Window-Shopping: Potential Premier League signings who could set the Premier League alight if given a change of scenery this January

Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez are two examples of players who excelled after arriving in the Premier League in January

As the Gregorian calendar begins anew so too does the mass hysteria which greets each and every Premier League club as fans and management alike ponder who can improve the playing rosters of their beloved clubs. The January transfer window is a time for clubs to evaluate their starts to the season, determine who is pulling their weight and who isn’t, who has earned their money and who will be deemed surplus to requirements, but most of all, it is a time where fans and pundits argue endlessly as to who should be signed to fix that problem area. Newspapers spurt out a seemingly uninterrupted stream of mostly nonsensical rumours which help to further fuel speculation as to who will arrive at and depart from Europe’s top clubs. As players do eventually join, the question must be asked, who will succeed and who will fail?

The following players have all been linked in some capacity to one of the Premier League’s 20 teams and all have the ability to become an immediate success at whichever club they arrive.

Juan Mata

Chelsea’s player of the year for the past two consecutive seasons has cut a forlorn figure on the many benches of grounds around the Premier League. Mata has gone from one of the league’s most electric playmakers to one of its most expensive seat-fillers in the space of less than a season. Simply put, Jose Mourinho clearly failed to view a single Chelsea game in the previous two seasons to returning to Stamford Bridge from Real Madrid. For if he had, Mata would be occupying a spot atop the assist chart alongside Mesut Ozil rather than a seat on the sidelines. There is no doubt that clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool would be monitoring Mata’s situation at Chelsea, licking their lips at the thought of the Spaniard joining their ranks in January. Rest assured, if a move for Mata materialises for any of these clubs he will return to his devastating best and Mourinho will be left ruing the day he let the diminutive world cup winning winger leave the books of Chelsea.

Chelsea fans are well aware of what Mata can offer when given a bit of playing time.

Tom Ince

Ex-Liverpool academy player Ince was heavily linked with a return to Anfield in August but no move materialised. As a result, he continued to ply his trade with Blackpool in the Championship, displaying the type of skill, pace and determination which could make him a fruitful move for a Premier League club in January. As of late, he has been linked with moves to Swansea, Crystal Palace, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and Everton, the majority of which is pure speculation on the part of tabloids aiming to coax unsuspecting readers into believing drivel in order to boost sales. However, if a move for Ince foes eventually come to fruition he could be money well spent as his playing style is sure to contribute goals and/or assists for whomever acquires his services.

Wilfried Zaha

When Zaha arrived at Manchester United at the beginning of this season he was fresh off leading Crystal Palace to promotion from the Championship and was considered by many as one of the brightest talents in England. However, his opportunities with the Red Devils have been almost non-existent and like Mata he has spent much of this season on bench, if even picked for that honour by David Moyes. Zaha is the kind of player fans love and opposition teams hate, a tricky winger with bags of pace who is not afraid to take a player on. If sent out on loan by United he could make all the difference for a side looking to avoid relegation. The perfect signing for a side like Fulham or Crystal Palace who lack a cutting edge. If he does leave United, the Premier League will soon take note of his immense talent.

That is the Rosey Wrap on the English stars who would benefit from a January move,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

Liverpool turn back the clock with stunningly average loss against inferior Hull City

The Reds’ display at the KC Stadium would have felt all too familiar for Liverpool fans who have become all too familiarised with their side being ludicrously inconsistent and would be in no way surprised to see them lose to a distinctly inferior side. It certainly felt like the Liverpool of old who managed to dominate possession and large stretches of the match against Hull City but simply failed to convert what few chances they created and then proceeded to leak goals and in turn three points. If it weren’t for Steven Gerrard’s magnificent free kick, the score line would have been even more embarrassing for Liverpool, who had previously never lost to Hull City in any competitive fixture.

Liverpool were of course without the prolific Daniel Sturridge, something they will have to get used to, as it was confirmed the striker will miss up to 8 weeks with ankle ligament damage. The next month or so is crucial for Liverpool as they face the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City, if they play like they did against Hull, they could find themselves on the end of a shellacking similar to what City inflicted upon Tottenham just a week ago. If Liverpool are to achieve Champions League football for next season, consistency is key. They simply cannot afford to lose games at inferior opponents.

From the outset, Liverpool had looked a shadow of the team that they have been for the opening 12 fixtures. Possession was sloppy, chances were few and far between and the likes of Victor Moses and Glen Johnson were made to look simply inept by Hull City players. A performance like this should serve as a wakeup call to Brendan Rodgers and his side. Liverpool were mediocre at best, and multiple players simply failed to contribute to the cause in any way. If Liverpool are to return to the summit of English and world football, they must build a squad with depth. It seems as though without Daniel Sturridge and Jose Enrique it could collapse all too easily.

Hull City's David Meyler uses his arms to measure his excitement at his first Premier League goal.

The formation employed by Rodgers at Hull was certainly not the problem, it was rather the players who failed to fulfil their roles. Victor Moses was simply useless, he provided not one chance going forward and practically gifted Hull their opener with sloppy dribbling out of the back, albeit the goal came from a deflection, but nonetheless the ball should have been cleared by Moses rather than fluffing around in his own half. Moses should not be playing against Norwich in midweek, the only adequate, yet harsh, word to describe his performance is ‘useless.’

The midfield was not exactly the problem, with Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson and Lucas patrolling the centre admirably and controlling possession for large stretches of the game. However, as a team, Liverpool were unbelievably sloppy in possession, something you cannot afford to be in the Premier League, if you lose the ball, teams will punish you, it is that simple. Words never rang more true yesterday as Liverpool conceded three goals after failing to secure possession and not clearing their lines. 

The defence was an absolute shambles, Glen Johnson seemed as though he was going on a Sunday Morning walk every time he gained possession, simply wandering in field and being disposed a huge number of times. Jon Flanagan was better in possession but his passing was wayward and he played in to the feet of Moses repeatedly despite the fact that the Nigerian was being closely marked, the equivalent of simply handing over possession, for Premier League quality fullbacks, that is like taking candy from a baby. Kolo Toure did not look assured, he took too long on the ball and whilst his centre back partner Martin Skrtel may have been an imposing presence neither did enough to stop any of the soft goals Liverpool conceded.

