The eagerly anticipated return of Romelu Lukaku has not been a disappointment for Chelsea fans thus far! 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Chelsea continued their impressive start to the season with a comprehensive win against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge last night. This, part in thanks to their impressive defensive ability.
Stamford Bridge saw another Chelsea victory in the Premier League. 📸: @nicolawidgery
Despite coming out on top, the blues looked shaky at points, coming under pressure from a Villa team who were clinical in all but their final ball.
A scintillating game between the two sides saw a pretty even first half battle. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Aston Villa, unlucky to be heading in 1-0 down at the break, were consistently threatening, particularly down the left-hand side with England forward Ollie Watkins being denied by Chelsea’s robust defence on multiple occasions.
Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins was denied multiple opportunities by Chelsea’s solid defence. 📸: Twitter/Chelsea FC
Having shut out Liverpool for 45 minutes last week (after losing Reece James to a red card) Chelsea proved, yet again, how their assured defence, is going to be pivotal to their undoubted success moving through the 2021/22 season.
Thiago Silva leading Chelsea’s defence has proved crucial so far this season. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Of course, part of this defence includes French goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Mendy was intrinsic in ensuring Chelsea went in 1-0 up at the break, denying Aston Villa with a succession of impressive saves. Mendy arguably kept Chelsea ahead, as the team faced a wave of Aston Villa attacks.
Edouard Mendy kept his Chelsea team in contention, especially during Villa’s first-half-onslaught. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Making his Stamford Bridge debut, Saul Nigez looked shaky in midfield for the Blues, leaving Chelsea’s back four exposed at times. Despite this, the Chelsea back four remained defensively assured, always disciplined and always in tune, leaving Aston Villa, and particularly summer signing Danny Ings to run out of ideas.
Chelsea new boy Saul Nigez was substituted at half time for Jorginho having sailed to settle into the game. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Turning points:
Games like this are always determined by key moments. Key events. Events that dictate the play and set the result in stone. This game had two.
Aston Villa’s Matty Cash takes on Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Firstly, the early booking of Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey. The 20 year old was dominating and setting the tone for Villa in midfield, seemingly filling the place of ex-captain Jack Grealish, until a rash shirt-pull earned him a deserved yellow card. Subsequently, the young Birmingham born midfielder became more cautious in the middle, reluctant to make challenges. This allowed Mateo Kovacic the time and freedom on the ball to play a scintillating pass forward to Romelu Lukaku who’s majestic touch fired Chelsea in front much to the delight of the home crowd.
Romelu Lukaku’s scored two goals, his first provided by an incredible pass from Kovacic who was left unchallenged by the Villa midfield. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
The second, more pivotal moment, was the sloppy back pass from England defender Tyrone Mings. Aston Villa, who were clearly fired up by manager Dean Smith at half time, came out fighting from the start of the second half. Continuing to pile the pressure on Chelsea, the boys in claret and blue initially looked the more likely to score next. However, the sloppiest of back passes from Mings allowed for Kovacic, who was arguably Chelsea’s Man of the Match, to pounce on the error and double Villa’s woes.
A poor pass-back from defender Tyrone Mings saw Chelsea capitalise and double their lead. 📸: Twitter/AVFCOfficial
Impressive Kovacic:
Whilst the plaudits from this game will no doubt go Lukaku’s way for his two superbly finished goals, Kovacic, who’s scoring record since arriving at Chelsea is not reflective of yesterday’s dominant performance, proved why Chelsea bought him from Real Madrid. Unlike Lukaku, who only had 25 touches in the game, Kovacic was consistently on the ball, dictating play and winning the ball back for his team mates in blue. Upon the final whistle the Croatian national had reaped the rewards for his impressive efforts with both a goal and an assist.
Mateo Kovacic played a commanding role in Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Aston Villa, scoring and assisting a goal. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
Having had a phenomenal game, it is clear to see why Kovacic came with a £40 million price tag. Whilst defensively Chelsea were impressive, and as expected. Romelu Lukaku showed his quality with single touches, it was arguably Kovacic that allowed Chelsea to leave Stamford Bridge victorious.
‘The Pride of London’ making the most of crucial moments when they mattered. Another win for CFC. 📸: Twitter/ChelseaFC
A second win of 2021 secured after a slow start from Liverpool FC. 📸:Twitter/@curtisjr_10
Liverpool took to an away game in London for their second fixture of the week tonight. With a point to prove and a league position to fight for, Liverpool showed a much improved performance against West Ham United who have been having their own run of fantastic form.
Mohammad Salah slots past Lukasz Fabianski as Liverpool beat West Ham United 1-3 to move up into third in the Premier League. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
After a positive mid-week performance against Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool fans, pundits and journalists alike were questioning whether this improvement in form was a one-off, or whether Liverpool could recreate some of this quality against another tough opponent, West Ham.
West Ham players Said Benrahma and Mark Noble preparing for their Liverpool game. 📸: Twitter/@WestHam
Liverpool have experimented with centre back pairings this season. Particularly since the loss of Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez, Jürgen Klopp’s best two players in the position has been questioned endlessly with Liverpool fielding twenty different pairings this season.
Liverpool have fielded twenty different centre-back pairings used this season. 📸: Twitter/@SkySportsStatto
If you weren’t convinced after the Tottenham game (on Thursday) that Nat Phillips is the best solution to Liverpool’s centre back crisis, then after the West Ham game, your mind should be made up. He is good in the air, not fazed by physical challenges against aggressive players and his confidence levels were appropriate for someone who’s had as little a game time as he has. Despite not making the header that allowed West Ham a goal back into the game, ducking too early, he remained composed and assured showing how he easily outdoes the other option: Rhys Williams. Phillips remained calm, taking the ball off of the West Ham forwards even on the 90 minute mark. Phillips’ composure contrasts that of Williams who has panicked and appeared unstable in similar situations. The goal against Aston Villa’s youngsters in the FA Cup comes to mind. Now the question is, will Liverpool secure the defensive reinforcements that are needed before the transfer window closes tomorrow night?
Nat Phillips had another outstanding game at centre-back, solidifying his status as Liverpool’s best, junior centre-back option. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Passes forward seemed more purposeful in the second half for Liverpool with the team getting strikers into the game with an ease that has evaded them of late. Despite this, Divock Origi’s contributions fail to be noteworthy with the Belgian forward not making an impact again. Eventually Origi ended up being replaced with a minor injury which can only increase the desire for Diogo Jota’s timely return.
Divock Origi was largely ineffective, adding to the hope that reinforcement in the form of Diogo Jota soon returns. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Sadio Mané was left out of the squad this evening after picking up a minor muscle strain, yet Mohammed Salah managed to shine, scoring from two very skilful efforts.
Mohammed Salah runs away in celebration with Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson. 📸: Twitter/@JHenderson
Curtis Jones made an immediate impact after being subbed on for James Milner who was one of the creative catalysts going forward. Milner, who was playing well and was understandably frustrated at being taken off, managed to laugh off the substation with manager Jürgen Klopp, once Jones’ presence had resulted in him gaining an assist for Mohammed Salah’s first goal of the night.
James Milner hugs Jürgen Klopp despite being unhappy when substituted for Curtis Jones. 📸: Twitter/@JamesMilner
Xherdan Shaqiri was facing some criticism at half-time but in the second half provided one of the best assists seen so far this season. Liverpool’s second goal was a thing of beauty, with only 4 players touching the ball after a West Ham corner was taken poorly, not clearing the first man. Andy Robertson’s clearing header fell kindly to Trent Alexander-Arnold who played in an incredible long-range, cross-field pass to Shaqiri who was in acres of space on the left-hand wing. Initially fearing Shaqiri’s assisted ball too high and too early, Salah’s deft touch on his weaker foot allowed him to slot home past Lukasz Fabianski with the outside of his left boot. A wonderful team goal that Liverpool have struggled with so far in 2021.
Mohammed Salah and Xherdan Shaqiri celebrate Liverpool’s second goal and assist. 📸: Twitter/@1JohnAchterberg
Liverpool’s third goal was the epitome of their team play; no one player is bigger than the rest of the team. Roberto Firmino and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain linked up nicely with a slick back heel from Oxlade-Chamberlain into Firmino, who selflessly passed into Wijnaldum. The Dutchman then tapped in Liverpool’s third around the West Ham defenders and keeper Fabianski.
Roberto Firmino and Gini Wijnaldum celebrate a beautiful pairing for Liverpool’s third goal of the night. 📸: Twitter:@LFCJapan
Worryingly, Takumi Minamino appears to have fallen out of favour with boss Jürgen Klopp. Minamino has not been selected as either a starter or a substitute in the Premier League since he started and scored in Liverpool’s 7-0 win on the 19th of December. Rumours are circulating that he isn’t impressing in training which is not good for a team that needs to rely on rotation more so than ever this season.
