So, After finally getting to see the game after an enforced delay due to antipodean location, I have some observations:
Pleased to see the energy levels and committment displayed, not sure why it has not always been so apparent, but I'm looking forward and not back, so I'm looking forward to similar in all games to come, sometimes moreso, sometimes less if required, for example where we need to slow the tempo.
I think now that the owners have the type of manager they wanted we will start to see the vision take shape. We already are of course, with a young starting XI, and a change in style (looking to be an LFC style of more direct tikka takka if I dare say, even at this early stage - England meets Spain?) I think that we will see investments start to pay off, some immediately and some as the season develops (Carroll, Henderson, Borini). I think we will start to see the owners invest more now that they have the man for their vision.
Some comments re current playing staff - Coates looks to be a real find, comfortable and assured at the top level. I think picking him over Carra sent a clear message of intent - new ideas, new outlook, new approach. This must be the way forward. I like the look of Borini, even if his hold up play needs some work. I have no doubt we bought him as an out and out finisher, and he will blossom given more time in the middle. His movement was great and if he and Suarez develop an understanding (currently non-existent) then he will flourish. I expect he will find his touch and he will add to our option up front in an either/or with Carroll.
Aah Andy, the fans they love you, and they know a thing or two. Carroll is an interesting one, much maligned and rightly so for some of his past efforts .. the turning his back and ambling off in weird directions while we have the ball in the front half etal. But, I am expecting to see a new 100% switched on Andy, who knows a thing or two about positioning, under BR. I saw glimpses of it vs Manchester City, and we can look forward to some great things from him this season.
Allen is not Messi or Iniesta or Xabi or whoever. He is Allen and he is quite good, a breath of fresh air compared to the ponderous Adam, Henderson, Shelvey & Spearing. He's quick minded and can pick a pass, but he is also no Lucas. Lucas has a huge role to play, he will bring some composure on the ball, some control, and some intelligence in the back half. Once injury woes subside he is going to be immense for us back there.
What we really need though is some of the same in the front half. We don't have it. Suarez is amazing but at times I wish he would just take a second before trying the latest amazing turn or trick, and pick a a pass instead. Just sometimes. Borini will not do it for us, he's there to stick it away pretty much, as is Andy, although he can hold it up well which is badly needed. Raheem is the perfect fit, but we still need some composure, which isn't Stevie's thing either.
This is where Sahin comes in, I hope, for this season anyway. We badly need someone to look, think, see, and execute, rather than blind crossess and rushed passes, and I think that Sahin can do this for us. Not sure who else will, maybe Henderson one day, but not any time soon.
Gerrard is 32. Great player still, but will never be what he was and missing the killer instinct now, the final yard of leg speed that used to make him something really really special. He won't reinvent himself. He might just win us a few, as always, but we need a replacement NOW, not in 2 years. Maybe Shelvey will grow into a forward goalscoring midfield role, he seems to be being groomed for this (but I know, 'ponderous' right!)
Anyway, I like many of you am feeling pretty good. We seem to have direction and are getting the right players, so, walk on, walk on ....