In conclusion, yesterday’s match showed Liverpool the danger of underestimating an opponent, they cannot afford to lose their consistency now, and they Rodgers must figure out how to get his side winning without Daniel Sturridge or it could be a long 8 weeks for Reds fans. Further, defence is a big problem for the Reds and January must see the purchase of a first team quality left back, one or possibly two wingers, and a creative midfielder if they are to gain some consistency in the New Year.

That’s the Rosey Wrap on Liverpool vs. Hull City,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

Clinical Lukaku matches SAS to share the spoils in match of the season contender Merseyside Derby

History tells us that the Merseyside derby is no ordinary fixture, red cards, goals and controversy aplenty are always on offer when Anfield or Goodison hosts both sides of Liverpool, blue and red. The 212^th Merseyside derby certainly did not disappoint, with Everton’s Goodison Park hosting a match which had it all, a match which caught the eye of both invested supporters and neutral lovers of the world game and had one and all wishing that the encounter would simply continue on and on. It didn’t take long for the match to come to life as a 5^th minute Liverpool corner was flicked on by Suarez to find Coutinho at the back post, who made no mistake in slotting past Tim Howard. The opening stages were lively as both sides created numerous opportunities, Liverpool’s lead was short lived as just three minutes later Kevin Mirallas found the net from close range and we were back on level pegging.

The goalscoring chances continued to flow for both sides, with Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho as well as Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku, looking lively for Liverpool and Everton respectively. It was a stunning Luis Suarez freekick from well outside the box which found a small gap in the wall and expertly into the bottom right hand corner of the net. The visitors led 2-1 on 17 minutes thanks to the Uruguayan, a lead they maintained until the whistle of Phil Dowd blew for half time. The first half saw two cautions for Evertonian players as Ross Barkley and Mirallas saw yellow, the former for a deliberate dive, and the latter for a shocking challenge on Suarez which could have been worthy of a red card, depending on which teams colours you are wearing.

Mirallas' contentious challenge on Suarez

The second half yielded more of the same, dominant periods for each side as the wrestle for dominance continued. It looked as though Liverpool were to seal a famous victory as the ball fell kindly for Joe Allen deep in the Everton box. With Luis Suarez in support and only Tim Howard to beat, it looked certain that the Welshman would either score or assist, leaving Liverpool what felt at the time an unassailable lead. It wasn’t to be, as the ex-Swansea man missed an absolute sitter, incurring legions of anger from Suarez, who had helped to manufacture the chance, and eventually costing Liverpool what would have been a valuable victory. However, it wasn’t to be, as on loan Chelsea striker Lukaku found the equalizer from close range after scrappy defending from Liverpool.

With a fluctuating score line, changes were made by both managers. Allen’s miss was not forgotten by Brendan Rodgers, and he and Lucas Leiva were soon replaced by in-form striker Daniel Sturridge who had started on the bench thanks to a dead leg suffered on England duty in midweek and Nigerian Victor Moses. With the SAS united it seemed as though Liverpool could snatch a winner, but the action was down the other end as Glen Johnson failed to track the flying Belgian Lukaku whose header from an 82^nd minute Mirallas corner found the top left corner as Goodison erupted. The Toffees had grabbed the lead for the first time in the match having come from behind twice, but in true Merseyside derby form, the game had a few more punches to throw.

Liverpool worked hard in an attempt for an equaliser until Victor Moses earned a freekick on the right wing which was quickly taken by Steven Gerrard whose gem of a ball found the head of Sturridge who nodded it home at the back post. Sturridge’s net-bulger saw the game once again equalized, this time at 3-3. It was not over yet, with Liverpool’s Suarez and Moses both spurning chances to grab the three points, whilst Everton’s Lukaku and Deulofeu did the same up the other end. The final score 3-3 as a famous fixture saw a brilliantly entertaining encounter which will go down as a match of the season contender. Both sides will be content with a draw as they continue to endeavor to maintain their positions at the summit of the table and look to secure European football for next season.

Man of the Match: Simon Mignolet

Liverpool’s Belgian shot stopper made a string of unbelievable saves to deny Barkley, Lukaku, Mirallas and Deulofeu at various points in the match, if it weren’t for him, Liverpool would not have taken a single point from this fixture.

That’s the Rosey Wrap on the 212^th Merseyside Derby,

Thanks for reading!

By Jake Rosengarten

5 Ramifications of Gareth Bale’s world record transfer fee.

Calm down, welsh winger Gareth Bale has not yet been confirmed as a Real Madrid player, but when he does sign for the Spanish giants, the fee rumoured will be nothing short of absurd, with most sources quoting a price of over 100 million Euros. When Bale’s move is announced, do not be surprised if the following result… 

1. Ronaldo is going to be really mad
   
   Cristiano Ronaldo is a man with a large ego, there, I said it. He will certainly not appreciate losing his record for world’s largest transfer fee, nor will he enjoy having to share the spotlight with Tottenham’s, soon to be former, Welshman. Is Madrid big enough for the two of them? Yes, yes it is, but only if Ronaldo learns to share. He has had a hard enough time digesting that he has been surpassed by Lionel Messi as the world’s best player, let alone challenged for Real Madrid’s best player; I hear the number 7 at Manchester United has been vacated by Antonio Valencia…
   
   
   
   
   In all seriousness, Ronaldo is a world class talent and the arrival of Bale should only lift the mood in the Bernabeu home dressing room, I certainly do not see an Old Trafford return on the cards for the second most successful Ronaldo ever to play the game. New manager Carlo Ancelotti will no doubt be licking his lips at the prospect of fielding a side which includes the world’s two most expensive players, Ronaldo and Bale, as well as the abundance of other stars already at his disposal. Real Madrid will be a scary side, when he gets it right.

   

   World's largest transfer fees. Bale surpasses new teammate Ronaldo by 13m.
   

   
   
2. Many people will lose all faith in humanity
   
   100 million euros is a ludicrous sum of money, no matter how you look at it. This transfer fee represents a lot of what is wrong with the world. More money is spent on the acquisition of one footballer than most countries’ defence budgets for a whole year! Perhaps, if people cared as much about helping those in need as they did about football then many of the world’s problems would be eradicated. But, let’s face it, that just simply isn’t ever going to happen.
   
   

   

   Bale's transfer fee is rather large....

