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Liverpool FC News, Opinion, Transfer Rumours and Discussion
Updated: 1 hour 7 min ago

Premier League change rule that helped create Liverpool’s ‘Barcelona moment’

1 hour 26 min ago

With the Premier League reaching the crucial 10 games left stage, they have given new instructions to ball boys and girls to stem ‘unfair’ home advantage.

We have all witnessed great and indefensible moments with ball boys and girls over the years, from the Eden Hazard altercation to Trent Alexander-Arnold‘s corner taken quickly.

Clubs have not been shy in encouraging balls to be handed over swiftly for their own team, wisely tapping into the advantage of having ball assistants on their side.

However, the Premier League is stopping that in its tracks for the run-in, with the Telegraph reporting ball assistants can no longer throw the balls back to players during a match.

Instead, the multi-ball system will require players to collect a ball from the nearest cone themselves, with the ball boys and girls not even allowed to be next to the cones.

 A Liverpool ball-boy (ball assistant) during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Southampton FC at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 A Liverpool ball-boy (ball assistant) during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Southampton FC at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

It was a different competition, but Alexander-Arnold’s corner taken quickly in the comeback win over Barcelona wouldn’t have been possible without the swift thinking of ball boy and academy player Oakley Cannonier.

Now, in the Premier League, this would not be possible as the onus is on players if they want to keep the game moving quickly.

The new rule, which will come into effect this weekend, comes after some high-profile incidents with Coventry and Fulham, but it is not said to be the sole catalyst for the alteration.

The rule now states: “When the match ball goes out of play and is not quickly retrievable, players must go to the nearest cone to collect a replacement ball themselves to restart play.

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“Ball assistants are not permitted to return a ball to a player. Ball assistants are required to return a ball to a vacant cone each time a replacement ball is used.

“Ball assistants should not be positioned next to cones so that it is clear they will not return balls to players (and be behind LED boards where possible).”

While this does help negate home advantage, surely this also plays into the hands of those wishing to time waste with a leisurely stroll to whichever pitch-side cone they choose.

Liverpool’s ball assistants are members of the club’s academy, just like Jayden Danns, whose picture on the Anfield touchline from less than two years ago recently went viral.

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Trent Alexander-Arnold steps up recovery with return target set

2 hours 24 min ago

Trent Alexander-Arnold is back on the outdoor pitches at the AXA Training Centre in a big step in his recovery as he edges closer to a return to competitive action.

The vice-captain has missed the last nine matches due to a reoccurrence of the knee injury that sidelined him for three games at the start of the year.

In a conversation with Liverpool fans during an open day at the training ground, Klopp disclosed that Alexander-Arnold is “still injured, but getting closer.”

And there was evidence of that thanks to Liverpool’s social media channels, with the 25-year-old’s gym and outdoor session filmed, showing him working with the ball during a series of drills.

Step by step ? pic.twitter.com/BJsJBVUEhX

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 28, 2024

He has yet to return to team training, but it is a positive step forward for Alexander-Arnold, who is targeting a return against either Atalanta in the Europa League or Crystal Palace on April 14.

That is according to the Athletic, who add that the club are, rightly, taking a cautious approach having already seen the right-back have a longer spell out after returning too early the last time.

That timeline, therefore, could still shift, but at least the end of his absence is in sight, much like Diogo Jota, Curtis Jones and Alisson – all of whom are expected back in April.

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The Reds could do with luck on the injury front once the run-in commences against Brighton on Sunday, having seen only five players avoid any fitness issues this season.

And we seem to have started well on that front as Andy Robertson‘s prognosis, thankfully, has been a positive one.

His absence with an ankle knock is expected to be limited to days rather than weeks, and the Independent even reported he could be in contention against Sheffield United next week.

We expect to hear more from Jurgen Klopp when he hosts his pre-Brighton press conference on Friday at 1.30pm (BST).

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Ruben Amorim or Roberto De Zerbi then? – Liverpool fans react to Alonso decision

2 hours 56 min ago

Liverpool fans were blindsided by the news that Xabi Alonso is expected to stay at Bayer Leverkusen, but then it was quickly time to weigh up the alternatives.

