderson from tucking away the striker's low cross. Everton took longer to settle into the game but should have taken the lead when Marouane Fellaini was presented with a clear-cut opportunity. A Baines free-kick from the left made its way through a crowd of players to the Belgian, whose side-footed effort from well inside the six-yard box drifted past the far post. Sturridge, leading the line for Liverpool while the suspended Luis Suarez watched from the stands, had two chances in quick succession shortly after half-time. Played through on goal by Coutinho, he was brilliantly thwarted by Tim Howard as he attempted to round the American goalkeeper, and when a loose ball fell to Sturridge, he could only find the side-netting with his shot on the turn.

There was no let-up in the tempo as the game entered its final phase, but with too many passes going astray, neither side could open up a path to goal. Fulham 1 - 3 Liverpool Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge scored his first ever hat-trick as the Reds consigned Fulham to a fifth league defeat in a row. Fulham were easily undone by a Liverpool side without two of their pivotal players, with midfielder Steven Gerrard injured and striker Luis Suarez suspended. The visitors began in enterprising fashion but Fulham gradually worked their way back into the match before taking the lead. Da-mien Duff fed Riether and the German full-back crossed for the previously anonymous Berbatov to head in at the far post.

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ON THE PITCH

MOTM - Coutinho. Created chances.

Liverpool's response was almost immediate, as they took just three minutes to equalise. A long Andre Wisdom ball was gathered by Sturridge, who twisted and turned Aaron Hughes before bursting past the defender to lash a shot past keeper Schwarzer. The visitors made no further progress before half-time, however, and after the break the home side were furious that referee Mark Halsey failed to award them a penalty when a Bryan Ruiz cross struck the outstretched arm of Lucas Leiva. The decision rocked Fulham and Liverpool capitalised by immedi-ately going up the other end and scoring. Philippe Coutinho slipped as he attempted a shot but his effort fell to Sturridge, who controlled and slotted past Schwarzer.

Schwarzer was doing his best to limit the damage but Sturridge's third arrived when he latched on to an incisive Coutinho pass before chipping the ball over the on-rushing keeper.

Liverpool 1 - 0 QPR Jamie Carragher's farewell Liverpool appearance before retirement ended with a comfortable win over relegated QPR. There had been a huge roar as the former England international walked out for his 737th club appearance. He was given a guard of honour by both sets of players, with the Kop paying its own tribute by displaying a Carra-inspired mosaic.

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ON THE PITCH

MOTM - Sturridge. Hatrick hero.

“Daniel was outstanding. He scored three goals and he could have had maybe six. If he keeps improving, keeps training well, then I think he will have an outstanding couple of years for us.” Rodgers

The 35-year-old went on to bow out of the game with a clean sheet, while relegated QPR said their own goodbye to the Premier League. We started well - Jordon Ibe was handed his first-team debut by Brendan Rodgers and the 17-year-old winger impressed by setting up his side's goal in the 23rd minute. Ibe jinked in from the left and laid the ball off for playmaker Coutinho to send an unerring strike into the bottom corner. QPR rarely troubled the home side's goal but French forward Remy, sent a 20-yard shot narrowly wide.

Liverpool, though, were the team with a firm grip on the match. The Kop were willing Carragher to score and he almost did so in spectacular style only for his fierce 30-yard shot to hit the post.

Liverpool's victory would have been more emphatic had it not been for Green but the final word inevitably belonged to Carragher, who was loudly cheered when he was substituted shortly before the end.

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ON THE PITCH

MOTM - Jamie Carragher. Thanks for all the blood, sweat & tears.

“Carra is a true great. This is a guy, who after 737 games, is a true legend of this club. His performance was immaculate.” Rodgers

Name: Janoo Wasan Player of the season: Suarez - The pinnacle of Liverpool's attacking threat. 23 goals and 5 assists in the league and would've topped the EPL top scorer charts if not for the ban. Young Player: Philippe Coutinho - Only been there since January, but has been Liverpool's 'key master' ever since, unlocking oppositions' defences with breathtaking precise passing. Best moment: The fans singing YNWA (the loudest its been for many years) at the end of the QPR game (last game of the season) as LFC legend Carragher leaves the pitch. Worst moment: The Suarez bite against Chelsea - Not a great mo-ment for the club and neither for Suarez. An unnecessary, stupid and avoidable event that resulted in a 8 match ban for Suarez, only causing further damage to his already tainted image.

