Xabi Alonso Tribute Thread
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[quote author=Bristow link=topic=35060.msg918915#msg918915 date=1249486048]
Anita, be honest, would you be sad that he's gone if he was ugly?
[/quote]
I know you'll find this hard to believe, but I actually don't think Alonso is particularly good looking. I just liked him a lot.
Anita, be honest, would you be sad that he's gone if he was ugly?
[/quote]
I know you'll find this hard to believe, but I actually don't think Alonso is particularly good looking. I just liked him a lot.
[quote author=Anita link=topic=35060.msg918924#msg918924 date=1249487116]
[quote author=Bristow link=topic=35060.msg918915#msg918915 date=1249486048]
Anita, be honest, would you be sad that he's gone if he was ugly?
[/quote]
I know you'll find this hard to believe, but I actually don't think Alonso is particularly good looking. I just liked him a lot.
[/quote]
*stares*
[quote author=Bristow link=topic=35060.msg918915#msg918915 date=1249486048]
Anita, be honest, would you be sad that he's gone if he was ugly?
[/quote]
I know you'll find this hard to believe, but I actually don't think Alonso is particularly good looking. I just liked him a lot.
[/quote]
*stares*
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
On thing I was thinking about Xabi.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919336#msg919336 date=1249514135]
On thing I was thinking about Xabi.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
[/quote]
The changes of that happened with Xabi are zero.
On thing I was thinking about Xabi.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
[/quote]
The changes of that happened with Xabi are zero.
[quote author=Dreambeliever link=topic=35060.msg919344#msg919344 date=1249514829]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919336#msg919336 date=1249514135]
On thing I was thinking about Xabi.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
[/quote]
The changes of that happened with Xabi are zero.
[/quote]
Sophie Ellis Bextor with 'Murder on the Keyboard' everyone!
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919336#msg919336 date=1249514135]
On thing I was thinking about Xabi.
For his sake, I hope he goes to Madrid and continues to play with the effervescence and strength he showed for us over the last year. He significantly added to his nothing-but-passing game with us, and that solidity really helped us and brought him on as a player.
Too many of those cunts that go to Madrid take a step back, and stand around the middle of the Bernabeu admiring their refelction in their boots after doing one 'galactico-worthy' moment every game. Every single one of them walk off the ground with socks cleaner than when they first walked on. I hope he doesn't turn out to be that cunt.
[/quote]
The changes of that happened with Xabi are zero.
[/quote]
Sophie Ellis Bextor with 'Murder on the Keyboard' everyone!
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919343#msg919343 date=1249514702]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
Hi
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
[quote author=moron link=topic=35060.msg919362#msg919362 date=1249515888]
Hi
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
[/quote]
If we'd been stronger in other areas last season, we'd have won the league. Xabi was by no means a weak link in the team - if anything, we were just unfortunate that there weren't *enough* players in his class to go that extra mile. Hopefully his sale will bring about an improvement in the number of quality players here (and, hence, a relative improvement in the quality of the team), but lets not pretend that he was holding us back in some way because that would be, well, moronic.
Hi
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
[/quote]
If we'd been stronger in other areas last season, we'd have won the league. Xabi was by no means a weak link in the team - if anything, we were just unfortunate that there weren't *enough* players in his class to go that extra mile. Hopefully his sale will bring about an improvement in the number of quality players here (and, hence, a relative improvement in the quality of the team), but lets not pretend that he was holding us back in some way because that would be, well, moronic.
[quote author=Delinquent link=topic=35060.msg919366#msg919366 date=1249516351]
[quote author=moron link=topic=35060.msg919362#msg919362 date=1249515888]
Hi
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
[/quote]
If we'd been stronger in other areas last season, we'd have won the league. Xabi was by no means a weak link in the team - if anything, we were just unfortunate that there weren't *enough* players in his class to go that extra mile. Hopefully his sale will bring about an improvement in the number of quality players here (and, hence, a relative improvement in the quality of the team), but lets not pretend that he was holding us back in some way because that would be, well, moronic.
