Michael Owen - What Could Have Been
To say that Michael Owen creates controversy throughout the Reds' fanbase would be an understatement. The BT pundit is now as famous for his obvious analysis as his on field exploits. Given the talent, promise and initial impact of this former Liverpool man, that is an utter tragedy.
The former red is the absolute prototype of players that fade away over time, and end up a complete shadow of their former prime. At just 17 years old, Owen broke onto …
A Goodison Park Dream
I remember (many, many years ago), spending entire days playing Championship Manager. It would have been at least 25 years ago, where I would spend entire summer holidays managing teams, and searching for players to sign. Often times I would be the Liverpool manager, but here and there I would mix up my club of choice. AC Milan, with the likes of Maldini, Albertini, Weah and Zvonimir Boban were a particular favourite. Atalanta were a fun side, PSV rings a …
Daniel Agger - Another Great Dane
This past week or so, I’ve seen the form of Joël Matip both questioned and praised. His performances this season have been largely tremendous, with the singular poor outing against Brentford (and an inspired, future red, Ivan Toney). The whole Liverpool side were somewhat shell shocked that day, and every player will occasionally have an off day, so any real criticism is very harsh.
The consequence of his usual great form will always see him compared to other defensive players, …
The Liverpool Captaincy
As Sami Hyypiä entered the latter stages of his Liverpool career, his brilliant play and guaranteed starting position in the side became slightly less assured. His role for the team had been phenomenal, and he had helped massively in building a defence, deserving of such a club. He took over from Jamie Redknapp as Liverpool captain (as injuries and form sidelined Redknapp), and led the team with brilliant professionalism throughout.
As the team entered the final stages of Gerard Houllier’s …
Why Alexander-Arnold is Gerrard's heir
Countless players have been dubbed ‘the next Steven Gerrard’ over the years. Aaron Ramsey got the tag early on in his career, Dele Alli was supposed to be the reincarnation of the former Liverpool skipper but it wasn’t to be while there’s a strong belief that Birmingham City youngster Jude Bellingham is the long-term successor to the Whiston-born whirlwind’s crown.
The truth is, however, that Gerrard’s heir is already playing for the Reds. Trent Alexander-Arnold might not be the most …
How Naby Keita could follow in Steven Gerrard’s footsteps at Liverpool
After 10 months and three days, Liverpool fans finally get the chance to see more and more of Naby Keita as he officially starts life as a Red.
The combative Guinean international is today taking part in his first full day at Liverpool’s Melwood training facility along with the rest of the squad who are available to report to pre-season training.
Fabinho, the second of two central midfield additions to the squad this summer, was alongside Keita in reporting for …
Why The Fume Over Liverpool's Summer?
I write these words on 14th June - World Cup day.
It would be too much to suggest that you’ve noticed my absence from this website but, trust me, I haven’t stroked a keyboard for a fortnight. There are many reasons for this - work has been busy, every weekend has been booked up and my new novel is almost ready for publication, but there’s a more dominant reason.
I’ve had nothing to say.
Seriously, there isn’t much to get …
A Comedy of Emirates: Tough Goalkeeping Decisions Needed
"We’re defending really well at the moment, we’ve been solid.” – Simon Mignolet, 20th December 2017.Hubris: noun – excessive pride or self-confidence. – the Oxford English Dictionary Simon Mignolet played his 199th game for Liverpool on Friday at the Emirates Stadium and was largely responsible for the Gunners securing a draw when Liverpool were coasting with a 0-2 lead. While the first goal can be put down to a Joe Gomez error borne of inexperience, the goalkeeper …
A Banquet Without Wine - Book Review
A Banquet Without Wine by Anthony Stanley
Book Review by Shane Clancy for AnfieldIndex.com
This was a monumental undertaking for Anthony Stanley. The book provides a fast-moving, yet brilliantly detailed history of our great club in the Premier League era.
First things first - there is only one specific requirement to guarantee your love of this book; you must be a Liverpool fan. Jeez, even if you’re just a football fan that should do it.
Anthony has made a pretty …
Why This Summer Is Genuinely Liverpool's Biggest In Recent Memory
I know that some of you will have read that headline, tutted to yourself and thought, “we say that every year”.
You’re right, to be fair.
Every summer that comes along, we tell ourselves that this is the one that will see Liverpool reach the next level. The one that will finally end the wait for that elusive Premier League title.
We said it in 2002, 2009 and 2014, following the Reds’ best attempts at lifting the trophy since its …