All posts by h79snht.top

After Jack Wilshere has been deployed in an advanced midfield position for Arsenal of late, he has been been given a deeper role for England.

Arsene Wenger has made it publicly known that he is not pleased with Roy Hodgson’s decision to play him in a deeper role, and has suggested that the England boss is wasting Wilshere’s talent. But where is Jack’s most effective position?

Last season for Arsenal Jack was also only sixth in The Gunners’ assists chart and the England international made two appearances in the 2014 World Cup and, despite the deeper role, he failed to control the game (in the short amount of time he was given) compared with his teammates.

For England against Switzerland, Wilshere was of course played in the deep holding role but he certainly didn’t seem comfortable there. When he picked up the ball in the deeper position he wanted to run forward with it and drive towards the defence, but he was caught out many times by the Swiss midfielders and he was the main cause for a few Swiss counter attacks. Not what you want from a holding midfielder. Jack has acknowledged that he naturally wants to get forward more but states that he is happy to play in either position for club or country.

The 22-year-old has seemingly not quite got the ability to control the game under his belt just yet, but he is undoubtedly growing in quality. He plays for a club side who are known for their excellent possession ability, while England are also a side that prefers to  control the possession against the weaker opposition. He therefore rarely goes a game without completing more than 50 passes and is very much used to playing a passing style, whether it be from deep or in and around the box.

‘The future of English football’ isn’t proving his talent through his attacking statistics and he isn’t showing any real class with the ball retention side of his game either. So far this season, Gunners teammate Aaron Ramsey has been the best passer, having completed an average of 89.8 passes per game in his four appearances. Wilshere (53) is also behind Ozil (66), Flamini (56.3), and Cazorla (53.3). This level of ball retention is only really necessary in the holding midfielder role, and it’s penetration and key passes that really define an attacking midfielder.

Chelsea’s ex-Gunner Cesc Fabregas leads the way so far for key passes per game (4). In terms of how Jack competes against his current teammates, he has been relatively disappointing. Cazorla (3), Alexis (2.8), Ozil & Ramsey (both 2.3) are all in the top 13 for key passes per game in the Premier League so far, whereas Wilshere (1) is sitting in 72nd thus far. Not a great stat for an ‘attacking midfielder’. Wilshere generally plays a deeper role than all of the aforementioned players, so it’s a mystery why Wenger thinks that a holding role is that much different to the role he gives the England man. If his talent is ‘wasted’ deep then Arsene better hope he catches his teammates in his advanced play soon.

The season may only be 4 games old, but Wilshere (81.8%) is a long way short of The Gunners’ most successful passing midfielders of Arteta (95.3%) and Flamini (94.7%). It may be too early to say, but it seems that in this Arsenal squad he doesn’t have a particular role, he’s not retaining or winning back the ball as well as the defensive minded midfielders but also isn’t creating the amount of chances as the attacking midfielders.

Wilshere is learning his trade and trying out some new positions but at the moment he is in the transition phase and is seemingly a Jack of all trades but a master of none.

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It doesn’t take a Hammers fans to tell you that West Ham appear to be taking a huge risk by sticking with manager Sam Allardyce. Allardyce was heavily criticised for his style of play last season, despite eventually steering the club to Premier League safety, and he hasn’t exactly done himself any favours in pre-season either. The same ol’ style with the same ol’ results. Until their 3-2 win over Sampdoria last weekend, that is. The big man took a leaf out of Louis van Gaal’s book with a 3-5-2 formation that excited the Hammers faithful, even if it did include Carlton Cole up front.  And that, I suspect, is exactly what the Hammers fans will be craving when arch rivals Tottenham arrive in East London on Saturday. So here’s a look at West Ham’s dream starting XI for Saturday’s big kick-off… [ffc-gallery]

Click on Big Sam to reveal all

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Goalkeeper – Adrian

The Spanish keeper didn’t take long to become something of a cult hero at the club following his arrival from Real Betis last summer. After spending the first half of the campaign playing second fiddle to veteran Jussi Jaaskelainen, the 27-year-old eventually forced his way in as the Hammers’ number one with a number of impressive displays between the sticks. He ended the season as the club’s Hammer of the Year runner-up, but did win ‘Save of the Season’ for a superb fingertip effort from Oscar against Chelsea, ‘Best Individual Performance,’ for his role in the same game at Stamford Bridge and ‘Signing of the Season.’ The West Ham faithful took to Adrian from the offset, mostly because of his clear passion on and off the field, as well as his regular compliments towards them via his twitter page.

