Columbia
Columbia squeaked through the South America qualifying by a point. Their more well known players are looking long in the tooth and theres not much of interest about them.
Japan
Japan topped their group however only one point ahead of the next two teams. Of interest the team has a number of familiar players due to a number of the squad having done the rounds in Europe over the last decade. The weakest team in the group - just.
Poland
Robert Lewandowski is the star attraction in a decent team that qualified with little trouble. Its a straight fight between them and Senegal to win this group.
Senegal
They dominated their qualifying group and have a deceptively strong team with a number of players spread over England and France. A lot of people have predicted that Poland will walk this group, I however think Senegal will put up a strong fight. Do not count them out, you know more players than you think you do and I'm not just talking about Sadio Mane.
Summing Up
Its an interesting group with a lot of familiar faces to give the neutrals some interest. Poland and Senegal should go through.
Tips: Senegal to qualify, I fancy the chance of a lot of goals in this group so overs on Poland and Senegal's matches..
One to watch: Robert Lewandowski, brilliant player but underrated because he plays in Germany.
Dark horse to watch: Keisuke Honda, a personal favourite and in what may be his last world cup - I'm going to miss him when he's gone.
Wednesday, 13 June 2018
Tuesday, 12 June 2018
World Cup Preview: Group G
Belgium
It goes without saying that Belgium are a good team, they went through qualifying without a hitch and have some of the best players in the world and Simon Mignolet. Kevin De Bruyne is only a Miss World girlfriend and a personality away from being one of the most rock and roll players on the planet. Critics may say Lukaku is a flat track bully they have got other options in the underrated Batshuayi and ageing Mertens. They have a very good defence, cracking keeper, a very good midfield and know how to score a goal. The big thing I have against them is the manager Roberto Martinez. Rather limited in tactics, slow to spot a game drifting away and he's already left out one of their best players. Should go deep but there are a lot of questions.
England
England had a good qualifying campaign finishing well ahead of their closest rivals. A decent squad made up mostly of players from the top five in the English league. Its very much a common sense squad - with the highlights being Kane, Ali and Sterling. Weather England can do anything depends on how well these three players gel. The big question from us neutrals though is "can England actually play well?" They have had some awful matches the over the last decade, however it is the firm belief of this blogger that if they can get the monkey off their backs they can at least get to the quarters.
Panama
Panama made it through Central American qualification by the skin of their teeth. Will struggle to get anything in this group.
Tunisia
A tough qualifying campaign saw them narrowly beat Doctor Congo to qualify. A team made up of journeymen and up and comers from around the world. Its between them and Panama over who finishes third.
Summing Up
Its a bit of a dull group, Belgium and England will get through its a question of in which order.
Tips: I see no value here, the obvious market is winner and its pick your poison between Belgium and England.
One to watch: Kevin De Bruyne who has been in awesome form this season.
Dark horse to watch: Gareth Southgate, after finishing up at Middlesbrough in 2009 not much has been seen of him, one to watch and many questions over him.
It goes without saying that Belgium are a good team, they went through qualifying without a hitch and have some of the best players in the world and Simon Mignolet. Kevin De Bruyne is only a Miss World girlfriend and a personality away from being one of the most rock and roll players on the planet. Critics may say Lukaku is a flat track bully they have got other options in the underrated Batshuayi and ageing Mertens. They have a very good defence, cracking keeper, a very good midfield and know how to score a goal. The big thing I have against them is the manager Roberto Martinez. Rather limited in tactics, slow to spot a game drifting away and he's already left out one of their best players. Should go deep but there are a lot of questions.
England
England had a good qualifying campaign finishing well ahead of their closest rivals. A decent squad made up mostly of players from the top five in the English league. Its very much a common sense squad - with the highlights being Kane, Ali and Sterling. Weather England can do anything depends on how well these three players gel. The big question from us neutrals though is "can England actually play well?" They have had some awful matches the over the last decade, however it is the firm belief of this blogger that if they can get the monkey off their backs they can at least get to the quarters.
Panama
Panama made it through Central American qualification by the skin of their teeth. Will struggle to get anything in this group.
Tunisia
A tough qualifying campaign saw them narrowly beat Doctor Congo to qualify. A team made up of journeymen and up and comers from around the world. Its between them and Panama over who finishes third.
Summing Up
Its a bit of a dull group, Belgium and England will get through its a question of in which order.
Tips: I see no value here, the obvious market is winner and its pick your poison between Belgium and England.