[/quote]
I would have to disagree with you on that point - I think we were pretty well covered in most areas of the pitch last season and for heavens sake - we just sold two players to Real Madrid who only coming knocking for what they think is top dollar. Take the example of the CL quarter final with Chelsea - do you remember ? when Chelsea pressed we could not retain the ball that well, and get forward quickly enough at times. Xabi is great at controlling the game when he is well protected from pressing players and has time on the ball and I would say that for 70% of games in a season we had the perfect midfield but its not enough to win the league. In most games he would occupy the same space as Masha does and that slows us down. I think we had enough class in the team to win most games but not enough pace at times, our supporting midfield was doing much of its work from deep positions.
[quote author=moron link=topic=35060.msg919362#msg919362 date=1249515888]
Hi
I really liked him - I thought when he arrived in that first season he just fit straight in and in many ways was the only comfort to a doubting SG - especially if you remember the team back then and how bad most of the players were like in that first season.
I don't think we should be that upset that he has left us because I think our manager also realises something that we have overlooked - we all know that he can control a game, and pass the ball well, and is very clever BUT he also has some problems that no amount of training will resolve and its not something he will suffer in Spain - only in this league. He can be taken out of a game quickly if the opposition press too hard, and lacks pace which in my view has caused us problems in midfield considering that SG now plays alongside Torres. In many ways we are probably in need of his replacement more to progress than our desire to keep him.
Don't get me wrong - I would not have minded if he stayed on, but I just don't think we can win the league with a combination of Masha and Alonso. We need a player who can provide more urgency in midfield to progress - and to freshen up a team more often than not - requires a new CM signing rather than any other type of player.
Best of luck Xabi !!!
Regards,
MORON
[/quote]
If we'd been stronger in other areas last season, we'd have won the league. Xabi was by no means a weak link in the team - if anything, we were just unfortunate that there weren't *enough* players in his class to go that extra mile. Hopefully his sale will bring about an improvement in the number of quality players here (and, hence, a relative improvement in the quality of the team), but lets not pretend that he was holding us back in some way because that would be, well, moronic.
[/quote]
I would have to disagree with you on that point - I think we were pretty well covered in most areas of the pitch last season and for heavens sake - we just sold two players to Real Madrid who only coming knocking for what they think is top dollar. Take the example of the CL quarter final with Chelsea - do you remember ? when Chelsea pressed we could not retain the ball that well, and get forward quickly enough at times. Xabi is great at controlling the game when he is well protected from pressing players and has time on the ball and I would say that for 70% of games in a season we had the perfect midfield but its not enough to win the league. In most games he would occupy the same space as Masha does and that slows us down. I think we had enough class in the team to win most games but not enough pace at times, our supporting midfield was doing much of its work from deep positions.
Moron what in inappropriate name 🙂 totally agree
there have been times when Alonso seems like a bit of a luxury where he shows some nice passing but has no real overall effect, I bloody hated it when he fell back ontop of the centre halves to take 4 foot passes off them - although he was probably told to do so.
there have been times when Alonso seems like a bit of a luxury where he shows some nice passing but has no real overall effect, I bloody hated it when he fell back ontop of the centre halves to take 4 foot passes off them - although he was probably told to do so.
You're missing the point. If we had more quality in other areas of the pitch, other teams would not be able to shackle the likes of Xabi so effectively. It is precisely because we lacked genuine quality in other areas, that the likes of Xabi could be singled out for special treatment. It's quite clear who are star players are, so if you can nullify them then you've got a good chance against us. Hopefully Xabi's sale will mean one star gone and two in. That's how I'm rationalizing things anyway.
If I'm honest, I think we'll be missing him desperately by Christmas.
If I'm honest, I think we'll be missing him desperately by Christmas.
Much sooner than that,I'd wager.
Anyway,since we're talking about tributes.
