Kenny's Liverpool 1987 and 2011

[Wilko7]

With the arrival of some new players, several departures and question marks hanging over others, it's difficult to guess what the first choice eleven is going to be for next season.

There is, however, a somewhat familiar balance emerging as Kenny reshapes his squad. In 1987 the King added Aldridge, Barnes, Beardsley and Houghton to his midfield and attack. A group of players that gelled quickly to produce a wonderful balance and the most devastating attacking football most of us have ever seen. The front 6 lined up as below:

Aldridge Beardsley


Barnes Whelan McMahon Houghton


Kenny now has the heading ability in Carroll that Aldridge provided. A wonderfully skilled livewire in Suarez, today's Beardo. It's grossly unfair to compare Downing with the great John Barnes however he is a proper left winger who can also swap to the right. Adam is the left footed playmaker in midfield perhaps doing a similar job to Whelan and Henderson provides pace and good crossing ability as a right midfielder rather than another winger. Gerrard can play the role of a modern day McMahon adding steel to the centre of midfield as well as goals.

Carroll Suarez


Downing Adam Gerrard Henderson


All we need now is an updated version of the Anfield Rap 🙂

 

[Farkmaster]

I actually find that comparison sobering. Or I would, if I was carried away with thoughts of the title like some are.


That's a side with a shape that makes some sense, but I'd be very worried about its defensive capability.

 

[LarryHagman]

I can see what you're getting at. But flattening some corned beef down and frying it off doesn't make it a steak.

 

[TheBunnyman]

[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=46245.msg1370590#msg1370590 date=1311721691]
I actually find that comparison sobering. Or I would, if I was carried away with thoughts of the title like some are.


That's a side with a shape that makes some sense, but I'd be very worried about its defensive capability.
[/quote]

Yeah, me too. But I think in reality Kenny would play four defenders and a goalkeeper behind them, just like he did in 1987.

 

[Judge Jules]

Haha.

I don't think Wilko was saying the 2011 vintage is equal to the 1987 one anyway, simply that a similar pattern is coming through.

 

[Spionkop69]

[quote author=Judge Jules link=topic=46245.msg1370673#msg1370673 date=1311751596]
Haha.

I don't think Wilko was saying the 2011 vintage is equal to the 1987 one anyway, simply that a similar pattern is coming through.
[/quote]

Yes this.

But the defence of 87/88 is incomparable in terms of ability to now - imho.