   
   

   
   
3. Real Madrid will attempt to break the world record again.... obviously not soon
   
   Real Madrid are a club of high aspirations, they like to do whatever it is others are incapable of doing. No other club has the funds to fork out over 100 million in cold hard cash for a player, thus Real Madrid must! Clearly, Real aren’t going to be in any sort of rush to spend this sort of money again, but when they open up their purse again for a player of Bale’s ability and potential, don’t be surprised to see an even larger figure tossed about by the world’s richest club. Albeit, Bale is a special player, one who is coming off a ridiculous season with Tottenham Hotspur in which he claimed the title of the Premier League’s best player and practically carried his side to a fifth placed finish. Players like Bale don’t become available every day, but when one does, Real will be the likely destination considering their financial advantage over every other club. The next hundred million dollar man could already be plying his trade somewhere, nobody knows…
   
   
4. La Liga will become even less competitive
   
   As it stands, Real Madrid and Barcelona are strides ahead of any other side in La Liga, that gap will widen even further with Bale’s arrival in what is considered the world’s best league. It simply does not make for an entertaining league when two teams are head and shoulders above every other, beating teams by rugby scores week in week out. There may not be anything UEFA can do right now to correct this, with the new financial fair play rules seemingly having no impact on the transfer market what so ever, it may be the next step in club football to cap the prices of players and restrict the spending power of sides in order to obtain a more level playing field and make leagues more competitive. 
   
   
5. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy will smile for days on end
   
   Tottenham’s shrewd chairman Daniel Levy will be checking his club’s account balance hourly until the money arrives, and when it does, he will do merry jig and go back to business as usual while people ask him if he was smiling as the wind changed. Tottenham have gone on an almighty spending spree this summer, with Bale’s impending transfer fee their financial backing. They have brought in some top class talent, including Brazilian Paulinho from Corinthians (€19m), French midfielder Etienne Capoue from Toulouse (€11m), Spanish hitman Roberto Soldado from Valencia (€30m) and Dutchman Nacer Chadli from FC Twente (€8m). In addition to this, they have been linked to more big money signings such as recent Chelsea recruit Willian, formerly of Anzhi Makhachkala, and aptly named Zenit winger Hulk. One thing can certainly be deduced from this massive spending, Bale is certain to leave, otherwise Tottenham will find themselves in a spot of financial bother, albeit with a ridiculously talented squad. Spurs manager Andre Villas Boas has spent the money well and he will no doubt be joining his chairman in what could perhaps end up as a season-long smile fest.
   

   

   That's a lot of beans...
   

   That’s the Rosey wrap on Gareth Bale’s transfer fee,
   
   
   Thanks for reading,
   
   
   By Jake Rosengarten

Same, same but different: Why Liverpool taking three points against Stoke signifies a big change at the Reds.

Let me set the scene, Liverpool dominate possession, have over 20 attempts on goal against a lesser opposition and still somehow manage to not take 3 premiership points, sound familiar? It was almost the case once more at Anfield as the Reds almost managed to stifle what should have been a routine victory against Stoke City. It has been the thing that has separated Manchester United from any other side in the premier league in recent seasons, they simply know how to win. Even when perhaps they shouldn't take the points or they find themselves almost going down to lesser oppositions they always seem to miraculously take full points back to Old Trafford.

Jokes like this have become the pet peeve of every Liverpool fan.

It has been the scourge of every Liverpool supporter’s existence in recent years; their side dominates but simply cannot finish off the opposition. Yes, the Anfield side nearly did this against the Potters yesterday, with a Daniel Agger handball in the 89^th minute all but gifting Jonathan Walters an equalizer from the spot. However, Liverpool’s Belgian summer signing stood tall between the sticks and kept out what was, let’s face it, a rather lacklustre effort from the spot from Walters. The most important thing to take away from this is the fact that Liverpool secured full points. In years gone by, they would perhaps have lowered their heads, expected to hear the opposing fans celebrate and chalk it up as a point, but not this time, as the passionate Reds players rushed to celebrate with the jubilant Mignolet.

The question must now be asked, have Liverpool finally learnt how to win? The answer is complicated, whilst I don’t claim that one gritty win represents an omnipotent change in the mindset of the players, this will surely give them confidence in future fixtures and could perhaps be a turning point for Brendan Rodgers and his side. This season every point is crucial as the Reds look to regain a champions league spot or better after last season’s sub-par performance yielded them 7^th place and a second consecutive finish behind fierce cross town rivals Everton. Top 4 is the target and if they are to achieve this they must establish a winning formula in which they secure every possible point and do not drop points in games which they should be winning.

Liverpool players embrace Mignolet after his penalty save

A good start is essential in a campaign like this one, the top places will be as competitive as ever before and it is important that Liverpool capitalise on the lack of form shown by fellow top 4 aspirants Arsenal, who went down 3-1 to Aston Villa yesterday.

Overall, the season is played over 38 rounds, and one win cannot possibly act as some sort of divine sign that Liverpool are destined to achieve their goals and continue winning, however this win is a step in the right direction and the players will be eager to chalk up a couple of wins in the early rounds. Psychology is a big thing in sport, if teams do not think they can win, then they will not win, simple as that. Sure, Liverpool’s performance was not as good as it could have been yesterday, but they showed a winning mentality which is a big change from what they have displayed in the past.

That’s the Rosey Wrap on the importance of Liverpool’s win at Stoke,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

It’s time to put away FIFA 13; the real deal returns: 5 Predictions for the Upcoming Premier League Season

1. Chelsea to lead after 6 rounds
   
   
   As the self-proclaimed ‘special one’ returns to the helm at the Blues after a 6 year hiatus he will be eager to send the message forth throughout the league… “I’m back.” José Mourinho never was one for modesty, and I believe that his star studded Chelsea side will ultimately be very hard to stop. They begin the season with matches against Hull City, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Everton, Fulham and Tottenham. This is no easy draw, facing three of last season’s top six within the opening six rounds. However, a side which possesses the likes of Juan Mata and Eden Hazard, both members of last year’s PFA team of the season, alongside new signing Andre Schurrle and the always dangerous Romelu Lukaku, can never be underestimated.
   