Alonso’s stock has never been higher
Richard Jolly
Last Updated: August 05. 2009 8:37PM UAE / August 5. 2009 4:37PM GMT Ten weeks ago, Sami Hyypia was granted a proper Anfield send-off, serenaded and celebrated, thanked for stalwart service and ushered into the future by well-wishers. On Sunday, Xabi Alonso experienced a rather less glorious goodbye. Seven minutes of anonymity as an essentially second-string Liverpool side were overrun by Espanyol was not the way to go, even for the essentially unassuming Alonso.
His welcome, after a £30 million (Dh187.5m) move to Real Madrid, should produce rather more fanfare. Once the flagship signing of Rafa Benitez’s first summer at Anfield, Alonso’s exit has been flagged up for a year in which both reputation and price tag have been elevated by his excellence. Liverpool almost trebled their money on the midfielder, but he may represent a rare case when the supporters knew more than the manager.
The Kop struck a rare note of dissent 12 months ago in the pre-season friendly against Lazio, chorusing Alonso’s name at a time when Benitez was planning to sell the Basque and replace him with Gareth Barry. Then Alonso wanted to stay; now Benitez was keen to keep him. But relations were never fully repaired and Real’s predictably public campaign to sign him succeeded.
Few can weigh, time or place a pass better. Statistics provide an indication of the significance of his distribution, without reflecting the elegance. Only Denilson completed more passes in the Premier League last season; a total of 2,481 amounted to almost 80 per game. A success rate of 85 per cent tends to be associated with footballers who opt for the safe, sideways ball, rather than those with Alonso’s willingness to switch play or pierce defences.
Then there were 19 Liverpool goals, a respectable tally for a man who rarely ventured into the penalty area. The superlative shots from his own half against Luton and Newcastle were probably the best, the rebound against AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final, after Dida saved his spot kick, surely the most significant.
Yet, above and beyond that, his importance lay in his ability to dovetail with teammates. The central midfield partnership with Javier Mascherano united the stylist and the scrapper. Although there is the notion that Mascherano is the more defensive of the duo, the Argentine sometimes operated ahead of Alonso, pressing opponents high up the field while the Spaniard swept up behind him. At other times, they formed a dual shield in front of the back four.
Despite the reluctance Benitez sometimes showed to field both as the two central midfielders, Alonso displayed an intuitive understanding with Steven Gerrard. “He is easy to play with,†said the captain last season. “I love playing with him. He is clever and everyone knows the range of passing he has got.â€
Gerrard does not make a habit of eulogising, but his nomination of Alonso as Liverpool’s outstanding player last season was notable. It is a view that was widely shared. Alonso’s response to rejection, as Liverpool attempted to trade him to raise funds for Barry, was outstanding. Now there may be a void alongside Mascherano while Gerrard and Fernando Torres look forlornly for such perceptive passes. Laments for departed players are commonplace and absence can increase anyone’s standing, but Alonso is a rarity in improving his own while still at the club.
Last summer, the Liverpool manager, unlike the fans, was not appreciative enough of Alonso. As Benitez’s attempts to keep him this year show, he is fully aware of what he will be missing. Alonso did not get the farewell he deserved, but he left Anfield at a time when respect for his distinctive style of play has never been higher.
Anyway,since we're talking about tributes.
Alonso’s stock has never been higher
Richard Jolly
Last Updated: August 05. 2009 8:37PM UAE / August 5. 2009 4:37PM GMT Ten weeks ago, Sami Hyypia was granted a proper Anfield send-off, serenaded and celebrated, thanked for stalwart service and ushered into the future by well-wishers. On Sunday, Xabi Alonso experienced a rather less glorious goodbye. Seven minutes of anonymity as an essentially second-string Liverpool side were overrun by Espanyol was not the way to go, even for the essentially unassuming Alonso.
His welcome, after a £30 million (Dh187.5m) move to Real Madrid, should produce rather more fanfare. Once the flagship signing of Rafa Benitez’s first summer at Anfield, Alonso’s exit has been flagged up for a year in which both reputation and price tag have been elevated by his excellence. Liverpool almost trebled their money on the midfielder, but he may represent a rare case when the supporters knew more than the manager.