Sporting’s Ruben Amorim or Brighton‘s Roberto De Zerbi, that quickly became the topic of discussion among fans when the line dropped regarding the club moving on from Alonso.

The Spaniard was the frontrunner and a popular candidate among fans, who have been enthusiastically tracking his progress with Leverkusen this season.

But with Liverpool now expecting Alonso to remain loyal, they have to move on, and while there was disappointment that a reunion with the ex-Red is off the table, supporters also understood why:

Can't miss what you never had.

You'd struggle to find a bigger Xabi Alonso fan than me. But fair play to him if he wants to stick with Leverkusen.

— Jason Roberts (@JaseRoberts_) March 28, 2024

While it's disappointing as a fan – and assuming the story has no further to run – Xabi not leaving a club at the first serious signs of "bigger" club interest, is, frankly, to be lauded. It's not a never, and he could well be a better manager for it if the time ever comes. #lfc

— David Phillips (@lovefutebol) March 28, 2024

When I had a look for Klopp successors last month, these were the gettable options who showed up as dominant in the data:

Nagelsmann, Conceicao, Amorim, Xavi, Tuchel, Schmidt, Flick, Inzaghi, Gasperini, De Zerbi and Alonso.

— Josh Williams (@DistanceCovered) March 28, 2024

Been more and more noise this last few days suggesting he’d do another season at Leverkusen so this comes as no surprise tbh. https://t.co/68WXeIlWfv

— Stephen Evans (@StephenEvans75) March 28, 2024

If you don’t think that Madrid have been in Xabi’s ear you’re fucking mad btw. He’ll stay another year at Leverkusen while Bayern transition under De Zerbi and then he’ll be off to manage Bellingham, Camavinga, Tchou, Vini, Endrick and Mbappe after back to back Bundesliga titles.

— Biggies Malls 2.0 (@Biggies_MaIIs) March 28, 2024

I think the Xabi news today is a positive in a way. We have clarity over who’s available on March 28 not June 1 & we can move on quick. Luis Diaz agent being the same as Amorim maybe useful but has reported. 25M release clause. Maybe someone else as well.

— Moby (@Mobyhaque1) March 28, 2024

Staying at Leverkusen is the smartest thing for him to do unfortunately for us. I think it has to be Amorim now. Or get Inzaghi and sign him up to a premium Duolingo subscription.

If it's De Zerbi I'll announce a time and place for the suicide pact. https://t.co/8LvIPlWSuk

— barry (@BackseatsmanLFC) March 28, 2024

Nagging feeling with Xabi from the off, esp given his character, was it’s too soon into his Leverkusen project to exit for a bigger gig. Easy with Bayern: the job likely to come again sharpish. Real still lie in wait. LFC was a rare shot. He’s staying true to himself and his work

— Melissa Reddy (@MelissaReddy_) March 28, 2024

So, it currently leaves Amorim and De Zerbi as the leading candidates, and there were plenty of arguments for and against both managers.

There’s a mystery over Amorim for some due to managing in Portugal, while De Zerbi is more of a known quantity thanks to plying his trade in the Premier League, which we’ll see more of on Sunday…

De Zerbi has admirers and critics – but not just for his football…

For the record I think De Zerbi is a promising manager, who lost his best two midfielders / players and is working under pretty difficult restrictions with the specific model at Brighton. That said it’s likely too big a step up, as it might well be for others we target.

— Rory Greenfield (@RoryGreenfield) March 28, 2024

Filmed a show with @Knox_Harrington on De Zerbi last month. Still think he’s being massively overlooked.

Brighton created the most shots in the Premier League last season. More than Man City over 38 games. That is outrageous. pic.twitter.com/pyJNDLpPVG

— Josh Williams (@DistanceCovered) March 28, 2024

Feel like De Zerbi slander is a bit too much tbh. Lost MacA & Caicedo + has had around 148 injuries this szn. The football he was playing last szn was superior to 17/18 City. Only concerns are it's a heavy departure from our current football & also spiky hair when touching 50.