   

   I predict that Chelsea will burst out of the blocks, in a Usain Bolt-esque metaphorical first 100m of the Premier League season, despite these tough matches and sit atop the ladder after the first 6 rounds. Albeit, I do believe that Chelsea will, as per usual, run out of steam, and find themselves in their usual scrap for third or fourth by next April/May. If Mourinho is to scale the heights as Chelsea and work his magic once more he must keep hold of Barcelona target David Luiz and find a way to effectively rotate his strike force, which includes former football joke of the year Fernando Torres and the injury plagued Demba Ba. Roman Abramovich is not one to play the waiting game, trophies or its back to Spain with you José.
   
2. No Luck for Promotees
   
   
   The lucky Championship sides who earned themselves a berth in the premier league for this season are Cardiff, Hull City and Crystal Palace, whether they will consider themselves lucky when they are sitting on a lowly sub-35 point score come the end of next season is a different story. This is more directed at the quite under strength squads possessed by Hull and Palace  rather than a Cardiff side which boasts former Liverpool and Manchester City player Craig Bellamy and impressive new Chilean signing Gary Medel. I believe that Cardiff will hold their own and avoid relegation this season, whilst the other two promotees will not be quite as lucky. Put simply, I am rather skeptical of whether either of these two sides possesses the raw talent to win more than the odd game in a very competitive premier league competition.
   
   
   Thinking back to the struggles of Aston Villa last season, as well as the relegation of Community Shield 2013/14 participants Wigan Athletic, I can confidently say that the promotees will struggle as their sides are simply not up to the standards of even these struggling sides of yesteryear. Put simply, their managers must beef up their squads with some premier league quality additions or they will be back in the Championship quicker than ex-Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha signed his Manchester United contract.
   
   
3. Swansea to Challenge the Top 7
   
   
   A bold prediction I know, but I believe that Swansea really do have the squad that it takes to challenge the previously relatively stable top 7 sides of the competition. Led by Michael Laudrup, the Swans, who feature the talents of Spanish bargain Michu and new boy former Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony, will be a tough proposition for any team who come up against them. Liberty Stadium saw a trophy last year and will see European football this season, and there is absolutely no reason why they can’t secure it again for next season perhaps even through qualification from league places.
   
   
   

   If last season is anything to go by, the swans will be a force to reckon with, and no one will fancy a trip to their backyard, not even their opening round opponents and last year’s champions Sir Alex Ferguson-less Manchester United. Mark my words; do not underestimate Swansea this season.
   
   
   
   
4. Controversies Aplenty
   
   
   What is a premier league season without controversy? That’s like Theo Walcott without pace, Raheem Sterling without a stupid haircut, and well… Luis Suarez without controversy… it just doesn’t make sense! So I’m here to tell you don’t take your eyes off that screen because there will be controversies whether anyone likes it or not. In the past few seasons we have been privileged to some awful yet entertaining instances such as the Suarez-Evra racial row, the Suarez-Ivanovic biting incident and others that, I can’t believe it either, didn’t involve Luis Suarez!
   
   
   The controversies will be back in 2013/14, along with Suarez (in round 5), so don’t miss a minute of England’s premier footballing competition! I promise it will be more entertaining than anything non-football related you could possibly be watching, which might consist of, god forbid, something non-sport related whatsoever.
   
   
5. City to win the League
   
   
   I am making the call right now. Manchester City will bring the premier league trophy back to the Etihad Stadium at the end of season 2013/14, but it will by no means be pretty. Having brought in new manager Manuel Pellegrini and made more big money signings including Fernandinho, Jesus Navas, Stevan Jovetić and Alvaro Negredo, the citizens will have a squad unrivalled in depth and talent. Their only problem may well be keeping all the stars happy due to the fact that there simply isn’t enough places in the first team to fit them all in. Just simply looking at their strikers, along with new boys Jovetić and Negredo, they already have Sergio Agüero and last season’s top scorer Bosnian Edin Džeko on their books.
   
   
   With a squad like this, I just don’t see them being beaten, the league is theirs to lose as far as I’m concerned. In my eyes, their main challengers will be Chelsea and perhaps Manchester United if David Moyes can get his act together in time. Manchester City to be champions of 2013/14.
   
   

   

   
   
   
   
   That concludes Rosey’s predictions for the 2013/14 Premier League season,
   
   
   Thanks for reading,
   
   
   Jake Rosengarten

The Graduating Class of 2013: What have each of the 2013 Barclays Premier League retirees contributed to their respective clubs this season?

The Rosey Wrap examines the careers and the current seasons contribution of this years retirees to their respective clubs,

1. Jamie Carragher
   
   
   Liverpool’s second top appearance maker of all time was farewelled by an adoring Anfield crowd yesterday as he played in his 508^th premier league match for the Reds against QPR.  Debuting in the 1996/97 season, Carragher spent the entirety of his career with his boyhood club, in a career which spanned over 16 years. This season, Carragher featured 24 times for the Reds and was back to characteristically solid form after playing an understudy role to Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel last season. The 35 year old delivered even more than what manager Brendan Rodgers had expected from him this season, and he leaves the game with an astounding résumé, and as a player who is and always will be beloved by Liverpool fans for his passion, grit and integrity.  The number 23 will join the Sky Sports commentary team next season; let’s hope his commentary is more coherent than Brendan Rodgers’ press conferences…
   
   
2. Paul Scholes and Sir Alex Ferguson
   
   
   Paul Scholes called time on his career for a second time yesterday as the man who prompted him to come out of retirement managed his 1500^th and final match. Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement took many by surprise, after securing United’s 20^th premier league title. This season, Fergie has been as influential as ever, signing Robin Van Persie from Arsenal for a hefty sum, a move which some would pontificate won the title for the Red Devils. The ‘Ginger Ninja’ hangs up his boots once and for all at the age of 38. Having made his premier league debut in the 1994/95 season, Scholes was an ever present in the United midfield, making at least 20 appearances each premier league season until the 2010/11 season.  This season, Scholes made 16 premier league appearances proving that even in his advanced age he could still control a midfield, retiring with his 11^th premier league winner’s medal in hand as well as the record as the player with the second most premier league yellow cards to his name with 99 in 499 appearances. He and his manager will certainly be missed by the Old Trafford faithful as Manchester United enter into a new era, other clubs will be hoping it will not be anywhere near as successful as the previous one.
   