Takumi Minamino has been struggling to get into the Liverpool starting line-up. 📸: Twitter
Trent Alexander-Arnold showed more signs of improvement today, particularly defensively. Whilst a dip in form has recently impacted Alexander-Arnold’s forward-play, his defensive ability has always had a question mark around it. However, today showed that this element of Trent’s game is being improved upon. He read West Ham attacks with accurate body positioning and effective, well-read interceptions. Aggression in terms of physicality has often deemed a weak point of Alexander-Arnold’s play, however he today demonstrated a much more polished ability to defend effectively as well as attack.
Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrates a stunning team goal with Mohammed Salah, Xherdan Shaqiri and Thiago Alcantara after a much improved performance for the young scouser. 📸: Twitter/@TrentAA
Gini Wijnaldum also demonstrated why he will be missed if he does make a summer move to Barcelona this year. Dubbed Liverpool’s ‘unsung hero’ by Gary Neville in commentary [Sky Sports] Wijnaldum remained controlled and calm, covering forward play by consistently performing well at the back of a midfield diamond.
Gini Wijnaldum dominated in the middle of the pitch at West Ham tonight. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Whilst Thiago Alcantara had a relatively quiet game, he was less reckless than he has been in other games thus far. Since his move from Bayern Munich, Thiago’s role in the Liverpool midfield has been questioned. Quick to be booked in his last two games, Thiago has appeared rash in his decision making after losing the ball. However, against West Ham he managed to ping the ball around the field calmly and remained out of the referees book indicating that he is adapting slowly but surely to his new role English Premier League.
Liverpool secured a 1-3 win away at West Ham, hopefully starting a resurgence in form. 📸: Twitter/@curtisjr_10
Liverpool now need to keep the momentum ahead of another double header next week. They face both Brighton and Manchester City at Anfield in their first two February fixtures. Arguably, both are must-win games. Both will be a challenge, but both will be another chance to regain points and climb closer to the summit of the Premier League table.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section or find us on Twitter @Pitch221
A night on the south coast at in form Southampton, whilst always a difficult trip, seemed a perfect opportunity for Liverpool to redeem themselves for their recent form.
The stage was set. St Mary’s Stadium. Southampton turned up, Liverpool did not. 📸: Twitter/@SouthamptonFC
However, a night under the lights at St Mary’s turned into a 35th birthday to forget for James Milner who saw his team struggle to get back into the game after a second minute lob from Danny Ings put Southampton ahead.
Danny Ings’ clever chipped finish in the second minute from which Liverpool were unable to recover. 📸: Twitter/@SouthamptonFC
Despite dominating possession in the second half and addressing the lethargic attitude shown in the first, Liverpool’s performance was poor all round. Despite dominating possession, they never looked likely to get back in to the game. Accuracy was missing. Certainty was missing. Mentality was missing. Shots on goal were missing.
Henderson at centre back:
Before the game, when the line-up was announced, I like many others was initially pleased seeing our captain Jordan Henderson placed at the back as a makeshift centre back pairing for Fabinho.
Liverpool line up to face Southampton FC 04/01/2021. 📸: Instagram/@LiverpoolFC
Whilst both naturally CDMs, our two young centre back options, Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips have both looked shaky or late. In my mind, Rhys seemed too weak for a physical side like Southampton, and Nat seemed too accident-prone.
Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips. LFC’s youngsters available for the CB position, both still gaining experience. 📸: http://www.goal.com
What did leave me uncertain however, was Jürgen Klopp’s pre-match comments. He himself seemed uncertain of the decision. Unsure if the right choice had been made. This uncertainty from the boss left an apprehensive aftertaste that I struggled to shake. Was his apprehension well-founded? Why was he doing it if he wasn’t sure?
📸: Twitter/@AnfieldWatch
With Klopp’s message before the game still fresh in my mind, I wasn’t surprised to see Liverpool go one – nil down so quickly. Upon reflection, I was right to be nervous about this line-up. Not because Henderson can’t play there, but because everyone else can’t do their job elsewhere.
Having said that, there is a clear argument to be had that lack of confidence at CB could have been to blame for the goal. As noted by pundit Jamie Carragher at half time [Sky Sports] Henderson’s uncertainty in defence meant he called over fellow midfielder Gini Wijnaldum for support with marking despite having plenty of back-up behind him. Moving Wijnaldum away from the middle left Saints talisman Ings with no one behind him. Subsequently Ings had the space to turn and get his looping shot away.
Danny Ings left unmarked by shaky defending. 📸: YouTube/@SouthamptonFC
However, that goal was in the 2nd minute, we had another 88 in which to score. Another 88 to use our prowess from last season effectively, but we didn’t. So the blame lay far from Henderson’s door for an error in marking.
Jordan Henderson played at CB last night and whilst good in this makeshift role, he was missed in the middle. 📸: Twitter/@JHenderson
For the rest of the game, just as he always does, our chameleon-like captain, filled in positively and did a relatively stable job in a position he’s not used to playing: but Hendo was missed in middle. Something I didn’t think I’d see myself saying when the Liverpool midfield included the ever reliable Gini Wijnaldum, and the much anticipated summer signing, Thiago Alcantara.
Illusive Thiago:
Thiago was a shadow of the version of himself he showed at St James’ Park. In the 20 minutes he played verses Newcastle, Thiago was potent and had a clear impact on the team. The 20 minutes shown there were laden with quality. More than he showed in the whole 90 minutes he played at St Mary’s. His quality was especially lacking in the first half. The difficulty faced by Thiago against Southampton seemed similar to that of Timo Werner’s self-confessed struggle at Chelsea; uncertainty over how to adapt to such a physical league. He was continuously knocked off the ball, collapsing softly and played exceptionally passively. Much like the style of play displayed by Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham – and the opposite of the style of play expressed by Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool – Thiago frequently turned back on himself, hoping for the back pass or defensive reinforcement, but constantly turned into trouble and allowed himself to be pushed off the ball. His yellow card for dissent in the second minute may go somewhere to explaining his lack of physical retaliation, but his drop-the-shoulder-turn-and-try-to-slow-down-the-pace is just not conducive with Liverpool’s current style of play.
📸: Twitter/@LFC
Strikers slump in form:
Despite the disappointing performance from Thiago, he does need to be given a chance to adapt and become a ‘Kloppite’. What was more disappointing *yet again* was the poor form of Liverpool’s front three: Mohammed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mané.
Lack of creativity from Liverpool’s strike force has been noticed by ex-players and pundits alike. 📸:Twitter/@AnfieldWatch via Sky Sports
Over the last two seasons, these three have been on fire and revered worldwide. Yet in the more recent past, all three have been lacking somewhat as if something isn’t quite working as it should be in their usually well-oiled machine. It is seeming that this season it is impossible to have a game where all three are clicking together, or even where all three are firing on all cylinders individually. It is becoming impossible to have a game where one or the other hasn’t been underwhelming, lacklustre. Even before end of last season, something was dropping off and I can’t be sure what it is that’s missing.
Sadio Mané struggled to convert any chances to goals against his former club Southampton. 📸: Twitter/@AnfieldWatch
Last night, Sadio Mané was the most threatening of the three, linking fluidly with Andy Robertson on occasion in the second half. Despite this, he was largely controlled by Kyle Walker-Peters who is flourishing under Ralph Hassenhuttl. Mané was fed the ball multiple times but was uncertain where to play next. This then led to him playing every ball way too close to feet in a tightly congested area meaning that things didn’t progress and possession was often lost.
📸: Twitter/ @KWPeters
Despite the frustration caused by Mane’s lack of passing into space, more frustrating was perhaps the absence of Mohammed Salah. Salah it would seem is sometimes present, sometimes absent in a game. Last night he chose absent. It is perhaps telling that our biggest away win of the season (7-0 at Crystal Palace) was a game in which Salah didn’t start. A game in which he had to work hard to prove himself when he was substituted on to the field.
Mohammed Salah was almost invisible at St Mary’s in Liverpool’s 1-0 defeat to Southampton. 📸: Twitter/@AnfieldWatch
Although he has garnered a lot of criticism, I still rate Bobby Firmino. He works incredibly hard and does more, just tucked in behind the other two, to create passages of play than people realise. Having said that, his finishing was no where Premier League standard last night. He missed the target multiple times at St Mary’s, both with his head and with his feet, leaving Reds fans frustrated and desperate for the return of injured Diogo Jota.
Roberto Firmino struggled to create anything of interest and seemed out of sorts, with his accuracy well off. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Missing VVD?
When Virgil Van Dijk got injured, I was of course, like many fans, disappointed. However, before now, his absence wasn’t bothering me. I wasn’t sure the plethora of articles on how much he’d be missed were necessary. Fabinho has done a sterling job in defence. However after last nights poor show, I’m starting to realise the impact of his absence.
Liverpool are missing Van Dijk more than they had previously realised. 📸: Twitter
Alexander-Arnold Analysis:
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s wasteful performance on the south coast made me consider the role both him and Andy Robertson had in our performances last season. At first I thought, is it that TAA has been distracted for a few months? Has he got something else is going on? But then I started to think, is it because it’s all always been so easy for him? Have we put him on a pedestal too early and let the confidence go to his head? Is he going to be a one-and-a-half-season-wonder because we, as a fan base, have hyped him up too much?
