From Dave M in the Mirror. haven't seen this posted elsewhere, apologies if it has been. Seems to address some of the issues discussed on various other threads:
Rafa Benitez has called a crisis meeting of his players in an attempt to stamp out the discord that threatens the very fabric of the club.
The Liverpool manager believes the next three months are crucial not just for his side’s season, but also for the long-term future of the club, given how much is at stake financially.
But in recent weeks, the Spanish coach has been dismayed by what he sees as “negative body language” from his players, which he reckons is sending out the wrong message at a time when they must all stick together.
The frustration amongst certain senior players has been visible in many matches this season, with the likes of skipper Steven Gerrard, star striker Fernando Torres, and senior pros Javier Mascherano, Pepe Reina and Jamie Carragher all venting their anger at poor performances at different times.
And while Benitez fully understands that frustration, he brought all his players together after the painful defeat at Wigan, to stress that the body language has to be much more positive as they strive to portray a united front.
“I don’t like players showing disappointment with body language, it’s not positive but each player is different. Now though, it is important to show leadership and bring people on board,” the Reds boss explained.
“It is important to show the right approach to your team-mates in this situation, and when we spoke we have said we want to improve this.
“Of course, it depends on each player and on the situation. Watching highlights yesterday I could see the keeper blaming the defenders and the defenders blaming the keeper, and sometimes that is part of the game.
“But if you see these things too much it means you are making too many mistakes, and we have said that we have to bring all the people on board.”
The in-fighting at Anfield is clearly a result of the turmoil that surrounds the club in what has been a desperately disappointing and difficult season.
Fingers have often been pointed in matches, with even a hint of a lack of trust between the players creeping in, and also a sign that the likes of Torres is beginning to feel a powerful sense of frustration in matches.
The Spanish striker was booked when his anger spilled over at the end of the Wigan game, and Gerrard too was booked when he lost his cool as the game looked to be slipping away.
But Benitez knows there is too much at stake for the players to start squabbling amongst themselves, and he has asked for calm as he looks at the bigger picture in what is a hugely important three months for Liverpool.
“Look, it is always easier when things are going well. Now we have made some mistakes, but if we cannot improve playing better football, then the only way you can win is by having everyone together,” he said.
“One thing we spoke about yesterday was committing fouls at the end of the game. We have to keep calm and play better football instead losing our cool and fouling.
“That is something we have to improve and the only way is to explain to them, analyse and try to control it for the next game.”
Benitez took his wounded side to France last night for a Europa League encounter with Lille that will determine whether they can secure a place in the quarter final.
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