Sunday, June 10, 2007
Your EPL goal of the season?
Take a look at the exclusive LFC.tv footage above. What is YOUR pick?
(A) - Peter Crouch vs Arsenal
(B) - Dirk Kuyt vs West Ham
(C) - Steven Gerrard vs Bolton
(D) - Xabi Alonso vs Watford
(E) - Luis Garcia vs Aston Villa
(F) - John A.Riise vs Spurs
(G) - Jermaine Pennant vs Chelsea
(H) - Peter Crouch vs Bolton
(I) - Xabi Alonso vs Newcastle
(J) - Daniel Agger vs West Ham
Have your say in the comment box!
The Anfield Iron
Liverpool legend, Tommy Smith, has been admitted to hospital after suffering a heart attack at his home. He was mowing the lawn when it happened, but managed to crawl into the house for help. The former skipper once led the team to their first European glory. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and hardman reputation.
Get well soon Smithy! Enjoy the following video on The Anfield Iron on 100 PWSTK!
Friday, June 08, 2007
Xabi Alonso became the 4th player to sign a new contract which will keep him at Liverpool till 2012. Pepe Reina was the 3rd player who will also sign till 2012. It ends all speculation linking him with the Catalan giants. He was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, which could see Samuel Eto'o coming in an exchange deal. Does this means that we are not going to sign Eto'o? Interesting. But I'm sure Benitez wasn't going to let his top man leave.
There are reports that Momo Sissoko, who has been linked with a move to Juventus, will sign a new contract with Liverpool. Personally, in my opinion, if we could get a good price for Momo, why not? He's a good young prospect. A pity his passing is terrible. So my say is, if it's the right price, go for it.
Steve Finnan is also expected to sign a new deal in the coming days after proving his worth over the years. He has been immense and surely deserves a new contract.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Dynamic Duo Signs On
Finally some good news for us fans. The dynamic duo, have signed long-term deals which runs till 2011. I'm quite pleased all the contract talks has gone smoothly without any glitches and controversies. 2011? What the heck, I'm positive they'll stay here for life and hopefully into coaching. Let's hope this duo can bring out league tally to 19 eh? Hopefully.
The job is not yet done. The next step is to sign the 'right' players for Liverpool. I've no idea who's in Rafa's mind now, but I hope it won't be a repeat of previous season transfer market. We wait, and wait, and in the end, never got what we wanted. And had to settle for other players.
It sure will be an interesting transfer season for us. Watch this space
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Diego late equaliser
Gerrard puts in a Man-of-the-match performance in a friendly which ended in a draw. England took the lead after 68th minute through a John Terry header. It was a superb delivery from Beckham who found Terry at the nearpost. It all looked set for a home win for England until, the 91st minute, Diego equalised for Brazil.
Brazil was technically the better side with superb passing, but just couldn't get pass John Terry and co. Robinson did exceptionally well in saving Ronaldinho's deflected shot. What a save that was. Steven Gerrard was immense. He played in a deeper position today, stopping the Brazilians with his perfection-time tackled. One minute he was defending, the other minute he was moving forward. A MOM performance for the Liverpool skipper. But still, the partnership of Gerrard & Lampard was ineffective.
Carragher had a below average game in my opinion. Played at right-back yesterday and was exposed by Robinho and Kaka. McDonut needs to understand that even though Carragher is a versatile player, he's still best as a center-back. Both strikers had an anonymous game, especially Smith. Should've gone for Crouch/Defoe upfront.
And, did anyone see McLaren said sh*t when Diego equalised?
It's Estonia next, and it's a must win for McDonut's men. He needs to be bold and drop Lampard and Smith. No more time for mistakes.
Friday, June 01, 2007
"I'm no longer the Special One"
Jose Mourinho has admitted: "I'm no longer the Special One." The Chelsea boss now insists he is not the greatest coach in the world after all. Instead, he claims he is just one of a group of four elite bosses - a group that does not include the likes of Alex Ferguson or Arsene Wenger. Mourinho has previously taken credit for all of Chelsea's success in the last three years and once famously dubbed himself 'the Special One'.
“I don’t think I am the greatest coach of this generation. But I belong to an elite group of young coaches - Rafa Benitez, Frank Rijkaard and Carlo Ancelotti.”