Trent Alexander-Arnold had a night to forget, giving the ball away 38 times. 📸: Twitter/@AnfieldWatch
However, upon reflection and stepping away from the emotional rollercoaster a defeat can put you on, I amended my viewpoint.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was substituted after losing the ball 38 times and sloppily contributing to Southampton’s early goal. 📸: Twitter/@Football__Tweet
Trent is desperate for success, desperate to be a Liverpool Legend, I don’t imagine he’s stopped working hard or wanting to prove himself. He’s too competitive to give up. You could see that in his frustration at being substituted. However what can also be seen is that the wing backs are lacking not only lacking confidence but lacking the freedom they’d become so used to over the last few seasons. Was this due to both Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez’s reliability as a centre back pairing? Alexander-Arnold, has, in my opinion, always struggled with physicality in defence. I have said for a long time that his forward threat masks his weakness; his lack of defensive ability; his inability to out-muscle an opposing counter-part on that right hand-side. However, it’s worth considering, why is the forward threat not there to the same extent it has been before? Is the absence of a sturdy out-and-out centre back pair the reason that Liverpool’s “wingmen” are struggling to get forward in quite the same way? Now, Robertson manages this forward threat much more than Alexander-Arnold and has arguably been Liverpool’s best player this season. However, Robertson has always been faster in the sprints and much more physical – not afraid of a crunching tackle – than Alexander-Arnold has ever been. The absence of Van Dijk and Gomez is likely a reason why the two wingers aren’t tallying assists in the same way they had been previously. This however, is it an excuse: something needs to be fixed quickly as VVD and Gomez still have a long while out on the sidelines yet.
The centre back duo of Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez are likely to be out for the remainder of the season. LFC need a solution. 📸: http://www.Liverpoolfc.com
Disappointing come-back for Ox:
Another disappointing show came from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Although he has been missing from the squad for a while (due to injury) fans have been desperate to see him return to full fitness. He was yet another player that I expected more from when looking at the starting line-up. In the middle he seemed too relaxed, too willing to drift to the right wing and leave others controlling the middle, becoming almost invisible in the against an aggressive Saints team who were determined to ruffle a few feathers. This is a game that is never for the faint hearted, which is something Ox seems to be on occasion. It begs the question, should we have started someone more ‘heavy-metal’, someone like James Milner, someone who isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers themselves? The weakness in the middle showed as Liverpool failed to stand up to Southampton’s first half dominance which clearly knocked our confidence.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been missed by fans, but proved last night why he’s not a regular first XI player. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Return of the Shaq:
The only promising sign for LFC was the return, and notably the early return, of Xherdan Shaqiri. I was pleased that Klopp decided to change things early. He knew they needed a switch up as something wasn’t working. This is a tactic that many managers often lack the bravery to do. Despite Shaqiri not being influential enough to score or assist a goal, his presence was threatening and his return to the first team was pleasing on the eyes for Liverpool fans.
Xherdan Shaqiri’s return to first team football was the only thing worth celebrating last night at St Mary’s Stadium. 📸: Twitter/@DeadlineDayLive
Perhaps the only positive thing to come from a dismal trip to the south coast was the return of Shaqiri, someone who I can but hope gets more game time and grows in confidence as a result. His pairing with Diogo Jota is exciting and the two could make impressive competition for the currently out-of-form front three.
A dismal night on the south coast for Liverpool FC. Only two points from the previous nine, something needs sorting ASAP! 📸: Twitter/@SouthamptonFC
It has been well publicised that Tottenham Hotspur are on the rise. With Jose Mourinho’s tenure at the club still in it’s infancy, Spurs players, whilst still ropey in places, have this season shown a leap in quality. Mourinho’s men have demonstrated a new-found ability.
Tottenham beat Chelsea on penalties to reach their Carabao Cup quarter-final game against Stoke. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
This new-found ability has many branches. Not only is it a secure and structural, defensive ability that has allowed Spurs to hold on to 1-0 wins, but it’s also a penetrative ability that saw them find the back of the net six times at Old Trafford. But. As the adage now infamously goes: could they do it on a cold, rainy night in Stoke?
The Carabao Cup quarter-finals loomed large over the North-London outfit. Spurs somewhat feeling some pressure after recently slipping from 1st to 4th in the Premier League, knew the tie could be tough. Having picked up only one point from the nine available in their last three league games, Mourinho’s men had a point to prove.
Who? Stoke City FC. Where? Staffordshire. When? 23rd December; 5:30pm.
Premier League Table: 23/12/2020 – 📸: @BBCSport
As someone who watches Tottenham on a regular basis, their style can become frustrating. It is especially frustrating if you’re someone who enjoys a high press, fast-pace and attacking cross-field passes, the type of football a Liverpool fan has come to love.
Under both Pochettino and Mourinho, Tottenham’s style can be exasperating. For a long time, they have had a continuous need to look for the back pass, even when in the final third. This is a regular occurrence, particularly from corners. Also exasperating is their frequent, desperate attempts to squeeze the ball past six players at once, directly to a teammate’s feet. There is often a lack of peripheral awareness with available space left wanting whilst Tottenham players are attempting to pass the ball into a ridiculously congested area.
Whilst this passive approach was around under Mauricio Pochettino, current manager Mourinho is globally well-known for his defensive technique. Frequently laughed at for “parking the bus”, Mourinho has, in recent Spurs fixtures, bought on a sixth defender to try to ensure the victory, having a mixed level of success. With this in mind, it was hard to see how he would approach a cold, rainy night in Stoke against a team that were incredibly likely to hold a solid defensive line in order to counteract Mourinho’s techniques. How would Mourinho approach Stoke, currently sitting 7th in the Championship? Would his team, who have become synonymous with “parking the bus” and stealing counter attacking, break-away goals be able to see off Stoke FC and make it into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup?
Manager Jose Mourinho. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Luckily for Tottenham fans, their team managed to kill off a Stoke team who came out fighting, particularly so in the second half. Having gone in at the break 0-1 down, Jordan Thompson managed to equalise for Stoke, reigniting their own hopes of reaching the Carabao Cup semi-finals. However, Tottenham showed their quality in both possession and finesse to ease past their opponents. Whilst defensively, some issues presented themselves.
Harry Kane hugs Welshman Gareth Bale after the opening goal of the game. 📸: Twitter/@GarethBale11
Scoring twice in the second half and lining up a semi-final tie against fellow Londoners Brentford FC, some Tottenham players impressed, whilst others left fans wondering how they are held in such high esteem.
Full time score: Stoke 1 – 3 Tottenham. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Despite scoring the opener, Gareth Bale was largely ineffective. Much like all of his other appearances since arriving on loan from Real Madrid, Bale failed to leave enough of a mark on a game that on paper, would have been easy to impact upon. Although improving with time, Bale was again substituted at half-time by Mourinho in order to inject more pace into the team. It’s easy to see why currently, many Spurs fans are feeling disappointed with Bale’s return to North London.
Gareth Bale, thus far underwhelming since reigniting his Tottenham Hotspur career. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
On the other hand, it was impressive to see Mourinho willingly start Lucas Moura, a player who is always physical, continually pressing and always working hard to make dangerous runs. Moura has an impressive vision yet seems to spend more time on the bench than on the team sheet. Despite being substituted for a more sturdy midfielder in the shape of Moussa Sissoko, Moura’s impact was felt in the first half in particular. His accurate delivery of set pieces was notable and his presence down the left-hand side left many Stoke players floundering. Despite this impact, Moura was shafted over to the right-hand side before being hauled off in order to make room for Heung-min Son who was, much like Gareth Bale, ineffectual in this quarter final tie.
Lucas Moura proved against Stoke why he should be a regular starter for Spurs. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Whilst twenty-four-year-old Dele Alli has come under yet more scrutiny from manager Mourinho, his reintroduction to the team actually added more excitement and threat going forward to the Spurs team who usually rely on Kane and Son. Alli appeared to be one of few Spurs players who was actually willing to make zipping runs into the box. His attacking counterparts Gareth Bale and Harry Kane both seemed reluctant to get into the eighteen-yard box, both wishing to shoot from distance only. Bale’s headed goal seemed a surprise to both him and Harry Winks who’s assist was aimed at the darting run of Matt Doherty.
Dele Alli had a better performance than manager Mourinho has since suggested. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Dele Alli made more of an impact on the game and was prominent in areas others simply were not. Although Alli has in the past, not worked as hard as he could have done, this attitude was not present against Stoke with the Englishman having some chances. Despite this, he has drawn criticism from Mourinho for giving the ball away before Stoke scored their equaliser. This seems largely unfair as although failing to connect with the ball properly on a couple of occasions, the out-of-favour midfielder seemed to be making quick-thinking movements, drawing the ball towards him, turning defenders and adding a much-needed forward direction to Tottenham’s game.