— SamWebo (@lfcwxbb) March 29, 2024

I know it’s unpopular, but De Zerbi is my number one choice. He would excel at our club.

— Kam Jannati (@kjannati) March 29, 2024

I'm not on board with De Zerbi at all. It feels like a complete departure of what we are right now – which is intensity and a swiss-army knife of solutions in a game – to a very formulaic style of play that us a lot more predictable. I have many concerns.#LFC

— D Davidson (@BackseatLiverFC) March 29, 2024

been a huge de zerbi fan since he joined brighton, one of the reasons why i enjoy watching them, just doesn’t seem like a liverpool manager though, need someone with charisma etc

— Vik (@LFCVik2) March 29, 2024

De Zerbi is such an intriguing option. If he was Liverpool manager I think he'd either do really well or be sacked within 18 months. Don't think there's an in-between with him.

I'm not as dismissive of him as the majority seems to be.

— Josh (@JoshCF_) March 29, 2024

Title race aside if there was ever a reason to beat Brighton 5-0 then the opportunity to stop Roberto De Zerbi becoming the next Liverpool manager has to be at the forefront of every player who takes to that pitch. https://t.co/N5usOaIVlP

— Paul Anderson (@PaulAndo1987) March 28, 2024

i have never watched amorim’s sporting play a single game but i do not like de zerbi’s haircut so he is now my top choice by default

— lesbian al gaib (@lauraw97_) March 28, 2024

There’s some unknowns with Amorim, but a lot more positivity…

All of this; the youth development, the tactical intelligence + versatility, the fundamentals shared with Klopp, and the consistent results make a stronger case than De Zerbi, who, albeit successful last year, has struggled with consistency and the same tactical versatility (5/5)

— Maxi (@MaaxiAngelo) March 28, 2024

Liverpool more confident and at ease with Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes in position to source the new manager. Stylistically (press metrics, directness, speed) + silverware against the odds makes Ruben Amorim a strong fit. Hughes is a Roberto De Zerbi fan – for good reason pic.twitter.com/7B2ztJ44fO

— Melissa Reddy (@MelissaReddy_) March 28, 2024

? Sporting CP have conceded the lowest expected goals in the Primeira Liga three times out of Ruben Amorim’s last four seasons at the club.

He has built a very solid defensive structure. Likes to play a high line – similar to Jürgen Klopp.

Although I don’t think his pressing… pic.twitter.com/25JA1BCylj

— Bence Bocsák (@BenBocsak) March 28, 2024

There are two big things Amorim has that will stand out for Liverpool:

1. Competed (and won) against 2 clubs with bigger financial resources

2. Superb record developing young players

— Matt Ladson (@mattladson) March 29, 2024

Amorim values aerially dominant centre-backs btw pic.twitter.com/QvkfNZflPf

— Sam McGuire (@SamMcGuire90) March 28, 2024

Jude Bellingham rejected us, and look how well that worked for Liverpool.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister proved to be sensational signings for us. Pure class.

I hope it's the same for Rúben Amorim. He's certainly a winner and one of the best young managers around.

— Dahir ??? (@dboetan7i) March 28, 2024

Jurgen Klopp is irreplaceable. That’s a fact. If we didn’t get our first choice then our second choice will have to do. Fortunately with Edwards & the team back I feel more confident about our second & third choices. Amorim is a fantastic young coach if it’s him.

— Moby (@Mobyhaque1) March 28, 2024

Amorim intrigues me. Is he the data/analytical appointment?

De Zerbi I'm wary of. Style of play mightnt suit us.

Nagelsman..is he mature enough? Not sure.

— Scouser_Les_LFC (@Scouser_Les_LFC) March 29, 2024

I'm not going to pretend to know enough about Amorim to comment. This is an opinion on De Zerbi. IMO, we shouldn't completely depart from the framework that Klopp helped build. I think that framework has helped the club to both be successful + recover in tough times.#LFC https://t.co/NJACJmmrpi

— D Davidson (@BackseatLiverFC) March 29, 2024

Let us know what you think in the comments below!