Defender – James Tomkins

James Tomkins is another product of West Ham’s famed youth academy, although he’s never been about to reach the heights of the likes of Rio Ferdinand et al. Needless to say, he’s been a solid member of the Hammer’s first team for a number of years now and is as consistent as they come at his level. He’s had a solid pre-season and has developed something of a solid understanding with fellow centre-halves Winston Reid and James Collins in recent seasons.

Defender – Winston Reid

Once an unknown Kiwi defender playing in Denmark, Winston Reid is now regarded as one of the hottest defensive prospects in the Premier League. Avram Grant is the reason why West Ham fans are able to admire his solid defensive performances each week, but back then he was no where near ready for first-team football and regularly struggled when called upon. But now he’s one of the first names on the team sheet, with many Hammers fans putting his lengthy injury last season down to their poor run of form over the Christmas period. With him at the heart of West Ham’s defence, they can always be confident of shutting out the opposition. He netted the first in a 3-0 Hammers vicory over Spurs last season, which the Upton Park faithful will be hoping he can do again on Saturday. Trouble is, he’s now running in to the final year of his West Ham contract and, according to reports, is turning down contract renewals for fun. Arsenal reportedly want him, which would be something of a steal if they manage to get him on a bosman.

Defender – James Collins

Not the most fashionable of centre-halves, but he gets the job done. Now in his second spell at the club, he has had his shaky moments that have arguably made him the club’s third choice option in his defence. His relationship with Reid and Tomkins means not much will get past them on their day, which will be bad news for a Spurs side eager to put last season’s dreadful results against the Hammers behind them.

Midfielder – Stewart Downing

Downing was one of West Ham bright sparks last season, despite only managing one goal (against Spurs on the final day). His consistently good displays for the Hammers put to bed all the negative comments surrounding his arrival at the club last summer, with many fans uninspired by his average performances for Liverpool the season before. That said, he offers a lot under Sam Allardyce and will be a threat from dead ball situations – he scored a free-kick in a 2-0 win against Spurs last term.

Midfielder – Morgan Amalfitano

The Frenchman impressed during a loan spell with West Brom last season and, if reports are to be believed, he’s on the verge of completing a permanent move back to the Premier League with the Hammers. Many will claim he’ll offer a lot more than Matt Jarvis currently does out wide for West Ham. And if he can replicate this for Allardyce’s side, West Ham be hoping he starts against Spurs on Saturday… //www.youtube.com/embed/crAih_j1AU8

Midfielder – Cheikhou Kouyate

The £7million arrival from Anderlecht this summer initially appeared to be something of a gamble for the Hammers. But his pre-season performances this summer have hugely impressed West Ham fans, and they growing increasingly excited about seeing him more often this season. He’s something of a defensive midfielder and a bit of a ‘beast,’ which means Spurs’ midfielders could be in for a rough afternoon at Upton Park on Saturday.

Midfielder – Mark Noble

Mark Noble is West Ham through and through, and you can see that come out of him every time he’s on the pitch. He’s a West Ham favourite and seen his stock rise immensely in recent seasons, particularly under Sam Allardyce. Most fans want him to be handed the armband ahead of Kevin Nolan, and it’ll be an accolade he will deserve 100%. Another West Ham player whose name is one of the first on the team sheet each week, and he’ll no doubt be just as up for this weekend’s clash with Spurs as his fellow Hammers fans.

Midfielder – Mohamed Diame

Rumours of the midfielder’s Upton Park exit this summer appear to have died down, which is surprising considering his recent pre-season performances for the Hammers. Last season saw him played mostly out wide, which not only frustrated the West Ham fans who knew he was more effective in the middle, but also Diame himself as he went on to hint at a possible exit this summer. But his performance off the bench for the Hammers last weekend showed that he’s still got the ability to change a game with something outstanding…

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Attacking Midfield – Mauro Zarate

Another one of West Ham’s summer arrivals that has impressed during pre-season and one that could cause Spurs some serious problems on the opening day. If he’s played in his favourite position, which is just behind the striker, he can be very effective. He’s not afraid to shoot from range, either…

Hammers fans are looking forward to seeing more of that this season and he’d no doubt earn hero status if he can do that against Spurs this Saturday.

