John Henry’s dilemma.
Warning: The following is not an attempt at heresy, merely a cautious thought.
With Roy Hodgson seemingly caught between a rock and a hard place, a huge decision rests on the shoulders of chairman John Henry and his cohort Tom Werner.
Roy Hodgson, despite coming here with the best of intentions and a decent if unspectacular record over his many years, has found himself downstream without a paddle.
When NESV took over Liverpool FC, they preached about the long term goal and how they want to do things in the right way. But the amount of pressure that is building on Hodgson, is now building on NESV, and I feel like there’s something not right about that.
I would be disappointed if NESV bowed to the fans wishes so easily, fans are fickle, and one thing a chairman cannot be is fickle.
A well known website recently posted an open letter to Henry with what was effectively an ultimatum; sack Roy Hodgson or lose the respect of the fans. This kind of thing I find out of order, there is no way someone in the position that Henry is in should give credence to ultimatums and blackmail.
Those in charge are clearly astute businessmen, and Liverpool FC, whether we like it or not, is a business. There are countless factors to consider with replacing Hodgson. Things ranging from the new manager, to the pay out, to the effect on the players and to the image the club gives out.
One problem which might occur, is the appointment of someone who may become too powerful. The man who springs to mind is obvious; Kenny Dalglish. The child inside me pines for the return of the king, the atmosphere and energy he would bring back for those initial games would be worth every penny. The concern however, and maybe I’m being a bit too cautious, is what if Kenny doesn’t work out?
Say, for instance, Kenny gets us playing half decent football but by the summer we still languish in 5th or 6th. What contacts does Dalglish have in the modern game? Could he work with Comolli? Will he be able to establish a modern sports science approach which is essential these days? Would the fans be able to see common sense if it wasn’t working out? However, most importantly, if a relationship broke down with the board, the fans would inevitably come down on Kenny’s side. The board must see the potential for trouble here.
We know that Dalglish is a gentleman, he’s proved it time and again, but put your business minds on. Would you hire someone with the potential to have more sway and power than yourself?
I would hope that, if Dalglish does end up with the reigns, that it works out. I would like nothing more than a legend to come back and restore the club, it’s fairy-tale stuff. But maybe, as a Liverpool fan, we’ve been subjected to too many broken promises.
For this reason, I think the the best the board may do with Dalglish, (if Hodgson was to go), would be to give him a contract only to the end of the season. There would have to be some kind of gentlemans agreement that Dalglish would go quietly and by mutual consent.
It seems silly to even be considering this kind of thing now, but I want a long term future, not a short term answer. If Liverpool get beat by Bolton, Hodgson will surely be sacked. But if he stumbles on to the summer, I won’t be too upset.
The ultimatums to the board must stop though, we need a strong board who prove they have faith and an eye for change. Besides Dalglish, there are no managers available at this time of year. God forbid we end up with Allardyce or O’Neill, although O’Neill would no doubt have us a bit more motivated than Mr Roy.
The biggest decision comes in the summer. Regardless of what happens from now til then. We aren’t going to finish 4th, forget about it. We probably won’t finish 4th for a couple of years, but Henry as a tough decision to make in the next couple of days.
It’s a fine line between a weak chairman and one who answers the fans. It was a strong board who stuck by Ferguson in the 80’s despite fan calls for a sacking, we need to be prepared to accept that Dalglish might not get the job, and if he doesn’t, then the summer will be the time for change.
For now, we may have to just grin and bare it. A. A. Milne said it clearly for us all: “The third-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the majority. The second-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking with the minority. The first-rate mind is only happy when it is thinking.”
Maybe we need the board to do what they alone think is best for the long term, for Liverpool FC in the next 25 years, not the rest of the season.
Friday 31 December 2010
Wednesday 29 December 2010
Rafa's Rejects and the joy of the mute button.
Liverpool are currently in what we’d call a transitional phase, off the field anyway. On the field, we’re what some may call ‘stuck in the mud’.
The recent abject showing against Wolves made two things abundantly clear to me.
Andy Gray and Alan Parry are so unbearably buffoonish that I watched the majority of the game on Sky with the mute button on.
Roy Hodgson does not have the ability to manage Liverpool.
What we have at Liverpool is a swinging axe, and Hodgson’s head is edging nearer and nearer.
Firstly, the failure by Statler and Waldorf in the Sky gantry to call into question even one of their mate Hodgson’s tactical or team choices, and instead to simply act baffled while the crowd chanted for Dalglish was criminal, for so called experts.
When the crowd reacted ironically to Konchesky’s substitution, they failed to grasp two important points, that the Konchesky family has had a bit too much to say in public and that he is probably the worst left back the club have had for decades. Even Andreas Dossena could lash in a good cross (and score some memorable goals).
My only salvation was to reach for the mute button and reject the bile being spouted from the TV.