   
3. Stiliyan Petrov
   
   
   The inspirational Aston Villa captain was diagnosed with acute Leukemia in March 2012, prompting for a long absence from the game. Throughout his absence, Villa fans took part in a minute silence in the 19^th minute of every match, 19 being the number worn by their beloved captain. The man they call ‘Stan’ will bow out with 185 premier league appearances for Villa under his belt as well as 9 goals and will be missed sorely at Villa Park. At 33 years of age, Petrov retires without playing a match in the 2012/13 campaign, but this does not reflect his influence at Villa this season. A constant presence, adored by all, masks of his face placed on away team seats as yesterday’s match a testament to just how much he will be missed and how he will be remembered at Villa park.
4. Paulo Fereira
   
   
   A forgotten man at Chelsea, Jose Mourinho’s €20 million signing at the beginning of the 2004/05 season will leave the club with 141 premier league appearances under his belt. The Portuguese right back will retire having made just 2 appearances this season for the Blues, an adequate reflection of just how unimportant he had become at Stanford Bridge, the time is right for him to go. Chelsea fans will no doubt be saying ‘Bon Voyage!’ to yet another expensive player to not live up to their price tag, but the question remains… will Roman Abramovich ever realize that money does not grow on trees?
   
   
5. Phil Neville
   
   
   36 year old Everton captain Phil Neville will retire with 505 premier league appearances and 9 goals from right back, after a career which spanned roughly 18 years in which he featured for his youth club Manchester United as well as the toffees. This season, Neville made 18 appearances for Everton and showed the leadership and experience which is essential to any premier league football club in nurturing youth and winning matches. Neville can retire with the knowledge that his club finished above rivals Liverpool for two consecutive seasons and will be hoping that they can extend this feat another year even after losing manager David Moyes to Neville’s former club.
   
   
6. Michael Owen
   
   
   A man of many clubs, Michael Owen retires after spending a brief stint as Stoke City’s number 10, scoring 1 goal in 8 appearances. Having played for Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United as well as the Potters, Owen’s celebrated career comes to an end after 326 matches, with 150 goals. He will be remembered as one of the most naturally prolific strikers the league has seen. This season however, he featured very minimally and failed to find his feet at Stoke after spending much of the season hampered by injury.
   
   
   
   
   That’s Rosey’s Wrap on the premier league’s retiring footballers of 2012/13,
   
   
   We wish them the best of luck in the next chapter of their lives and careers,
   
   
   Thanks for reading,
   
   
   Jake Rosengarten

Impacts of the resignation of Sir Alex Ferguson, and the appointment of David Moyes on English football

This week will go down as one of the most eventful in the history of Manchester United as well as the recent history of world football. With the retirement of the man who many believe is the greatest football manager of all time, Sir Alex Ferguson, and the appointment of his successor David Moyes, I think it is time to look at the ramifications that these events will have on the future of world football.

Sir Alex has had great control of the English top flight for much of the last 26 years, since his appointment as manager of Manchester United after leading Aberdeen to a champions league final victory over Real Madrid. Since taking over at United, he has turned them from a middle of the table side into one of the most dominant sides in club football, since being under his control, they have won an unprecedented 13 premier league titles, 5 FA cups, 4 league cups, 10 community shields as well as 2 champions league titles. These stats are simply astonishing, and he as a manger, has won more titles than any other club in England has in their entire history, aside from Liverpool.

His retirement is seen as wonderful news for the supporters of every club except for Manchester United, whose fans were in mourning, with many disappointed with the appointment of David Moyes as his replacement. This shows just how devastatingly good he was, the fans of every other club in England are breathing a sigh of relief as they no longer have to watch United take title after title after title, or at least they hope so.  New United manager David Moyes will be hoping the good times continue and the titles keep on flowing at Untied, after being appointed from Everton with no trophies under his belt. His appointment was swift after United fans were shocked at Sir Alex’s departure, whilst still at the summit of English football, after securing United’s 20^th league title this season.

David Moyes was one of many names tossed around in the press directly after Ferguson’s announcement, others included Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp and even ex-United player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. However Moyes emerged as the victor and was greeted by some and immediately untrusted by other United fans, just hours after his appointment #moyesout was trending on twitter. However, something that United fans can agree on is that Ferguson was one of the all-time greats of the club, and this was showcased nicely at Old Trafford on Sunday as they fare welled the man known as ‘Fergie’ after their 2-1 victory over Swansea. The ceremony brought many to tears, as an era ended in English football, the dominance of Sir Alex Ferguson.

However, Sir Alex was not loved by all, and he had a fair share of controversies during his time in charge at United. He was responsible for the exit of David Beckham amongst other players after falling out with the bad tempered Scotsman. As well as being fined on numerous occasions by the FA for comments made about match officials. Love him or loathe him, the man could make a football team win, and that he did on 895 occasions during his 26 year reign at Manchester United.

That’s rosey’s wrap of Sir Alex’s retirement,

Farewell Sir Alex,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

4 things learnt from Fulham vs Liverpool (12/5/13)

1. Daniel Sturridge can be England’s top striker

On a marvellous afternoon at Craven Cottage, one man outperformed the rest. Lightning quick, ex-Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge stamped his name all over a potentially dull match with a triad of marvelous finishes. Goals in the 36^th, 62nd and 85th minutes - all which showed off all of his best assets, his pace, trickery and finishing, comprised his first ever premier league hat trick. This mercurial performance could well have caught the eye of England national team manager Roy Hodgson. In addition to Sturridge, England have recently used all of the likes of Andy Carroll, Jermain Defoe, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney, but Sturridge will be looking to beat these players to a permanent spot in the first 11.

At the age of 23, if Sturridge were to be given a chance by Hodgson and he added to his current international goal tally of 1, scored in March’s 8-0 demolition of San Marino, then he could potentially set himself up for a long illustrious career at the highest level of the game. However, one thing is for sure, Sturridge certainly has the skills to play at the very highest level and to forge himself a reputation as a consistent goal-threat. His current tally with Liverpool is 11 goals from 15 games, a tally which would be envied by the very best.

2. Fulham desperately need a quality central midfielder

One thing looked certain to me as Liverpool’s midfield dominated the likes of Greek international Giorgos Karagounis and Ajax loanee Eyong Enoh, Fulham could be a very good side if they were to sign a top notch central midfielder. Considering Liverpool were missing their greatest midfield asset Steven Gerrard, this should be an issue of great concern to Fulham manager Martin Jol.