One to watch: Kevin De Bruyne who has been in awesome form this season.
Dark horse to watch: Gareth Southgate, after finishing up at Middlesbrough in 2009 not much has been seen of him, one to watch and many questions over him.
Monday, 11 June 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group F
Germany
What can I say about Germany that hasn't been said before? They are in such fine form and in qualification have a 100% winning record. A squad so strong they left out Leroy Sane which left most pundits shrugging instead of declaring it madness. The only slight worry is Marco Reus hasn't played as much football the last two seasons. Be warned they are contenders and will go deep.
Mexico
There are three certainties in life; death, taxes and Mexico will qualify from their group and go out in the second round - its what they've done for the last umpteen times. In fact in Mexico making the quarter finals and reaching the mythic "5th game" has become something of an obsession. A good qualifying campaign and a squad of decent players playing in Europe, America and Mexico. They're in with a shout of second but that second round spot is not to be taken for granted.
South Korea
Memories of that special summer in 2002 where they made it to the semifinal knocking out Italy and Spain. They may never top that moment again but wheres the fun in not trying for it again? They aren't going to do much sadly, they narrowly qualified and were three points from finishing 5th. Mostly made up of players from Korea they also have the two British based players whose names are currently screwing up my spell check. They will finish bottom.
Sweden
Sweden pipped Holland to second place in the group stage and knocked Italy out in the playoffs who are two of my favourite teams and two of the leagues in Serie A and Eredivisie that I watch the most. Needless to say I will remain objective but in all honesty Its between them and Mexico for that second spot as I don't see the Germans standing for a continuation of this giant killing malarkey. The thing about Sweden is despite not having many household names they actually play like a club side and theres a sense of camaraderie when watching them - also they had some bloody good matches including a brilliant 3-2 . Mind you if they get that second place spot they're seeded to face Brazil in the next round, Holland, Italy and Brazil would make for an impressive hit list...
Summing Up
I have this group down as Germany winning the group and Sweden second, but Mexico in with a shout.
Tips: Germany to win, South Korea to finish bottom and a lay unders on the booking in the Sweden/Mexico match.
One to watch: Marcus Berg, it could be his last time in a World Cup but rest assured if Sweden create a moment he'll be on the end of it.
Dark horse to watch: Timo Werner, has had a fantastic last two seasons and could be Germanys next big thing.
What can I say about Germany that hasn't been said before? They are in such fine form and in qualification have a 100% winning record. A squad so strong they left out Leroy Sane which left most pundits shrugging instead of declaring it madness. The only slight worry is Marco Reus hasn't played as much football the last two seasons. Be warned they are contenders and will go deep.
Mexico
There are three certainties in life; death, taxes and Mexico will qualify from their group and go out in the second round - its what they've done for the last umpteen times. In fact in Mexico making the quarter finals and reaching the mythic "5th game" has become something of an obsession. A good qualifying campaign and a squad of decent players playing in Europe, America and Mexico. They're in with a shout of second but that second round spot is not to be taken for granted.
South Korea
Memories of that special summer in 2002 where they made it to the semifinal knocking out Italy and Spain. They may never top that moment again but wheres the fun in not trying for it again? They aren't going to do much sadly, they narrowly qualified and were three points from finishing 5th. Mostly made up of players from Korea they also have the two British based players whose names are currently screwing up my spell check. They will finish bottom.
Sweden
Sweden pipped Holland to second place in the group stage and knocked Italy out in the playoffs who are two of my favourite teams and two of the leagues in Serie A and Eredivisie that I watch the most. Needless to say I will remain objective but in all honesty Its between them and Mexico for that second spot as I don't see the Germans standing for a continuation of this giant killing malarkey. The thing about Sweden is despite not having many household names they actually play like a club side and theres a sense of camaraderie when watching them - also they had some bloody good matches including a brilliant 3-2 . Mind you if they get that second place spot they're seeded to face Brazil in the next round, Holland, Italy and Brazil would make for an impressive hit list...
Summing Up
I have this group down as Germany winning the group and Sweden second, but Mexico in with a shout.
Tips: Germany to win, South Korea to finish bottom and a lay unders on the booking in the Sweden/Mexico match.
One to watch: Marcus Berg, it could be his last time in a World Cup but rest assured if Sweden create a moment he'll be on the end of it.
Dark horse to watch: Timo Werner, has had a fantastic last two seasons and could be Germanys next big thing.
