Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is the head of the team of technical observers, and so had a few thoughts to share about Liverpool’s unlikely run to the Europa League final last season.
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“I’ve always thought that playing at Anfield was very hard because the crowd create an incredible atmosphere that puts a lot of teams, opponents and the referees under pressure a lot”. “I have other neighbours, but they’re not good footballers!”
Liverpool got off to a great start in the game, and went into half-time leading 1-0 thanks a brilliant Daniel Sturridge goal. They “get you on the carousel and can leave you dizzy”, he once said.
Apparently, he also helps writes reports for UEFA too.
But Klopp’s arrival has prompted a revival of Lallana’s fortunes, and twice already this season he has broken the 2016/17 record for distance covered by a player in a Premier League game. In 2015/16, Paris Saint German were the only team to stay below double figures, while 16% of the passing by Malmö, Wolfsburg – who eliminated Manchster United – and Zenit St Petersburg was long.
What it does show is the strength in depth Liverpool now have and the attacking options of real quality Klopp has at his disposal. “But it will be remembered for two teams driven by desire rather than tactical manoeuvring”. One of the problems it detects is the struggle to convert possession stolen by the high energy pressing into goal-scoring chances. “Because the crowd create an incredible atmosphere that puts a lot of teams, opponents and the referees under pressure a lot”.
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Liverpool enjoyed memorable home victories over Villarreal, Borussia Dortmund and Ferguson’s old club Manchester United en route to the final, and the veteran manager paid tribute to the power of Anfield in the report. That’s class. And the work he did at Dortmund. I want to get some minutes and games to try and improve myself for the future. Looking at how things are going for Klopp and his team, the dream of winning the Domestic title could soon become a reality.