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Xabi Alonso NOT on Liverpool manager shortlist – staying at Leverkusen

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 21:24

Liverpool do not expect they will be able to lure Xabi Alonso away from Bayer Leverkusen this summer as they look to appoint a new manager.

The Spaniard quickly emerged as the frontrunner for the job when it was confirmed in January that Jurgen Klopp would depart after almost nine years in charge.

However, This Is Anfield understands that the Reds are ready to move onto other managerial targets amid an expectation that Alonso will stay put this summer.

The 42-year-old has been at Leverkusen for less than two years, and is thought to be keen to repay their faith by remaining at the helm.

The news comes as a blow to Liverpool given Alonso’s achievements since taking charge at the BayArena have established him as the arguably the most promising coach in European football.

Leverkusen are yet to suffer defeat in any competition this season, a run that has taken them into the latter stages of the DFB-Pokal and Europa League and seen them carve out a 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga.

The latter statistic is particularly impressive given that the German club have never once lifted a top-flight title in their history.

They now look set to not only do that, but also be led into a Champions League campaign under Alonso next season.

As for Liverpool, they must now search for an alternative candidate, with Ruben Amorim and Roberto De Zerbi known to be among the coaches they admire.

Bayern also give up Alonso chase

 head coach Xabi Alonso of Bayer 04 Leverkusen during the Group B - UEFA Champions League match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and FC Porto at the BayArena on October 12, 2022 in Leverkusen, Germany (Photo by Joris Verwijst/Orange Pictures)

 head coach Xabi Alonso of Bayer 04 Leverkusen during the Group B - UEFA Champions League match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and FC Porto at the BayArena on October 12, 2022 in Leverkusen, Germany (Photo by Joris Verwijst/Orange Pictures)

The news comes after Bayern Munich also publicly gave up on Alonso, with honorary president Uli Hoeness saying:

“I feel that it will be very difficult to sign Xabi Alonso, not to say probably impossible. I can certainly imagine him staying at Bayer Leverkusen to continue his job.

“[Alonso] is more inclined to stay at Bayer Leverkusen in view of their current successes, because he would not want to leave them behind. Let’s say if he had two or three more years of success, it would probably be easier to bring him out of there.”

Seemingly, Alonso’s agent has informed Liverpool and Bayern that he will not be leaving Leverkusen, and the two clubs will now look for alternative options.

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The perceived favourite for the Liverpool job will now be Sporting’s Ruben Amorim, whose side are top of the Portuguese league.

The other main candidate is Brighton‘s Roberto De Zerbi, whose side are the opposition at Anfield on Sunday. De Zerbi is considered a frontrunner for the Bayern job, too.

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Confirmed Liverpool squad return to training – Jones & Konate absent

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 18:15

Curtis Jones and Ibrahima Konate were absent as the Liverpool squad reassembled at the AXA Training Centre on Thursday, three days before the visit of Brighton.

With the international break over and players back on Merseyside, it is time to turn focus to the visit of Brighton on Sunday.

Andy Robertson was a notable and expected absentee from training on Thursday after injuring his ankle with Scotland, though the latest reports suggest it is not serious and he could even return to the squad for Thursday’s visit of Sheffield United.

Thankfully, the Reds otherwise emerged unscathed from the break, and in the first main session back, Klopp oversaw a 21-man outfield squad.

That, though, did not include Curtis Jones. The midfielder has missed the last eight matches with ankle ligament damage and was expected to mark his return against the Seagulls, though that will now be in doubt.

 Liverpool's Darwin Núñez (L) and Luis Díaz during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group E match between LASK and Liverpool FC. (Pic by Andrew Yeats/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Darwin Núñez (L) and Luis Díaz during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group E match between LASK and Liverpool FC. (Pic by Andrew Yeats/Propaganda)

Ibrahima Konate was another not pictured on the training field after marking his injury return with France, though there is still plenty of time between now and Sunday’s 2pm kickoff.

Kostas Tsimikas was also missing but he is likely on an extended recovery after playing 120 minutes in Greece’s defeat in the Euros play off on Tuesday night.