Someone who did fail to impress however, was Spurs centre back Davinson Sanchez. His decision making in crucial moments was poor, and he was regularly left in hot water. It is hard to see how Mourinho can publicly scrutinise Alli for Stoke’s equaliser, when Sanchez was so far out of position that Matt Doherty was left scrambling trying to cover both Sanchez’s centre back position and his own right back position. Although not a patch on the wonder that was the Vertonghen-Alderweireld pairing that Spurs were blessed with, usually Sanchez is sturdy and reliable. Up until now, he’s seemed a fair replacement for Jan Vertonghen who left Spurs for Benfica at the end of last season. However, if the Colombian remains as out of sorts as he was verses Stoke, it’s easy to see why Mourinho would favour a Dier-Alderweireld at centre back pairing going forward.
Davinson Sanchez had a shaky performance against Stoke in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. 📸: Twitter/@daosanchez26
Bringing some much needed grit and physicality to the Tottenham side, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg has settled well under Mourinho. Although many doubted him when he joined in the summer from Southampton, he proved yet again against Stoke, that Mourinho’s hypothesis was correct; he would steady the team and go someway to adding the missing element: intensity. It is obvious that Højbjerg’s intensity motivates others, and whilst having a shaky start in a Tottenham shirt, struggling to keep emotions in check, he has reiterated his managers’ faith, showing complete control in the middle. Whilst under pressure, he remains a beacon of strength and ensures that those around him remain calm under pressure. In turn, this allows more creativity from his teammates. He is composed and his defensive cover is guaranteed.
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg’s defensive ability has started to steady the Tottenham midfield in recent matches. 📸: Twitter/@hojbjerg23
This ability of Højbjerg’s allowed teammate Harry Winks to shine and put his talent on display at the Bet 365 Stadium. Winks who has struggled to make the starting XI in recent games played an absolute blinder, earning himself Carabao Man of the Match.
Carabao Man of the Match Harry Winks. 📸: Twitter/@SkySportsStatto
Not only did Winks’ vision and delivery assist the first goal, he was persistent in looking for forward moves that were penetrative and exciting. As someone who’s future has been questioned in recent months, it was clear that Winks came on with a point to prove. He wanted to show Mourinho why he deserves a place in the Tottenham squad; and that he did. Throughout the game Winks was largely in control, running the midfield, dictating play and showing a creativity that has long been lacking. In conjunction with his more defensive counterpart Højbjerg, Winks showed why he is, and should continue to be considered as, an integral part of the Tottenham Hotspur squad.
Harry Winks had a brilliant night for Tottenham, running the midfield fluently with creative flair on show. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Now whilst Tottenham did do it on a cold, rainy night in Stoke, there is still plenty to be improved upon. Mourinho has used his vision to add depth to the squad, particularly noticeable when you consider Højbjerg’s influence on this team. Despite this, many players to be reconsidered. Whilst Mourinho’s criticism of Alli’s performance against Stoke is unfair, his regular benching of Winks and Moura could be considered unjust also. If you look at who has been replacing those two recently, you find Ndombele and Bergwijn. Do they deserve to feature as regulars instead? Although neither featured last night, neither have had an impact on a game in the way Moura and Winks did against Stoke either. Both Moura and Winks ensure they set the tone from the very start and were hard to ignore. This is something their counterparts have previously failed to do. Mourinho, you have some Christmas thinking to do.
Tottenham Hotspur eased past LASK to get their first win in the group stages of their 2020/21 Europa League campaign. A 3-0 home win against the Austrian outfit saw Spurs pick up their first three points in Group J.
A successful European opener for Tottenham Hotspur who beat LASK 3-0 at home tonight. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Debutant Vinicius has a storming start:
It was a brilliant night for Spurs newbie Carlos Vinicius who had a debut to remember by assisting two of Tottenham’s three goals. The newcomer also forced LASK defender Andrade to get the decisive touch that unfortunately turned the ball into his own net. Vinicius was prominent across the front line, making clever runs and always looking for space to receive a pass. He bought about a renewed energy that was only matched by that of Lucas Moura and Son Heung-min. The only thing lacking for Vinicius was a goal, but with such a bright start, it is clear that the Brazilian will be intrinsic to any success that Tottenham have this season. After a scintillating 86 minutes, the loanee from Benfica was subbed off for young English winger Jack Clarke, but it is clear to see that he will have a lasting impact on this Tottenham side.
New Tottenham player Vinicius had an immense debut. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Moura that needed:
Lucas Moura also had a fantastic game and has firmly reiterated his desire to be chosen as part of Mourinho’s strongest XI. The European stage sets Moura alight and brings to the forefront his effort and impeccable skill, which will hopefully be demonstrated more frequently this season.
A flying night for Tottenham, particularly for new teammates Vinicius and Bale alongside Spurs‘s European hero Lucas Moura. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
New reserve goalkeeper Joe Hart also had a positive game, seeming confident and in control when called upon, capable of making decent saves and clearing without panic where necessary. Whilst Paulo Gazzaniga is an excellent back-up option, Hart provided a steady, experienced hand that offered a composed presence between the sticks for Tottenham.
New reserve goalkeeper Joe Hart looked composed throughout. Seen here with Son Heung-min, scorer of Tottenham’s third goal tonight. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Areas to improve:
Although the score line and immense praise for particular players might suggest otherwise, there are still gaping issues in the Tottenham team that promptly need seeing to. Although Jose Mourinho’s style of play is slowly emerging, with the team showing some prowess on the European stage, Tottenham still need to work on their inconsistency among other issues if they are to compete on the cutting edge in this competition.
Despite the win, manager Jose Mourinho still has some tough decisions to make at Tottenham. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
One issue that is prominent within the squad is the lack of diversity in terms of player style. There are plenty of players for each position, yet the variety amongst these players is sparse. This is particularly clear in midfield. There is a multitude of players that are way too similar: Dele Alli, Erik Lamela, Giovanni Lo Celso, Steven Bergwijn and also to some extent Lucas Moura and Gareth Bale. It is clear that Mourinho still isn’t sure which of these players make his final cut and which ones gel nicely together.
Rightly so, Lamela was substituted off for like-for-like Dele Alli on 62 minutes after a couple of selfish attempts and incorrect decisions on the Argentine’s part. Milton Keynes born Alli, who has been subject to public scrutiny by his manager in recent months, had a decent reintroduction to game time for Spurs. Despite not looking too impressed with comments made to him by Mourinho before coming on to the field, Alli bought some creativity to the team that had been previously lacking. He was definitely a worthy replacement for the ineffectual Lamela, however, his in the longer-term, it’s hard to see that he will be considered ahead of Lo Celso and Bergwijn in the attacking midfield role.
Erik Lamela didn’t have his best game for Spurs and faces a plethora of competition for his space in the Tottenham squad. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Again, positional uncertainty reigns when it comes to centre-backs. Mourinho is clearly a fan of Eric Dier, who is being moulded into a permanent centre-back under his Portuguese manager. Left out of the starting line up tonight was Toby Alderweireld who is one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Again it would appear that Mourinho is uncertain over who best sits in this role. This is clear when you consider that tonight Welshman Ben Davies was given the captaincy whilst playing in the centre-back position, instead of in his usual left-back role. Davies made the role his own and was incredibly comfortable there, impressing Spurs fans across social media. Whilst it is clear Mourinho favours £25 million summer signing Sergio Reguilón at left-back, what isn’t certain is whether Davies will now be forced into the middle if he wants to get game time. This position is in high demand with Colombian Davinson Sánchez and Englishman Japhet Tanganga also vying for the position also.
Ben Davies shone tonight in the left-hand centre-back position, seemingly at ease with his change of role in the back line. 📸: Twitter/@HotspurLane
Although it is of course better to have more players than positions, it seems Tottenham are very heavy in these two areas, meaning some of these players don’t even become first-reserves in their respective positions and subsequently lose match fitness. There are also other positions across the park that need strengthening, therefore this overcompensation in particular positions needs to be analysed and amended by the Tottenham staff.
Colombian Davinson Sánchez is one of Mourinho’s many options at centre-back. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Homecomer Gareth Bale got his first start for Spurs since 2013, but was surprisingly quiet and underwhelming. Having said this however, he was not ineffectual. What wasn’t surprising however, was that Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho had seen enough from Bale and substituted the Welshman after 61 minutes. Bale has been away from serious game time for a long while, so it’s unsurprising that his nee manager chose to withdraw Bale part way in to the second half. This was also a necessary tactic in order to inject some pace in to what had been a quiet game since the half-time restart. The electric Son Heung-min was Bale’s replacement who cooly slotted home Tottenham’s third goal in the 84th minute.
Gareth Bale made his first start for Tottenham since 2013 📸: Twitter/@GarethBale11
Whilst bringing some much needed grit and physicality to the Tottenham side, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg had been referred to at half-time by manager Mourinho as ‘Zidane’. This direct comparison was drawn due to his passion-incited aggression. Again, rightly substituted 15 minutes in to the second half, going forward, Højbjerg needs to ensure that his anger doesn’t get the best of him. It is clear that this emotion could lead to heated embroilment or wild, reckless challenges if not reigned in and controlled.