Best goal: Suarez's goal against Newcastle - Great ball by Enrique, better take and control by Suarez to beat the keeper for a simple finish.

Best match: The 3-1 win against Zenit St Petersburg in the home tie (second leg) - even though we lost on aggregate, it felt like we were about to witness, yet again, one of those miraculous Euro-pean nights that Liverpool have been so famous for in the past. Great intense match with great free kick goals from Suarez.

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How was it for you? We asked our regular contributors what they made of the season just gone, and this is what they came up with...

Best away ground/day: At Newcastle - Thumping 6-0 win. Great to watch, great for the travelling fans who certainly enjoyed watch-ing Coutinho split the defence time and time again with ease. Favourite talking point/controversy: The Suarez dive celebration in front of Moyes - wouldn't call it the biggest talking point/controversy of the season, but Suarez, before his biting incident, had been branded by many journalists and managers (including Moyes) as a cheat and diver, so to celebrate by diving in front of Moyes after scoring against Everton to make it 1-0 was a hilarious, yet maybe slightly controversial celebration.

Overall rating: 6/10 - A season with many signs of improvement and encouragements for the future, but ultimately, will only really be looked at from the 7th place finish, below rivals Everton FC. Optimistic for: The Attack - with the January signings of Coutinho and Sturridge, the attack looks promising and dangerous. Pessimistic for: Carragher retiring - with Carragher (still, to me, the heart of the LFC defence) retiring, Liverpool's defence looks much weaker without his commanding presence. Will be interesting to see how Liverpool invest in the summer to fill the virtually irreplaceable boots of Jamie Carragher, a true Liverpool FC and footballing legend.

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REVIEW

To celebrate by diving in front of Moyes after scoring against Everton to make it 1-0 was a hilarious

Name: Christopher Mullan Player of the season: Luis Suarez Young Player: Philippe Coutinho Best moment: Probably Daniel Sturridge’s recent hat trick over Fulham for me nicks it, was great to see after a string of great performances since he has joined and I think it's the start of something special for the English forward. Worst moment: Losing out in the Europa league after a stunning second leg performance against Zenit, not a fan of the competition but was disappointing to go out after the lads showed such heart. Best goal: Luis Suarez free kick to make it 3-1 in the Zenit game showed his quality and the heart that the team showed to do eve-rything to get through the tie.

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How was it for you II

Best match: The 5-0 thrashing of Swansea at home, a complete performance that had been a long time coming in my eyes, especially enjoyed young Coutinho's great display.

Best away ground/day: Despite the loss the Liverpool fans always rock Old Trafford and drowned out the Mancs and nearly inspired another almost come back, a perform-ance and result that has really typified our sea-son. Favourite talking point/controversy: It's been a bit of doom and gloom when it's comes to con-troversy this season for us with Suarez etc so not haven't really had a fa-vourite. Overall rating: You know it's been a difficult season as with a club with such rich history any season trophy less season is not suc-cessful but I've been hugely excited with the style of football we've started to play. We have signed some class acts and other signings didn't shine last season have stepped it up the season most notably Jordan Henderson who I've been impressed with this year. Although the news of JC’s retirement has been hard to take to lose a legend like him is difficult and has undoubt-edly been difficult to take, overall I've been happy with the progression we have made under Brendan and I am for the first time in a while excited about the new campaign so I would say 6/10. Optimistic for: Our style of play, some great attacking football and have started scoring a lot more freely than in previous seasons, with a few additions next season I think we could be up there and start to be where we belong. Pessimistic for: A leaky defence and an infinitely to close games out was worrying but I feel with a right CB partnership and with Kelly back I think could be crucial I see him as a hugely important part of our future and to take over Carra's position.

