lucas is a player that is improving by the game, what's there to argue about? that ultimately he isn't good enough? time will tell, but if lucas carries on improving aqualad may find it difficult to get in the team.
Rafa backs Lucas (Again)
- Thread starter mark1975
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Or simple terms -
* Rafa has said there has been interest in the past from big european clubs.
* Rafa has backed and praised the player, and picked him consistently.
* nowhere has Rafa indicated he'd be prepared to sell, and by backing the player he's more or less dismissed interest. Compare that to his interviews over players facing the exit in recent years.
* Rage is talking shite, AGAIN.
* Rafa has said there has been interest in the past from big european clubs.
* Rafa has backed and praised the player, and picked him consistently.
* nowhere has Rafa indicated he'd be prepared to sell, and by backing the player he's more or less dismissed interest. Compare that to his interviews over players facing the exit in recent years.
* Rage is talking shite, AGAIN.
[quote author=Rafiagra link=topic=35358.msg928861#msg928861 date=1250760447]
Rafa just cant resist having a dig at the pundits!
[/quote]
He should go to town on them IMO.
Rafa just cant resist having a dig at the pundits!
[/quote]
He should go to town on them IMO.
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929132#msg929132 date=1250780178]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=35358.msg929126#msg929126 date=1250779431]
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929055#msg929055 date=1250772774]
until he actually proves otherwise on the pitch lucas is at best average.
back him all u want rafa but i bet if someone came in with a bid for the same of what we paid for him we'd unload him straight away - well we would if we got to spend the transfer money
[/quote]
Even though rafa has said he's turned away interest in the past from 'big european clubs'?
Even though interest from brazil was rebuffed this summer and rafa has gone out of his way to constantly back the player and praise both his attitude and ability?
[/quote]
go on which big european clubs have been in for him never mind for the 6 or 7 million we paid for him? as for the interest from brazil what 5 figure sum were they offering do you think? maybe they included a crate ot two of coffee beans as well.
[/quote]Inter were interested, before they signed Poulsen. Benfica wanted him last summer. He was wanted back in Brazil for this season.
And we paid 5m over 2 years.
Theres no way Rafa would let him go. He loves him.
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=35358.msg929126#msg929126 date=1250779431]
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929055#msg929055 date=1250772774]
until he actually proves otherwise on the pitch lucas is at best average.
back him all u want rafa but i bet if someone came in with a bid for the same of what we paid for him we'd unload him straight away - well we would if we got to spend the transfer money
[/quote]
Even though rafa has said he's turned away interest in the past from 'big european clubs'?
Even though interest from brazil was rebuffed this summer and rafa has gone out of his way to constantly back the player and praise both his attitude and ability?
[/quote]
go on which big european clubs have been in for him never mind for the 6 or 7 million we paid for him? as for the interest from brazil what 5 figure sum were they offering do you think? maybe they included a crate ot two of coffee beans as well.
[/quote]Inter were interested, before they signed Poulsen. Benfica wanted him last summer. He was wanted back in Brazil for this season.
And we paid 5m over 2 years.
Theres no way Rafa would let him go. He loves him.
The one huge problem that everyone had with Lucas (even his defenders), is that he shrugged out of too many 50/50s, and was pushed off the ball regularly, often resulting in dangerous possession for the opposition. On evidence of preseason and the first couple of games, his physical conditioning work has had an almost miraculous effect. I think concern with his often too lateral, safe passing, is merited but not a huge problem. Lucas has got a good range of passing, and attempting more Hollywood passes will come with confidence, which he seems to be gaining. One potential boon of Alonso leaving is that Masher is clearly developing his passing game, and that could be a massive boost. Too often the way to stop Liverpool was to stop Alonso, who Masher invariably entrusted much of the passing to. If we have two ball playing CMs that should make us less predictable.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
S
Squiggles
Guest
A nigh on perfect summary, Doc
Top post.
Top post.