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg had a feisty game but brought grit and determination to the Tottenham midfield. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
Going forward:
Despite this, it is obvious that Højbjerg’s intensity motivates others. Fellow midfielders Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks kept up their intense pressing of LASK players when they didn’t have the ball and made sure to dive in to tackles also. Having said this though, control and retaining possession in midfield is still something that needs work. Going forward it is imperative that Tottenham players learn to keep their shape and start to press without losing focus and poise. If they want to continue their successful start in this European campaign, Jose needs to promote the same intensity amongst all of his players but ensure that his players don’t lose control of their emotions, their structure as a team and their skills as individuals.
New Tottenham player Vinicius walks past a deflated LASK player at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. 📸: Twitter/@SpursOfficial
All eyes were on Liverpool last night as they began their 2020/21 UEFA Champions League campaign without their vice captain and stalwart, defensive-rock Virgil Van Dijk.
📸: Twitter/ @Curtisjr_10
Van Dijk, who was severely injured in last weekend’s 2-2 Merseyside Derby is likely to be absent from Liverpool’s 20/21 campaign, leaving the injury-hit team under massive scrutiny.
@VirgilvDijk
The impending impact (of Van Dijk’s absence) on the Liverpool team has been discussed at length since the injury at Goodison Park on Saturday. Therefore, it was unsurprising that the eyes of all commentators, journalists and pundits alike were on Jürgen Klopp’s men as they took to the field at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.
Debate was rife pre-game on how the Liverpool team would look without vice-captain Van Dijk in the squad. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Although Liverpool didn’t silence all of their critics with an electric performance, they did valiantly battle to grind out a 0-1 win over their Dutch opponents. This, in part, was thanks to a Nicolas Tagliafico own goal, however the team also had to battle past their new demons. Despite Tagliafico’s own goal being the only goal of the game, the win required hard work from a Liverpool team that are facing many difficulties and subsequent positional vulnerabilities.
Liverpool scored with a stroke of luck after a Sadio Mané effort took a deflection off of Ajax player Nicolas Tagliafico. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Liverpool dug deep to achieve what can only be described as a sloppy but necessary win. A big step. A big win. A big step in the right direction. That direction being an adjusted life without Van Dijk. It was a big win on a night when things were never going to be easy.
A challenging, scrappy night for Liverpool. 📸:Twitter/@LFC
It was obvious from the off-set that the Reds were going to have to trial new methods in order to steady themselves and get off on the right foot. Captain Jordan Henderson was cleared for only 45 minutes worth of play by the club doctors and new summer signing Thiago had also picked up an injury against Everton at the weekend. Centre back and natural Van Dijk replacement Joël Matip was also not included in the squad for the game against Ajax, leaving the Liverpool team short and in need of a strong performance from many playing out of position.
A tough, sloppy performance, but a necessary win for Liverpool FC. 📸: Twitter/@GWijnaldum
In terms of style of play, this game won’t be remembered for it’s slick transitions, team pressing or inch-perfect cross-field deliveries. It was a game littered with sloppy passes, a game that saw many panicked attempts at the ball, and a game that failed to showcase the team structure that Liverpool have become so well known for. However, what it was, was valued minutes for a team that are coming to terms with a new normal. It was minutes in the legs for Hendo. It was a Champions League start for Curtis Jones and it was an opportunity for the whole team to experiment. It was also a stage on which a couple of individuals shone for the team.
Calm under pressure, Liverpool’s Fabinho showed an impressive display at centre back. 📸: Twitter/@AFCAjax
Now any fair review of this game wouldn’t be accurate if it did not mention the hero of the moment: Fabinho. Usually a CDM, Fabinho filled in at centre back and impressed in much the same way he did in Liverpool’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea. Fabinho remained composed out of position and utilised advice given to him by manager Klopp in order to control his team’s back line. Fabinho looked unfazed by the transition to centre back position, naturally easing in to his new role. Fabinho’s performance was epitomised by a stupendous goal line clearance in the first half. This wonder-save prevented his team from going 1-0 down to an Ajax team who were dominating the play. This came after Tagliafico had managed to chip stand-in goalkeeper Adrían and just before Sadio Mané’s deflected shot changed the face-of-play in Liverpool’s favour. Fabinho looked comfortable, controlled and in charge, rightly earning himself the MOTM award.
Fabinho with an acrobatic goal-line clearance that kept Liverpool in the game. An impressive all-round performance from the Brazilian. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Coming in a very close second for MOTM in my opinion was Andy Robertson. The man never fails to put a shift in, bombing down the left flank and into the box, but also defending with all his might, always. What sets Robertson apart from other full-backs (even TAA) is his physicality. This is particularly evident when he sprints. He sprints when he’s defending, he sprints when he’s attacking, he always sprints to get his job done. Robertson is acutely aware that his job over on the left hand side of the park is to balance both directions of play. Whilst he accurately attacks, he also ensures that he is crunching in defence; he’s always accurate, he’s always physical and he does it all whilst sprinting. Robertson’s work ethic on the pitch is second-to-none with the Scotsman always trying to link up with other players on the left, whether that’s Sadio Mané or even new recruit Diogo Jota who came on against Ajax in the 60th minute. It’s hard to see how Andy Robertson couldn’t be liked as a player. All you ever ask is someone gives their all, and this lad always, does that in order to help the team and last night was no exception.
Twitter @LFCBlogster
Having fended off a rejuvenated Ajax side at the beginning of the second half, Liverpool needed an injection of pace and excitement which came in 60th minute in the shape of the Three Amigos: Diogo Jota, Xherdan Shaqiri and Takumi Minamino.
Twitter/@TheAnfieldTalk
Seeing the usual Liverpool front three substituted off could leave any Liverpool fan having heart palpitations, yet the oncoming trio provided a much needed creativity that just wasn’t happening with Roberto Firmino, Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mané. Although in some instances their skill level was lacking, the work ethic of Jota, Minamino and Shaqiri was unquestionably fresher. Jota in particular introduced a more inventive, high paced threat to the Liverpool attack that had yet to be shown by Salah and Firmino. Since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota has imposed himself on the Liverpool team, proving influential when being introduced on to the pitch. Last night was no exception. Jota was lacy and itching to be creative, linking nicely on multiple occasions with both Robertson and Minamino. I can only see Jota improving and bringing much needed recuperation time to either Mané or Firmino in Liverpool’s front three.
Twitter @LFCVine
Another influential player when introduced to the team last night was Takumi Minamino. Since arriving in January, Taki hasn’t had much opportunity to show his skill. The postponement of football due to the Coronavirus outbreak meant his arrival and subsequent settling into the squad was put on pause. Yet the Japanese international showcased some fine skill against Ajax. Despite not getting on the score sheet, Minamino showed promise and skill which is refreshing to see for a team that are looking to remain on top by utilising their squad rotation.
📸: Twitter/ @LFC
James Milner was receiving an unfair amount of criticism about his performance at half time. Whilst not being the same player as Jordan Henderson, it’s natural that people draw comparisons. However, it is also vital that we consider Milner’s role as separate and isolated to that of Henderson’s. Milner’s second half performance deserves kudos, especially as someone who often goes unrecognised. He was particularly good at covering and allowing freedom of play amongst his teammates. Milner was often covering the left back role allowing Andy Robertson’s flare to flourish. This is something that wouldn’t be available to the team if Robertson was lacking the cover that Milner so graciously provides. Milner was again seen covering for the on-form Fabinho who was often attacking corners and pressing towards the edge of the box during attacking passages of play. Milner was clearly involved in the half-time team talks, changing his role when Jordan Henderson was introduced and was able to establish his own, more defensive role that was intrinsic to the rest of the team’s desire to grind out a result. Milner’s dedication to the team allowed for the rest of the players to have time adapting and practising a new format that will no-doubt be in place for the remainder of the season.
James Milner, a wonderful example of a team player, helpful in a crisis. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
Another player who impressed last night during Liverpool’s gritty win was Gini Wijnaldum. The midfielder attracted a fair amount of comment over the summer with Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman interested in signing the Netherlands international. Many critics have said that Wijnaldum hasn’t been his best for Liverpool for some while, yet yesterday’s game did not show this at all. Gini’s work rate against Ajax was something of wonder. Is it possible that Wijnaldum has been rejuvenated by the injury to his fellow Dutchman Virgil Van Dijk? Is it possible that he wanted to work even harder to dedicate a performance to his Netherlands captain and firm friend? Having watched Gini closely, it was clear that something had reignited within him. He was fresh, continuously pressing and sharp. Liverpool are now needing to keep intensity high with a plethora of games coming. Hopefully this rejuvenated Gini is something that can stay at the forefront in this new-look Liverpool team.
Gini Twitter @GWijnaldum
Another player who impressed yesterday is Van Dijk’s most recent partner in the CB duo: Joe Gomez. Gomez is also a player who has received his fair share of criticism. However, after last night’s performance, he is one to watch. Although his distribution needs work to be anywhere close to Virgil’s, this untimely injury to his centre-half partner could be the making of Gomez. Without VVD by his side, Gomez stepped up his play, was issuing instructions and clearly attempting to take control of the back line. He also mimicked Van Dijk’s style of play at times by appearing to look like him with quick glances at the screen. Now, he still has work to do to improve, but this situation Joe has found himself in, one where a big void has opened, could be one that sees him flourish and grow out of necessity to the team. We can only hope that Gomez continues to improve and tries to fill the shoes of Van Dijk in his absence. Gomez has a huge opportunity to step up and prove himself even more here, whether paired at the back with Joël Matip on his return, or with yesterday’s partner Fabinho. Could this VVD injury be a blessing in disguise for Joe and Liverpool when VVD is back again?
