Liverpool 2015/2016 Premier League Preview

Nosa Edokpolo: nosa_e

Best Player:

Philippe Coutinho. Only Daniel Sturridge could rival Coutinho for this spot but his injury situation is really weighing me down. On his day, I think he’s up there with the best playmakers in the League. He may not show it in goals and assists but his influence on the team cannot be ignored.

Weak Links:

It is definitely the defence! Especially Dejan Lovren! Under Brendan Rodger we have not been able to concede less than 43 goals a season and I don’t think it’s likely to change this season. I think our defence could be what holds us back from any significant achievement this season.

Manager:

I really liked Brendan Rodgers. I feel he deserved the sack after last season’s performance, but he’s still there and we have to make do. For him to succeed this season he has to settle on a formation, get our strikers scoring and most importantly set up a competent defence. If he fails to perform this season, he’s gotta go. Jurgen Klopp may be a great replacement.

Expectations:

I’d like for us to at least come 4th but I think it will be fifth barring a miracle. I don’t think our squad is as good as any of the others that finished in the top four positions, so breaking in will require exceptional character or a disastrous performance from any of those teams.

Thoughts on the Transfer Window:

I think Clyne is a really important addition as we struggled at right back last season. On paper you could say we have upgraded on our strikers but then Liverpool’s strikers of last season scored over 30 goals at their previous clubs before a grand total of 4 at Liverpool. Firmino should add goals from midfield if used properly and Benteke is likely to come through with a solid contribution. However our centre backs aren’t good enough and we lack adequate cover in both fullback positions. We also seem to have a thing against defensive midfielders and that is likely to cost us.

Player most likely to break through:

Jordon Ibe. He’s got everything to make it as a top winger; speed, skill, power and not to sound like the typical English manager, he’s a good lad. I should also give Emre Can a mention. He was the only outright success of last season’s window despite playing out of position in defence.