The loyalty by Sky and the london press in general to their mate manifested itself even more so when Parry felt the need to give his two pence on Rafa Benitez tenure. Mockingly inferring fans must be crazed to have him back, oh what some would give to have the goatee’d maestro at the helm.
The second point, which will no doubt be much discussed, is the ability of the incumbent manager, Roy Hodgson.
To put it bluntly he lacks a few qualities to be a success at the top; the ability to adapt during a game, the ability to motivate world class stars, and the personality to create an atmosphere within the club of superiority.
I have previously defended Roy (mildly), and suggested we may as well give him the season, and I may think differently in the morning, but I can’t bear this suffering much more.
I am unsure about the appointment of Dalglish, would it be silly to suggest if we appoint him, fans will find it too difficult to let go. Especially if he divides opinion with an indifferent tenure, although, I would be curious.
The solutions aren’t obvious, and in my previous posts I’ve highlighted candidates such as Flores, Deschamps and Coyle.
I think blaming Benitez for the mess we’re in now is a classic case of passing the buck. Rafa’s ‘rejects’ aren’t that bad, it’s a team full of internationals and youth promise. All we missed at the end of 2009 was a game controller, someone to move the ball quickly from side to side and show a bit of ingenuity. Aquilani would be the obvious choice, considering he’s already our player, but Roy sees it differently.
The tactics used: Meireles, Kuyt, Gerrard and Lucas in a mish-mash formation behind a lazy Torres and an inexperienced Ngog is just not good enough in the Premiership.
It’s amateurish to send even a seasoned pro out there with seemingly no game plan and just hope your players can do better than the other guys.
Torres looks like he doesn’t want to be there, and I think hooking him off on 60 minutes would’ve sent a clear message to everyone that laziness won’t be tolerated.
Despite the bafflement by Gray and Parry at the boos for Ngog’s substitution, the lad played considerably better than Torres and I think those around Anfield who aren’t acquainted with Hodgson could see that. He showed some good control, movement and touches, without being greedy. It’s a shame it never paid off for him, but when the whole team are dragging their feet, you can’t rely on someone like Ngog to ‘lead by example’, it would be unfair to do so.
While Hodgson might be content to try and spin comments such as claiming various players aren’t his, some players even being Purslow’s (what’s that all about?), he should consider a change.
He’s insisted during his time here that his methods haven’t changed in 30 years and have always stood in good stead, maybe now is the time look in the mirror.
The players don’t look happy, his signings haven’t won over anyone, every time he gives an interview you start to grimace and above all, the football being played is woeful.
Soto being thrown up front as a last gasp attempt with Lucas filling in at centre back? Awful, simply awful, that kind of tactical ‘knowhow’ reminds me of Mourinho turning to Huth to save his blushes every time Rafa had him in checkmate. Embarrassing.
To finish my rant, I can only say that I expect nothing from this season. Possibly a Euro place, but I think the biggest job here is the next managerial appointment.
From what I’ve seen and read, the only ones in support of Hodgson getting more than a year are those in the TV studios, because after all, he’s such a nice guy!
I wouldn’t trust him to spend money in January, so instead of writing a few cheques for players Mr Henry, why not save some money and send Roy his p45.
Here’s hoping.
The recent abject showing against Wolves made two things abundantly clear to me.
Andy Gray and Alan Parry are so unbearably buffoonish that I watched the majority of the game on Sky with the mute button on.
Roy Hodgson does not have the ability to manage Liverpool.
What we have at Liverpool is a swinging axe, and Hodgson’s head is edging nearer and nearer.
Firstly, the failure by Statler and Waldorf in the Sky gantry to call into question even one of their mate Hodgson’s tactical or team choices, and instead to simply act baffled while the crowd chanted for Dalglish was criminal, for so called experts.
When the crowd reacted ironically to Konchesky’s substitution, they failed to grasp two important points, that the Konchesky family has had a bit too much to say in public and that he is probably the worst left back the club have had for decades. Even Andreas Dossena could lash in a good cross (and score some memorable goals).
My only salvation was to reach for the mute button and reject the bile being spouted from the TV.
The loyalty by Sky and the london press in general to their mate manifested itself even more so when Parry felt the need to give his two pence on Rafa Benitez tenure. Mockingly inferring fans must be crazed to have him back, oh what some would give to have the goatee’d maestro at the helm.
The second point, which will no doubt be much discussed, is the ability of the incumbent manager, Roy Hodgson.
To put it bluntly he lacks a few qualities to be a success at the top; the ability to adapt during a game, the ability to motivate world class stars, and the personality to create an atmosphere within the club of superiority.
I have previously defended Roy (mildly), and suggested we may as well give him the season, and I may think differently in the morning, but I can’t bear this suffering much more.