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929327#msg929327 date=1250801392]
The one huge problem that everyone had with Lucas (even his defenders), is that he shrugged out of too many 50/50s, and was pushed off the ball regularly, often resulting in dangerous possession for the opposition. On evidence of preseason and the first couple of games, his physical conditioning work has had an almost miraculous effect. I think concern with his often too lateral, safe passing, is merited but not a huge problem. Lucas has got a good range of passing, and attempting more Hollywood passes will come with confidence, which he seems to be gaining. One potential boon of Alonso leaving is that Masher is clearly developing his passing game, and that could be a massive boost. Too often the way to stop Liverpool was to stop Alonso, who Masher invariably entrusted much of the passing to. If we have two ball playing CMs that should make us less predictable.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
[/quote]
Even better than that, yesterday we had 4 ball playing CMs. It's been noticeable in this new setup that both Benni and Gerrard are swapping positions with deeper players coming deep and playmaking. That type of fluid play will cause teams no end of problems.
With Xabi the drill was too easy. Kuyt and Riera would go wide, Gerrard would show and Torres would stay high. It was so predictable it was easy to snuff out. This new setup will challenge a lot of teams organizational abilities.
Now let's see if we can do the same when the ball is contested because it really wasn't yesterday.
The one huge problem that everyone had with Lucas (even his defenders), is that he shrugged out of too many 50/50s, and was pushed off the ball regularly, often resulting in dangerous possession for the opposition. On evidence of preseason and the first couple of games, his physical conditioning work has had an almost miraculous effect. I think concern with his often too lateral, safe passing, is merited but not a huge problem. Lucas has got a good range of passing, and attempting more Hollywood passes will come with confidence, which he seems to be gaining. One potential boon of Alonso leaving is that Masher is clearly developing his passing game, and that could be a massive boost. Too often the way to stop Liverpool was to stop Alonso, who Masher invariably entrusted much of the passing to. If we have two ball playing CMs that should make us less predictable.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
[/quote]
Even better than that, yesterday we had 4 ball playing CMs. It's been noticeable in this new setup that both Benni and Gerrard are swapping positions with deeper players coming deep and playmaking. That type of fluid play will cause teams no end of problems.
With Xabi the drill was too easy. Kuyt and Riera would go wide, Gerrard would show and Torres would stay high. It was so predictable it was easy to snuff out. This new setup will challenge a lot of teams organizational abilities.
Now let's see if we can do the same when the ball is contested because it really wasn't yesterday.
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35358.msg929182#msg929182 date=1250785406]
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929132#msg929132 date=1250780178]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=35358.msg929126#msg929126 date=1250779431]
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929055#msg929055 date=1250772774]
until he actually proves otherwise on the pitch lucas is at best average.
back him all u want rafa but i bet if someone came in with a bid for the same of what we paid for him we'd unload him straight away - well we would if we got to spend the transfer money
[/quote]
Even though rafa has said he's turned away interest in the past from 'big european clubs'?
Even though interest from brazil was rebuffed this summer and rafa has gone out of his way to constantly back the player and praise both his attitude and ability?
[/quote]
go on which big european clubs have been in for him never mind for the 6 or 7 million we paid for him? as for the interest from brazil what 5 figure sum were they offering do you think? maybe they included a crate ot two of coffee beans as well.
[/quote]Inter were interested, before they signed Poulsen. Benfica wanted him last summer. He was wanted back in Brazil for this season.
And we paid 5m over 2 years.
Theres no way Rafa would let him go. He loves him.
[/quote]
I think the fee paid to Gremio was 6.8 million tho.
But it matters little; both Babel and Lucas played well in pre-season..but only Lucas seems to be keeping it up.
For Rafa to even consider selling Lucas would be crazy, even if we did get our money back, how much would a replacement cost in this market?
ANyway, I like the new improved Lucas and hope we keep him.