Wednesday, 6 June 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group E
Brazil
Theres something special about Brazil coming into a world cup, the glow of the golden and the obscene high level of natural talent can't help but win over the cynics amongst us. But by eck do they look strong this time, utterly dominating the South American qualifying group. Their squad reads like a whose who of European league football and even their keeper is in good form. Neymar is coming back from an injury but they still have good cover in Jesus and Firmino.
Costa Rica
A strong qualifying campaign saw them coming in second in the Central American group. Some decent players who have done the rounds over the years as well as Real Madrids Keylor Navas. However they are mixed in with a number of fairly weak players and when compared to Switzerland and Serbia not as strong a squad.
Serbia
Topping the group that included Wales and Republic of Ireland, they are the team I've seen the most of this qualifying campaign. Milivojevic, Tadic, Matic and Mitrovic have been on good form in the English leagues. Kolarov the captain is a wise old head in defence and they need to do something against Switzerland to get through this group and be a dangerous floater later on in the tournament but I'd rank them as third in the group.
Switzerland
Very unlucky in qualifying as they were pipped by Portugal despite finishing level on points and scraped through the playoff against Northern Ireland. They have a few good players - case in point in Lichtsteiner whose been a good player forever. They have a habit of getting though to the second round and could be a threat to Brazil in this group.
Summing Up
I have this group down as finishing Brazil - Switzerland - Serbia - Costa Rica. However I feel each team has it in them to upset the next team up.
Tips: Brazil to win, Costa Rica to finish bottom and to lay unders on the booking in the Serbia/Switzerland match.
One to watch: Gabriel Jesus, has been in good form this season and I expect big things from him this World Cup.
Dark horse to watch: Milinkovic-Savic, has been a revelation the last few years at Lazio and could well be a player who attracts transfer attention.
Theres something special about Brazil coming into a world cup, the glow of the golden and the obscene high level of natural talent can't help but win over the cynics amongst us. But by eck do they look strong this time, utterly dominating the South American qualifying group. Their squad reads like a whose who of European league football and even their keeper is in good form. Neymar is coming back from an injury but they still have good cover in Jesus and Firmino.
Costa Rica
A strong qualifying campaign saw them coming in second in the Central American group. Some decent players who have done the rounds over the years as well as Real Madrids Keylor Navas. However they are mixed in with a number of fairly weak players and when compared to Switzerland and Serbia not as strong a squad.
Serbia
Topping the group that included Wales and Republic of Ireland, they are the team I've seen the most of this qualifying campaign. Milivojevic, Tadic, Matic and Mitrovic have been on good form in the English leagues. Kolarov the captain is a wise old head in defence and they need to do something against Switzerland to get through this group and be a dangerous floater later on in the tournament but I'd rank them as third in the group.
Switzerland
Very unlucky in qualifying as they were pipped by Portugal despite finishing level on points and scraped through the playoff against Northern Ireland. They have a few good players - case in point in Lichtsteiner whose been a good player forever. They have a habit of getting though to the second round and could be a threat to Brazil in this group.
Summing Up
I have this group down as finishing Brazil - Switzerland - Serbia - Costa Rica. However I feel each team has it in them to upset the next team up.
Tips: Brazil to win, Costa Rica to finish bottom and to lay unders on the booking in the Serbia/Switzerland match.
One to watch: Gabriel Jesus, has been in good form this season and I expect big things from him this World Cup.
Dark horse to watch: Milinkovic-Savic, has been a revelation the last few years at Lazio and could well be a player who attracts transfer attention.
Friday, 1 June 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group D
Argentina
Lets get the Messi shaped elephant out of the way, what ever you Lionel Messi is one of the best footballers in the world. Since 2010 his goal tally has been mind boggling and at times with his play being out of this world - we'll miss him when he's gone and he's already passed the big three oh. Due to Argentina's remarkably consistency and Messi running out of chances the pressure could be on them to perform.
They had an interesting qualifying campaign where they nearly screwed things up and were two points away from not qualifying. You might expect that stat of other South American teams but Argentina are not a team on top form. Higuain and Aguero are also in good form and Argentina wont have to much trouble up front - its everywhere else they have problems. The goal keepers lack international experience and elsewhere the squad is made up of players who not only I don't like but if I was rating them would be noting down the phrase must try harder with Di Maria being the only exception.
I'd back them to get out of the group but there could be a few sticky moments in this group.