I am unsure about the appointment of Dalglish, would it be silly to suggest if we appoint him, fans will find it too difficult to let go. Especially if he divides opinion with an indifferent tenure, although, I would be curious.
The solutions aren’t obvious, and in my previous posts I’ve highlighted candidates such as Flores, Deschamps and Coyle.
I think blaming Benitez for the mess we’re in now is a classic case of passing the buck. Rafa’s ‘rejects’ aren’t that bad, it’s a team full of internationals and youth promise. All we missed at the end of 2009 was a game controller, someone to move the ball quickly from side to side and show a bit of ingenuity. Aquilani would be the obvious choice, considering he’s already our player, but Roy sees it differently.
The tactics used: Meireles, Kuyt, Gerrard and Lucas in a mish-mash formation behind a lazy Torres and an inexperienced Ngog is just not good enough in the Premiership.
It’s amateurish to send even a seasoned pro out there with seemingly no game plan and just hope your players can do better than the other guys.
Torres looks like he doesn’t want to be there, and I think hooking him off on 60 minutes would’ve sent a clear message to everyone that laziness won’t be tolerated.
Despite the bafflement by Gray and Parry at the boos for Ngog’s substitution, the lad played considerably better than Torres and I think those around Anfield who aren’t acquainted with Hodgson could see that. He showed some good control, movement and touches, without being greedy. It’s a shame it never paid off for him, but when the whole team are dragging their feet, you can’t rely on someone like Ngog to ‘lead by example’, it would be unfair to do so.
While Hodgson might be content to try and spin comments such as claiming various players aren’t his, some players even being Purslow’s (what’s that all about?), he should consider a change.
He’s insisted during his time here that his methods haven’t changed in 30 years and have always stood in good stead, maybe now is the time look in the mirror.
The players don’t look happy, his signings haven’t won over anyone, every time he gives an interview you start to grimace and above all, the football being played is woeful.
Soto being thrown up front as a last gasp attempt with Lucas filling in at centre back? Awful, simply awful, that kind of tactical ‘knowhow’ reminds me of Mourinho turning to Huth to save his blushes every time Rafa had him in checkmate. Embarrassing.
To finish my rant, I can only say that I expect nothing from this season. Possibly a Euro place, but I think the biggest job here is the next managerial appointment.
From what I’ve seen and read, the only ones in support of Hodgson getting more than a year are those in the TV studios, because after all, he’s such a nice guy!
I wouldn’t trust him to spend money in January, so instead of writing a few cheques for players Mr Henry, why not save some money and send Roy his p45.
Here’s hoping.
Friday 17 December 2010
Liverpool FC: The king and kingmaker.
The january transfer window is fast approaching, and many fans will read a lot into the owners spending.
Will they back Roy? If they do, does that mean we’re in it for the long haul?
The majority of reds are indifferent to Hodgson and his methods. His nice guy attitude in front of the cameras doesn’t sit too comfortably with those of us who want a manager to ruffle some feathers.
The tactics employed, are unflattering to say the least, derisory football and an obsession with rigidity isn’t winning over anybody.
One defense for bad football tends to be ‘well at least it’s effective’. In this case however, it’s both bad and ineffective. Sam Allardyce would be ashamed of us! And that says it all.
I have stated before, that I would give Hodgson the full season, because deep down, I just don’t care how we do this season as long as the future is looking bright.
A scorched Earth approach can bring new shoots to bear, and I think with a new ownership and a new direction, the club needs to outline certain long term fundamentals.
Football isn’t going anywhere, so one revolution after another won’t achieve much, we need a blank slate, and time to evolve.
Whether Hodgson is capable enough to wipe the slate clean and start again is one question, whether he has the ability to develop us into a force that sticks to an entertaining mandate is one I’m almost sure will not happen.
I admit to knowing little about our new Director of Football Strategy, mostly due to me not paying attention to him before he came here.
(If anyone has any relevant information on Damien Comolli, share it!)
It seems that the Frenchman could have some considerable influence at the club, and although I’m not an advocate of suits running things on the pitch, I’m willing to give him time.
As I mentioned before, a long term vision is important, and if he has it, as well as the suspected big influence, he could well be a kingmaker at the club.
If, and I guess if is the buzzword, we were to get a new manager in the summer, I wouldn’t expect a big name.
A few names who I wouldn’t mind being banded about are Flores, Coyle and Deschamps. Coyle may seem a strange shout to some, but I think his ability to over-achieve with a good brand of football and an intelligent, insightful personality mean he is a different type of over-achiever than Roy. We might see a few class goals for the reserves too.
Hodgson’s achievements were through a tough shell and a ‘blue collar mentality’. Coyle on the other hand seems to encourage creativity, although, nobody has a crystal ball and whoever was to come in would have to have the fans onside quickly.
