In the League we have 21 points with Bobby on the pitch in 13 matches. 7 goals, 3 assists.
We have 28 points total after 18 matches.
And Klopp wants him, as much as Bobby himself wants to stick around.
The same posters who view Milly’s contract extension, or Hendo’s, as mistakes, seem to forget the plethora of ageing players - many, like Bobby, reliant on skill, craft, experience and desire, but not pace - still performing at the highest level.
Is Bobby past his peak? Undoubtedly, but can he still contribute meaningfully? Milly v Wolves was a perfect example of a ‘refreshed’ player past his best but still of value.
I recognise the importance of building a squad that doesn’t rely over-heavily on ageing (and for that matter, young and inexperienced) players. There’s a fine balance getting it right, and the scary way Hendo in particular, but also Fab, have lost their ‘engines’ has led to much debate. Will either return to anything like their best? Who knows. I think Hendo’s World Cup exploits, on top of a gruelling season, might partly explain his tank emptying so suddenly.
I understand those who’ve seen enough this season to demand big change now. But I think that notwithstanding Klopp’s ‘over-loyalty’ being rightly questioned, we might see, from now until May, player’s recently written off making big contributions once rested and refreshed, including those returning from injury. I might be entirely wrong, but time will tell.