Croatia
A team to keep an eye on, a decent keeper, a shockingly decent midfield and upfront the likes of Mandzukic and Perisic up front. The defence has a soft underbelly but by and large its good stuff. If they can put it together they have a chance to get first place in this group.
Iceland
The story of Euro 2016, qualifying for the first time, getting out of their group, making it past round two and unleashing the clap on Europe. In theory they have no chance of progressing however, we have what us gamblers call an intriguing situation. Not only did Iceland qualify top of their group but that group involved Croatia - they have one win apiece in qualifying.
Do not write this team off, they did something special last time and had a very good qualifying campaign. They have a few decent players including Gunnarsson and Sigurdsson. One to watch and against vulnerable group favourites they're a dangerous floater.
Nigeria
A strange record in recent times out of the last four African cups they've won one and not qualified for the other three. They made the second round four years ago and had a match of the tournament contender against Argentina. A number of strong decent and pacey pros. Again a dangerous team but one I can't help but have doubts about.
Summing Up
Surely Argentina to go through although possibly not as winners.
In a group where at least one of Nigeria, Croatia or Iceland will qualify the footballing world must be rooting for Iceland.
Tips: This looks like a scrappy group, a risky lay of Argentina to win the group could be in order and overs in bookings could be the value.
One to watch: Messi, this could be his last chance for greatness on this stage and what ever happens I'm expecting his international retirement the moment Argentina are finished - in lose or draw.
Dark horse to watch: Mateo Kovacic - yes he plays for Real Madrid but in my book he's underrated and has the potential to do something.
Lets get the Messi shaped elephant out of the way, what ever you Lionel Messi is one of the best footballers in the world. Since 2010 his goal tally has been mind boggling and at times with his play being out of this world - we'll miss him when he's gone and he's already passed the big three oh. Due to Argentina's remarkably consistency and Messi running out of chances the pressure could be on them to perform.
They had an interesting qualifying campaign where they nearly screwed things up and were two points away from not qualifying. You might expect that stat of other South American teams but Argentina are not a team on top form. Higuain and Aguero are also in good form and Argentina wont have to much trouble up front - its everywhere else they have problems. The goal keepers lack international experience and elsewhere the squad is made up of players who not only I don't like but if I was rating them would be noting down the phrase must try harder with Di Maria being the only exception.
I'd back them to get out of the group but there could be a few sticky moments in this group.
Croatia
A team to keep an eye on, a decent keeper, a shockingly decent midfield and upfront the likes of Mandzukic and Perisic up front. The defence has a soft underbelly but by and large its good stuff. If they can put it together they have a chance to get first place in this group.
Iceland
The story of Euro 2016, qualifying for the first time, getting out of their group, making it past round two and unleashing the clap on Europe. In theory they have no chance of progressing however, we have what us gamblers call an intriguing situation. Not only did Iceland qualify top of their group but that group involved Croatia - they have one win apiece in qualifying.
Do not write this team off, they did something special last time and had a very good qualifying campaign. They have a few decent players including Gunnarsson and Sigurdsson. One to watch and against vulnerable group favourites they're a dangerous floater.
Nigeria
A strange record in recent times out of the last four African cups they've won one and not qualified for the other three. They made the second round four years ago and had a match of the tournament contender against Argentina. A number of strong decent and pacey pros. Again a dangerous team but one I can't help but have doubts about.
Summing Up
Surely Argentina to go through although possibly not as winners.
In a group where at least one of Nigeria, Croatia or Iceland will qualify the footballing world must be rooting for Iceland.
Tips: This looks like a scrappy group, a risky lay of Argentina to win the group could be in order and overs in bookings could be the value.
One to watch: Messi, this could be his last chance for greatness on this stage and what ever happens I'm expecting his international retirement the moment Argentina are finished - in lose or draw.
Dark horse to watch: Mateo Kovacic - yes he plays for Real Madrid but in my book he's underrated and has the potential to do something.
Tuesday, 29 May 2018
World Cup 2018 Preview: Group C
Australia
The socceroos are becoming quite a fixture at the World Cup, indeed after decades of no qualifying this is their fourth World Cup in a row. Australia had one of the more exciting qualification campaigns losing out on automatic qualification on goal difference, going into a two legged playoff with Syria and after two 1-1 matches going through in extra time thanks to a 109 minute goal from Tim Cahill.