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929132#msg929132 date=1250780178]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=35358.msg929126#msg929126 date=1250779431]
[quote author=rage link=topic=35358.msg929055#msg929055 date=1250772774]
until he actually proves otherwise on the pitch lucas is at best average.
back him all u want rafa but i bet if someone came in with a bid for the same of what we paid for him we'd unload him straight away - well we would if we got to spend the transfer money
[/quote]
Even though rafa has said he's turned away interest in the past from 'big european clubs'?
Even though interest from brazil was rebuffed this summer and rafa has gone out of his way to constantly back the player and praise both his attitude and ability?
[/quote]
go on which big european clubs have been in for him never mind for the 6 or 7 million we paid for him? as for the interest from brazil what 5 figure sum were they offering do you think? maybe they included a crate ot two of coffee beans as well.
[/quote]Inter were interested, before they signed Poulsen. Benfica wanted him last summer. He was wanted back in Brazil for this season.
And we paid 5m over 2 years.
Theres no way Rafa would let him go. He loves him.
[/quote]
I think the fee paid to Gremio was 6.8 million tho.
But it matters little; both Babel and Lucas played well in pre-season..but only Lucas seems to be keeping it up.
For Rafa to even consider selling Lucas would be crazy, even if we did get our money back, how much would a replacement cost in this market?
ANyway, I like the new improved Lucas and hope we keep him.
[quote author=Paddy link=topic=35358.msg928814#msg928814 date=1250757660]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=35358.msg928810#msg928810 date=1250757479]
The question is, will Purple Aqui be able to get in the side ahead of Lucas ?
[/quote]
Rafa might plan to start Aquilani and Lucas.
[/quote]
Doubt it. They are kind of similar in terms of their movement and area of operation. I think Masher will be an automatic choice now and the 2nd CM slot will be up for grabs for either one of Lucas or Aquaman. I might be wrong, but that's my expectation.
When Masher is suspended (which will happen regularly, given his style of play), we will probably have to move Gerrard back to CM to give it some more steel and physical presence.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=35358.msg928810#msg928810 date=1250757479]
The question is, will Purple Aqui be able to get in the side ahead of Lucas ?
[/quote]
Rafa might plan to start Aquilani and Lucas.
[/quote]
Doubt it. They are kind of similar in terms of their movement and area of operation. I think Masher will be an automatic choice now and the 2nd CM slot will be up for grabs for either one of Lucas or Aquaman. I might be wrong, but that's my expectation.
When Masher is suspended (which will happen regularly, given his style of play), we will probably have to move Gerrard back to CM to give it some more steel and physical presence.
[size=14pt]Lucas Leiva makes strong case for closure in Anfield's Alonso inquest[/size]
[size=12pt]He has provoked more public outrage from Rafael BenÃtez this season than an American performing a vanishing trick with Liverpool's transfer budget and yet, despite a mild and inoffensive nature, Lucas Leiva is relishing being the centre of a furious debate. The much-maligned Brazilian knows his opportunity to change preconceptions has arrived, two years after his £6m transfer from Grêmio.
The 22-year-old has been thrust into the argument over Xabi Alonso's sale to Real Madrid due to the fact that, in the absence of the injured Alberto Aquilani, he is BenÃtez's choice to plug the gap in the Liverpool midfield. His response against Stoke City, and even in defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, has been impressive.
BenÃtez identified Lucas as Liverpool's best player in pre-season and one of only three – along with José Reina and Glen Johnson – to meet the standard required at White Hart Lane. Hence the Spaniard's anger at the pundits who pinpointed the departure of Alonso and the promotion of Lucas as the reasons for that defeat. Lucas will never be a like-for-like replacemement for Alonso, but until Aquilani is available it is up to the Brazil international to postpone the inquest into the merits of that transfer deal, arguably another reason why BenÃtez is so protective of his signing.
"It is a chance for me now, but we hope Alberto will be back soon," Lucas said. "We have a lot of games this season and we need all of the squad fit and ready to play. I'm playing well and training well, doing things in the right way, so now I just have to keep going. Every time I speak to someone they always ask how I am playing, but when the team play well it helps everyone and I'm the same. I'm just trying to do my best for the team. I want to do well for myself, but the first thing is to help the team win games."
