Zak whitbread?

[awparcell]

Hey guys, any updates on Zak for the upcoming season? I understand he should get some playing time? What is he 22 now? Ready for the nats?

[skipshady]

I saw him at the Liverpool vs Roma match. If I were to base my assessment on his performance in that match (and honestly, I haven't seen him elsewhere), he's not ready for prime time. He looked extremely unsteady with the ball and had to be bailed out on at least 2 occasions. The physical tools are there, I'm sure, but he can't seem to deal with the speed and the pressure of top flight ball.

But only experience will solve those issues, so if he gets enough playing time in reserve and League Cup matches, he'll be ready for a regular position next year, hopefully.

I wouldn't worry too much about his age - defenders take longer to develop than attackers, so 22 is still very young.

[liverbird]

I saw him at the Liverpool vs Roma match. If I were to base my assessment on his performance in that match (and honestly, I haven't seen him elsewhere), he's not ready for prime time. He looked extremely unsteady with the ball and had to be bailed out on at least 2 occasions. The physical tools are there, I'm sure, but he can't seem to deal with the speed and the pressure of top flight ball.

But only experience will solve those issues, so if he gets enough playing time in reserve and League Cup matches, he'll be ready for a regular position next year, hopefully.

I wouldn't worry too much about his age - defenders take longer to develop than attackers, so 22 is still very young.

yeah, what he said! Doubled in spades! :cool:

[Suss]

Is he really 22? I thought he was younger.

[skipshady]

Is he really 22? I thought he was younger.
You thought correctly. According to the official site, he is 20 years old: www.liverpoolfc.tv/team/squad/whitbread/

[blktauna]

yeah, what he said! Doubled in spades! :cool:

...and added to. The kid was crap. But I applaud the fact he was there and getting experience. I am a huge proponent of bringing players up through the ranks. I hope he settles and we can use him someday on the first team.