The hardwork starts now:
http://intothemreds.com/outside-the-box/the-hard-work-starts-now/After the FA Cup replay against Plymouth Argyle at Home Park, our captivating manager had a strong message he wanted to send out to our kids. He voiced his approval concerning them getting the club through to the next round, but also warned them that they must keep working hard (listening and learning from him and his coaching staff) and disregard anything that is written or spoken about them in the media.
On the performance of his young side, Klopp had the following to say.
“I saw a lot of really good things but they still have to learn. We are not here to celebrate each single performance of our young players. That’s what we expect – that’s why they play. Then they need to be ready for getting criticised. I don’t care what you (the media) say. But it’s important they listen to what we have to say. It was tough again, but we did better than Anfield in the right moments. There were a lot of challenges for the young players. We were playing live on television against a fourth division team and everybody thinks you are three or four classes better.”
The game itself wasn’t exactly a classic and it will be quickly forgotten by the fans. Most significantly we are through to the next round, with a home tie against Wolves waiting for us. It took a headed goal from our cult protagonist Lucas Leiva to finish off the League Two side. His first goal in seven years for the club, although he did amusingly inform us all that he had scored a goal in training just the other day. Since coming in from Brazil, Lucas has embraced everything good about the city and has become one of us. He may not be the most capable player in our ranks, but he is a valuable asset who clearly brings players together and helps improve squad morale. A model professional who is definitely a role model for some of the younger players who are striving to make it in the game.
We named a stronger side last night, than the one that played at Anfield in the first game of Attack vs. Defence. Klopp opting to start with Sturridge, Origi and Coutinho to hopefully kill the tie early doors. It was clear that Coutinho made a positive impact and was a creative spark for the side. Although it must be noted he was the only one on the pitch who looked like he could unlock a defence. Everyone else seemed void of ideas and there was a lot of passing for passing sake. Kevin Stewart and big Ovie Ejaria were prime example of this, with lots of their passing going backwards on the night. Origi and Sturridge (who are essentially in competition with each other for one vacant spot in our first team) were not at the races, when they did receive the ball they did little with it and could have shown more willing. They made it too easy for the League Two side’s defenders, who have probably faced sterner tests in their own league. It’s probably best I don’t mention Origi’s penalty, as it was very poor and pretty much summed up his night. Other notable players who have consistently been involved our first team squad this season were Moreno and Karius. The Spanish full back doesn’t have a future at the club, as he is positionally inept and will cost you goals against decent opposition. He left huge gaps in his left back area last night and the two main chances Plymouth had come down his side. One fortunately blocked and the other striking the outside of the post. As for Karius he looked a bit more promising than the Spaniard. Quick off his line, coming out for a lot of balls in his area and only really one issue of note, when he got his position wrong and then had the ball slapped out of his hand by their striker. He’s a good back up option for now.
Looking more closely at the less experienced and younger players, I can’t say that any of them stood out too much. I know we are all hoping for the next Gerrard or Fowler to break through the ranks, but I have yet to see anyone with that level of natural talent. However it must be said, they are kids and they are still learning the game. They faced an experienced Plymouth side and kept the ball well for large parts. Woodburn showing his versatility to move back into midfield from up front, and his maturity on the ball in keeping possession when under pressure. Ejaria showing some glimpses of the skill he possesses and his close control & quick feet. Stewart, who reminds me a little bit of Jay Spearing, showing his defensive capabilities but offering very little else. Alexander-Arnold showing he is a comfortable full back who likes to keep it simple. Gomez with another 90 minutes under his belt and looking fitter and stronger all the time. Wilson coming on and having some encouraging runs down both flanks and mixing it up through the middle. And Ojo showing how direct he can be by getting past his man and looking to deliver a dangerous ball into the box.
I feel under Klopp all of the above mentioned youngsters are likely to massively improve, and will undeniably gain something from this positive experience. It is up to them now to knuckle down and listen closely to the words of encouragement from both Jurgen and his staff. But, if they let the encouragement get to their heads and get too big for their own boots, they will not go on to reach their potential. Good thing is our manager likes to keep players grounded and this is a fantastic place for them to be nurtured in the correct way.
I have to admit that post was a little negative, considering we won the game last night. So I will leave you with this. The treble is still on