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REVIEW

Name: Michael Reid Player of the season: Everyone will say Luis Suarez to this and I'm not going to argue he hasn't been our best player, because he has by a country mile. But I think Glen Johnson deserves a mention. He's been consistent in his performances, getting involved in attacks so very well and has defended very capably too for a player not normally known for that aspect of his game! Young Player: Easy - Jordan Hender-son. Absolutely love the guy! 6 goals and 6 assists despite not playing week in week out - he works harder than anybody I can think of at any club in world football, he's a model pro! Dalglish's best signing if you ask me (yes, better than Suarez...!). Paid £20k a week which is significantly less than most other first team players! Best moment: Beating Tottenham 3-2 at Anfield. I could have put this as best match but it wasn't - I just think this was the best mo-ment as it was the game where Suarez proved he is leaps and bounds above Bale as a player and we showed we're really not that far off Top 4 or even more! Oh, and also I absolutely despise Tot-tenham, so beating them is always a great day for me! Worst moment: Suarez' bite. Why? Just why? Best goal: There's plenty of candidates - Enrique vs Swansea, Gerrard vs Man City, Suarez vs Newcastle, I even loved Henderson's vs Arsenal. There are many other lovely goals but for me, Sturridge vs Chelsea takes it. Four touches between our half and the back of the net. A hopeful long ball from Carragher, a beautiful reverse

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How was it for you III

volleyed pass from Downing, a deft chip/cross into the box from Suarez, and a cute, technical finish from Sturridge against last seasons Champions of Europe. Stunning goal! Best match: Newcastle 0-6 Liverpool. To go to St James Park and hand Newcastle their biggest home defeat for over 80 years is a brilliant achievement. To do it without 30 goal Luis Suarez was even better! Liverpool's play at times was immaculate! Best away ground/day: Goodison Park, 2-2 draw. The match had everything and the atmosphere in the Merseyside Derby is always electric. I never go to away games but you could feel the intensity through the TV screen! Favourite talking point/controversy: The question asks for my favourite controversy so that rules Suarez' bite out - there was no part of that whole debacle that makes it any way my "favourite"! I'll go with something I considered "controversial" - our 2 January signings: Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho. I could see the reasons behind Sturridge purchase but I simply didn't like him much as a player at all before he arrived at LFC. In terms of Coutinho, I just didn't think he would be physically up to the Premier League. How they've both proved me wrong in their first few months! Definitely my favourite personal "controversy" because it's not often I change my mind so quickly about players! Overall rating: 8/10 - in comparison with last season, the only reason I haven't said 10 is the lack of a trophy like we won last year. We're playing better football, we're scoring more, conceding less, have more points, better league position, a much younger team, a lot more different goalscorers, and we're beating the lower position league teams more convincingly! Optimistic for: There's so many reasons for optimism at LFC nowadays! But I can only say one so I'll go with the fact that we can only get better! We have a young team and a young manager who will only improve with age! 2012/13 has been Rodgers' first sea-son, one more transfer window to make this team well and truly his and we could do very well next season! Pessimistic for: No European competition. We are Liverpool Foot-ball Club and European football is part of what makes this club special. That said, not playing midweek football in places like Eastern Europe may help us in the Premier League games, so even this isn't that much of a negative! 37

Name: Ronan McCourt Player of the season: Luis Suarez Young Player: Raheem Sterling (with Coutinho a very close 2nd) Best moment: The slowed down rendition of YNWA by the fans in the closing stages of Carra’s last game, special moment from a special game for JC.

Best goal: Suarez vs Newcastle Best match: Probably the 3-2 win vs Spurs at Anfield. Hard fought but very entertaining match all round. Best away ground/day: The 6-0 win at St. James Favourite talking point/controversy: Suarez vs Ivanovic – Bitegate Overall rating: 6.5/10 Optimistic for: Coutinho! Pessimistic for: Missing Suarez for so many matches… hopefully the fixture list is kind!

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How was it for you IV

Worst moment: 2-1 home defeat to United, still can’t get over that Shelvey red card!

Name: Toby Stables Player of the season: Luis Suarez Young Player: Raheem Sterling Best moment: Signing Coutinho. Best goal: Gerrard’s goal versus City! Worst moment: Coming 7th.

Best away ground/day: The 6-0 win at St. James Favourite talking point/controversy: Suarez biting! Overall rating: 6 - decent but needs a lot of improvement. Optimistic for: Coutinho, Sturridge, Sterling etc. Great young players! Pessimistic for: The Suarez leaving rumours… He would be sorely missed.