Yes you read that right Tim Cahill, he's still going however despite the 38 year old being included in the initial 32 man squad Australia have quite a decent team. With Brad Jones at Feyenoord and Mathew Ryan at Brighton they have a better goal keeper situation that some of the traditional bigger nations. Up front and in defence they will struggle however they do have a decent midfield including a core of Championship players as well as Aaron Mooy of Huddersfield and Tom Rogic who whilst being a tad injury prone has been one of Celtics players to watch for the last few seasons.
Denmark
Oooh I do have a soft spot for the Danes, a rag tag group of viking footballing warriors who are often good value for a shock and only went and won Euro 92. Things however are not rosy for the Danish Dynamite, before this tournament they've found it tricky progressing through the qualifying competition.
The squad is again made up of a rag tag bunch with some potential up-and-comers as well as journeymen and Nicklas Bendtner. They do however have a good keeper in Kasper the friendly Schmeichel and a good record of punching above their weight.
France
On first look an absolute beast of a squad, an absolute beast my friends - you could make a first 11 to be in contention from the players they left out! However dig a little deeper and things are not what they appear, a number of this squad haven't had the best of seasons; Pogba has been virtually invisible at times this season, Lloris has been very ill disciplined and Giroud has continued to look like a player 30 years out of his time. Also a lot of this squad has been in and out of their club sides with a few of the bigger name frequently appearing on the bench.
Against that Griezmann continues to be in the form of his life, Kante is still one of the best midfielders in world football and Tolisso has had a fantastic season. The slightly lesser known players like Fekir and Lemar could have bigger than expected roles and I look forward to seeing it. In France we have something of a vulnerable favourite, this is a good group for them and they have screwed up the group stage in the past.
Of note is Paul Pogba, two years ago he was arguably the best player in the world, he underperformed in the Euros and hasn't struck the Premiership alight to the extent that he should have. He needs a big tournament.
Peru
Ah the Incas, or as most people refer to them the marmalade sandwiches. At interesting qualifying campaign saw them finish 5th in the South American group and go into a playoff with New Zealand which saw Paddington beat Frodo 2-0 on aggregate. Most of the players are based in South America those that aren't are journeymen. Sadly theres nothing to see here and they could be fighting with Australia for the last place in this group.
Summing Up
This could be a dull group, France stand head and shoulders above the rest. I'd like to see the Danes squeak through and put some pressure on France but wouldn't like to predict anything.
Tips: France to win the group, Peru not to qualify and me to be doing my hair when one of these games is going on.
One to watch: Paul Pogba, I want him to set the world alight and stop making me look bad.
Dark horse to watch: Kasper Dolberg.
The socceroos are becoming quite a fixture at the World Cup, indeed after decades of no qualifying this is their fourth World Cup in a row. Australia had one of the more exciting qualification campaigns losing out on automatic qualification on goal difference, going into a two legged playoff with Syria and after two 1-1 matches going through in extra time thanks to a 109 minute goal from Tim Cahill.
Yes you read that right Tim Cahill, he's still going however despite the 38 year old being included in the initial 32 man squad Australia have quite a decent team. With Brad Jones at Feyenoord and Mathew Ryan at Brighton they have a better goal keeper situation that some of the traditional bigger nations. Up front and in defence they will struggle however they do have a decent midfield including a core of Championship players as well as Aaron Mooy of Huddersfield and Tom Rogic who whilst being a tad injury prone has been one of Celtics players to watch for the last few seasons.
Denmark
Oooh I do have a soft spot for the Danes, a rag tag group of viking footballing warriors who are often good value for a shock and only went and won Euro 92. Things however are not rosy for the Danish Dynamite, before this tournament they've found it tricky progressing through the qualifying competition.
The squad is again made up of a rag tag bunch with some potential up-and-comers as well as journeymen and Nicklas Bendtner. They do however have a good keeper in Kasper the friendly Schmeichel and a good record of punching above their weight.
France
On first look an absolute beast of a squad, an absolute beast my friends - you could make a first 11 to be in contention from the players they left out! However dig a little deeper and things are not what they appear, a number of this squad haven't had the best of seasons; Pogba has been virtually invisible at times this season, Lloris has been very ill disciplined and Giroud has continued to look like a player 30 years out of his time. Also a lot of this squad has been in and out of their club sides with a few of the bigger name frequently appearing on the bench.