Darwin Nunez, who pulled out of Uruguay’s squad with a hamstring complaint, was involved in the session, just as he was on Wednesday when a small group assembled for training.

A number of youngsters were involved in the session once again, including defender Amaro Nallo, forward Trent Kone-Doherty, and midfielders Trey Nyoni and Kieran Morrison.

There was still no Trent Alexander-Arnold or Diogo Jota, though a return within the next fortnight is being targeted by the pair – the latter of whom has been seen in individual training at the AXA.

Klopp will provide a full update on his squad when he fronts the media for his press conference on Friday (1.30pm BST).

Liverpool squad spotted in training on Thursday

 Liverpool's manager Jürgen Klopp during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Liverpool FC and FC Toulouse. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's manager Jürgen Klopp during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Liverpool FC and FC Toulouse. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Defenders: Van Dijk, Gomez, Bradley, Nallo, Quansah

Midfielders: Endo, Gravenberch, Elliott, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, McConnell, Morrison, Nyoni

Forwards: Nunez, Salah, Diaz, Gakpo, Gordon, Danns, Koumas, Kone-Doherty

Not in training: Alisson, Konate, Matip, Alexander-Arnold, Robertson, Jones, Thiago, Bajcetic, Doak, Jota, Tsimikas

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Kieran Morrison: How Man United’s loss was Liverpool’s gain with Curtis Jones doppelganger

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 18:00
With there always an eye on the next one to break through at Liverpool, the development of Kieran Morrison within the academy should be closely followed.

Liverpool are building themselves quite the Northern Irish contingent at the moment.

The rise of Conor Bradley continues, with the 20-year-old adding a first international goal to his already-significant list of accomplishments this season.

At U21 level, Trent Kone-Doherty is making steady progress. The Derry-born teenager has impressed with Barry Lewtas‘ side this season, and has regularly been spotted training with Jurgen Klopp‘s senior squad too.

Off the field, the Ulster connection remains strong too. Barry Hunter, Coleraine born and bred, is the Reds’ chief scout, while Matt Newberry is one of the club’s unsung heroes, helping bring both Bradley and Kone-Doherty, as well as the likes of Stefan Bajcetic, Bobby Clark, Ben Doak, Calum Scanlon, James McConnell and Kaide Gordon, to Merseyside.

Throw in Andy Kelly, the popular and long-serving head of academy and women’s press, and you have a healthy group emerging down at Kirkby.

The latest addition to it is an exciting one, too.

How Liverpool signed Kieran Morrison from Man United

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison on the pitch before the FA Youth Cup 5th Round match between Ipswich Town FC Under-18's and Liverpool FC Under-18's at Portman Road. (Pic by Stephen Pond/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison on the pitch before the FA Youth Cup 5th Round match between Ipswich Town FC Under-18's and Liverpool FC Under-18's at Portman Road. (Pic by Stephen Pond/Propaganda)

In a season in which Liverpool’s academy has thrived, made headlines and produced countless magic moments, the development of Kieran Morrison has been there for all to see.

The 17-year-old, who has already represented Northern Ireland at U19 level, has been one of the standout performers for Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s U18 side, and will now step up permanently to Lewtas’ U21s.

He trained with the senior squad at the AXA during this most recent international break, and will hope to get the chance to do so again before the end of the campaign, or at least in pre-season.

A versatile, left-footed attacking midfielder, Morrison joined Liverpool as an U14 player, having originally been spotted by Bolton Wanderers as a six-year-old and then subsequently spending eight years at Manchester United.

Despite being a Manchester lad – he grew up in Cheetham Hill and resides now in Salford – the decision to leave Old Trafford was a family one, with Liverpool viewed as the best place to develop.

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison during the pre-match warm-up before the FA Youth Cup 5th Round match between Leeds United FC Under-18's and Liverpool FC Under-18's at Elland Road. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison during the pre-match warm-up before the FA Youth Cup 5th Round match between Leeds United FC Under-18's and Liverpool FC Under-18's at Elland Road. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

The Reds have good contacts in the Greater Manchester area – the likes of Ryan Kent and James Balagizi, among others, were recruited that way – and their senior academy recruitment staff, chiefly Wayne Woods, had regularly delivered glowing reports on Morrison, who is one of five brothers and who qualifies for Northern Ireland through his grandmother.

