Liverpool – Week 3 Summary
A huge weekend ahead for Liverpool FC, but before we get into that, it’s worth taking a look back at the week’s events for the world’s favourite club. And what a week it’s been.
The talking point has got to be the injury scare over Jordan Henderson having to be withdrawn after 52 minutes in the win over Bournemouth on Monday evening. Speculation followed as transfer rumors began to resurface amid claims Brendan Rodgers would “dip” (seemingly the buzz word) into the transfer market to seek cover with Joe Allen still being a couple of weeks away from a return from injury. Thankfully our friends at the Mirror have allayed fears of a lengthy lay-off. The Captain remains a doubt for the Arsenal game, which is a blow, but on the bright side, no lengthy spell on the treatment table is expected.
Next up we see continued speculation concerning the future of Lucas Leiva, the Marmite of the Liverpool side – loved and hated in equal measure. Rumors abound of a season-long loan deal to Turkish side Besitkas. Add that to reports of interest from Inter Milan and Sampdoria and it’s safe to say the Brazilian has likely played his last game in anger for the Reds. Still, such claims are becoming a yearly tradition but, in view of the fact that the 28 year-old has been frozen out of the squad by Rodgers it’s a good bet there really is some fire with this smoke. I for one would be sorry to see him go but it seems clear his services are no longer required. He may not be the only one either.
The rumour mill has been churning out the possibility of Mamadou Sakho leaving also. The 25 year-old has been quite understandably disappointed at being left out of the squad for the Bournemouth game. A view much in line with most LFC supporters. Reports of offers from Roma and Bayer Leverkusen have surfaced in recent days. Both of which have met with firm rejections. As things stand, the Liverpool Echo claims the club have opened talks with the player about signing a new long term deal. Time will only tell if the Frenchman commits his future to Liverpool as his ambition to represent his country in the European Championships in Framce next year will probably dictate his decision. Fact is, when veteran Ivorian Kolo Touré is taking his place in the squad, one has to wonder. Watch this space.
Last but by absolutely no means least, we hear Daniel Sturridge is reportedly two to three weeks away from a first team return. This has got to be good news and, provided he’s been cured once and for all Liverpool supporters can only be optimistic. Very optimistic. One may be tempted to think that Rodgers will go with a 4-4-2 diamond structure perhaps with Roberto Firmino and Philippe Coutinho supporting. James Milner and Jordan Henderson behind? It’s certainly an option. Of course we could see the continuance of the 4-3-3 and a frontline of Sturridge, Christian Benteke and Firmino. Emre Can behind Henderson and Milner. Personally I prefer the latter. Either way, the team has an embarrassment of riches. A problem many a manager would welcome.
In any case, should Sturridge return to action soon, this will be a huge boost for the team and the whole club. Couple that with some increased invention and guile in the team in general and you know what? We might just be onto something.
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