Jordan Henderson and Lucas Leiva passed the ball around at will, as they played 61 and 67 passes respectively, whilst successfully controlling the midfield battle. Overall, Fulham did not put up a bad fight on the day, carving out a couple of good chances and only finding themselves going down due to a few moments of brilliance from Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho. The midfield was where Fulham lost the match, and had they not been so overwhelmed in this area the match could well have resulted in 3 points for Fulham and not the unwanted record of their first ever 4-game home losing streak.

If Jol were to look to strengthen this aspect of his side then there would be a few options out there for him. One name that leaps to mind is Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye, who, since arriving on Tyneside has proved himself as one of the top playmakers in the premier league, however he could prove a bit dear for a side like Fulham. Another one to watch could be Wigan Athletic’s James Mccarthy, who could come on the cheap if Wigan are unable to stave off the drop.

3. Liverpool are capable of playing good football without Suarez, Gerrard and Agger.

Liverpool fielded a new look team in this match, employing a 5-3-1-1, with some seemingly odd positional changes, and the absence of key players Steven Gerrard, Daniel Agger, and obviously, through suspension, Luis Suarez. In doing this, Brendan Rodgers showed his trust in his youth players, such as Jonjo Shelvey and Andre Wisdom who returned to the starting lineup after a long layoff. 

This match also showed just how deep Liverpool’s roster can be, in previous years, without the likes of Gerrard especially, Liverpool have struggled to gain any penetration in midfield. However this was not the case in this match, with Lucas and Henderson providing the influence deep, and Philippe Coutinho supplying the attacking prowess. This showing could prove strong for Rodgers if injury were to strike next season, as he ponders who to trust in the absence of usual starters.

4. Liverpool must sign a centre back if they are to be top four contenders

The scorecard seemingly reflects a reasonably comfortable afternoon for the likes of Jamie Carragher and Sebastian Coates, however this wasn’t the reality. Both Struggled at points to distribute from the back as well as to keep the dangerous Dimitar Berbatov and former Liverpool academy player Alexander Kacaniklic. One incident springs to mind in which, Coates could potentially have received a red card after colliding with Kacaniclic as last man.

This told me one thing, if Liverpool hope to reinstate themselves as one of England’s fabled top four, then they must strengthen the centre back position, especially with the impending retirement of Jamie Carragher. Names that have been rumoured to be on the table are that of Swansea’s Ashley Williams and Feyenoord’s Stefan de Vrij. Only time will tell if Rodgers can emulate his achievements in January’s transfer window by pulling off another coup to the heights of their illustrious past.

That’s Rosey’s wrap on Liverpool vs Fulham,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

5 Predictions for the Upcoming July/August Transfer Window

Below are my five predictions for the upcoming transfer window, feel free to comment below on anything you agree or disagree with… Enjoy!

1. Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United transfer saga

In every transfer window there is one rumour which keeps coming back, in this window I predict Ronaldo to United to be in the papers almost constantly. As the window progresses, the move will look more and more likely, however it will not manifest, no doubt due to the unwillingness to haggle of modern day Ebenezer Scrooge, Sir Alex Ferguson.

Frankly, I can’t see Ronaldo leaving Madrid for a long time, he seems to be perfectly happy and scoring at will, what more could a player ask for.

2. Spurs to sign a world class striker

Andre Villas Boas will surely be looking to open up his wallet this window in order to take some scoring pressure off his team’s seemingly only goal threat, PFA player and young player of the year, Gareth Bale. The Welshman has been in scintillating form this season and has won all sorts of plaudits, but it has come time that someone else with the ability to put the ball into the net signed for Tottenham Hotspur. Hopefully it will help Spurs fans to put behind them the disturbing displays they have witnessed from Emmanuel Adebayor this season.

Who will be signed is anyone’s guess, it could be any one of a number of strikers, one thing is for certain though, they will already be on the verge of signing for Liverpool. But on a more serious note, options range from Brazilian Leandro Damiao to relegated QPR’s Loic Remy to Borussia Dortmund’s Polish hit man Robert Lewandowski. I am unsure who AVB will sign, but my gut tells me it could be Lewandowski.

3. Arsene Wenger to say he will spend big.... then sign Thierry Henry again

All in good fun! But seriously, I can see Wenger promising to spend big again this window, as he does every window, and only delivering an average player. I feel sorry for Arsenal fans around this time of the year, as their hopes sky rocket with their claims “in Arsene we trust,” only for their dreams to be dashed by the very man in which they held their faith.

The gunners have done well this season to hold onto a top four position thus far, and if they wish to perform well in Europe next year as well as even have a run at the title, they will need reinforcements. Wenger will surely know this, but whether or not he will make the right choices in the market remains to be seen.

4. Jose Mourinho to return to Chelsea 

It’s been all over the internet for the past week or so, but I am just going to come out and say it, I believe that José Mourinho will be the manager of Chelsea next campaign. Rafael Benitez has given it his best, but the fans are simply not all behind him and this is a big problem at a club whose fans have such high expectations as those of Chelsea. Sure, Benitez’s side hasn’t been in all that bad form but he certainly does not have them at the levels which Mourinho could. Knowing Roman Abramovich, the axe well be wielded as the Russian oil tycoon moves to reunite with his former Portuguese colleague.

If the rumours are to be believed, then Mourinho will be bringing with him Atletico Madrid’s Columbian powerhouse Falcao. This could spell trouble for the rest of world football, as a Mourinho led side which features Falcao as well as Eden Hazard, Juan Mata and others could well stake their claim to the premier league title and even the champions league title in the coming season. 

5. Luis Suarez to stay at Liverpool

After his controversial bite on Branislav Ivanovic and subsequent 10 match ban from the FA, there was talk that Luis Suarez could well have played his last match for Liverpool Football Club. However, I do not believe that this will be the case; I believe that the Uruguayan will come back stronger than ever in the 7^th match of next season. I cannot give a rationale for this prediction, it is just a gut feeling, based on Suarez’ previous behaviour. Whilst some feel he is of questionable character, he has always showed nothing but loyalty to Liverpool for everything they have given to him and I believe he will remain at Anfield for long enough to see them return to the champions league.

That’s Rosey’s predictions for the upcoming transfer window,

Thanks for Reading!

By Jake Rosengarten

Merseyside Derby Preview: In form Liverpool side attempt to close the gap on their neighbours from across the park.