Not so 'special' anymore eh?
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Away kit revealed!
The away kit for next season has been unveiled after much speculation. Next season's white kit is definitely way better than the yellow kit. That was horrendous! Thankfully, they've gone for a the traditional white. It's not a kit that will make me go gaga, but well, it's alright. The goalkeeper away kit looks funny to me. Too green for my liking. Wait, there are people buying goalkeeper kits?!?! Weird.
recruit teen midfielder
Liverpool have added another young prospect to their ranks in the shape of Swedish teenager Alexander Kacaniklic.
The midfielder first impressed during a 12-day trial at Anfield in February, before shining again in April, and has now signed a three-year contract to move to England.
Explaining his decision to leave Helsingborgs, the 15-year-old expressed his belief that his career will be better served on Merseyside.
"It's at this age you develop the most and the conditions are much better at Liverpool," Kacaniklic told Helsingborgs Dagblad.
Rafa Benitez is currently plotting an overhaul of his first team squad, and the acquisition of the young midfielder is another step in his side project to freshen up his reserve options.
The Reds also completed deals for Hungarian teenagers Krisztian Nemeth and Andras Simon on Monday.
Another addition to the reserves squad. Couldn't find any video yet, watch this space.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Wasn't meant to be
Found a picture of the tour bus which was supposed to be used in the parade around the city. It's alright, we'll just have to re-paint 07 to 08, and Athens to Moscow.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Liverpool sign 2 Hungarian youngsters
Liverpool have completed the signing of Krisztian Nemeth(18) and Andras Simon(17) from MTK Hungaria last evening.
They both signed a 5 year contract. Nemeth was reportedly targeted by many big European clubs and finally Liverpool have won the race. He is actually one of the brightest talents from East Europe and here in Hungary we really do believe we will succeed at the highest level.
I seriously have no idea or whatsoever on this players. But I'm sure they are good prospects for the future. Rafa has been bringing in a new batch of youngsters since. I've done some research and actually found out some videos on Youtube (where else?).
This is a video taken when they officially signed for Liverpool. Not too clear, but still, better than nothing!
Krisztian Nemeth scored a goal. Classy goal!
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Taylor to Anfield?
Matty Taylor is the latest player speculated to be joining Liverpool. It is reported that Benitez is a huge fan of the versatile midfielder that is valued at around £5million. He could play at left back, left midfield, or even center midfield. He's class and if we could get him at £5million, that's a real bargain. He's a goalscoring midfielder, who can score from the halfway line. Great news. Get him!
Friday, May 25, 2007
Disappointing duo set to leave
Mark Gonzalez is set to leave Anfield after only 1 season at the club. He's moving back to the La Liga, with Real Betis. I think it's the best solution for both parties. Gonzalez didn't really adapt to the EPL. Fans had high expectations of him after seeing him scoring scorchers against Real Madrid, and has a lightning pace. After all the work permit issue, he manages to play for us, but unfortunately it wasn't what we really wanted to see. Bolo Zenden, whose contract is expiring in the summer, will not be given a new contract.
I personally it's good news for the squad. Both of them hasn't really made an impact. That leaves us with only Kewell on our LM. I really hope to see new wingers in the summer. Leto's deal is finalized isn't it?
Sure to be an interesting transfer window for Liverpool.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Pippo wins it for Milan
It was a finale that wasn't going Liverpool's way. We played some good football, exploiting Milan's weaknesses but just couldn't score. We were extremely ineffective in the penalty box. Gerrard missed a couple, along with Pennant.
Zenden was disappointing. He couldn't even put in a fair cross. Pennant did quite well I think. He did deliver some good crosses, but what a pity, there's no Peter Crouch. Rafa went for the midfield partnership of Alonso and Mascherano to stop Milan's midfield regime. I think it worked to a certain extent that he affected our attacking pace. Mascherano was absolutely brilliant. A Man-of-the-match performance. He put out Gattuso, stopped Kaka and were doing really well. What surprised me was he was subbed off. Milan scored their 2nd soon after. What a player.
Liverpool were running all over Milan until that poor freekick that we conceded. Gave away far too much freekicks. 27 freekicks in all. I'm quite surprised SkySports gave Gerrard an overall rating of 9. He did quite well, which should be around 7, or 8 at max.