Striker – Connor Wickham

With Enner Valencia not yet match fit following the World Cup, Andy Carroll sidelined with an ankle injury for four months and Carlton Cole not quite good enough anymore, Sam Allardyce will need to bring someone in pretty quick if he’s going to have someone to score the goals against Spurs on Saturday. The person appears to be Sunderland’s Connor Wickham, with a £4million offer rejected and another bid expected to come in imminently. The 21-year-old hit five goals in nine games at the end of last season to help the Black Cats avoid relegation, and the Hammers could well need him to pull a few of these out the bag this season…

Leeds United are a club with a very rich history, appearing in both semi-finals of the UEFA Cup in the 1999-2000 season and the Champions League in the 2000-2001 campaign.

They enjoyed spells in the Premier League up until 2004 when financial troubles led the club in a crisis as continue failed attempts to get back to the top tier pushed them even lower, deep into League One.

However, as they continue their battle to the top of the English Championship, here are five interesting Leeds United articles we’ve combined altogether as we wait for them to return to their former glory!

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CLICK ON MASSIMO CELLINO TO BEGIN READING!

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Leeds United’s top five WAGS

What better way to start the list than to meet the top five wives and girlfriends of the Leeds United players. Behind every great footballer, there has to be a great woman supporting them, mainly seen sitting on the stands along with other family members and friends.

We aren’t going to name names or even give you a hint on who you could expect to see when you think about all the WAGS related to the club, meaning the only way to find out, is to continue reading from the link below!

Find out who makes the cut by CLICKING HERE…

FIVE free agents Leeds United would be mad to ignore

For a team that isn’t financially secure and not playing in the top flight, securing top reinforcements is rather hard, and for a club like Leeds United, they should really consider a few more.

In light of this, Neil Redfearn may need to begin his shopping list a little early in a bid to beat the rush of clubs interested in signing free agents, ones that can make a difference with almost no finances needing to be sacrificed.

So, if you are wondering which five players Leeds can consider, CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT…

SIX players how could  join Leeds United

Having only joined Leeds United this year, Neil Redfearn is bound to make some changes to the squad, tactics, as well as his formation in bids to get the very best out of what the club has to offer.

Therefore, if the current crop of players aren’t actually up to the required standard, Redfearn may need to recruit some new players to fill the last minute gaps and create the perfect squad.

If anyone is wondering exactly who could follow the manager to the club, CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT!

FIVE men to take the helm at Leeds United

Although Leeds United have already appointed Neil Redfearn to manage the club, any struggles could prompt the board to consider new, or even previous candidates to replace the current one.

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With Leeds currently sitting in 15th place after 17 games, hopes of promotion to England’s top flight look rather bleak as Redfearn may still be on probation over his abilities.

If anybody is wondering who is in line to replace the current boss, CLICK HERE…

SIX emergency loans for Leeds United to consider

In addition to considering a move to sign free agents, Leeds United could surely be boosted if they can negotiate the perfect loan move for some quality players that just aren’t getting enough playing time at their clubs.

Although free signings brings in experience, loaning players could lead the side to discovering some hidden gems, especially from upcoming youth players.

Wondering who some notable loanees are? CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT…

Playing host to some of the most naturally gifted players to watch throughout the years, South American football runs like a factory conveyor-belt for world class talent. European giants, in the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga and more, are constantly monitoring the progress of Latin talent with a view to bring their quality to new shores.

Despite the success of their international scene, where South American teams remain very popular across the board for their samba style and touch of all things flair, the continent’s domestic leagues never really get the same attention as their European counterparts.

For that reason, just who are the stars of South American football? And which faces, from the notorious ‘spiritual home of football’, can we expect to see rubbing shoulders with the big boys of Europe in the near future?

Ganso

Once considered a near contender for Brazil’s most exciting talent alongside Neymar, Ganso has since seen his fortunes reverse in recent seasons. The now 25-year-old attacking midfielder may have dropped off the boil of late, but that won’t stop fans of South American football remembering just what a player Ganso was supposed to be.

