Joe Cole on Liverpool’s Future Stars and the Eternal Debate: Gerrard, Lampard, and Scholes
In a recent episode of the Redmen TV podcast, former Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole shared his insights with Dan on the current crop of Liverpool talents and the perennial debate over Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Paul Scholes. Cole’s analysis offers a glimpse into the potential future of Liverpool’s midfield and his take on one of football’s most debated topics.
Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones: Rising Stars
Joe Cole was unequivocal in praising Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones, two of Liverpool’s brightest young prospects. Reflecting on their development, Cole said, “I can’t for the life of me understand why it’s taken so long for Harvey Elliott to get the praise that he’s been getting.” He lauded Elliott’s versatility, noting, “Whether he plays wide on the right or tucked inside more, just a good footballer.”
Curtis Jones also received high praise from Cole, who commented on his maturity and development. “Curtis Jones is another one, you know, I could see where he was playing within himself over the years,” Cole observed. He added, “He’s getting a look in now with England, and both of them are fantastic players.” Cole says Elliott and Jones are “absolutely crucial to what the new Liverpool will look like.”
Fabio Carvalho: A Second Chance?
With the arrival of Arne Slot at Liverpool, Joe Cole sees a renewed opportunity for players like Fabio Carvalho, who struggled to find a consistent role under Jürgen Klopp. Cole suggested that a management change could bring new life into Carvalho’s career at Anfield. “All of these players that have been on the fringes maybe have been out on loan. These young players are coming through, so there’s an opportunity,” Cole remarked. He emphasized the fresh start a new manager could bring: “It’s a massive job for Slot coming into Liverpool, but all of them players on the peripheries now will feel revitalized.”
Comparisons and Opportunities
Cole parallels the current situation at Liverpool and Manchester United’s transition after Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure. However, he was optimistic about Liverpool’s prospects. “When you take a real in-depth look, and you look at the playing squad and their age, and then you look at the young players coming through, it’s a better job than it seems,” he noted. The combination of experienced players and emerging talents presents a unique opportunity for Slot to shape the future of Liverpool football.
The Gerrard, Lampard, and Scholes Debate
No discussion with a former Premier League star would be complete without touching on the Gerrard, Lampard, and Scholes debate. Cole, who played alongside all three, offered a nuanced perspective. “The best player in terms of everything to win one game of football, and you needed it, was Stevie,” he stated. However, he acknowledged the strengths of all three midfield maestros, saying, “Frank was consistently fit, and technically, Scholes was the best.”
Cole highlighted each player’s different attributes, making it clear that the context often determines who might be considered the best. “If I was a manager, I’d have probably gone for Frank, because I know right that’s 20 goals a season,” Cole explained. Ultimately, he concluded, “There is no right or wrong answer to that one, but in terms of winning one game, it was Stevie.”
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Joe Cole’s insights into Liverpool’s young talents and the potential impact of Arne Slot’s management are a source of optimism for fans. Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, and potentially Fabio Carvalho represent the future of Liverpool’s midfield, poised to take on more prominent roles. Meanwhile, the eternal debate over Gerrard, Lampard, and Scholes is a testament to each player’s incredible talent.
As Liverpool prepares for the next chapter under Slot, the blend of youth and experience will be crucial in maintaining the club’s competitive edge. With the support of a passionate fanbase and the guidance of seasoned professionals like Cole, Liverpool’s future looks promising.