I won't whine too much. Credits to the Milan side who did prevail in the end(*Apart from some diving, play-acting bastards* ) . Inzaghi was just getting on my nerves with his play-acting and diving. Recall the last minute incident? Come on, that hit your upper thighs Pippo. And you went down like you was shot by a nuclear missile. Shame on you. I won't bother talking about the referee. Anyway, apart from that, I still give credits to Milan. Now I understand how they felt 2 years ago.
I shall stop here. Liverpool fans, rejoice. Don't be to disheartened, it's just the beginning of a new era under the new ownership. We had our highs, and our lows. Losing this game just makes me stronger. Head up lads.
hold your head up high
And don't be afraid of the dark.
At the end of the Storm
there's a golden sky
And the sweet, silver song of a lark.
Walk on through the wind,
walk on through the rain,
Though your dreams be tossed and blown.
Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart,
And you'll never walk alone.
You'll never walk alone.
Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart,
And you'll never walk alone.
You'll ne-ever walk alone.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
His way of saying goodbye
Got this off another forum. Not really sure if it's true. Since Jerzy Dudek couldn't play his last game of the season due to injury. However, he hired a plane to fly a message throughout Liverpool. Great gesture from the hero.
PS: The message reads" Jerzy Dudek thanks LFC Family 4 Support"
Click on the picture to enlarge.
Xabi AlonsoLiverpool
- Alonso and Everton player Mikel Arteta were neighbours on the same street while growing up in San Sebastian and now lives next door to each other in Liverpool.
- Alonso has links with FC Barcelona as his father, Periko Alonso, was a star for FC Barcelona in the 80's.
- He loves fishing.
- Alonso has a habit of putting on clothes in the same order.
- His favorite food is grilled lobster.
- Alonso loves driving and he owns an Audi A3
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Who's coming? Who's not?
Daniel Alves - The Brazilian star has been linked with Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona and few other top European clubs. Rafa did bid for him last season but was rejected. They have slapped a heavy price of £40 million on the Brazilian to ward off clubs. (Sky Sports)
Gabriel Milito - Benitez has had 2 offers for him rejected in the past. He's a big fan of the Argentine. He has a buyout clause of £20 million. Real Zaragoza's president is now resigned to accepting a lower figure. He has publicly stated that he would choose Liverpool over Juventus and Barcelona. Also reports are saying that it could possibly be an exchange deal which could include Mark Gonzalez. (Tribalfootball)
MIDFIELDERS
Morten G. Pedersen - Benitez has been wanting a left sided winger. He is interested in the Norwegian who did well last season. He is valued at £10 million. There are reports suggesting that Rafa could include Craig Bellamy in an exchange deal for the winger. (AsianHandicap)
Simao Sabrosa - Liverpool are pondering a swap deal for the Portuguese midfielder. Rick Parry confirmed that Simao was still on their radar and they could be making a bid for him. There are reports suggesting that it could be an exchange deal with Djibrill Cisse going the other way. Valued at around £15 million. (ITV-Football)
Ludovic Giuly - The French mifielder are currently linked with a move to Juventus and Liverpool. However, he has denied any talks with both clubs and would like to stay in Barcelona as long as he's needed. But he also said that he will only choose, if he were allowed to leave. (Sky Sports)
Deco - Another player from Barcelona linked with a move to the Premiership. Man Utd and Liverpool are the clubs linked with him. Ronaldo is looking to tempt his fellow Portuguese to Man Utd. (Tribalfootball)
Vicente - The Valencia winger is also one of many wingers linked with Liverpool. It's no surprise since Gonzalez is having a poor season. Gonzalez who could be leaving Anfield, could be replaced by Vicente. Reports are saying it could be a range of £12-15 million. (Soccerglobe)
STRIKERS
Matt Derbyshire - Liverpool are reportedly going to bid for the teen at an estimated price of £4 million. He has impressed in his first premiership season. However, Blackburn won't be letting their new sensation off on the cheap. (Soccervoice)
Samuel Eto'o - Rumoured to join Liverpool as he had suffered a public falling out with his coach and being criticised by Ronaldinho for being selfish. He has never hide his admiration for the premiership and even said that he liked Liverpool's style of play. However the price could hinder Liverpool of bidding for him. Estimated to be around £30-40 million. (Footballing World)