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How was it for you V

Best match: Tough, either City 2-2, Newcastle 6-0 or Zenit 3-1

Name: Ross Webber Player of the season: Undoubtedly was Luis Suarez’ best season in a Red shirt and has been consistent throughout, scoring and creating goals. Unfortunately had to tarnish it with that unforgiv-able bite but otherwise was a vital component to the team this sea-son and will need to still be at the club next campaign if the Reds are to move forward. Young Player: It is easy to forget the Coutinho is only 20 and the fact he’s only been at the club for half a season goes to show the impact he has had at the club. The Brazilian is exactly the calibre of player Liverpool should be attracting and he is looking like a bargain at £10 million. Best moment: The celebrations for justice before the Anfield tie against Manchester United was special. The rivalry was put on hold with both teams welcoming the news, it was just unfortunate the Reds couldn’t secure a win to make the day just that bit better. Worst moment: Luis Suarez is never far from controversy and his infamous bite could have a number of future implications in addition to his 10-match ban. It was a moment of madness from the Uruguayan, which no Liverpool fan wants to see. Best goal: You’ll have to go a long way to find a better goal techni-cally than Suarez’ against Newcastle. Liverpool’s short passing mentality was put on hold as Enrique played a long ball over the top and what Suarez did to bring the ball down, take it round Krul and score was nothing short of genius. Best match: Liverpool had struggled against teams above them in the table throughout the season, so it was a welcome victory over Tottenham at home, who were fighting for a Champions League spot. The game brought together Suarez and Gareth Bale, two of the Premier League’s top performers who both had very good games. Fortunately, Steven Gerrard had the last word on a day of drama at Anfield and secured a vital win.

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How was it for you VI

Best away ground/day: Liverpool have had a very inconsistent string of results away to Newcastle in recent years, but not many would have expected the Reds to put six past the Toon that day. Newcastle were dire, but Liverpool took full advantage with some exceptional football, produced mainly by Philippe Coutinho. Favourite talking point/controversy: Liverpool were rocked by the retirement of Jamie Carragher. His performances in the latter stages of the season were supreme and many fans will be wondering how the team will cope without the organisation of the veteran defender. Almost went out with a bang on the final day of the season, but his presence on a football pitch will be missed. Overall rating: 7/10 – For a season of transition, Rodgers has done a relatively good job so far. The second part of the season has been particularly pleasing as well as the additions of Sturridge and Coutinho and the vast amounts of youth players that have established themselves in the first team. Optimistic for: Brendan Rodgers is certainly taking the club in the right direction. He has built the foundation and now needs to push on with some decent signings in the summer as we desperately seek a return to the Champions League.

Pessimistic for: The possibility of Luis Suarez leaving this summer could severely damage the club going forward. Yes, the Reds may get a huge amount of money should he decide to go, but who can replace one of, if not the best striker in the world?

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Name: Gavin Day Player of the season: Gerrard. The skipper could have done little more for the team this season. Given his advancing years and the in-jury problems of recent campaigns, to have played every minute of every Premier League game up until the last four matches was an incredible feat. If more players had shown his drive and determination consistently we would have had a far better season. He's been consistent in his performances, getting involved in attacks so very well and has defended very capably too for a player not normally known for that aspect of his game! Honourable mentions for Glen Johnson, who I felt had a very consistent year, and to Jose Enrique, Downing and Henderson for proving a lot of doubters of their ability and temperament, including the manager, wrong as the season progressed. Someone missing? Ahh yes, how could I not mention a certain highly-strung Uruguayan? Luis Suarez is of course the only Liverpool player to have come close, and more often than not surpass, the performances of Gerrard this season. At times he was simply unplayable and would leave me in awe at just how gifted he is - there were moments that even the heralded duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi would struggle to replicate. However, the constant controversies take their toll and to see a grown man bite another is despicable in any walk of life, especially in a sporting context with the eyes of the world watching on. Therefore I just couldn't bring myself to name him as my Player of the Season, despite wanting to.

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How was it for you VII

Young Player: So many to choose from! Sterling was excellent before injury curtailed his season and an incredible future should lie ahead. Wisdom, Shelvey and Suso showed plenty of promise when selected, but in truth it is hard to overlook the impact of our two January signings. Both Sturridge, with 11 goals in 16 appearances, and the techni-cally gifted Coutinho have excelled since arriving at Anfield. The latter has rightly earned plenty of plaudits with back-to-back Player of the Month awards and it's been a long time since we've had a performer of his ilk, with such poise and vision, grace the club. But for me, goals win matches and therefore I'll give Sturridge the nod. The ex-Chelsea and Manchester City striker hit the ground running, becoming the first Liverpool player since Ray Kennedy in 1974 to score in his first three games for the Reds, and he never looked back. The best part is he can still get better, much better! Best moment: My best moment was also strangely a very sad mo-ment as the Kop faithful gave Jamie Carragher a fitting send off during his final match before retirement. The team won and the crowd sung their hearts out in a poignant marking of a fabulous career. It's been pleasing to see and read many members of the wider football family finally giving him the credit he has lacked outside of L4 over the years. He will be sorely missed by everyone connected with Liverpool FC.