📸: Twitter/@AFCAjax
A tough, hard-fought win, but one that was necessary with all eyes baring down on the Liverpool squad.
A message has now been sent. A message that says this Liverpool team may well be facing a long battle without their rock at the back, but they’re a team who will fight relentlessly, even if that fighting has to be scrappy. They’re a team with plentiful resource, and a squad (that with more time and more practise) will be able to utilise rotational play which will benefit the entire team. A sloppy win, a necessary win and a good start to this new stylistic period for Liverpool FC.
Liverpool FC have become known for their extreme pressing and flying front three under the management of boss Jürgen Klopp.
Liverpool on form away at Chelsea. 📸: Twitter/@JamesMilner
The ‘red arrows’ who cause many-a-team issues over the course of a season have naturally been written about endlessly. The trio, consisting of Sadio Mané, Mohammed Salah and Roberto Firmino have an impressive tally of goals and assists between them.
Liverpool’s Red Arrows: Roberto Firmino, Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mané. 📸: http://www.goal.com
Having seen Salah take the headlines in last week’s opening day 4-3 win over Newly promoted Leeds, in this weekend’s 0-2 away win over Chelsea, it was Sadio Mané’s chance to shine. Mané, who scored both goals, capitalised on a mistake by Kepa Arrizabalaga in the Chelsea goal to secure Liverpool’s second after a stunning header 4 minutes previously put the League Champions 0-1 up.
Sadio Mané was the star of the show in terms of goals scored for Liverpool. 📸: Twitter/@JamesMilner
However, it wasn’t only Mané who shone for the Liverpool team at Stamford Bridge. Playing out of position alongside Virgil Van Dijk, Fabinho looked a real natural at centre back, not allowing new Chelsea acquisition Timo Werner any space to run or score himself.
Fabinho:
Fabinho looked solid and incredibly reliable in his new position by completing the most passes for Liverpool [86] whilst also contributing to a clean sheet for the team. His clearances looked impressive, whilst his focus never wavered. During the game, the Man of the Match made the most recoveries [12] as well as the most interceptions [4] which only goes to highlight how comfortable he was in the game. Could this be a position we see Fabinho in more often adding further competition for Joe Gomez and Joel Matip?
James Milner:
James Milner was another player who impressed in Liverpool’s win over Chelsea. Whilst no stranger to the bench, James is also a chameleon. Someone who will turn his hand to any position and someone who will unreservedly give his all whenever he gets the chance to step on to the pitch, no matter what is asked of him.
Having seen Captain Jordan Henderson come off at half time for new teammate Thiago Alcantara, Milner came on for Naby Keita in the 64th minute and ensured calm and control in the middle of the park. Although playing a team down to ten men, Milner’s work ethic was, as always, phenomenal. He kept the team astute and concentrated whilst popping up in numerous areas across the pitch. In some instances he brilliantly overlapped with Andy Robertson whilst on other occasions he swept the back line in an impressive central defensive midfielder role. One thing that can be guaranteed is that James Milner will always commit to what’s been asked of him, but today that characteristic was more prominent than ever before.
James Milner has an outstanding game at Stamford Bridge after coming on for Naby Keita. 📸: Twitter: @JamesMilner
Thiago Alcantara:
Now, the third player that impressed needs no introduction. Thiago Alcantara. Former Barcelona midfielder and now Liverpool FC player. During his Premier League introduction, Thiago completed more passes than any of his fellow Liverpool midfielders (90.4%) breaking the record for most successful passes in a 45 minute spell in the EPL.
Thiago Alcantara, the new Liverpool player had a shining start to his EPL experience. 📸: Twitter/@Thiago6
Can these three continue to shine and cause problems across the Premier League this season? We can only hope for a further development of this team with new players flourishing and old ones continuing to go from strength to strength.
Consistency ahead for Liverpool in the 2020/21 season. 📸: Twitter/@LFC
After a 1-1 draw in ninety minutes, Arsenal went on to win the FA Community Shield, their second trophy in August 2020, after beating Liverpool5-4 on penalties.
Arsenal Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang lofting the FA Community Shield 2020. 📸:Twitter/@Arsenal
You would be justified in thinking that Arsenal’s performance was not at the level expected of a trophy-winning team, especially when you see that their possession stats in the second half got as low as 14% during a particular ten minute spell. Having said that, Arsenal managed to net all five of their penalties in a feat their opponents did not.
Arsenal’s David Luiz celebrates the win after slotting away a cool penalty for The Gunners. 📷: Twitter/@Arsenal
Although successful in slotting home all five of their penalties, Arsenal were gifted the opportunity to lift the another trophy before the start of the 2020/21 Premier League season by Liverpool’s weak performance on the day.
Arsenal players celebrating with the trophy in their Wembley dressing room after the game. 📸:Twitter/@Arsenal
The first piece of action came from the Arsenal Captain himself. Clinical Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang put The Gunners 1-0 up inside 12 minutes at Wembley stadium before scoring the decisive penalty that crowned Arsenal the FA Community Shield champions. This trophy is now Mikel Arteta’s second trophy at Wembley since he was appointed new head coach at Arsenal in December 2019.
Aubameyang with a tribute to Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman who sadly passed away aged 43. 📸:Twitter/@BBCSport
Aubameyang’s first half curler, which left Liverpool’s second-choice right back Neco Williams stranded, silenced a couple of Liverpool’s earlier chances as it fizzed into the back of the net. Brazilian goalkeeper Allison failed to keep out the shot from the 31-year-old Gabonese forward. For the remainder of the first half, both Arsenal and the current Premier League Champions, Liverpool looked decidedly lack-lustre, with both teams also failing to excite in the second half.
Arsenal Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang carrying the FA Community Shield after scoring a goal and a penalty to help his team secure victory. 📸: Twitter/@Arsenal
Liverpool struggles:
Although the victorious Arsenal team did not perform at their very best, last season’s league winners Liverpool were surprisingly below-par and looked like a team who are a far cry away from the clinical playmakers that fans had become accustomed to seeing before the Covid-19 outbreak postponed the football season.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after scoring a curling effort in the 12th minute. 📸:Twitter/@Arsenal
As per their usual routine, Liverpool made no substitutions at half time despite looking bland in midfield. Sadio Mané had been doing all of the running in a solo effort to create exciting opportunities for his teammates prior to half time, but with little success. Despite this lack of energy across the team, Liverpool remained unchanged after the break.
“You need to have fresh legs and decision making needs to be 100% on top and it was not”
Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp recognised after the game that the team had room for improvement before the Premier League resumes on September 12th 2020
💬:Twitter/@skysports
Influential Taki and Naby:
Having seen enough after the restart, Reds boss Jürgen Klopp made a double substitution in the 59th minute, bringing on Takumi Minamino and Naby Keita for James Milner and Neco Williams. The double substitution left Liverpool in the ascendency with Minamino and Keita livening up the midfield after their introduction.
Positively, both Minamino and Keita have started to show some real class since football games resumed after the Coronavirus outbreak. The two creative players have worked hard to break into the first team and cement themselves in Jürgen Klopp’s squad plans: the two midfielders the only exciting element in Liverpool’s squad during the Community Shield loss to Arsenal.
Naby Keita and Takumi Minamino (pic from last season) have shown promise in the Liverpool squad and are two to watch out for in the 2020/21 season. 📸:www.empireofthekop.com
Minamino got his just reward for all of his hard work since arriving on Merseyside from Red Bull Salzburg in January. The Japanese international scored his first Liverpool goal as he flicked a neat one, two into the path of Mohammed Salah before slotting home the return ball for the equaliser. Liverpool were looking the more likely to come out on top at this point after retaining much of the possession in the second half.
Takumi Minamino equalised for Liverpool, scoring his first goal for the club since joining them in January. 📸:Twitter/@LivEchoLFC
Creativityissues:
However, creativity was still lacking in many areas and some of the stars in the Liverpool team were just not shining when they needed to. Mohammed Salah’s inactivity has left much to be questioned, with the number 11 invisible for a large majority of the game. It would easily be justified if Roberto Firmino had felt any anger after being substituted for Curtis Jones in the 83rd minute, having produced a much more creative and threatening display than the Egyptian forward.
Salah, who was possibly missing the influence and provision of pacy fullback Trent Alexander-Arnold who usually compliments him on the right-hand side of the pitch, had few attempts and produced nothing of note throughout the game.
Last season Mohammed Salah was sublime against Arsenal, yet in the FA Community Shield, he was no where to be seen. 📸:Getty Imagaes
Georginio Wijnaldum was also far from his usual self in the middle of the park, perhaps highlighting his desire to move on from the Anfield based side. Speculation has been rife in the last month or so that Wijnaldum is looking to leave the Premier League and perhaps join former Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman at FC Barcelona. For a man who often dominates the midfield, his spark was considerably lacking and creativity was non-existent from the Dutch national. Lack of presence from the injured Jordan Henderson may also provide another possible explanation for the poor showing from Wijnaldum.