David Villa - Has been linked numerously with Liverpool, time and time again. He has no intention of leaving Valencia. Benitez is a huge fan of the Spaniard and would certainly tempt him to come to Anfield. He's valued at around £20-25 million. (Tribalfootball)
Darren Bent - Charlton has been relegated from top flight. Many top English clubs are looking to buy the English forward. Man United and Liverpool are the top contenders. However, he is valued at around £15 million, which may seem overpriced. (The Daily Mail)
Fernando Torres - The Atletico Madrid captain is a target for top European clubs. After that "armband" incident. Could he be on his way to Anfield? Valued at around £25 million. Too overpriced me thinks. (Footballing World)
Amauri - Benitez is a keen admirer of the Brazilian born striker. His agent has confirmed that Liverpool, along few other top European clubs, are vying for his services. Price is unknown, but is estimated to be around £7-10 million. (Tribalfootball)
Carlos Tevez - Benitez believes he could tempt Tevez in coming to Anfield - as his Argentinean friend is already a Liverpool player. Top European clubs are hot on his heels. Tevez could cost Liverpool £25 million. (Daily & Sunday Express)
All the rumours mentioned above are purely speculation. I can only see only a few of the listed above coming. There's no way I would trust Tribalfootball haha.
Friday, May 18, 2007
The Liverpool Sale!
Craig Bellamy - Linked with a move to Blackburn for £7 million. There's also rumours that Morten Gamst Pedersen could be included in an exchange deal.
Mark Gonzalez - Real Betis are interested in the Chilean. They are reported to have offered £2-3 million for his service.
Momo Sissoko - Currently linked with Juventus for an estimated amount of £12-16 million. Tempted to leave, because of competition in CM with Mascherano, Alonso, Gerrard and newcoming Levia.
Xabi Alonso - Linked with 3 giant Spanish Clubs. Real Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona, with each club reported to be interested in the Spanish midfield wonder. Estimated to worth around £15-20 million.
Sami Hyypia - It could possibly be his last season here, or maybe next season could be his last. Couple of Premiership teams are interested in his service. Portsmouth, Newcastle and Bolton are all vying for the Finn's services. A free move possibly.
Scott Carson - Reports are saying that Benitez are going to offload Carson to Fulham for £4 million. He's unhappy to find himself either on the bench or on loan. In need of regular football to challenge for England No 1.
Robbie Fowler - Already confirmed that he's going. But where? Couple of sources are saying he's joining fellow compatriot, Steve Nicol in USA. Whereas the other are saying he's staying in the premiership with Portsmouth, Bolton trying to get him on the cheap.
Djibril Cisse - Currently on loan at L'OM. Both Newcastle and Man City are considering a bid for the French. Reported to be a deal of £5 million.
David Martin - The FA Youth Cup hero will be looking to go on loan to a championship side.
Who you'd reckon would leave, and who would stay? I personally would like to see Hyypia stay. His experience would benefit our upcoming batch of youngsters. Palleta hasn't really settled and by letting Hyypia go, it's a big risk considering Agger is the only CB of top quality.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
A Postcard for Robbie
Superb artwork I came across at a fellow Liverpool FC Fan Blog, HERE. Thanks bro for sharing this with us.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Lap of Honour
Enjoy the following "Lap of Honour" at Anfield, following their last league game of the season. What it means? It's when the players, coaches and staffs walk around the field applauding the fans and thank them for all the support.
Pictures
Eh?Monday, May 14, 2007
Fowler's Final Farewell
It was Robbie Fowler's last league game for Liverpool, but it wasn't really the ending we were all hoping for. Fowler was given the honor of captaining the squad. A pity he went off few minutes earlier, or he would have taken the penalty and scored his last goal for the club.
It wasn't a good game for Liverpool. However, there are positives to be taken from this game. Harry Kewell was back in the squad. He came on the 57th minute and straight away, he showed glimpses of brilliance. He made a strong impact on the team.
Fowler could still play a part in Athens, but it's highly unlikely. He could be on the bench though.
Few days ago, I held a poll on whether should Kewell start in Athens. 69% wished he would start in Athens ahead of Gonzalez or Zenden. Those who opted no, are you still unconvinced ? Share your views.