Against that Griezmann continues to be in the form of his life, Kante is still one of the best midfielders in world football and Tolisso has had a fantastic season. The slightly lesser known players like Fekir and Lemar could have bigger than expected roles and I look forward to seeing it. In France we have something of a vulnerable favourite, this is a good group for them and they have screwed up the group stage in the past.
Of note is Paul Pogba, two years ago he was arguably the best player in the world, he underperformed in the Euros and hasn't struck the Premiership alight to the extent that he should have. He needs a big tournament.
Peru
Ah the Incas, or as most people refer to them the marmalade sandwiches. At interesting qualifying campaign saw them finish 5th in the South American group and go into a playoff with New Zealand which saw Paddington beat Frodo 2-0 on aggregate. Most of the players are based in South America those that aren't are journeymen. Sadly theres nothing to see here and they could be fighting with Australia for the last place in this group.
Summing Up
This could be a dull group, France stand head and shoulders above the rest. I'd like to see the Danes squeak through and put some pressure on France but wouldn't like to predict anything.
Tips: France to win the group, Peru not to qualify and me to be doing my hair when one of these games is going on.
One to watch: Paul Pogba, I want him to set the world alight and stop making me look bad.
Dark horse to watch: Kasper Dolberg.
Monday, 28 May 2018
Liverpool FC the End of Season Report 2017/18
Finally we have reached the end of the season, a season which saw Liverpool eventually finish 4th in the Premier League, reach the Champions League final and saw Mohamed Salah conquer the world. As such we reach the onset of summer and along with other traditions such as strawberries with cream its time for the end of term report. The following ratings are based on the season as a whole so will reflect the ups and downs that players go through the course of the season and a rating out of 10 for the season. While endeavouring to be fair I am a firm task master and highly observant when it comes to football. Without further ado lets get into things;
Simon Mignolet - A series of weak performances in the first half of the season left me thinking 'same old Mignolet.' Just when I was resigned to Mignolet playing in goal for us until the end of time Jurgen Klopp finally lost patience and dropped him. 7 All I can say is I lost confidence in Simon seasons ago, the guy is to nervous between the posts and can't control his penalty area. I hope we call it quits with him and move him on in summer so he can get on with his career. 4/10
Lorius Karius - After a few early season cameos Karius was made our number one keeper in January and he made one hell on an improvement. The positioning of our defence hasn't improved so much since Jamie Carragher retired. A more physical presence than Mingolet and more match aware he showed to be a step up from Mingolet. However I do have to say there is room for improvement - in particular the positioning of his walls during free kick and his positioning during crosses. I'm not sure he's our long term keeper, he's a step up over the previous one. Of note both goal keepers played exactly the same amount of games and Karius got more clean sheets. He now has a seasons experience (spread over two years) and I expect to see him improve over the coming months if he's to be our number one. The Champions League final will make or break him but realistically will be looking for another keeper, I don't think he has a choice but to either move or become our number two. 5.5/10
Virgil van Dijk - An absolute immense player, commanding, good tackler, reads the game has pace and isn't afraid to bark orders. van Dijk is the kind of player who we always used to go for and the kind of player we've missed. Since his arrival in January we've finally got a beast in our back line and I think long term he will be the club captain. 8/10
Dejan Lovren - Over the course of his time with us Lovren has been up and down like a yo yo. This season however he's been by and large consistent - which in a central defender is a good thing. Klopp has sorted out his tendency to go walkabout out of position and despite being at fault for the odd goal throughout the season he hasn't been as disaster prone as previous seasons. Plus after losing his position he knuckled down and has become reliable. 5/10
Joe Gomez - Not quite a mainstay this season but he's moved beyond being a fringe player. He's coming on nicely - looked composed during the Champions League despite arguably playing out of position. I expect to see him forcing himself into the starting lineup more often next season. 6/10
Ragnar Klaven - A perfectly decent veteran squad player whose able to come in when asked and do a job. 5/10
Alberto Moreno - Sometimes a players season is defined by one match and in Morenos case its that 3-3 draw against Sevilla in which he had a large role in costing us a three goal lead. For the second year in a row he's lost his spot in the team but this time its hard to see him winning it back. It looks very much like his time is limited due to constant under performance. Not a good season. 2/10
Andrew Robertson - A slow burn first season for Robertson, off field problems meant that for a large portions of the early season he wasn't named in our squad but by the end of the season he was one of the first names on the team sheet. He looks like a good solid player who will get stronger. 7/10