Gini Wijnaldum failed to perform at his usual level for Liverpool in the FA Community Shield 📸:Twitter/@GWijnaldum
The absence of Liverpool captain and FWA Player of the Season winner for the 2019/20 campaign, Henderson always proves tricky for the Reds’ players. Tremendously underrated, Henderson offers both defensive stability and creativity in attack which is a necessity when expecting Liverpool’s front three to consistently perform at a world-class level. Henderson is the driving force in what makes this Liverpool team tick and his absence is always noticeable. His reliable presence often goes unnoticed until he is sidelined. When Henderson is injured, the rest of the Liverpool midfield are often unsure and unaware of how to control the game. Despite the fact that James Milner was managing the defensive aspect of the midfield role relatively well, a reckless yellow card made the decision for his substitution an easier one for manager Klopp.
Vice-Captain James Milner controls the ball in midfield, but wasn’t able to get his hands on the FA Community Shield. 📸: Twitter/@JamesMilner
Arguably the star of Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Austria, Rhian Brewster will also come away feeling deflated from this defeat to Arsenal. Although not on the pitch for most of the game, Brewster came on in the 92nd minute, replacing Wijnaldum, with his only touch of the game amounting in the missed penalty kick that decided the outcome of the game. Brewster of course, is not to blame for the outcome of the game when his teammates could have shown much, much more in the 90 minutes.
Rhian Brewster’s penalty went too high and on to the crossbar in the penalty shootout verses Arsenal in the FA Community Shield. 📸:Twitter/@goal
Although talented, Curtis Jones also failed to impress for Liverpool when bought on for Firmino. The 19-year-old Scouser looked to be feeling the impact of a longer-than-usual season having had less recovery time, despite only being on the field for 10 minutes before slotting home a penalty. His legs were looking tired and his pace slow. The level of pressing that is standard in this Liverpool squad was not evident in Jones’ game play with some lethargy clearly on show. Could it have been that more chances would have been created in the 90 minutes had Jones pressed harder and faster when looking for the ball?
“We lost the competition because of penalties and because we didn’t use our chances. We could have scored earlier and had the game in the right direction. Time was not enough”
Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp recognised the importance of his side missing their earlier chances and not being clinical enough. 💬: #LFCLIVE via Twitter/@AnfieldWatch
Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was left largely unchallenged facing only 4 shots on target throughout the game proving that the Liverpool forward trio were somewhat out of sorts. Two of these were attempts from Sadio Mané, one in each half that appeared identical in style of miss. Both attempts were feeble and both were unable to be slotted home by the Senegalese. On both instances, Mané had only Argentine keeper Martínez to beat. Both times the ball should have been lifted over the keeper, yet both times Mané tried to keep the ball on the ground, firing both shots into the body of Martínez.
Sadio Mané had two chances that were buried into the body of Emiliano Martínez, rather than lifted over him. 📸:Twitter/@brfootball
What also seems surprising is that Sadio was not on the list to take a penalty either, leaving two of the five spot-kick to two youngsters, Rhian Brewster and Curtis Jones, who are relatively inexperienced in finals. Could Sadio’s earlier misses have caused his confidence to take a knock?
Sadio Mané failed to convert any chances into goals in the FA Community Shield match against Arsenal. 📸:Twitter/@LFC
Although much like Martínez, who was largely unchallenged during the game, Liverpool’s Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson also seemed a far cry from his usual self during the penalty shoot out. Diving early on multiple occasions, Alisson didn’t look capable of interpreting the direction of any of Arsenal’s spot kicks, seeming uncertain and under-confident on the big occasion.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker looking strong in training which unfortunately did not translate into penalty saves against Arsenal. 📸:Twitter/@Alissonbecker
Set play was also a struggle, with no real targets being met from corner kicks. These were notably being taken by Andrew Robertson instead of injured Alexander-Arnold who is well known for his sublime delivery. Throughout the game, Robertson was the only player in the Liverpool team to whip in any exciting or dangerous crosses, yet they all went unmet by his teammates. Virgil Van Dijk also struggled to live up to expectations by failing to connect with two corners that came his way, meaning the efforts ended up off-target and wasted in a game desperate for attempts at goal.
Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson delivered some scintillation crosses in the game, yet none of his teammates met them and converted them to goals. 📸: Twitter/@andrewrobertso5
In a game of little accuracy and finesse, it’s easy to see that many players are not yet playing at their usual standard. Both the Arsenal and Liverpool team struggled with possession, skill and thought for large parts of the game. It can only be hoped that by the time the season starts in two weekends time, the games are more exciting, the players are more visibly confident and the goals are more forthcoming.
Every time a FIFA World Cup or UEFA Euros event rolls around, the buzz of long overdue jubilation starts to stir within the English people. Despite the England team having had limited success in major tournaments, optimism fills the air across the country. Cars, houses and pubs are adorned with flags and people who are self professed haters of sport stand proudly singing ‘football’s coming home’ at bus stops and in beer gardens.
Camden Market during the 2018 World Cup 📷: the Evening Standard
We’ve all been there. We’ve all been committed to the pre-tournament hype, we’ve all built up the excitement and we’ve all hypothesised dream-like scenarios in which the golden World Cup trophy is lifted above the England captain’s head. We’ve all bought a new, crisp, white shirt or fished out a retro one from the bottom drawer. We’ve all felt an obligation to support the underdogs as well as the England team because we’ve drawn Macedonia, Albania or Cameroon in the work sweepstake. We’ve also all felt irrational anger towards Derek at the desk next door who’s never followed football in his 60+ years of life yet has pulled out the tournament favourites.
Let me paint a picture: you’ve had one too many pints in the pub and ended up being soaked in beer. You’ve watched England scrape a desperate draw, or even grab an undeserved last minute winner in their opening group fixture. Yet, the quality of the game hasn’t mattered, the pub was still filled with elation, your mates are still singing at the top of their lungs and you’re still dancing inside, buzzing with the drama of the opening fixture. The hopes of the entire pub are sky-high as the new tournament is now officially underway now England have played. The atmosphere is one full of promise, despite the fact you’re feeling hoarse from screaming at the projector screen. All memories of previous woeful attempts at national success have been ushered away, your mind is excited by possibility. All prior hurt long forgotten.
England’s dismal showing at Euro 2016 left fans disappointed after a surprise 1-2 defeat to Iceland meant the English players were knocked out in the round of 16. 📷:Getty Images
Despite all of this joy, growing up watching England has taught me not to expect much actual success. Whenever a tournament starts, I know that I’m more likely to experience great disappointment rather than unprecedented elation. However, the recent crop of English youngsters that have started breaking into first team squads across Europe has left me thinking – on more than one occasion – of the possibility of national success. Something I’ve never found myself considering outside of the build up to a major tournament before now.
Gutted fans watch on as England crash out in the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, losing 2-1 to Croatia. 📷: SWNS: South West News Service
Nations League selection:
As I was writing this post, whilst travelling back from a late lunch with a friend, unbeknownst to me, Gareth Southgate announced his England squad for September’s Nations League fixtures. Having written most of this article and formatted most of the pictures, I felt like my originality had been snatched away. Although I thought about scrapping the article, as lots of my chosen ‘ones to look out for’ (see below) have been coincidentally selected by Southgate anyway, I decided that I should publish this regardless, especially in order to honour those players that still made my list, but didn’t quite fit into Gareth’s final 23.
The announced England squad for September’s Nations League matches before the removal of Harry Maguire by Gareth Southgate. 📷: Twitter/@England
Although the coronavirus pandemic meant that the 19/20 football season was stunted, the postponement of Euro 2020 will allow the plethora of younger players that are gradually proving their worth in their respective leagues, another year’s worth of game experience that will be intrinsic to their growth. This extra year of growth can only benefit the England team.
Whatqualifies you to be selected for England?
In most cases I would consider that those hopeful of making the England squad for any major tournament should have had significantexperience playing for their club. Now everyone’s definition of ‘significant experience’ will be different, but I would consider it to be at least two or three seasons worth of exceptional level performances that influence fixtures. Within these seasons, I would say that the players need to have been cemented consistently within a club’s first team, competing to be the best. I believe this experience to be vital when thinking about bringing glory to the national team.
Southgate’s style as England manager:
Alongside some of the more experienced players like Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson and Harry Kane, youngsters have been a key component of Gareth Southgate’s methodology as England manager.
Experienced England players Jordan Henderson, Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane. 📷: http://www.teamtalk.com
Southgate has given game time to players such as Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all before any success the two have recently seen at their home club Liverpool. Although these two players are also relatively young, and will both no doubt aid the future England team, I had decided that the focus of this article (‘ones to look out for’) would be on players that are yet to obtain 6+ caps for England.
Criteria for making my ‘ones to look out for’list:
The players I have chosen are ones that I believe will benefit from an additional year in their respective squads to help solidify their bids to make the England squad for the 2021 Euros.