After he was left out of Brazil’s 2010 World Cup squad, many were shocked but believed his time would come four years later. Ganso was also left out of this summer’s tournament as well however, and now, despite his effortlessly classy style of play, the silky Brazilian is watching his stock fall considerably.

He now holds the no. 10 shirt for Campeonato Brasileiro high flyers Sao Paulo. Having saved the club for near destined relegation last season however, perhaps a sly move from Harry Redknapp could bring Ganso to the Premier League, and see him play a vital role in keeping QPR up in the absence of Adel Taarabt.

Santiago Damian Garcia Correa

Despite never representing Uruguay on the international stage, Santiago Garcia has been around the block at club level and is now trying to consolidate his career at home-town club, Nacional (Montevideo).

In the Uruguayan domestic league, Garcia is known as a determined goal-scorer with bags full of pace and strength in equal amounts. He may not be the most technically gifted of players, and he still seems very much like a raw diamond in need of a good polishing up, but this Uruguayan talent does possess several qualities that hold him in good stead.

At 24-years-old, now is the time for Santiago Garcia to really find his feet if he is ever going to challenge Luis Suarez or Edison Cavani for a place in the Uruguayan national side. Whilst a move this January may come too early for the exciting prospect, Garcia’s skill-set could see him fit in perfectly to the English game.

Eder Alvarez Balanta

At only 21-years-old, Eder Alvarez Balanta is one of the most converted players in South American football at the moment. The River Plate centre-back has taken plaudits from many directions, and will soon likely be challenging both Mario Yepes and Cristian Zapata as the main man in Colombia’s back line.

The young defender, who has already been part of Colombia’s 2014 World Cup squad, has all the qualities of the perfect centre-back. He is powerful in the air, fearless in tackles and has the pace to make up for any error that may fall his way. Balanta is also known for his quick feet and use of daring skill in tricky situations.

Whilst Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United could all do with a centre-back of Balanta’s quality right now, Barcelona have reportedly been keeping tabs on the River Plate man, with a view to buy in the near future.

Leandro Damiao

As was the case with fellow Brazilian star Ganso, Leandro Damiao is another man who initially burst onto the scene, only to see faith in his talents diminish after a series of disappointing performances. The 25-year-old had previously attracted attention from the whole of Europe as a teen, but now the Santos man is forced to prove himself once more.

The skillful forward is most commonly recognised for his ability to score goals. Whilst his record at Santos doesn’t shine too brightly in comparison with his goal tally at Interacional, Leandro Damiao remains a strong forward, who is both good in the air and adept with his feet.

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If any side were to sign Leandro Damiao this January, it would purely be on the speculation that the striker can somehow discover his form of old. Tottenham Hotspur have been persistent admirers of Damiao in the past, but nowadays Inter Milan seem most keen on signing the unpredictable forward.

Teofilo Gutierrez

Whilst at 29-years-old Teo is no spring chicken, the Colombian forward has nevertheless gained attention for his goals at domestic level and impressive spells at the 2014 World Cup. Within the realm of South American football, Gutierrez is known simply as a dangerous finisher with a keen eye for goal.

His turn of pace coupled with his burly nature make Teo another strong contender to make a name for himself in English football. The likes of Radamel Falcao, Adrian Ramos and Jackson Martinez have so far dominated the Colombian striker circuit however, but fans of River Plate will certainly be aware that their star man should not be ignored.

Teo’s goal-scoring record has been mostly consistent in the Argentina Primera A, and despite his off-field antics perhaps rivaling that of Liverpool’s ever-controversial Italian forward, Brendan Rodgers could certainly use the Colombian hit-man this season if Mario Balotelli’s form continues to slide.

Anyone with at least a passing interest in Serie A this season will be aware of Paulo Dybala. The Argentine, already dubbed the ‘new Sergio Aguero’, has been earning rave reviews for his performances in the pink shirt of Palermo, with his nine goals having been key in the newly-promoted side’s rise to a stable midtable position. His silky skills, eye for goal and sheer potential at the age of 21 have led to claims that Arsenal are after the £31m-rated youngster, which begs the question… should Arsene Wenger sign him?

