LFC: Why James Milner is Underrated & Deserves more credit for success

Ex City and Villa all rounder James Milner arrived at Anfield bearing no outstanding pressure on his shoulders, definitely not as much as the likes of Benteke, Lallana etc.. A free transfer from a Man.City team who's fan-base were left raging at the prospect of 'Boring James Milner' departing. What could possibly go wrong?

His wage bill. £120,000 a week is a staggering amount for a players who was seemingly brought in as 'back up' for Henderson, Can, etc... Heck, just a few thousand more would have kept Sterling at the club. (Yeah, thank God we DID NOT go down that route) The season has passed by and with two matches left to play, I can gladly say I prefer a 30 year old Milner to a 21 year old Sterling at Liverpool. Every day of the week.

• King Of Assists

Although pretty poor (like the rest of the squad is) at corners, Milner's crossing abilities have improved massively and have aided the team greatly, most notably in the dying seconds of our second leg quarter final against Dortmund. 

"Boring James Milner" has 16 assists this campaign, a few less than Mesut Ozil... an attacking midfielder. The criticality of these assists is another major factor as most of these crosses have arrived in key times during matches determining the outcome and result. Heck, we would NOT be heading to Basel next Wednesday had it not been for Milner's THREE ASSISTS that night. Significant.

• He's Taken The Armband With Pride.

He may not possess the vocal skills of a Steven Gerrard, nor his last minute winners either, but Milner's experience alone has guided Liverpool on to a climatic season finale. I myself grieved Henderson's injury earlier on in the season with the rest of the supporters, yet Milner has taken the bull by the horns and ushered his side on. This quote alone shows just how much of a leader James Milner is:

"Hendo will lift (the trophy) if we win it. Hendo will lift it even if he isn't in the squad.""To be honest, I don't like doing it (captaining Liverpool) because it means Hendo is injured and not playing and he's our captain and a top player."


What a lad.

 

• He's A 7/10 Player - Hence Why He Is So Underrated.

Absolutely NIL amount of mathematics and equations can solve exactly why Milner is so massively underrated in the Premier League. He scores goals, nets a ton of assists and works with his heart on his sleeves. James is what we call a '7/10 player,' a man who never does anything out of the ordinary to  'WOW' the crowd, yet scarcely makes an error leading to a chance for the opposition. He gets on with the job in hand and does most of the 'dirty work' , which leads to other players getting all the praise and plaudits.

The stats are there for all to see however. Milner SHOULD GET more recognition for his contribution to the Liverpool cause.

• Lastly, He's Actually A Decent Spot-Kick Taker As Well!

On par with Mario Balotelli in 'never missing a penalty kick', with the only difference being the fact he actually works his socks off on the pitch. Mario? Ha Ha Ha !


Milner has netted the winner from the spot on three occasions this season. (Bordeaux, Swansea, Augsburg) Had two of the three not gone in, we may not be sitting in the Europa League final. He score's crucial goals at crucial stages.

We can definitely rely on James from 12 yards out. (Let's hope we've learned from our mistakes during the Capital One Cup final against City)




James Milner's leadership and experience is epitomised once again in a recent post-match interview against Chelsea:

"It's disappointing not to win the game, we wanted to win. They're obviously a good team and I know we can play better than we did (...) We were a yard of two off it tonight, for whatever reason."

"It's a bit disappointing, but we've shown that character again to keep going until the end."

That quote came after our recent 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Nothing much to play for in the league, yet Milner still spoke like a true captain who's never happy with a draw and think's there is always room for improvement.


So, after reading this article, would you change your Liverpool Player of the Season vote?






Follow me on Twitter and Share your views: @kennymifsud


YNWA !!

 

LFC: Two Players in every position to have a look at this summer

Jurgen Klopp faces an extremely crucial summer period ahead as Liverpool boss. With next Wednesday's Europa League our only hope of success this season, (not Klopp's fault obviously) winning that will be the deciding factor in the calibre of player Klopp brings in come the start of June.


Jurgen has only worked with ex-boss Rodgers' players thus far, so we will undoubtedly see a different (and hopefully better) Liverpool with a taste of Klopp's choice of transfers. In this blog, I will pick two players from every position (Goalkeeping, Defence, Midfield, Attack) who I reckon would strengthen our squad ready for Jurgen's first full season in charge.

Goalkeeper.

Simon Mignolet is a decent enough shot-stopper, but his decision making in games is downright dreadful at the best of times. He has made one too many errors during crucial times this season, which has called for the Belgian to be sold this summer. I'd give Adam Bogdan a 2 % chance of staying and Migs could well follow him out of the exit door.

