Goalkeeper

Give us a Hand – Samir Handanovic | AI’s Xmas Wish List

As I was in a maze on how to begin this piece, I was duly provided a helping hand by our manager himself as he outlined the reason for dropping Simon Mignolet in favour of Brad Jones for the game against Manchester United. I felt I had to change it because we have to find...

Stock-Taking: Liverpool’s Welcome Break

Seven games into the season and we've arrived at the second international break already. Ordinarily, I have no time for these most unwelcome of interuptions to weekend life. Like most Reds, and fans of other clubs I'm sure, the highlight of my weekend is watching club football. It's what we look forward to, what...

Victor Valdes: The view from Barca – Q & A with Rafael Hernandez

When  Simon Mignolet joined the Reds last summer hopes were high for the young Belgian keeper who had impressed during his time at Sunderland. Though eyebrows were raised at how abruptly Reina was sent out on loan to Napoli, many reassured themselves that given such a decision Liverpool's management must've been happy with the...

Liverpool’s MVP: Pepe Reina | Opta Stats

Nearly but not quite. That was the 2008/9 Barclays Premiere League season which made the hope in Red's hearts rise so very high. Certainly did mine. Saturday 14th March, as I entered the channel tunnel returning from a trip to Rotterdam, I was one happy red. I'd just had a text confirming a 4-1...

Premier League Goalkeeper Analysis – 2010/11

The man between the sticks is forgotten about far too often in football. Just look at Barcelona, the best team in the world right now. Victor Valdes may be a quality goalkeeper, but he is very rarely given the chance to prove that due to the nature of Barcelona’s football. As Ian Rush famously said, “It’s best being a striker. If you miss five then score the winner, you’re a hero. The goalkeeper can play a blinder, then let one in… and he’s a villain.”