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Worst moment: Going out of the FA Cup to struggling League One outfit Oldham Athletic in January. The performance was dire and the lack of commitment shown by some was hard to stomach. Best goal: Amongst a plethora of long-range strikes and well-worked team goals, Suarez’s solo effort against Newcastle United at Anfield stands out. It was a goal which showcased many skills; the control of Enrique's hopeful punt was exquisite, the strength and body positioning to hold off Coloccini perfect and the evading of Krul to roll the ball home provided a deadly climax. Best match: Beating Newcastle United 6-0 at St James' Park is fresh in the memory and although it owed a lot to a poor display by the Geordies, to score six at this level and away doesn't happen often! The fact it was Newcastle's biggest home defeat since 1925 speaks volumes. Also, the timing was perfect with the buildup dominated by Suarez's suspension and how badly it was going to effect us! Best away ground/day: I enjoyed the trip to Queens Park Rangers over Christmas. It unsurprisingly helped that we played well and won but there was also plenty of banter with the Loftus Road crowd. An interesting old stadium that I hadn't visited previously. Favourite talking point/controversy: Anything involving Suarez! Love him or hate him, there is no denying the man provides great subject matter for endless articles and debate. The handball goal against Mansfield Town was quite a big deal at the time but obviously paled into insignificance when compared to 'Bite-Gate'. Overall rating: 6 - The last few months have shown promise but ultimately a 7th placed finish and poor cup showings are not good enough. Thankfully our style of play was a massive improvement which nudges the rating up to the higher end of mediocre. Optimistic for: The amount of youngsters who will have benefitted from considerable game time during the last campaign and should be able to kick-on. Not just the likes of Sterling and Wisdom but also the January signings who rarely featured for their previous clubs and will now have fully settled and adapted to the LFC way. Pessimistic for: A lack of leadership in the wake of Carragher's retirement. The situation will be further compounded should Pepe Reina depart. Having lots of talented kids is great but you also need a number of experienced players who can impart their knowledge and aid the development of the younger personnel.

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Liverpool under 21’s ended the season in third in the league - which was enough to get them a spot in the Semi-Finals... Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool U21s Villyan Bijev's late goal sealed a dramatic 1-1 draw for Liverpool U21s in their fiercely contested match against Arsenal. The forward levelled matters in the 89th minute - a goal that the Reds' performance had warranted - after Thomas Eisfeld handed the Gunners the lead early on in the second half. The result means Alex Inglethorpe's side qualify for the semi-finals of the Barclays U21 Premier League! The Reds looked to stamp authority on proceedings immediately when Adam Morgan tested Damian Martinez inside the first 3 minutes. Despite all the pressure that the Reds exerted in the first half, it was Arsenal who broke the deadlock against the run of play four minutes after the restart. Eisfeld was afforded acres of space in the midfield and after receiving the ball from Gedion Zelalem, he surged forward before rifling a 25-yard drive that flew into the top corner.

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The second 45 minutes was proving to be a complete contrast from the opening period as the Gunners caused a scare in the 56th minute when they missed the opportunity to extend their lead. As the encounter neared a close, Ibe's constant efforts to force an equaliser paid dividends. The youngster typically broke in behind the home side's backline before pulling it back to late-substitute striker Bijev, who calmly tapped the ball over a diving Martinez to secure the deserved point. Liverpool: Ward, Flanagan (c), McLaughlin, Sama, Jones, Roddan, Peterson (Bijev 81), Teixeira (Dunn 81), Morgan, Adorjan, Ibe. Man United 1 - 1 Liverpool U21s Liverpool U21s were held to a 1-1 stalemate in their clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford after a late strike secured a draw for the Red Devils. Following a fairly mild start to proceedings, Shelvey conjured up an opener. After receiving an incisive pass from Suso, the midfielder was surprisingly allowed ample space to charge forward and rifle an unstoppable 25-yard drive into the top corner in the fifth minute. The Reds' delight was dampened immediately after when they were reduced to ten men. United midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe had a clear passage to goal and just as he was about to surge into the 18-yard-box, Sama hauled him to the ground and was sent off for the offence. Unfortunately for the Reds, with single figures left on the clock, the home side eventually took advantage of having an extra player. Vermijl's cross was met by Wilson who directed the ball towards

