What Really Matters

With confirmed departure of defender Daniel Agger to his boyhood club Brondby, Liverpool are left with Dejan Lovren, Martin Skrtel, Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Sebastian Coates. It seems likely that Coates would be sent on loan. That leaves us with four centrebacks. It  is obvious that Lovren will lead the defence. Although I was very impressed with his performance last season for Southamton, but bringing him to fill Agger's shoes is not a smart move by Brandon Rodgers. Had he been brought as Kolo's replacement, I would have kept my mouth shut. Agger has lot more to offer than Toure, though latter is more experienced but he keeps making stupid mistakes. We all know what happened last season. Some of his defensive blunders was the reason behind LFC's defeat. These things happen but not on a regular basis. Agger was a reliable centreback. He keeps calm and plays possession based football. He has a rocket of a shot. He is one of the most talented ball playing football...

Italian striker Mario Balotelli, though controversial is a massively talented player. He has scored some amazing goals in Premier League and Serie A. He is person who hogs the limelight wherever he goes. For obvious reasons, his acquisition seemed like a big gamble by Brandon Rodgers. Balotelli's reputation for bad behaviour and indiscipline is widespread. He is someone who some managers deem unmanageable. His past record speaks for himself.  However, for Liverpool's manager who has successfully managed Luis Suarez, the troublesome striker, managing Mario Balotelli shouldn't be a difficult prospect. It is understood that Liverpool’s contract offer to Balotelli is expected to include clauses on conduct and behaviour that exceed standard practice. He will be under the supervision of a manager who tamed the wildest beast and brought best out them.  As for Balotelli, I believe he will achieve success in Anfield. He is quick, strong and clinical. A key member o...