Lucas admits, however, that he has had to improve mentally this season following a fraught start to his Anfield career. The midfielder said: "Back in Brazil everything seemed to progress perfectly for me. I played well, scored goals and won titles. Since I moved to Liverpool I've had some difficult moments, but I think those experiences can help me. They have made me mentally stronger. Also, I've done plenty of work in pre-season, I'm better able to cope with the physical side of the game here. I think I'll be able to get forward more and believe I can have a good year and help us challenge for the title again."
The Brazilian was instructed to play a more advanced role against Stoke on Wednesday as BenÃtez sought a solution to the seven home draws that cost Liverpool badly last season. Lucas also identified the impact of Johnson, who has given Liverpool the width and creativity that contributed to the convincing 4-0 win. "I think Glen is settled here now and we are happy to see him playing like that," said Lucas. "He and Dirk [Kuyt] can switch positions, with Dirk going inside and Glen overlapping, which will help get more players forward and create chances for us."
Liverpool, meanwhile, are close to completing the £1.5m signing of the AEK Athens defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos, subject to the 30-year-old passing a medical.[/size]
[size=12pt]He has provoked more public outrage from Rafael BenÃtez this season than an American performing a vanishing trick with Liverpool's transfer budget and yet, despite a mild and inoffensive nature, Lucas Leiva is relishing being the centre of a furious debate. The much-maligned Brazilian knows his opportunity to change preconceptions has arrived, two years after his £6m transfer from Grêmio.
The 22-year-old has been thrust into the argument over Xabi Alonso's sale to Real Madrid due to the fact that, in the absence of the injured Alberto Aquilani, he is BenÃtez's choice to plug the gap in the Liverpool midfield. His response against Stoke City, and even in defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, has been impressive.
BenÃtez identified Lucas as Liverpool's best player in pre-season and one of only three – along with José Reina and Glen Johnson – to meet the standard required at White Hart Lane. Hence the Spaniard's anger at the pundits who pinpointed the departure of Alonso and the promotion of Lucas as the reasons for that defeat. Lucas will never be a like-for-like replacemement for Alonso, but until Aquilani is available it is up to the Brazil international to postpone the inquest into the merits of that transfer deal, arguably another reason why BenÃtez is so protective of his signing.
"It is a chance for me now, but we hope Alberto will be back soon," Lucas said. "We have a lot of games this season and we need all of the squad fit and ready to play. I'm playing well and training well, doing things in the right way, so now I just have to keep going. Every time I speak to someone they always ask how I am playing, but when the team play well it helps everyone and I'm the same. I'm just trying to do my best for the team. I want to do well for myself, but the first thing is to help the team win games."
Lucas admits, however, that he has had to improve mentally this season following a fraught start to his Anfield career. The midfielder said: "Back in Brazil everything seemed to progress perfectly for me. I played well, scored goals and won titles. Since I moved to Liverpool I've had some difficult moments, but I think those experiences can help me. They have made me mentally stronger. Also, I've done plenty of work in pre-season, I'm better able to cope with the physical side of the game here. I think I'll be able to get forward more and believe I can have a good year and help us challenge for the title again."
The Brazilian was instructed to play a more advanced role against Stoke on Wednesday as BenÃtez sought a solution to the seven home draws that cost Liverpool badly last season. Lucas also identified the impact of Johnson, who has given Liverpool the width and creativity that contributed to the convincing 4-0 win. "I think Glen is settled here now and we are happy to see him playing like that," said Lucas. "He and Dirk [Kuyt] can switch positions, with Dirk going inside and Glen overlapping, which will help get more players forward and create chances for us."
Liverpool, meanwhile, are close to completing the £1.5m signing of the AEK Athens defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos, subject to the 30-year-old passing a medical.[/size]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Quite true, and I'm not saying I haven't had fleeting desires to punch my monitor watching him play at times, but there's definite improvement. I was very impressed seing how much muscle mass he'd packed on. He didn't take a break, he's very committed.