Joel Matip - A tricky second season for the man who was our defensive lynch pin last season. A loss of form and injury has made this a season to forget. Hope he comes back stronger next year and forms a partnership with van Dijk. 4.5/10
Trent Alexander-Arnold - A season to dream of for the kid. Slowly bedded into the team over the season he has nailed down the right back slot and turned from the weak link having to be protected by others to a player who can stand on his own two feet. His England call up is well earned but still has a lot to learn. 7/10
Georginio Wijnaldum - A very erratic season for Windjammer. He has rotated between the dynamic passer we know he can be and peripheral player who has been virtually anonymous. Also his goals seem to have dried up this season. Needs to be doing a lot more. 5/10
Jordan Henderson - Another member of the middle three whose had a weak season. At times he's looked lost and has been the captain in name only. Those gorgeous passes and goal setting up chips have been far and few this season. Also his defensive game has got weaker, he's often been a better player when we don't have the ball but he has underperformed this season. 4/10
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - Arriving in August I was a bit dubious of his signing, I expected him to be an impact squad player and saw him nothing more than an impact substitute winger. This kid can play! On top of that he doesn't moan about being a sub as he's 50/50 a starter or sub. On top of that he can play in the middle three which was a shock to me and has given our midfield some much needed dynamism and goals. 7.5/10
James Milner - After last seasons exploits at left back it was back to midfield this year. In any other season he would have a case for being our player of the season. Defensively excellent and (especially in the Champions League) set up many a goal. Theres a case for him being made the full club captain. 8/10
Adam Lallana - A season marred by injury but while he was fit he did nothing. 1/10
Emre Can - An injury affected season but largely a decent one, when he wasn't there he was much missed. However when he was around there was the question has his head been turned by the rumoured move? There was however more bite in our middle three with him and like the Ox he scored a few goals. It looks like he's going but I've a soft spot for him and would rather keep him than certain others. 5/10
Roberto Firmino - A very good season where he scored goals and changed his game to be a more rounded player. 8.5/10
Philippe Coutinho - Left us mid season but left us in good form and I wish him all the best. 8/10
Sadio Mane - A very good second season in which he created and scored many a goal. Looked dynamic in midfield and was a joy to behold when running with the ball. 8/10
Dominic Solanke - For a young striker at a new team its all about that first goal, it took him to long to get. He needs to be getting more goals, he'll get more pitch time next year and needs to make the most of it. 3/10
Danny Ings - I'm not going to rate Danny as I don't think its fair. Personally I think given his injuries he needs to hang up his boots and get another job.
Mohamed Salah - When signing him I expected goals after his two seasons in Serie A. I would have been happy with him on double figures and setting up the same. However he has been our player of the season, scored a shed load of goals as well as setting them up for others. 10/10
Jurgen Klopp - Some very nice additions to the squad and got us to the Champions League final. I feel theres only two places Klopp needs to improve and that's to be less forgiving of players and to not be afraid to drop someone for having a poor run. Secondly game management needs to be improved and we still need to learn how to kill games off and to have more than one set of tactics. 8/10
Now that was a season and a half - unless I hear any different lets do it all again next season.
Simon Mignolet - A series of weak performances in the first half of the season left me thinking 'same old Mignolet.' Just when I was resigned to Mignolet playing in goal for us until the end of time Jurgen Klopp finally lost patience and dropped him. 7 All I can say is I lost confidence in Simon seasons ago, the guy is to nervous between the posts and can't control his penalty area. I hope we call it quits with him and move him on in summer so he can get on with his career. 4/10
Lorius Karius - After a few early season cameos Karius was made our number one keeper in January and he made one hell on an improvement. The positioning of our defence hasn't improved so much since Jamie Carragher retired. A more physical presence than Mingolet and more match aware he showed to be a step up from Mingolet. However I do have to say there is room for improvement - in particular the positioning of his walls during free kick and his positioning during crosses. I'm not sure he's our long term keeper, he's a step up over the previous one. Of note both goal keepers played exactly the same amount of games and Karius got more clean sheets. He now has a seasons experience (spread over two years) and I expect to see him improve over the coming months if he's to be our number one. The Champions League final will make or break him but realistically will be looking for another keeper, I don't think he has a choice but to either move or become our number two. 5.5/10
Virgil van Dijk - An absolute immense player, commanding, good tackler, reads the game has pace and isn't afraid to bark orders. van Dijk is the kind of player who we always used to go for and the kind of player we've missed. Since his arrival in January we've finally got a beast in our back line and I think long term he will be the club captain. 8/10
