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Liverpool FC, football, sport / Re: January Transfer Window 2018
« on: January 07, 2018, 07:15:35 PM »I think Klopp understands that you don't necessarily replace 'certain' players, you replace or improve on 'their effect'.
Only when Coutinho didn't play in the front three does our midfield have real 'creativity', especially if Lallana is missing. Even then, it's been more a front four rather than Coutinho really playing in midfield.
Improving the pace, dynamism and 'real' creativity (Lallana aside) of our midfield (Can, Hendo, Wijnaldum) would help hugely.
Mane now gets the chance to play most games and rediscover his top form, and as Lallana's fitness and match touch comes back, we have two things to help fill the gap in a slightly different way.
Oxlade-Chamberlain is gradually have more impact, and as that develops, it will bring something additional.
Coutinho's a pretty unique player, hence Barca wanting him above others. We can adapt and develop, rather than try to replicate. After all, how many trophies did the 'collective' win with Coutinho in it?
that final point, is something that I have been thinking about too.
How often has Phil ever even looked like leading us to a league title, or a cup.
Suarez was the guy who nearly hauled us to the title a few years back. But Phil has never been in that class.
I will always remember him scoring a great dinked goal at Old Trafford the other season, to put the UEFA Cup two-legged tie to bed just before half time. That will be my favourite moment of Phil's......as well as his great free-kicks.
As you say, it's not a case of replacing like-with-like. Every player brings their own attributes and personality to a team.
Like you, I would like to see creativity added to our midfield. And also a holding midfielder too, to protect the defence......not forgetting a new keeper.