Flores and Deschamps are both in my eyes, similar coaches. They employ a technical approach and both work alongside (or under, if you prefer) football directors. It would not surprise me if the club started to take on a French feel over the next couple of years.
Although, Deschamps has been around the game almost 10 years now, he is still relatively young and has managed to topple Lyon from their perch.
Quique Sanches Flores is a hard one to sell, he’s more personality than coach, although he clearly has ability. His antics against Espanyol two weeks ago were, although in the wrong, good to see. He isn’t afraid to get involved and I think his success in the Europa cup last year with some big name players means he knows how to handle them
Henry and the rest of NESV speak well, and they understand diatribe when they see it. However, people understand that Roy Hodgson isn’t their man and unless success is quick, new owners don’t tend to stick with the in place manager.
It’s gotten to the point now that, when watching Liverpool play, I find myself bored of being frustrated. A deep back-line and no pressure on the opposition in their own half could give me restless nights and calls echoing in my head of ‘attack attack attack’. It’s hard to even be philosophical about it, Roy may be sure in his ability, but not many others are, despite his embarrassing claims of good form. Besides beating Chelsea, Liverpool have done the bare minimum and less, throughout the season.
If we’re to start a fresh, there’s no time like the present. As stated, I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking ‘I wouldn’t mind Roy having the season’, but I think that’s only because deep down, I’m hoping he’s not here come June.
By Chris Severs
Will they back Roy? If they do, does that mean we’re in it for the long haul?
The majority of reds are indifferent to Hodgson and his methods. His nice guy attitude in front of the cameras doesn’t sit too comfortably with those of us who want a manager to ruffle some feathers.
The tactics employed, are unflattering to say the least, derisory football and an obsession with rigidity isn’t winning over anybody.
One defense for bad football tends to be ‘well at least it’s effective’. In this case however, it’s both bad and ineffective. Sam Allardyce would be ashamed of us! And that says it all.
I have stated before, that I would give Hodgson the full season, because deep down, I just don’t care how we do this season as long as the future is looking bright.
A scorched Earth approach can bring new shoots to bear, and I think with a new ownership and a new direction, the club needs to outline certain long term fundamentals.
Football isn’t going anywhere, so one revolution after another won’t achieve much, we need a blank slate, and time to evolve.
Whether Hodgson is capable enough to wipe the slate clean and start again is one question, whether he has the ability to develop us into a force that sticks to an entertaining mandate is one I’m almost sure will not happen.
I admit to knowing little about our new Director of Football Strategy, mostly due to me not paying attention to him before he came here.
(If anyone has any relevant information on Damien Comolli, share it!)
It seems that the Frenchman could have some considerable influence at the club, and although I’m not an advocate of suits running things on the pitch, I’m willing to give him time.
As I mentioned before, a long term vision is important, and if he has it, as well as the suspected big influence, he could well be a kingmaker at the club.
If, and I guess if is the buzzword, we were to get a new manager in the summer, I wouldn’t expect a big name.
A few names who I wouldn’t mind being banded about are Flores, Coyle and Deschamps. Coyle may seem a strange shout to some, but I think his ability to over-achieve with a good brand of football and an intelligent, insightful personality mean he is a different type of over-achiever than Roy. We might see a few class goals for the reserves too.
Hodgson’s achievements were through a tough shell and a ‘blue collar mentality’. Coyle on the other hand seems to encourage creativity, although, nobody has a crystal ball and whoever was to come in would have to have the fans onside quickly.
Flores and Deschamps are both in my eyes, similar coaches. They employ a technical approach and both work alongside (or under, if you prefer) football directors. It would not surprise me if the club started to take on a French feel over the next couple of years.
Although, Deschamps has been around the game almost 10 years now, he is still relatively young and has managed to topple Lyon from their perch.
Quique Sanches Flores is a hard one to sell, he’s more personality than coach, although he clearly has ability. His antics against Espanyol two weeks ago were, although in the wrong, good to see. He isn’t afraid to get involved and I think his success in the Europa cup last year with some big name players means he knows how to handle them
Henry and the rest of NESV speak well, and they understand diatribe when they see it. However, people understand that Roy Hodgson isn’t their man and unless success is quick, new owners don’t tend to stick with the in place manager.
It’s gotten to the point now that, when watching Liverpool play, I find myself bored of being frustrated. A deep back-line and no pressure on the opposition in their own half could give me restless nights and calls echoing in my head of ‘attack attack attack’. It’s hard to even be philosophical about it, Roy may be sure in his ability, but not many others are, despite his embarrassing claims of good form. Besides beating Chelsea, Liverpool have done the bare minimum and less, throughout the season.
If we’re to start a fresh, there’s no time like the present. As stated, I’m sure I’m not alone in thinking ‘I wouldn’t mind Roy having the season’, but I think that’s only because deep down, I’m hoping he’s not here come June.
By Chris Severs
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