He has certainly made an impact since arriving on Merseyside, with coaches remarking upon not only his talent, but his personality. ‘He has an edge to him’, seems to be a common consensus, but that is certainly not viewed as a negative.

Indeed, he has been compared to Curtis Jones because of the way he backs and believes in himself – not to mention the dark curly hair! – but his style of play, often starting on the right wing but cutting infield to score and create with his left foot, is reminiscent of another Reds academy product, the Fulham and Wales star Harry Wilson.

Like Wilson, or indeed Jones, Morrison is quick but not super-quick, relying more on his technique, vision and speed of thought.

What can we expect?

 Liverpool's Trent Kone-Doherty (L) celebrates with team-mate Kieran Morrison after scoring the fourth goal during the FA Youth Cup 4th Round match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Arsenal FC Under-18's at the Liverpool Academy. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Trent Kone-Doherty (L) celebrates with team-mate Kieran Morrison after scoring the fourth goal during the FA Youth Cup 4th Round match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Arsenal FC Under-18's at the Liverpool Academy. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Academy sources believe he will move infield as he gets older, developing into more of a creative No. 8 than a wide-man, although his form off the right flank this season has been impressive enough.

In 27 games for the U18s and U21s, he has scored 11 goals and provided seven assists.

A standout performance came in November when he netted a fine hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Middlesbrough in dreadful conditions on the back pitch at Kirkby, while his goal in the 3-0 win over Fulham in the FA Youth Cup fifth round – a 25-yard screamer into the top corner – has become something of a Morrison trademark.

He doesn’t score many tap-ins, as they say.

Speak to staff at the academy and they have been delighted with his development. He was handed the captain’s armband for the U18s recently and responded well, showing maturity and a willingness to embrace responsibility. He has previously skippered the U16s under Jonathan Robinson, who now works with Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq and was a big fan of Morrison’s.

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison during the Under-18 Premier League match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Manchester City FC Under-18's at the Etihad Campus. Man City won 3-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Kieran Morrison during the Under-18 Premier League match between Liverpool FC Under-18's and Manchester City FC Under-18's at the Etihad Campus. Man City won 3-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Having seen the likes of Jayden Danns, Lewis Koumas and Trey Nyoni all make positive steps with the first team in recent weeks, it would be understandable if there was a degree of envy or impatience on Morrison’s part.

But coaches have been keen to stress the need for him to continue his development and there have been no signs of frustration or distraction. If anything, his levels have increased.

Where he could end up, time will tell, but most at Kirkby believe that with a bit of luck and the right mindset, he has the potential and the personality to make a good career in the game.

Manchester United’s loss, it seems, is Liverpool’s gain.

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Categories: LFC NEWS

Robertson back next week & 2 more positive injury updates – Latest LFC News

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 17:08

Three significant Liverpool injury updates have emerged from Thursday’s news, while the Reds are also said to be interested in signing a prodigious talent this summer.

Liverpool handed Robertson injury boost

 Liverpool's Andy Robertson celebrates during the Football League Cup Final match between Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC at Wembley Stadium. Liverpool won 1-0 after extra-time. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's Andy Robertson celebrates during the Football League Cup Final match between Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC at Wembley Stadium. Liverpool won 1-0 after extra-time. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

The sight of Andy Robertson limping off for Scotland in midweek was concerning, but some promising news has emerged regarding the severity of his ankle injury.

The Independent‘s Richard Jolly, even suggests a return against Sheffield United could be on the cards:

“The left-back underwent scans after being forced to go off on Tuesday but they confirmed that he suffered no major damage.

“Robertson is set to miss Sunday’s home match against Brighton but could return for Thursday’s meeting with Sheffield United, and should to fit for the trip to Manchester United on 7 April.”

