Since Torres sat against Toulouse, he's bound to get the nod here. I vote for Crouch, even though Kuijt played superbly against the French side, mainly because, as has been stated, finding partnerships that click is a big part of the selection process. We know that Voronin is a sound choice with anyone. His game will fit with Torres, Kuijt and Crouch. Torres/Crouch is a bit more iffy. It's a good opportunity to test the lads together. Babel is a right-footed player who prefers to play on the left, or so I understand it. If Riise is behind him, it provides lots of chances to put Riise in on the right back, as Babel's moving to his right allows him to pass to his left with his right foot much more easily than his left foot. Mascherano and Sissoko together frees Sissoko to move forward, a la Gerrard. I think we saw how much more active he was in the Toulouse zone than he has been in past matches. And he didn't have to think about giving up the ball so soon, since Mascherano had his back.
HA! For how long? I say he'll be fit for the morning sprint and then right back in the doctor's office. I don't mind being without Stevie, no need to rush him back to fitness, we've got the fire power to beat Derby. I predict 2:0 Torres Kuyt
Here's Lawro's (of BBC) prediction for this matchup...so far he guessed all of our results correctly (not just the outcome but the exact score): Liverpool v Derby So far this season in the Premier League, Derby have been so poor at the back, it's frightening. Liverpool have now got strength in depth, and they'll be able to freshen up and change the team that beat Toulouse in the Champions League. Prediction: 3-0 I say nay...we win 4-1
Like I said before the Sunderland game, Torres was bought for the league, so its certain he'll be in the lineup. Don't think a torres crouch pair will work, but who knows, maybe Rafa will give it a go. As for Yossi/Pennant, I could see an argument for Yossi in this game. With Gerrard out, Yossi can provide some extra creativity that Pennant can't. Having 2 central midfielders who are likely to sit back some, Yossi can be play the creative role.
could you explain your thinking regarding the partnership of Torres and Crouch? or is it just a gut thing?
Guys, who amongst Crouch or Voronin will start for you guys? I need a striker from 'pool for my fantasy team assuming atleast 3 goals from your side.
Seeing as you have referred to Liverpool as Liversh$te, and our manager as a fat, scouse b@stard within the last week, I doubt you will get any assistance here. Why don't you use your own 'vast knowledge' rather than begging for scraps from those who you slag off at every opportunity?
Out of those two I'd probably go with Voronin. Not that I think he's the better player yet. I just see Crouch playing more in Europe than in the league. If you've got the cash Kuyt would be by far the best option (except Torres) as he looks like he will get the most games. But it's still early days so who really knows.
Haven't heard of banter, have you and it wasn't as if I have been posting that on your board. Thanks for your reply. I was planning to go with Voronin myself. It is just a one-off for the Derby game, taking players from your team is always dangerous because you can never be 100% sure that the player you have will start.
I feel cheated and used. Teaches me to read who's actualy asking the question next time. I mean his signiture says "Giggs 9-Liverpool 0", if thats not a clue I don't know what is.
I think he'll give torres/crouch a whirl, and they can both play up front. If Derby are weak at the back, Attack. Talk to me about wing-backs. Riena finnan agger sami ( ris... pennant xabi mash ...se ) kuyt crouch torres 3-0 14-2 shots on net Go team.
LOL, you're on a roll with the funny comments today! I think it will be Kuyt & Torres, Like to see Crouch & Torres.
Announced teamsheet: Liverpool - Reina, Finnan, Hyypia, Agger, Arbeloa, Alonso, Mascherano, Babel, Pennant, Kuyt, Torres. Subs - Itandje, Riise, Voronin, Sissoko, Benayoun. Looks like: -------------Reina Finnan--Hyppia---Agger----Arbeloa Pennant--Alonso--Mascherano--Babel --------Kuyt---Torres Looks like we are going to attack on the wings and shut down the middle
Team is Reina Finnan Hyypia Agger Arbeloa Pennant Mascherano Alonso Babel Torres Kuyt Subs are Voronin Sissoko Benayoun Riise Itandje