Dejan Lovren - Over the course of his time with us Lovren has been up and down like a yo yo. This season however he's been by and large consistent - which in a central defender is a good thing. Klopp has sorted out his tendency to go walkabout out of position and despite being at fault for the odd goal throughout the season he hasn't been as disaster prone as previous seasons. Plus after losing his position he knuckled down and has become reliable. 5/10
Joe Gomez - Not quite a mainstay this season but he's moved beyond being a fringe player. He's coming on nicely - looked composed during the Champions League despite arguably playing out of position. I expect to see him forcing himself into the starting lineup more often next season. 6/10
Ragnar Klaven - A perfectly decent veteran squad player whose able to come in when asked and do a job. 5/10
Alberto Moreno - Sometimes a players season is defined by one match and in Morenos case its that 3-3 draw against Sevilla in which he had a large role in costing us a three goal lead. For the second year in a row he's lost his spot in the team but this time its hard to see him winning it back. It looks very much like his time is limited due to constant under performance. Not a good season. 2/10
Andrew Robertson - A slow burn first season for Robertson, off field problems meant that for a large portions of the early season he wasn't named in our squad but by the end of the season he was one of the first names on the team sheet. He looks like a good solid player who will get stronger. 7/10
Joel Matip - A tricky second season for the man who was our defensive lynch pin last season. A loss of form and injury has made this a season to forget. Hope he comes back stronger next year and forms a partnership with van Dijk. 4.5/10
Trent Alexander-Arnold - A season to dream of for the kid. Slowly bedded into the team over the season he has nailed down the right back slot and turned from the weak link having to be protected by others to a player who can stand on his own two feet. His England call up is well earned but still has a lot to learn. 7/10
Georginio Wijnaldum - A very erratic season for Windjammer. He has rotated between the dynamic passer we know he can be and peripheral player who has been virtually anonymous. Also his goals seem to have dried up this season. Needs to be doing a lot more. 5/10
Jordan Henderson - Another member of the middle three whose had a weak season. At times he's looked lost and has been the captain in name only. Those gorgeous passes and goal setting up chips have been far and few this season. Also his defensive game has got weaker, he's often been a better player when we don't have the ball but he has underperformed this season. 4/10
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - Arriving in August I was a bit dubious of his signing, I expected him to be an impact squad player and saw him nothing more than an impact substitute winger. This kid can play! On top of that he doesn't moan about being a sub as he's 50/50 a starter or sub. On top of that he can play in the middle three which was a shock to me and has given our midfield some much needed dynamism and goals. 7.5/10
James Milner - After last seasons exploits at left back it was back to midfield this year. In any other season he would have a case for being our player of the season. Defensively excellent and (especially in the Champions League) set up many a goal. Theres a case for him being made the full club captain. 8/10
Adam Lallana - A season marred by injury but while he was fit he did nothing. 1/10
Emre Can - An injury affected season but largely a decent one, when he wasn't there he was much missed. However when he was around there was the question has his head been turned by the rumoured move? There was however more bite in our middle three with him and like the Ox he scored a few goals. It looks like he's going but I've a soft spot for him and would rather keep him than certain others. 5/10
Roberto Firmino - A very good season where he scored goals and changed his game to be a more rounded player. 8.5/10
Philippe Coutinho - Left us mid season but left us in good form and I wish him all the best. 8/10
Sadio Mane - A very good second season in which he created and scored many a goal. Looked dynamic in midfield and was a joy to behold when running with the ball. 8/10
Dominic Solanke - For a young striker at a new team its all about that first goal, it took him to long to get. He needs to be getting more goals, he'll get more pitch time next year and needs to make the most of it. 3/10
Danny Ings - I'm not going to rate Danny as I don't think its fair. Personally I think given his injuries he needs to hang up his boots and get another job.
Mohamed Salah - When signing him I expected goals after his two seasons in Serie A. I would have been happy with him on double figures and setting up the same. However he has been our player of the season, scored a shed load of goals as well as setting them up for others. 10/10
Jurgen Klopp - Some very nice additions to the squad and got us to the Champions League final. I feel theres only two places Klopp needs to improve and that's to be less forgiving of players and to not be afraid to drop someone for having a poor run. Secondly game management needs to be improved and we still need to learn how to kill games off and to have more than one set of tactics. 8/10
Now that was a season and a half - unless I hear any different lets do it all again next season.
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