Other sources have indicated likewise, with an absence of ‘days’ rather than weeks anticipated.

While we can all but rule out Robertson for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Brighton at Anfield, this has to be considered good news.

5 things today: Alisson return date & positive Matip news

 Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Newcastle United FC on New Year's Day at Anfield. Liverpool won 4-2. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Newcastle United FC on New Year's Day at Anfield. Liverpool won 4-2. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
  • Joel Matip has taken a major step in his recovery from an ACL injury – will we see him in a Reds shirt again?
  • Xabi Alonso wants to make a definitive decision over his future in the “next 3-4 weeks” – is he Anfield bound?
  • Klopp has been keeping a close eye on Liverpool teenager Kieran Morrison during the international break – he could have an exciting future at Anfield!
Latest Liverpool FC News

 Brian Hall, Larry LLoyd, Tommy Smith, Alec Lindsay and Ray Clemence all Liverpool, 1973 ( Peter Robinson/EMPICS Sport)

 Brian Hall, Larry LLoyd, Tommy Smith, Alec Lindsay and Ray Clemence all Liverpool, 1973 ( Peter Robinson/EMPICS Sport)
  • Former Liverpool defender Larry Lloyd has passed away at the age of 75, having made 218 appearances for the Reds. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
  • Pep Lijnders is among the “contenders” to be Ajax’s next manager, according to reliable members of the Merseyside press. He’d be reunited with Jordan Henderson, who he recommended they signed!
  • Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha has backed Ruben Amorim to be the next Reds manager – he’s hardly going to say anything else to a loaded question.
Other chat from elsewhere

 Thursday October 26, 2023.

 Thursday October 26, 2023.
  • Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct relating to alleged breaches of the FA’s betting rules – he is already serving a 10-month ban for gambling offences during his time at AC Milan! (BBC Sport)
  • Mauricio Pochettino says Raheem Sterling “understands” being booed by his own Chelsea fans – what a grim club they are! (BBC Sport)
What we’re watching…

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A spectacular new mural in tribute to Robbie Fowler was recently unveiled and we had the opportunity to talk to God himself.

From his nickname, to Liverpool’s next generation of players, plus the next manager and Jurgen Klopp‘s impending departure, we covered a lot of bases and Robbie was in great form.

You can easily see how much the mural means to him!

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Categories: LFC NEWS

FSG’s plans to buy new club explained – could look to South America or Europe

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 14:00

Fenway Sports Group will expand their portfolio with the purchase of another football club, though claims over a deal to buy Toulouse have been quashed.

Despite the imminent departure of Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool owners FSG have in fact doubled down on their commitment to the club – and the sport in general.

The appointment of Michael Edwards as CEO of Football within FSG has given the former sporting director a new remit, running all football operations.

In his words, “one of the biggest factors” in Edwards’ decision to return to working with Liverpool “is the commitment to acquire and oversee an additional club.”

Earlier this week, Football Insider claimed that FSG were “exploring a deal to buy Ligue 1 side Toulouse,” currently owned by RedBird Capital, who themselves hold a stake in the ownership group.

2RWXXWW Toulouse's Thijs Dallinga, center right, celebrates with teammates after scoring his sides first goal during the Europa League Group E soccer match between Union St. Gilloise and Toulouse at the Anderlecht stadium in Brussels, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

2RWXXWW Toulouse's Thijs Dallinga, center right, celebrates with teammates after scoring his sides first goal during the Europa League Group E soccer match between Union St. Gilloise and Toulouse at the Anderlecht stadium in Brussels, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

However, the Liverpool Echo‘s reliable Dave Powell has brought word from “well-placed sources in the US” that Toulouse are not being targeted.

Powell went on to explain the process being overseen by Edwards, with FSG previously holding interest in Brazilian club Cruzeiro.

Buying a club in South America is described as a “viable option,” though opting for investment into another European club is “more likely.”

That is due to the increased likelihood of players brought through an additional European club having an easier route to qualify for a UK work permit, in order to eventually play for Liverpool.

