Yossi Benayoun is adament that their title challenge is not over despite the two defeats. Yet the problem is not two defeats - everyone loses some times. The big worry is depth and hence consistency. They were so close last year, and should have strengthened, not weakened, the team. They should never have sold Alonso, they should have taken Barry on board and invested to get Silva and/or Villa. Downing and Lenon would have been great signings too. Lucas can and should be sold, it just doesn't work for him and I can't understand why Benitez wants to keep him.
Yes, they made stupid mistakes, including 'the boss on the field' - Steven Gerrard - who wasn't in charge last night. They should have started with Gerrard in midfield and Voronin up front. Gerrard needs to take control of midfield, as the combination of Mascherano and Lucas is too weak top give the backup and support Gerrard needs as second striker. However much we love to see Torres and Gerrard up front, it simply won't do unless you have guys like Alonso and Barry (Essien would be my first signing) there to control midfield and play good passes.
Allen Hansen said it well: 'you can't win the leage in the firt 6 games, but you can certainly lose it.' Liverpool simply lacks depth and hence the problem of consistency can't be overcome. I think the team is a lot weaker now, and they can't afford it! It's not just a matter of having a bad day and making mistakes; it;s a matter of depth that guarantees consistency (e.g., Man U and Chelsea). Man U are also weaker (Ronaldo is no thing, but letting Teves go is a mystery to me), but Chelsea are clearly favourites to win the title this year. Spurs are a delight to watch, City could reach the top 6, and Arsenal will give it their best shot, but I fear they, too, lack depth.
Anyway, let's hope that the new Italian signing will bring something to the squad and that Riera will improve. Gerrard and Torres must be tops in all games, but can they be world-class every time?
No comments:
Post a Comment