I don't understand booing players in person, but lets hope a bit of guilt pushes them to reward good performances, and doesn't come back when he loses a midfield battle from time to time, which I think he certainly will, because he's not there yet.
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Quite true, and I'm not saying I haven't had fleeting desires to punch my monitor watching him play at times, but there's definite improvement. I was very impressed seing how much muscle mass he'd packed on. He didn't take a break, he's very committed.
I don't understand booing players in person, but lets hope a bit of guilt pushes them to reward good performances, and doesn't come back when he loses a midfield battle from time to time, which I think he certainly will, because he's not there yet.
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929477#msg929477 date=1250841105]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Quite true, and I'm not saying I haven't had fleeting desires to punch my monitor watching him play at times, but there's definite improvement. I was very impressed seing how much muscle mass he'd packed on. He didn't take a break, he's very committed.
I don't understand booing players in person, but lets hope a bit of guilt pushes them to reward good performances, and doesn't come back when he loses a midfield battle from time to time, which I think he certainly will, because he's not there yet.
[/quote]
Mea culpa quoque .
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Quite true, and I'm not saying I haven't had fleeting desires to punch my monitor watching him play at times, but there's definite improvement. I was very impressed seing how much muscle mass he'd packed on. He didn't take a break, he's very committed.
I don't understand booing players in person, but lets hope a bit of guilt pushes them to reward good performances, and doesn't come back when he loses a midfield battle from time to time, which I think he certainly will, because he's not there yet.
[/quote]
Mea culpa quoque .
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[quote author=Avmenon link=topic=35358.msg929497#msg929497 date=1250843811]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
*covers head*
But I don't think he will ever praise Luke!
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
*covers head*
But I don't think he will ever praise Luke!
[quote author=drizzt link=topic=35358.msg929402#msg929402 date=1250814446]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929327#msg929327 date=1250801392]
The one huge problem that everyone had with Lucas (even his defenders), is that he shrugged out of too many 50/50s, and was pushed off the ball regularly, often resulting in dangerous possession for the opposition. On evidence of preseason and the first couple of games, his physical conditioning work has had an almost miraculous effect. I think concern with his often too lateral, safe passing, is merited but not a huge problem. Lucas has got a good range of passing, and attempting more Hollywood passes will come with confidence, which he seems to be gaining. One potential boon of Alonso leaving is that Masher is clearly developing his passing game, and that could be a massive boost. Too often the way to stop Liverpool was to stop Alonso, who Masher invariably entrusted much of the passing to. If we have two ball playing CMs that should make us less predictable.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
[/quote]
Even better than that, yesterday we had 4 ball playing CMs. It's been noticeable in this new setup that both Benni and Gerrard are swapping positions with deeper players coming deep and playmaking. That type of fluid play will cause teams no end of problems.
With Xabi the drill was too easy. Kuyt and Riera would go wide, Gerrard would show and Torres would stay high. It was so predictable it was easy to snuff out. This new setup will challenge a lot of teams organizational abilities.
Now let's see if we can do the same when the ball is contested because it really wasn't yesterday.
[/quote]
it was so predictable that we nearly won the league with it and had gerrard and torres played more games last season we would have.
the new setup as it stands is far from proven.
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929327#msg929327 date=1250801392]
The one huge problem that everyone had with Lucas (even his defenders), is that he shrugged out of too many 50/50s, and was pushed off the ball regularly, often resulting in dangerous possession for the opposition. On evidence of preseason and the first couple of games, his physical conditioning work has had an almost miraculous effect. I think concern with his often too lateral, safe passing, is merited but not a huge problem. Lucas has got a good range of passing, and attempting more Hollywood passes will come with confidence, which he seems to be gaining. One potential boon of Alonso leaving is that Masher is clearly developing his passing game, and that could be a massive boost. Too often the way to stop Liverpool was to stop Alonso, who Masher invariably entrusted much of the passing to. If we have two ball playing CMs that should make us less predictable.