The Kop struck a rare note of dissent 12 months ago in the pre-season friendly against Lazio, chorusing Alonso’s name at a time when Benitez was planning to sell the Basque and replace him with Gareth Barry. Then Alonso wanted to stay; now Benitez was keen to keep him. But relations were never fully repaired and Real’s predictably public campaign to sign him succeeded.
Few can weigh, time or place a pass better. Statistics provide an indication of the significance of his distribution, without reflecting the elegance. Only Denilson completed more passes in the Premier League last season; a total of 2,481 amounted to almost 80 per game. A success rate of 85 per cent tends to be associated with footballers who opt for the safe, sideways ball, rather than those with Alonso’s willingness to switch play or pierce defences.
Then there were 19 Liverpool goals, a respectable tally for a man who rarely ventured into the penalty area. The superlative shots from his own half against Luton and Newcastle were probably the best, the rebound against AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final, after Dida saved his spot kick, surely the most significant.
Yet, above and beyond that, his importance lay in his ability to dovetail with teammates. The central midfield partnership with Javier Mascherano united the stylist and the scrapper. Although there is the notion that Mascherano is the more defensive of the duo, the Argentine sometimes operated ahead of Alonso, pressing opponents high up the field while the Spaniard swept up behind him. At other times, they formed a dual shield in front of the back four.
Despite the reluctance Benitez sometimes showed to field both as the two central midfielders, Alonso displayed an intuitive understanding with Steven Gerrard. “He is easy to play with,†said the captain last season. “I love playing with him. He is clever and everyone knows the range of passing he has got.â€
Gerrard does not make a habit of eulogising, but his nomination of Alonso as Liverpool’s outstanding player last season was notable. It is a view that was widely shared. Alonso’s response to rejection, as Liverpool attempted to trade him to raise funds for Barry, was outstanding. Now there may be a void alongside Mascherano while Gerrard and Fernando Torres look forlornly for such perceptive passes. Laments for departed players are commonplace and absence can increase anyone’s standing, but Alonso is a rarity in improving his own while still at the club.
Last summer, the Liverpool manager, unlike the fans, was not appreciative enough of Alonso. As Benitez’s attempts to keep him this year show, he is fully aware of what he will be missing. Alonso did not get the farewell he deserved, but he left Anfield at a time when respect for his distinctive style of play has never been higher.
Xabi Alonso has finally completed his long-awaited move to Real Madrid, after months of speculation concerning his future at Liverpool.
Speaking after his official unveiling as a Galactico, the Spaniard paid tribute to the Anfield faithful, but he was clear on the fact that he had decided several months ago to leave the club.
"It's a very happy day for me," Alonso told reporters at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"It's an important step in my career to come to a club like Real Madrid.
"I'm very happy to be part of this club. It's the best opportunity for me to develop as a footballer."
The 27-year-old went on to speak of his treatment by the Reds' fans, and expressed appreciation for his experiences at Anfield.
"I am very grateful to Liverpool fans," he began. "They were very warm during my five years [with the club].
"It will be really difficult to match their appreciation. I really enjoyed those five years."
Despite all the gratitude he had for the fans, he claimed that the decision to walk through the exit doors had been made a long time ago.
"But a few months ago I took that decision as I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club," he reflected.
"That's when Real Madrid came along.
"Luckily a deal has been done and I'm very happy. It is a personal challenge I felt is necessary for my football career."
Alonso is one of the many big-name signings that Los Blancos have made following the second coming of club president Florentino Perez.
http://goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/08/06/1424727/xabi-alonso-i-decided-to-leave-liverpool-a-few-months-ago
I must say I find his version of the sequence of events - 'I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club. That's when Real Madrid came along' - a bit questionable.
Speaking after his official unveiling as a Galactico, the Spaniard paid tribute to the Anfield faithful, but he was clear on the fact that he had decided several months ago to leave the club.
"It's a very happy day for me," Alonso told reporters at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"It's an important step in my career to come to a club like Real Madrid.
"I'm very happy to be part of this club. It's the best opportunity for me to develop as a footballer."