Timo Horn (22, FC Koln)

Whilst still very young for a goalkeeper, Timo has stuck through thick and thin with his beloved Cologne for four years, helping them get promoted two years after their relegation in 2011. Timo Horn has attracted big clubs in his native Germany and across Europe, including Liverpool's Klopp.

The young German's price tag is set at £7 million, which is quite reasonable for a man in great form right now. Would Klopp risk bringing in an 'inexperienced' youngster and throw him in as number one with the added pressure of being at one of world football's most prestigious clubs? It would be a huge risk in my opinion, but one Kloppo would not think twice in making. 

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 7.5/10

Kasper Schmeichel (29, Leicester)

Would we dare enter the race for an ex-Mancunian's son? What a race that will be too. The Dane has filled his father's boots by winning the league with Leicester. I bet you 95 % of 'professionals' have David De Gea written down as this season's top keeper, but I'd have Kasper Schmeichel without a shadow of a doubt.

The Dane has kept his Leicester back four compact whilst accumulating 15 clean sheets in the process. Will Klopp enter the race for the 29 year old? There will no doubt be suitors, however I truly cannot see Old Peter allowing his son to join 'arch rivals' Liverpool. Will be one to look out for these up & coming months.

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 6.5/10

Defence.

Defensive mistakes have come a plenty for Liverpool this season. The reds have lost a staggering 18 POINTS after being in the lead in a league match. We are currently 22 points behind champions Leicester. Where does the fault lie? Abysmal performances from the likes of Skrtel and Migs at the back (although they've improved under Klopp) and set pieces are two of the main causes to our downfall in defence. Whilst already recruiting Joel Matip's services, Jurgen will look at one or two others to come in & solidify a shaky reds defensive line.

Neven Subotic (27, Centre Back, Borussia Dortmund)

THE PERFECT FIT for a Jurgen Klopp side. Subotic has followed Klopp to every team he's managed thus far, why not make it third time lucky at a massive club like Liverpool? Dortmund will no doubt be reluctant to get rid of yet another centre back after Hummels' departure this week. Will Klopp lure the Serbian for a third time and hand him his dream move to Anfield?

The 27 year old has been used sparingly by Dortmund boss Tuchel this season and a promise of first team football at a club like Liverpool with a boss he knows all too well will be a challenge to turn down. He won't come cheap obviously, yet he WILL bring our defence up another level with his experience, leadership & determination. 

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 8/10

Jonas Hector (25, Left Back, FC Koln)

Another man from Cologne. FC Koln boss Stoger will be at an incredible loss if he is to lose BOTH Horn & Hector this summer. Hector is one of Germany's brightest prospects at left back and has made massive strides this season, aiding FC Koln to 9th in the league so far. He has been likened to Bayern's Alaba, with the only thing hampering Hector is his experience at a 'top club'.

The German is thought to be available for £6.2 million this summer and Klopp could well snap him up as competition for Moreno, who is worrisome many times with his defensive frailties. If Jonas comes in, we will probably get rid of either Smith or Flanagan, which is a pity, however the 25 year old is a definite BARGAIN at 6 mil. A must buy, in my opinion.

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 8.5/10

Midfielder.

The centre of midfield has surprisingly been one of Liverpool's strong points under Klopp. The likes of Can, Milner and Allen (amongst others) have elevated a level this season and the reds' midfield has been compact and an utter stronghold to break down. (MOST TIMES)

The attacking part of our midfield has not been too shabby either. Lallana has been likened to a prisoned dove let out of his cages by Klopp and set free to attack defences with his trickery and perfectly times 'Lallana turns' . Liverpool's recruitment team may yet look at bringing another midfielder in to provide competition for places, especially if we win next Wednesday and enter Europe's greatest club competition.

Thomas Lemar (20, Central Midfielder, Monaco)

Around 80% of readers will say "who?" to recent reports in France linking us to the Frenchman Lemar. Both Bayern and Atletico are admirers of the 20 year old, who can play in both midfield and out on the wing,, but Klopp's Liverpool seem favourites to land him.

I reckon Klopp will thrive in managing & coaching a young prospect like Lemar and help him grow. (Similar to what he's done with Brannagan, Origi, etc...) The 20 year old has recently been demoted to the bench and has sought out a move away from the mega-rich club. Pace, trickery and an eye for goal. Jurgen, your move...