In comparison to the Gunners’ current crop for attackers, Dybala ranks well. The only player at the Emirates Stadium to be in the same league as him in terms of return appears to be Alexis Sanchez, who we all know has been enjoying fantastic debut season in England. In truth, the Chilean is a deeper-lying player, so it’s only fair that Dybala be compared to his potential counterparts at Arsenal: Welbeck and Giroud. Although he’s played more games (17) than the Englishman and Frenchman (who have 16 and 10 to their names respectively), the 21-year-old has notched a sizable chunk of extra goals and has out-shot his Arsenal foes. He also boasts a better assists record and has matched ‘Welbz’s’ impressive 83% pass accuracy, while his take-on success rate is far higher at almost 65% – which has coincided with more fouls suffered that Sanchez, Welbeck and Giroud (46).

Stats cannot tell us everything, though, but some clips of the man in action prove that he’s the real deal. Nimble, good with the ball at his feet and deadly in the 18-yard box, the Aguero comparisons do hold some credibility, even if he’s a little more, understandably so, raw than his compatriot.

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One major weakness appears to be his one-footedness, his left, but at such a young age this could be worked on, while at 5ft. 9†and with a slender frame, the robust nature of the Premier League could be an issue. £31m is a sizable fee, so a January deal may be off limits, but Dybala is certainly one to keep an eye on for Arsenal ahead of a potential ‘marquee’ summer move.

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The summer transfer window is looming large. With no World Cup or European Championships to keep football fans amused, the gossip, the ‘will he, won’t he?’ claims and the sightings of players at training grounds is likely to go into overdrive in just a few short months’ time.

Last year’s big spenders were Manchester United – the £150m lashed at new players was a record in a single window – and it looks likely that Louis van Gaal will do it all again. The Red Devils appear on course to get back into the Champions League and are backed heavily by a series of sponsors, meaning that they have the financial muscle to compete with any side, even with FFP now a reality.

But whom will they sign? Well, the Manchester Evening News have quizzed United fans to find the 50 players they want, with the likes of Harry Kane, Ross Barkley and even Ron Vlaar cropping up. But, here are the all-important top FIVE…

5) Nathaniel Clyne

In at number five it’s Nathaniel Clyne. Not exactly a marquee name, United fans perhaps value his reliable performances and attacking intent, with right-back being a problem area at Old Trafford. The Saints man would certainly be an upgrade on Antonio Valencia and Rafael and could form an impressive ex-Southampton full-back combination with Luke Shaw…

4) Memphis Depay

Memphis Depay walks in in fourth. The PSV Eindhoven winger worked under Louis van Gaal at the World Cup last summer – netting two goals – and has well and truly built on that form this term. The winger has scored a staggering 17 goals in the Eredivisie, which looks likely to be enough to take the title to the Philips Stadion and end Ajax’s four-season winning streak.

3) Gareth Bale

The marquee man is in at number three. Gareth Bale would certainly be a headline-grabbing addition, with the world’s most expensive player a household name. The ex-Spurs man was the Premier League’s Player of the Year in 2012/13 before jetting off to sunny Spain, but recent issues off the pitch have led to talk that he could return after just two years.

2) Raphael Varane

The marquee man is in at number three. Gareth Bale would certainly be a headline-grabbing addition, with the world’s most expensive player a household name. The ex-Spurs man was the Premier League’s Player of the Year in 2012/13 before jetting off to sunny Spain, but recent issues off the pitch have led to talk that he could return after just two years.

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1) Mats Hummels

NUMBER ONE. Not really a shock here… it’s Mats Hummels. The Germany international has been the name United fans have been calling for for some time, with the Dortmund ace widely hailed as the best centre-back on the planet. He guided his nation to World Cup glory last summer and has long been the lynchpin in BVB’s impressive XI. Well, you heard them, Louis!

Through his spell at Arsenal, Olivier Giroud has divided opinion. Some fans see his merit, after all he scores goals and contributes to the Gunners’ technical playing style, while others criticise him for a perceived lack of any standout skills.

In truth, they have a point. Giroud is not a pacey forward, he’s not the strongest, nor is he massively efficient at timing his runs. But what he does do is put the ball in the back of the net – he has 13 Premier League goals in just 19 appearances. His recent record is stunning, too, with the Frenchman having smashed nine in his last nine to spearhead the Londoners’ Champions League charge and even prompt talk of a late push to beat Chelsea to the Premier League title.