2KG1J03 DOHA, 20-11-2022 Al-Bayt Stadium World Cup 2022 in Qatar between Qatar and Ecuador, final score 0-2, Ecuador player Moises Caicedo (Photo by Pro Shots/Sipa USA)

2KG1J03 DOHA, 20-11-2022 Al-Bayt Stadium World Cup 2022 in Qatar between Qatar and Ecuador, final score 0-2, Ecuador player Moises Caicedo (Photo by Pro Shots/Sipa USA)

This can also “help acclimate players from continents such as South America or Africa,” with Powell using the £111 million bid for Moises Caicedo – who Brighton signed from Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle two years previous for £4.5 million – as an example.

In theory, FSG could use their ‘network’ to bring players from other continents through a new club in France, Portugal, Belgium or the Netherlands as a conveyor belt of talent.

Brighton and the Red Bull group may have laid the blueprint, with Jurgen Klopp himself even commenting in the past how Salzburg could target players from Asia, South America and Africa when it was “just not possible” for Liverpool.

“The Austrian rules make it a little bit easier to make transfers for these kinds of players,” he explained in 2019.

 FC Salzburg's Takumi Minamino during the final UEFA Champions League Group E match between FC Salzburg and Liverpool FC at the Red Bull Arena. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

 FC Salzburg's Takumi Minamino during the final UEFA Champions League Group E match between FC Salzburg and Liverpool FC at the Red Bull Arena. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

“For us in England it’s just not possible to get that early ahead on the kinds of players they got.

“I think when they sold Naby Keita to Leipzig, it looked like they had the next one already lined up, a similar player, stuff like this.

“They’re always prepared for these kinds of things.”

As it stands, there is no concrete information when it comes to which club FSG could buy, with “no quick decision” to be made.

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Revealed: When Xabi Alonso plans to make decision on Liverpool job

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 13:13

It is no secret that Xabi Alonso is considered the front-runner for the Liverpool job in the summer, but his decision on the matter is only a matter of weeks away, so says one source.

The hunt for the next manager will be ongoing behind the scenes, but we know that Alonso and Sporting’s Ruben Amorim are among the favourites to take over from Jurgen Klopp.

There has been plenty said about Alonso and his future, with the German press talking up the likelihood of him joining Bayern Munich, but nothing has been decided just yet.

The Spaniard is on the cusp of delivering Bayer Leverkusen’s first Bundesliga title and any suggestions that he’s held talks are fanciful, he’s got enough on his plate.

And journalist Guillem Balague, who has connections in Spain and can be hit and miss when it comes to reliability, claims Alonso is “determined” to decide his future in the “next three to four weeks.”

Xabi Alonso is determined to choose his future in the next 3-4 weeks. Nothing is decided yet, nothing at all

First, four big games ahead to be played (Hoffenheim in the league, semis of the cup against Dusserldorf, Union Berlin in the league, quarters of the EL vs West Ham).… pic.twitter.com/areb7dGHLs

— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) March 28, 2024

It is a timeline that would still see Leverkusen have five, potentially nine games left of the season, and even that feels too early.

But Balague goes on to say that by mid to late April, Leverkusen will have played “four big games” across three different competitions, which seemingly will give him room to determine his future.

What Balague says is not farfetched, but it would not be a surprise to see a private or even public decision held off until the end of the campaign, though Liverpool will be eager to know if they are in consideration before then.

Bayern Munich have identified Alonso as a priority having already agreed to part with Thomas Tuchel in the summer, while the prospect of a future at Real Madrid remains.

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It must be said, though, that the Bayern and Real jobs come up quite often, and that Liverpool have only had 20 permanent managers since 1892 – something Alonso ought to consider.

Balague goes on to say that “the pros and cons of every team interested” in Alonso have been “considered,” and his next step will need to be one that he feels is right.

That is something that can be safely assumed, and the ball is well and truly in Alonso’s court as to whether he stays on at Leverkusen or opts for a new challenge.

Liverpool’s mission to find Klopp’s successor has been accelerated in recent weeks after the return of Michael Edwards and the appointment of new sporting director Richard Hughes, both of whom will lead the search.

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