For Liverpool supporters, there are two fixtures which they immediately search the premier league fixtures list for upon its release every season. The first is against recently crowned premier league champions of 2012/13, Manchester United, and the other is against cross town rivals Everton. This game reserves particular importance and always proves to be one of the most entertaining fixtures of the season.

This season has been a tough one for Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool side who have been very erratic with their form throughout the campaign, however they will see Sunday's fixture as one in which they attempt to gain bragging rights over their neighbours whilst simultaneously moving within two points of leap-frogging their opponents into sixth spot on the table. For Everton, a victory in this match at Anfield will surely see them secure sixth spot on the table, and well and truly post themselves as the most successful Merseyside club of this campaign, much to the discontent of Liverpool supporters everywhere.

Of course, Liverpool will be lacking their top scorer Luis Suarez who was banned for 10 matches last week by the FA after his infamous bite on Branislav Ivanovic. However, Liverpool showed with a 6-0 away thrashing at Newcastle in their last match that they are by no means a one man team and can find the net without talisman Suarez. Young Brazilian Philippe Coutinho will be looked to as play-maker in the final third as he looks to continue his exciting recent form. Daniel Sturridge will be the key man up front for the reds, most probably deployed as a lone striker, as he looks to add to his impressive tally of 8 goals in 13 games for Liverpool since joining in the January transfer window.

For Everton, there are many danger men when it comes to finding the back of the net, the likes of Nikica Jelavic, Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas have all been in good form this season, contributing to the scoreboard frequently. Both teams will be hoping for a solid showing in this match as they attempt to maintain form for the final two games of the Barclays premier league season which for Liverpool are away at Fulham (13/5) and welcoming QPR to Anfield (20/5); and for Everton, at home to West Ham (13/5) and away at champions league hopefuls Chelsea (20/5).

Strength at the back will be key for both sides as they attempt to gain a hold on this match. For Liverpool, the back line seemingly picks itself, with Glen Johnson and Jose Enrique unchallenged for their spots at fullback. Whilst Daniel Agger should partner the man with two games left in his illustrious Liverpool career, Jamie Carragher. For Everton, the likes of Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Dystin will be expected to retain their spots at centre back. Whilst Seamus Coleman and the impressive Leighton Baines should start in the fullback positions for the Toffees.

This fixture tends to bring about the best in legends for both clubs, and they don’t come much more legendary than Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard who will attempt to further add to his remarkable goal tally against this opposition. Gerrard has been incredibly important for the Reds this season, playing every minute of the season up until he was finally substituted for the first time last week at Newcastle.

Form generally goes out the window for this fixture, and making a prediction generally shapes up as a random stab in the dark, but here goes nothing:

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Everton.

That’s Rosey’s preview of Liverpool vs Everton.

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

What to do with human headline Luis Suarez?

The big dilemma which came out of the match against Chelsea was that of how to deal with the erratic Luis Suarez. Surely, Liverpool’s best player as well as their, and the premier leagues, top scorer with 23 goals, Suarez clinical finishing has been a revelation this season. However, football players don’t come much more controversial than Luis Suarez; in his career he has been involved in a huge number of incidents on the field. Including his handball in the world cup for his native Uruguay, his alleged racial abuse of Patrice Evra last season, a bite on PSV’s Otman Bakkal whilst playing for Ajax in the Eredivisie, and the latest altercation, another biting incident, this time  with Chelsea centre back Branislav Ivanovic.

A player of Suarez’s skill and stature would get a game at any club in the world; however there comes a point where the pros of having a player’s on field abilities are outweighed by the cons of the controversies and bad PR which he brings to the club. This could well be the final straw for Luis Suarez, another high profile incident and a probable multi-match ban could see him sold in the summer by Brendan Rodgers who may deem him a liability.

On the field, even with Suarez, Liverpool have struggled for scoring form and could well sink further into impotence without the clinical Uruguayan. However, if Suarez leaves for a significant fee then Liverpool could well bring in another top class striker from elsewhere to share the load with the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Philippe Coutinho and Steven Gerrard. The question must then be asked, who else in world football can do what Luis Suarez does? The answer is not many people, and Brendan Rodgers will have to scour the ranks of world football to find another player who can score as freely as Suarez can; a talent like that will not come cheap.

It seems Brendan Rodgers will have little choice as to whether Suarez stays, with Liverpool’s American owners, Fenway Sports Group, extremely pre-occupied with public relations; Suarez could well be shown the door regardless of whether or not Rodgers wishes this to be the case. If Suarez is put on the market, Liverpool must be shrewd in finding the best deal in order to maximize funds for new signings and a much needed replacement for Suarez.

Assessing the conundrum of Luis Suarez will very much be a case of pros and cons, and Brendan Rodgers could well spend long hours at Melwood mulling over whether or not to sell his prized asset. This will be a big test of his managerial skills and if he makes the wrong choice he may well find himself out of a job in the not so distant future.

That’s the Rosey roundup on the Luis Suarez conundrum,

By Jake Rosengarten

Match Report - Liverpool vs Chelsea (21/4/13)

Anfield was abuzz for the returns of ex-talisman Fernando Torres and former manager Rafael Benitez whose Chelsea side was eager to take three points and post themselves as firm favourites to secure a champions league spot for next season. For Liverpool, eyes were fixed firmly on Luis Suarez as fans looked on in hope that he would find the back of the net, something Liverpool had failed to do in their previous two fixtures, at Reading and West Ham. Suarez did not disappoint though, he featured heavily in the match and will surely make headlines for his soon to be infamous bite on Branislav Ivanovic in the second half.

The match opened tentatively, with both sides looking to cement their defensive positions and not leak goals early. Chances were few and far between in the first half, with the scoring opened in the 26^th minute as Oscar nodded in at the near post from a Juan Mata corner. Liverpool’s usual creative dynamo, petite Brazilian Philippe Coutinho failed to make his presence known, as he struggled to even get a touch of the ball. Chelsea midfielders Ramires and John Obi Mikel controlled the middle of the park as Liverpool attempted to hold onto some possession in the hope of gaining some penetration in the final third. However, it was not forthcoming, as the first half came to a close Chelsea were firmly favourites to secure three points from this fixture while Liverpool were seemingly struggling to put together anything resembling a foray at goal.