However, he was criticised for his showing as Arsenal slipped out of the Champions League, with his wastefulness in the 3-1 home loss to Monaco an issue. However, Giroud claims that he does not let the negative words get him down:

“I did an interview a week before the match against Monaco. We had covered everything and the journalist said me: ‘Giroud, this is not the same name as Aguero or Diego Costa’.” He is quoted by The Mirror.

“I simply answered that a good striker lets his statistics speak.

“I know who I am, I know what I’m saying. People who know me know that I am not pretentious.

“Obviously, it’s was not at the good moment because I lacked efficiency in that game. I did a little teasing. But it’s good to have shown mental strength to come back even stronger and prove that critics do not reach me.

“I created a shell, whether in good or bad times. I know when I’m good or not. I do not need people for that.”

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So Liverpool’s loss to Hull last night all but ended their hopes of finishing in the top four.

A seven point gap between themselves fourth placed Manchester United with just four games remaining means Brendan Rodgers’ side look will have settle for another season in the Europa League next term.

After spending over £100million on new recruits last summer, there’s no other way to dress up Liverpool’s disappointing campaign other than it being a complete and utter failure.

It initially stems from their struggles to adapt to life without Luis Suarez after his move to Barcelona last summer, and the ongoing injury struggles of Daniel Strurridge that has left them extremely short of fire power up front.

So who should get the Anfield axe this summer? We asked Liverpool fans to vote in our poll a couple of days ago, where they could vote players up and down depending on whether they wanted to see the back of them or not.

179 Reds fans took part in the poll and had their say on the player’s they want replaced by the club in the summer. And the results are a tad surprising…

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5. Rickie Lambert

Lambert earned a dream move to his boyhood club last summer after rising up from non-League football to become one of the most prolific strikers in England.

But it could be argued that his move to Anfield came a few years too late, not to mention the fact he had some pretty big shoes to fill once Suarez left for sunny Spain.

And just two goals in 21 Premier League outings hasn’t exactly convinced the Anfield faithful that he’s the man to help fire them to a Premier League crown.

107 of the Liverpool fans who took part in the poll want to see the back of him at the end of the campaign, while just 38 reckon he can still offer something positive to their side next season.

4. Mario Balotelli

Mario Balotelli’s £16million move to Liverpool was supposed to be the signing to fill the void left by Suarez, but instead he’s been more of a hindrance than a help to Brendan Rodgers’ side.

A return of just one goal from 16 Premier League appearances simply isn’t good enough, and the Liverpool fans have clearly had enough of him.

And for most of the season it’s looked as if Balotelli himself isn’t particularly bothered that he hasn’t made an impact at his new club, which obviously adds to the frustration of the Anfield faithful.

112 fans voted for him to be sold this summer, while 35 optimistic supporters reckon he might just come good next season.

3. Brad Jones

There was a point this season when Brad Jones’ Liverpool career was looking positive. The stopper got himself a chance to impress in the first team after Simon Mignolet was dropped for a string of dodgy performances.

But that was short lived after he picked up an injury, which game Mignolet his chance to get his first team spot back and keep it, which he did.

So Jones is simply warming the bench once more, and the fans appear to believe it’s time for him to move on so Rodgers can go out and bring someone else in who is capable of competing for that number one spot and, in all honesty, is good enough to take the number one jersey in the future.

117 fans voted for him to be sold, but 28 Reds fans reckon the club might as well just keep him at the club as a decent back up to Mignolet.

2. Fabio Borini

Fabio Borini’s seven Premier League goals while on loan at Sunderland last season looked to have reignited his career, but he turned down a chance to stay at the Stadium of Light permanently because he wanted the chance to prove himself at Anfield.

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But that hasn’t happened and he’s managed just a single goal in 12 Premier League appearances this term, nine of which have been from the bench.

So perhaps Borini’s future does lie away from Liverpool, and 125 fans believe it’s time for him to move on and make way for a player who is a more capable back up to the Reds’ main strikers.

1. Iago Aspas

The Spanish striker signed from Celta in 2013 for about £7million, but hasn’t had much of a chance to live up to that price tag at Anfield.

Last season he managed to make 14 Premier League appearances and failed to score a single goal in the process, which led him to being shipped out on loan to Sevilla last summer.

And he’s only managed to find the net twice in La Liga this season, and has only completed a full 90 minutes on one occasions. That perhaps suggests he’s not the striker Liverpool thought he might develop in to when they signed him, and the Liverpool supporters don’t appear to be too keen on giving him another chance to prove himself.