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ACADEMY

Shelvey

goal, resulting in Flanagan inadvertently turning it into his own net after seeing the attempt come at him at speed. Despite the home side's efforts to snatch all three points late on, Ward and the Reds backline remained solid and foiled United. The result ensures that United finish above Liverpool in the Bar-clays U21 Premier League, with the sides second and third respec-tively. The two sides will now battle in the semi-final of the play-off stage at Old Trafford. How the league table finished:

SEMI FINAL Man United v Liverpool U21s Liverpool U21s' season was brought to an end at the Semi-final stage after a 3-0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford. Two first-half penalties from Larnell Cole - followed by a strike in the second 45 minutes to secure his hat-trick - ensured defeat for Alex Inglethorpe's side after an admirable performance. Despite Liverpool settling into affairs with ease, they found themselves behind courtesy of a Cole penalty shortly after a quarter of an hour. Stephen Sama allegedly tripped Tom Lawrence in the area, allowing Cole to send goalkeeper Danny Ward the wrong way with a spot-kick that he tucked into the bottom corner. That was not to be the only occasion where the Reds were stung by a refereeing decision. In the 25th minute, Lawrence skipped into the 18-yard box before being knocked to the ground by Jon Flanagan, resulting in Cole facing Ward from 12 yards yet again.

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ACADEMY

POS LP CLUB P W D L PTS

1 (1) Tottenham U21 14 9 3 2 30

2 (2) Man Utd U21 14 7 4 3 25

3 (3) Liverpool U21 14 6 4 4 22

4 (4) Southampton U21 14 5 5 4 20

The winger chose the opposite direction for his second penalty, side-footing past Ward to extend United's lead to two. That did not deter the visitors from pressing as they looked to halve the deficit. As the break approached, Coady's powerful sliding challenge stole possession in midfield, allowing him to lay the ball across to Adam Morgan - who sliced wide. The Reds began the second period with the same drive and determina-tion that characterised their efforts in the opening half. This was evident 10 minutes after the restart when a relentless run by Ibe helped present Adorjan with an inviting opportunity. The winger surged inside from the right flank and across the midfield before playing an incisive pass to the feet of the Hungarian. Adorjan failed to curl the ball into the top corner as his shot soared over the crossbar. With 20 minutes remaining, the Reds were unlucky to fall further behind after the rearguard struggled to clear a United corner. An initial scramble for possession in the area resulted in Tom Thorpe teeing up Cole on the edge of the 18-yard box. His rifled drive changed course as it deflected through a crowd of players and past Ward to seal his hat-trick. Valiant late pressing from the visitors brought no joy in front of goal but their performance capped off an encouraging season for Inglethorpe's youngsters. Reds team: Ward, Flanagan, Robinson, Sama, Jones, Coady, Peter-son (Dunn), Teixeira, Morgan, Adorjan, Ibe.

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ACADEMY

Expertly written by Gary McParnaby

Tweet us your feedback @anfieldroarmag

After giving the players a few weeks off (well, once they’ve finished international duty), Liverpool’s stars will be back in training from early July. This season LFC are taking part in a tour of the Far East, with the tickets already sold out for three massive games, which plays to the massive support Liverpool have out there. First up is a match against an Indonesian XI, before taking the show down to play the winners of the Australian A-League in Melbourne. They finish off the tour in Thailand, which should make for inter-esting Sunday lunch-time viewing! The only home game taking place is in early August, when Greek outfit Olympiacos come to visit. After that it’s a quick trip to Norway to say hi to the Scandinavian fans, before the season kicks off with a vengeance on Saturday 10th August.

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Comp Opposition Date Time Predict

Friendly Indonesia XI (a) Sat 20 July 14:30 WIN

Friendly Melbourne V (a) Wed 24 July 11:00 WIN

Friendly Thailand (a) Sun 28 July 12:00 WIN

Friendly Olympiacos (h) Sat 3 Aug 14:00 WIN

Friendly Valarenga (a) Wed 7 Aug 18:00 WIN

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