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 6.5/10

Mario Gotze (23, Attacking Midfielder, Bayern)

Mario Gotze is the talk of the town where mentioning transfers to Liverpool is concerned. Still only 23, Gotze has scored the winning goal in a World Cup final and won league championships with Dortmund and Bayern respectively. That, topped off with his obvious world class footballing ability is why Klopp has made the German his number one PRIORITY this summer.

The boss gave Gotze his big break at Dortmund and is now seeking a reunion with the lad who would cost us around 20-30 million if we are to secure his services. We would be mad to let this go, right? Gotze IS A world class player who is still a way away from reaching his peak. Pace, goals, skills and tricks, Mario has got the lot in abundance and it bemuses me why he has been given the 'cold shoulder' by Guardiola this season. Do not worry one bit Mario, we've got a warm place at Anfield with your name all over it.

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 8/10

Striker.

The striker we brought in for £32 mil hoping he'd be our next 20+ goal a season man has fallen short of expectations, whereas our cheap 'for the future' option has lit the Anfield stage on fire. That is the magic of football, and Klopp may be about to cut his losses with Benteke and shove most of his faith in young Origi next season. 

Are Divock, Ings and an injury prone Sturridge enough fire-power for a title/top four challenging team? I do not think so, and I reckon we still need a 'Klopp type' individual who HE PICKS to come to Melwood and score the required 20/25+ goals a season. Will we invest big in yet another striker? Only Klopp knows. Here are two of his options....

Ousmane Dembele (18, Striker, Rennes)

The reported £28 million price tag is enough to prove this guy has bundles of talent at the tender age of 18. Apparently, Klopp has held talks with Dembele in a bid to nab him away from other suitors. (including Dortmund) The complex side story to this is Ousmana's recent comments where he stated he will play his FINAL game for Rennes this weekend and that "he knows where he's going."

The French teenage sensation is rumoured to be interested in a move to Liverpool, now will Liverpool be eager to pay nearly £30 mil for a 'one year wonder'? 

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 7.5/10

Marco Reus (26, Striker, Borussia Dortmund)

Forever having at least one Dortmund player linked in every position. It was Southampton under Rodgers, now our 'go-to club' for transfers has indeed become Klopp's ex side. Marco Reus himself witnessed just what an incredible football club Liverpool is when Dortmund drew us in the Europa League quarters. The fan atmosphere on it's own should convince the German to leave Dortmund for Merseyside.

With this being said, will BOTH Gotze and Reus be signed by Klopp? As much as I wish so, I highly doubt it, Which of the two would I pick? It's an extremely difficult vote which I do not want to enter just YET. Reus is another world class striker, and although quite injury prone will be a massive upgrade to our attack. 

CHANCE OF TRANSFER: 6.5/10

According to recent reports, Klopp will be handed a WHOPPING £200 MILLION POUNDS to spend this summer. If that's not a signal of intent by the owners, I am perplexed to what is. 

Klopp's job is to do what Rodgers failed miserably in doing during his tenure as Anfield boss. BRING THE RIGHT PLAYERS IN. It's all about convincing an individual to join one of Europe's biggest football clubs, and although winning the Europa League will be a huge factor in this, I believe Klopp can lure ANYONE to join Liverpool FC, regardless of whether we are in Europe or not. Bring on the summer, and bring on August and Klopp's first FULL SEASON in charge of this wonderful club.

Follow me on Twitter and share your views: @kennymifsud

YNWA!!

LFC: One Man & His Billion Dollar Plan. 5 Things Klopp Has To Get Right this Summer

Liverpool's new German on the block, Jurgen Klopp, was brought into Anfield with one plan & one plan only -- to make the club a driving force to be reckoned with once again. We all figured success this season would be a bit of a stretch for Kloppo, who was faced with a squad of players in tatters following the sacking of Brendan Rodgers. Even though two major achievements remain a possibility this year, it was always going to be a summer 2016 rebuilding project. Klopp's players, Klopp's style of play, and a fresh season to start anew.

This summer is going to be gigantic for everyone involved at Liverpool. The owners are expected to hand Jurgen the highest transfer kitty of any previous manager before him. We simply cannot afford to mess this one up. In this blog, I will list five of the MAIN decisions Klopp HAS TO get right this summer in order to kick start the 2016/17 season positively.

1. Get rid of mediocre players on high wage bills.

Liverpool left back Jose Enrique has not made a SINGLE league appearance this season and his absence is nothing to do with injuries. Enrique is currently earning approx. 75,000 a week, EXACTLY THE SAME as undoubtedly Liverpool's best player in Philippe Coutinho. Now, if I were Philippe looking at these numbers, I'd sprint for a word with my agent, especially also considering 'FLOPS' Martin Skrtel and Benteke are on 75,000 and 140,000 respectively.