I know people will consider some of the players I have selected as ‘dead certains’ for England selection already, I believe that despite the fact that some of the players listed have been performing phenomenally well for their respective clubs recently, they have only been making regular appearances in their first teams in the most recent season, despite making cameo roles in the season before. Although performing at a good level already, another season of being a regular, first 11 choice, can only enhance their game play.
Some of the others on the list are players that that I consider to have had a great 2019/20 season (even if they have played regular football in previous seasons) but still need another great season to keep their name in the spotlight and in contention for England selection. Therefore there are players in my list that might not make the squad if the tournament had been played this year, yet now they are standing in good stead to secure a spot at the Euros if they have another successful season in 20/21.
Scroll down to see the players I have selected as ‘ones to watch out for’ over the coming 20/21 season, all with incredible potential that – if the next campaign is utilised as best as possible – stand a great chance of getting selected for next summer’s English European squad….
Players to watch out for:
Mason Greenwood:
Mason Greenwood has been scoring and showing true promise at Manchester United. 📷: Paul Ellis/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images
Mason Greenwood has shown flair and class since the return of football after the coronavirus lockdown. Although he was becoming a regular on the Manchester United team sheet prior to the postponement of football, it is since the restart that he has really shown his prowess. At 18 he is still very young, but showing incredible promise already, having scored 10 goals for United since his debut in 2018. Could having another year of collecting regular, full 90 minutes’ worth of first-team game time secure Greenwood a spot at Euro 2021?
Phil Foden:
Phil Foden is becoming a regular in a Manchester City squad laden with superstars. He is developing considerably well under Pep Guardiola and it is easy to imagine him a future England hero. 📷: Getty Images
Phil Foden is arguably one of the best up-and-coming England stars. He is someone who is bound to be impactful in future European fixtures due to his sharp thinking and quality on the ball. Inevitably, he was bound to be a consideration for Southgate ever since he won the Golden Ball at the FIFA U17 World Cup in India in 2017. He will have been in the periphery of all football fans since he made his way onto Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City bench in 2016 and made his first appearances in the Premier League and the Champions League in the following year aged just 17. Pep Guardiola has openly said that the talent Foden possesses will keep him as a Manchester City player “for the next decade”, showing his faith in the 20-year-old. Having made 41 appearances for his boyhood club, another Premier League campaign, this time trying to fill a void left by City legend David Silva, will only improve his claim on a place in the England squad.
Mason Mount:
Mason Mount has shown sublime skill at Chelsea over the 2019/20 season. Another successful season will allow him continued growth and surely a certified place in the England squad. 📷: Getty Images
Mason Mount has had a pretty impressive season with Chelsea, and some would consider him a guaranteed recipient of a place in any England selection. Although I also believe him to be good enough, we need to see him remain consistent with the quality that he has shown up until this point during the coming year. Having only made his first-team debut for Chelsea in August 2019, and his England debut in September 2019, Mount will benefit from getting another season under his belt, before the possibility of being selected to perform on one of the biggest stages in international football. A firm favourite with Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, Mount will certainly be given this opportunity to continually improve during the 20/21 season and is without a doubt, someone that will largely benefit from having an extra season before challenging for a Euro 2021 spot. At 21, Mount already has 6 England appearances, proving that Southgate is as impressed with him as followers of the Premier League have been.
Tyrone Mings:
Mings made his England debut last year, but has only got two caps to his name thus far. 📷: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
During the 19/20 season, Tyrone Mings started coming into his own, making a mark on his Aston Villa squad as a towering, sturdy centre back that can remain calm under pressure. Having only signed a permanent contract at Aston Villa just over a year ago (July 2019) after an initial loan spell from Bournemouth, Mings has firmly become a fan favourite. However, he needs to get another consistent season under his belt in order to show off his ability and to fully develop his full potential. His ability has been visible over his most recent campaign with Premier League survivors, Villa, and now all that is needed is consistency. I wouldn’t be surprised if he eventually becomes one half of Southgate’s favoured England centre-back pairing. His potential is phenomenal, but he now needs to show this week-in, week-out in order to translate this into further international recognition.
Dean Henderson:
Dean Henderson has impressed whilst at Sheffield United (on loan from Manchester United) over the past two seasons. 📷: 2020 AMA Sports Photo Agency
Dean Henderson has drawn attention to himself over the last two seasons with impressive performances in goal for Sheffield United. Out on loan from parent club Manchester United, Henderson has put in some impressive performances for the Blades. His performances have drawn attention from multiple clubs with speculation also rife throughout the 19/20 season that he would soon be called back to Manchester United in order to replace heavily criticised Spanish national goalkeeper David de Gea. Having 11 appearances for the England U21 national team, alongside a steady 20/21 season back at Manchester United could stand him in good stead to replace current first-choice England keeper Jordan Pickford. However, it is vital he gets game time in over the next season if he wishes to be selected above both Pickford and reliable Burnley shot-stopper Nick Pope.
Rhian Brewster:
Rhian Brewster had a successful loan spell at Swansea City during the 19/20 season scoring 10 goals for the club. 📷: Getty Images
Another member of the England U17 World Cup winning squad, Rhian Brewster is a natural goal scorer, securing the tournaments Golden Boot for most goals scored in the campaign. Currently on the books at Liverpool, Rhian spent the end of last season (from January onwards) out on loan at Swansea City scoring 10 goals in 20 appearances. Having been a part of both the Chelsea and Liverpool academies, Rhian worked his way through the Liverpool U18 and U23 squads before being selected in the match squad for the second-leg of Liverpool’s Champions League semi-final against Barcelona. Although not in the same league yet as the likes of Phil Foden and Mason Mount, Rhian has potential for future England appearances. Although I don’t know that he’d be ready to appear in the 2021 Euros, he is someone I can see in the England squad in future tournaments. In order to make international football a possibility, Brewster needs to find himself playing more regular first-team matches as he has areas of his game that need development. Although not one for the 2021 tournament in my opinion, he is one to watch in the not so distant future when current big name strikers such as Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling start to depart from international football.
Todd Cantwell:
Norwich City’s second highest scorer in the 19/20 season Todd Cantwell could add to England’s attack. 📷: Paul Harding/Getty Images
Impressing on his first season in the Premier League, transfer rumours circulated as soon as it was confirmed that Norwich City would be relegated and returning to the Championship. With some of the ‘big 6’ clubs interested in Cantwell, it was clear he had made an impact during Norwich’s fleeting time in the top flight of English football. Midfielder Cantwell has not been short of goals or assists over the last season, proving a key element of Norwich’s attack. Cantwell made his U21 England debut against Kosovo in September 2019. Although promising, it could be a stretch to picture Cantwell in the 2021 Euro squad. However, he is another player that could prove intrinsic to England in future tournaments if he is able to utilise and consistently develop the potential he has in abundance. Norwich have done well to hold onto Cantwell after their relegation because he is a player that has garnered lots of interest with other Premier League clubs clearly recognising the talent he possesses.
Wild card selection:
JamesWard-Prowse:
James Ward-Prowse has remained consistent in the Southampton squad for numerous seasons, but has recently come into his own, developing his play and being elected club-captain. 📷: Olly Greenwood/AFP/Getty Images
Although not ‘up-and-coming’ as such, James Ward-Prowse has always been a wild card of mine. Somebody who I think works phenomenally hard and goes relatively unnoticed despite their talent. He is an incredible workhorse in the middle of the park that can always be relied upon to pull his weight. Not somebody who needs to solidify his position at his club, Ward-Prowse has been a favoured member of the first team since Mauricio Pochettino’s arrival in the 13-14 season. On top of that, he has most recently been named captain of the Southampton squad by current manager Ralph Hasenhüttl.
Despite his regular appearances in the first team, Ward-Prowse’s quiet nature has left him relatively unnoticed internationally, having only gained 2 caps, one in 2017 and one in 2019. However, for someone who has been around for what seems like forever, Ward-Prowse is only 25 years old, so still has plenty of time to solidify a place in the England squad should Gareth Southgate consider his work ethic and stability in midfield something desirable to the England squad. A set-piece specialist, Ward-Prowse has played in a number of positions since his 12/13 debut for Southampton, and has further validate his versatility by becoming a much bigger goal threat over the past couple of seasons for the Saints. A big player who could be just as influential in the England team.
Jason Sancho:
Jadon Sancho playing for Borussia Dortmund. 📷: Alexandre Simoes/Getty Images
Jadon Sancho’s skill has been the subject of much debate over recent months with speculation over a potential transfer to Manchester United rumoured. However, Sancho already has 11 appearances and 2 goals for England and has been a first team regular for Borussia Dortmund for a couple of seasons now. Therefore, he does not fit my criteria for ‘ones to watch out for’, with regards to breaking in to the national team. However, the potential for his presence in the Premier League with a move away from Borussia Dortmund in the offing, meant that I decided to add him to my list as a wild card option. He is ‘one to watch out for’ in the new English domestic league season, should he transfer away from the Bundesliga and into the Premier League for the 20/21 season.
Have your say…
Make sure you tell us who your ‘ones to watch out for’ are and let us know who your wild card options would be as well. Comment below with your selections for the England UEFA Euro 2021 squad.
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