The half time break proved pivotal as Brendan Rodgers made his first substitute of the match, replacing the out-of-sorts Coutinho with ex-Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge. This proved a master stroke for the Reds as Sturridge proceeded to make the lives of the Chelsea defenders a nightmare, hitting the post, playing in Steven Gerrard and finally finding the back of the net, within 7 minutes of his arrival. The goal was expertly manufactured as Stewart Downing controlled a Daniel Agger long ball, finding Luis Suarez who dinked the ball over the head of the defender to Sturridge who found the back of the net in true style. Liverpool well and truly found themselves back in the game, and even with momentum, looking like they could even grab all three points.

Luis Suarez came to the fore once more as a corner in from Juan Mata found Suarez’s hand and referee Kevin Friend had no choice but to point to the spot. Eden Hazard stepped up for the visitors and slotted home past Pepe Reina in the 54^th minute. With Chelsea’s lead restored, Liverpool attempted to step up the tempo and find an equaliser, a challenge which they continued until the final kick of the ball.

The moment which the match will surely be remembered for took place with 20 minutes to play, as Luis Suarez seemed to lunge at and bite Chelsea’s Serbian centre back Branislav Ivanovic. Controversy ensued, as the incident was missed by the officials but certainly not by fans nor by the television cameras. Suarez will surely be in a great deal of trouble with the FA, and could well be handed another multi-match ban. The premier league’s current top scorer may well miss the rest of the season and could even miss some matches next season if he remains with the Merseyside club.

As the match wore on, both Benitez and Rodgers made changes to their sides. For Chelsea, former-Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun replaced Eden Hazard in the 78^th minute, and Nigerian Victor Moses replaced Oscar in the 83^rd. For Liverpool, Jonjo Shelvey replaced Stewart Downing in the 80^th minute, and received a yellow card for catching Oscar just one and a half minutes after his introduction.

Liverpool had many chances to find an equaliser in the final minutes as they again lacked the final product until the 7^th minute of stoppage time when a brilliantly weighted Daniel Sturridge ball from the right found none other than the infamous Luis Suarez whose header beat Petr Cech at the near post to secure a point for Liverpool. Capping off a truly eventful performance from Suarez whose goal is his first in over 400 minutes of premier league football.

Liverpool’s attacking play was the real improvement in this game, as they managed to find the net, thanks largely to Daniel Sturridge who could prove instrumental in the run home if indeed Luis Suarez finds himself on the end of a length ban. Chelsea will be ruing a missed chance to steal a march in the champions league race over against Tottenham and Arsenal, and now find themselves in 4th place, just one point above tottenham and one under Arsenal. Benitez and the blues supporters will be hoping that they can come home strong.

That’s Rosey’s roundup on Liverpool vs. Chelsea!

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten

Match Report - Liverpool vs Reading (14/4/13)

0-0. A score line very familiar to Liverpool fans of late. On a rainy afternoon at the Madejski stadium, a fantastic display from Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, which Brendan Rodgers described as “arguably the best goalkeeping performance [he has] ever seen,” kept Liverpool scoreless for the full 90 minutes. As far as nil all draws go, this match certainly did not disappoint, with a combined total of 20 shots on target and countless attacking opportunities for both sides.

The first real chance of the match fell to Luis Suarez in the 13^th minute after a defence splitting ball from Philippe Coutinho, Suarez succeeded in chipping the keeper but had his effort cleared off the line by Chris Gunter. Liverpool piled on relentless pressure for the first half hour maintaining 60% possession and winning no less than 4 corners, it seemed as though it was just a matter of time until they broke the deadlock and secured a victory. However a story reminiscent of seasons past transpired, with a Liverpool side being unable to secure full points at a side placed well below them on the table.

Reading were kept in the game by keeper McCarthy who was forced to make 4 important saves in the first 35 minutes to deny Liverpool’s attacking force comprising of Suarez, Steven Gerrard, Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge.  Frustration soon became visible in Liverpool’s attacking play with Sturridge resorting to a half way strike, a la Luis Suarez last season at Norwich, which sailed wide and resulted in jeers from a pleased Reading crowd. The first half came to a close with the score board unchanged as Liverpool were left wondering what it was they had to do to beat this keeper and break their duck.

In the first 4 minutes of the second half, Liverpool had the ball in the net as Gerrard found Coutinho whose neat flick beat the goalkeeper only to be ruled offside by the linesman. Liverpool introduced their first substitute on the hour mark as Stewart Downing replaced Jordan Henderson in an attempt by Brendan Rodgers to add some width to his team.

As the second half continued, Reading managed to hold onto some possession as players like ex-Liverpool man Danny Guthrie, striker Noel Hunt and speedy winger Jobi Mcanuff attempted to manufacture a goal which they hoped would provide Reading with an upset victory. It might have been in their grasp had Hunt not been denied by Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina from a good chance in the 66^th minute.  Reina was forced to tip over just 10 minutes later as Mcanuff tested from inside the box.

Luis Suarez came tantalisingly close to giving Liverpool the lead in the 79^th minute as his long range free kick whistled inches past McCarthy’s far post. The last 10 minutes saw a barrage of shots on goal for Liverpool and subsequent saves to deny them by the brilliant McCarthy, strikes from Gerrard, Suarez and Gerrard were all denied in the space of approximately two minutes. As the match entered stoppage time, Liverpool continued to search for an opener with more strikes from the likes of Sturridge (90th), Suarez (92nd) and Gerrard (94^th) which prompted more brilliant glove work from clear man of the match McCarthy as the game drew to a close with the scorers unbothered.

Reading, whose defence is the worst in the league having already conceded 63 goals this campaign, managed to notch up their first clean sheet of 2013 and only their fourth of the season. Liverpool were left licking their wounds as their attacking impotence cost them once more, in a match which has surely cost them any chance which remained of European qualification for next season. With a game against Chelsea at Anfield next Sunday in the offing, Brendan Rodgers will be well aware of the need to make changes to his side if he wishes to secure points in this game.

Brendan Rodgers’ system did not take shape in this match, seen in a distinct lack of wing play, with 65% of their attacking coming down the middle of the pitch. Perhaps, the re-introduction of Raheem Sterling into the side could fix this issue as well as providing more pace and skill in the final third. In regards to their goal scoring issues, perhaps a higher role for Sturridge with Suarez playing off him could provide more space for Suarez and shooting opportunities for the usually clinical Sturridge.

That’s Rosey’s roundup on Liverpool vs Reading,

Thanks for reading,

By Jake Rosengarten