Lucas is by no means the finished product, but already this season and preseason there are signs to believe he is increasingly worth his place in his squad. Fingers crossed for the lad. Having the Anfield crowd off his back should allow him to attempt to vary his passing you'd think, if he's not frightened of bringing on the ire of the crowd with an ambitious pass that doesn't come off. Confidence should allow Lucas to fulfil whatever potential he has. How good he ends up, we can't tell yet, but I think it is already safe to say that Lucas Mk 2009 is a name that shouldn't inspire immediate groans when we see it on the team sheet.
[/quote]
Even better than that, yesterday we had 4 ball playing CMs. It's been noticeable in this new setup that both Benni and Gerrard are swapping positions with deeper players coming deep and playmaking. That type of fluid play will cause teams no end of problems.
With Xabi the drill was too easy. Kuyt and Riera would go wide, Gerrard would show and Torres would stay high. It was so predictable it was easy to snuff out. This new setup will challenge a lot of teams organizational abilities.
Now let's see if we can do the same when the ball is contested because it really wasn't yesterday.
[/quote]
it was so predictable that we nearly won the league with it and had gerrard and torres played more games last season we would have.
the new setup as it stands is far from proven.
[quote author=Avmenon link=topic=35358.msg929497#msg929497 date=1250843811]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
that guy is an idiot who knows nothing about football
Lucas is doing very well, working hard and improving. He is in the Brazil squad ahead of Man Utd's Anderson who cost 3 times as much, remember
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
that guy is an idiot who knows nothing about football
Lucas is doing very well, working hard and improving. He is in the Brazil squad ahead of Man Utd's Anderson who cost 3 times as much, remember
[quote author=rebel23 link=topic=35358.msg929537#msg929537 date=1250846938]
[quote author=Avmenon link=topic=35358.msg929497#msg929497 date=1250843811]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
that guy is an idiot who knows nothing about football
Lucas is doing very well, working hard and improving. He is in the Brazil squad ahead of Man Utd's Anderson who cost 3 times as much, remember
[/quote]
Yeah it's easy for you to be brave now Rebel.
[quote author=Avmenon link=topic=35358.msg929497#msg929497 date=1250843811]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929480#msg929480 date=1250841396]
[quote author=doctor_mac link=topic=35358.msg929473#msg929473 date=1250840766]
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=35358.msg929467#msg929467 date=1250839539]
Lucas is a model professional. If he manages to play well for a few games, I do hope he gets some encouragement from the support, who, whether justified or not, have really had it in for him at times.
[/quote]
Agree. His attitude is fantastic. I think the fans are already getting behind him- partly because his presence on the pitch doesn't mean Alonso's presence on the bench- something that many found difficult to stomach.
[/quote]
Bren is not here to disagree! lol
I like Lucas. This season (plus pre-season), so far, he has done well.
*awaits for B to reappear and spews invectives*
[/quote]
Actually, I think he'd have some praise for his improvements.
He did for Aurelio, after all.
[/quote]
that guy is an idiot who knows nothing about football
Lucas is doing very well, working hard and improving. He is in the Brazil squad ahead of Man Utd's Anderson who cost 3 times as much, remember
[/quote]
Yeah it's easy for you to be brave now Rebel.
bren may be a little obnoxious but he knows his football.
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929583#msg929583 date=1250849084]
LOL
[/quote]
you think he doesn't?
LOL
[/quote]
you think he doesn't?
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929592#msg929592 date=1250849528]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=35358.msg929586#msg929586 date=1250849197]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929583#msg929583 date=1250849084]
LOL
[/quote]
you think he doesn't?
[/quote]
I was LOLing on
and you had to come in between!
[/quote]
I do that alot 😉
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=35358.msg929586#msg929586 date=1250849197]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35358.msg929583#msg929583 date=1250849084]
LOL
[/quote]
you think he doesn't?
[/quote]
I was LOLing on
and you had to come in between!
[/quote]
I do that alot 😉
- Status