124 Reds fans want him off the Anfield books, and 22 fans would be happy to see him play for them again next season.

Press conferences are usually full of media trained managers and footballers spouting clichéd lines and safe answers.But occasionally, coaches let go and say what they really think, put their foot in it or come out with claims that their own team then let them down on.Here are FIVE of the best from the season just gone for your viewing pleasure, so have a look and vote for your favourite below…

John Carver – Simply the “bestâ€

http://emp.bbc.co.uk/emp/embed/smpEmbed.html?playlist=http%3A%2F%2Fplaylists.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport%2F0%2Ffootball%2F32623289A%2Fplaylist.sxml&title=John%20Carver%3A%20’I’m%20the%20best%20coach%20in%20the%20Premier%20League’&product=sport

Avoided relegation on the final day and barely registered points in double figures during his reign… Sure you are, John!

Brendan Rodgers guarantees effort…

Okay, after this claim Brendan Rodgers’ side went out and beat QPR 2-1, but following that they drew with a Chelsea side who had already won the title and shipped nine goals in Steven Gerrard’s last two games against Crystal Palace and Stoke.

Nigel Pearson in meltdown mode

https://embed.theguardian.com/embed/video/football/video/2015/apr/30/nigel-pearson-leicester-city-chelsea-video

Too bizarre for words. Just watch and soak up the awkwardness…

LVG has a few too many…

Not strictly a press conference, but Louis van Gaal’s actions at Man United’s end of season awards do were amazing. The Dutchman must have found Fergie’s red wine supply as he cavorted about the stage in hilarious, and tipsy, state.

Jose Mourinho goes all Eric Cantona…

“To those who say we don’t deserve it, in my country we say: ‘The dogs bark and the caravan goes by,'”

Remarkably similar to Cantona’s “seagulls†and “trawlers†quotes… These were Jose Mourinho’s words after his side clinched the title!

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Have your vote on the Oddest Press Conference of the Season…

The Best Current Soccer Players

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Earlier this week the u21 European Championship final was contested between Sweden and Portugal.

It was a game that hardly set the world alight, with the Swedes needing penalties to win after a 0-0 draw after extra time.

This is a tournament where England’s young lions finished bottom of their group. This was in a group with Italy, finalists Portugal and eventual winners Sweden (who we beat 1-0). But despite this, the campaign cannot be seen as anything other than a drab failure.

Little of the blame can be put at Gareth Southgate’s door. Contrary to what he might say about the situation, it is hardly ideal. He is forced to do his job blindfolded, with one arm behind his back whilst hopping on one foot.

Much has been said criticising his tactical choices and lack of game management, but he, like many others, can hardly hold much enthusiasm regarding the u21s’s chance of success in the current state.

Whilst it is often expected, the team is not often filled with the best available talent, with the seniors having hoovered up many stars already.

Many players capped for the senior side see the u21s as a step down. Whilst this is terribly short sighted from privileged young men, club sides must change their attitude on releasing players and should encourage international success at youth level.

Pundit Gary Lineker recently claimed “If clubs try to pull their players, it would be a national disgrace.” With u21s Coach Phil Neville adding “Harry Kane’s development as a player will only be enhanced with u21 involvement. The same could be said of the roll call of eligible players who didn’t travel to the European Championships including; Jack Wilshere, Phil Jones, Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Luke Shaw.

Almost uniquely within Europe, the Premier League has a strangle hold over the top flight which doesn’t enable the National FA to implement changes to improve the national teams.

Often a polarising figure, Joey Barton suggested extended international suspension for those unwilling to represent u21 outside of genuine injury. Although difficult to police, the sentiment is correct. The pride and passion needs to be brought back in representing your national team at all levels. This reluctance is something your average Joe Bloggs will never be able to understand regarding representing your country. Perception must change and realisation needs to occur of the opportunity available to these players to change our psyche for future tournaments.

The U21s should grow up together in tournament football, being able to step up to senior level en mass with 7-8 progressing to the open age side when required rather than just 2 or 3 with their youth careers seen as effectively over.

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A winning attitude needs to be nurtured as a group and success as a group with the u21s would only help when stepping up together to the senior side.

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