There will no doubt be a mass clear-out of 'dead wood' this summer with the likes of Mignolet, Toure, Lucas, Teixeira, amongst many more joining Jose' and Skrtel on Klopp's list. A rough estimation of 80 million is expected to come in from transfers out of the club, as the below list shows more clearly:

• Mignolet – £10 million
• Bogdan – £1 million
• Skrtel – £6 million
• Ilori – £3 million
• Wisdom – £3 million
• Lucas – £8 million
• Allen – £8 million
• Rossiter – £3 million
• Teixeira – £2 million
• Alberto – £5 million
• Balotelli – £8 million
• Sinclair – £3 million
• Benteke – £20 million

Total: £80 million

2. Sort out Liverpool's Captaincy Issues

Some may argue Jordan Henderson is not a natural born leader. A few reports are emerging that Klopp may even look to sell our captain in order to free up funds for new signings to replace him. My personal opinion is, that Jordan Henderson remains a pivotal player in the heart of our midfield and he keeps improving season after season. (I am a huge Hendo fan)

BUT!..... Jordan is not captain material. I do not see the Northern lad possess a quarter of the characteristics Stevie showed whilst captaining the reds. He is not a natural born leader and when the going gets tough, Hendo tends to shy away from the situation instead of taking the bull by the horns.

So... to the main question. Who should captain Klopp's new Liverpool? Milner? Lucas? Sakho? Emre Can? Possibly a new signing? Have your say in the comments below!

3. Give Coutinho a new 450 YEAR CONTRACT!

At just 23, Philippe Coutinho is one of the Premier League's biggest stars. Seeing recent pictures of him sharing a joke or a laugh with the likes of Neymar and Suarez worries me enough to the point of guessing the inevitable: Barca WILL come with a bumper sized offer for our little magician. This is the reason Klopp has to act fast and secure the Brazilian's services for the long run. 

We lose Coutinho - we turn into a selling team. Past 'stars' leaving for big money moves such as Suarez and Sterling tested our resolve and if we are actually still the big English club every player dreams of joining. Losing Coutinho would be the final straw. Get to it, Jurgen!

4. Sign the 'MARQUEE' Proven Player everyone loses their mind over

Christian Benteke, Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, etc... were all brought in for big money, yet each one lacked something in particular... proven talent! They all played for 'mid-table' teams who did not really give a toss whether they win or lose on the weekend as long as they cemented that mid-table position come May. 

What Liverpool do need is that one man to come in and immediately stamp their authority in this league, someone to make such an impact the Kop will be losing sleep over trying to find a new chant to scream out every weekend. We haven't had that for quite some time.

Anyone heard of a certain Mario Gotze? Score the winner for the Germans in the World Cup final a while back, didn't he?

5. Getting Deals Done BEFORE the Euros This Summer

The Euros are a massive stepping stone for certain players before the respective league seasons commence. Clubs may shoot your price tag sky high if you perform well, not so high if you fail to live up to expectations.... or get yourself injured.

Whereas price tags are concerned, it is of UTMOST importance that Klopp gets his main signings in BEFORE the said players jet off to France in June. Whether we are talking about a Gotze, Morata, Gundogan, Reus or Hummel, the same counts for every Euro competitor we are interested in. Failing to do this could mean we face the uphill struggle of paying an extra 20-30 million for a player we may have secured on the cheap had we not messed around.

Let's not forget that confirming a signing before a huge competition like the Euros boosts the player's morals and confidence greatly, in contrast to a player with their head not exactly in the right place due to constant speculation regarding their future at club level. Acting as swiftly as possible is a necessity!

Klopp's summer rebuilding project begins now. He has only had a few months' taste of English football and has already got his soldiers fully firing on occasions. (4-1 at the Etihad, 6-1 capitulation of the Saints to name two) His best is yet to come and I am 120 % certain we will see THE NEW and IMPROVED Liverpool under Klopp once the first whistle blows at the beginning of next August. 

Till then we can look forward to an emotional Europa League quarter final clash against Klopp's ex team Dortmund and a final push for a top four Premier League place. An interesting European Championships will follow suite, then we can start our final preparations and last push for August and Jurgen Klopp's first FULL season in charge of Liverpool FC.

Follow me on Twitter and share your views: @kennymifsud

YNWA!!