The 27-year-old went on to speak of his treatment by the Reds' fans, and expressed appreciation for his experiences at Anfield.
"I am very grateful to Liverpool fans," he began. "They were very warm during my five years [with the club].
"It will be really difficult to match their appreciation. I really enjoyed those five years."
Despite all the gratitude he had for the fans, he claimed that the decision to walk through the exit doors had been made a long time ago.
"But a few months ago I took that decision as I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club," he reflected.
"That's when Real Madrid came along.
"Luckily a deal has been done and I'm very happy. It is a personal challenge I felt is necessary for my football career."
Alonso is one of the many big-name signings that Los Blancos have made following the second coming of club president Florentino Perez.
http://goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/08/06/1424727/xabi-alonso-i-decided-to-leave-liverpool-a-few-months-ago
I must say I find his version of the sequence of events - 'I thought it was the right moment to find a fresh challenge, to look for a new club. That's when Real Madrid came along' - a bit questionable.
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35060.msg919509#msg919509 date=1249548215]
[quote author=gkmacca link=topic=35060.msg919495#msg919495 date=1249547604]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35060.msg919488#msg919488 date=1249547305]
Sugar coating.
[/quote]
Or lying.
[/quote]
Maybe fudging
[/quote]He certainly does LOOK gay.
[quote author=gkmacca link=topic=35060.msg919495#msg919495 date=1249547604]
[quote author=Y1 link=topic=35060.msg919488#msg919488 date=1249547305]
Sugar coating.
[/quote]
Or lying.
[/quote]
Maybe fudging
[/quote]He certainly does LOOK gay.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919349#msg919349 date=1249515110]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919343#msg919343 date=1249514702]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
[/quote]
I'm flattered you've spent so much time thinking about me, Ryan.
And I am terrific, the only poster on here more terrifc than me is Skullflower.
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919343#msg919343 date=1249514702]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
[/quote]
I'm flattered you've spent so much time thinking about me, Ryan.
And I am terrific, the only poster on here more terrifc than me is Skullflower.
[quote author=Anita link=topic=35060.msg919559#msg919559 date=1249550726]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919349#msg919349 date=1249515110]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919343#msg919343 date=1249514702]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
[/quote]
I'm flattered you've spent so much time thinking about me, Ryan.
And I am terrific, the only poster on here more terrifc than me is Skullflower.
[/quote]How rude.
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919349#msg919349 date=1249515110]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919343#msg919343 date=1249514702]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919341#msg919341 date=1249514568]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg919339#msg919339 date=1249514473]
[quote author=Ryan link=topic=35060.msg919334#msg919334 date=1249513938]
[quote author=Herr Onceared link=topic=35060.msg918731#msg918731 date=1249476719]
[quote author=DBP link=topic=35060.msg918730#msg918730 date=1249476627]
girls should be banned from the internet.
DJS is tolerable by comparison
[/quote]Anita is a terrific poster.
[/quote]
She's not "terrific" Oncy.
People are just getting excited that she's a girl on a FF, and not shit.
Which is to be commended I suppose.
[/quote]I disagree. She knows her footie and posts well about it, she posts on cricket, boxing, general, music etc she doesnt start fights, doesnt huff and she posts a lot at all times. Thats a terrific poster in my book.
[/quote]
There probably isn't a worthy enough superlative to describe what you must think of me then.
[/quote]Ha. I defended you not two days ago for exactly the same reason.
[/quote]
True true, you did.
Just to make myself clear - I don't think Anita's shit. She's a lot better than she used to be, although I do feel a bit wary of swearing around her, which I shouldn't have to, and she really takes things a bit too seriously. Sometimes it's just for jokes Anita, remember that.
Right, that's enough of that soup. I'll fucking turn into her and her "On a sunny's Anfield day, the two Spanish Amigos..." guff.
[/quote]
I'm flattered you've spent so much time thinking about me, Ryan.
And I am terrific, the only poster on here more terrifc than me is Skullflower.
[/quote]How rude.
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