ratings(1)
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
So after Liverpool endured a tough 2006/07 Barclays Premiership season, and although they finished trophy-less after that heartbreaking Champions League final defeat. These are my ratings and opinions for the defensive department of Liverpool...
Haha.:
Jose "Pepe" Reina
This goalkeeper has had another good season at Liverpool,
however not as good as the last one, but nonetheless has
produced some breathtaking saves and performances. A couple
of blunders, most noticeably against Manchester United in
the dying moments highlighted the little bit more he needs
to add to his game. 8/10
Jerzy Dudek
Replaced by the former after his heroics, however he showed
magnificent loyalty to stay at the club to provide an
experienced back-up. But when given the chance, especially
against Arsenal in the two local cups, he didn't really
shine as much, due to lack of match fitness? Maybe so...
5.5/10
Steve Finnan
Another outstanding season at Liverpool. He might not make
headlines compared to Steven Gerrard or Peter Crouch, but
he certainly gives Liverpool stability at right-back. Very
steady and consistent, rarely has a bad game, just undermines
his undoubted quality. Could well be the best Premiership
right-back. 8/10
Alvaro Aberloa
This January signing became an instant hero by keeping the
likes of Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi of Barcelona quiet in
their Champions League game, however at left-back. At right
-back, his favoured position, his performances has been
poor. Most interestingly, his first goal for the club
against Reading, was playing at left-back. 6/10
Jamie Carragher
Like Steve Finnan, he has been another outstanding and
consistent performer for Liverpool. At center-back, he is
an integral part of this Liverpool side who has conceded
little goals this term. A definite unsung hero, without him
, Liverpool would not been so defensively sound. 8.5/10
Daniel Agger
Looks like a bargain signing for Rafael Benitez. Sprung
ahead of the pecking order at the heart of Liverpool's
defence, leaving Sami Hyypia regularly starting on the
bench. He has been a good and consistent performer, and
proves he can score a goal or two, most importantly against
Chelsea in the Champions League Semis. 7.5/10
Sami Hyypia
Although he was not first choice center-back alongside
Jamie Carragher, this veteran defender sat patiently on
the bench, and when called upon, still looked reliable and
defensively aware and sound. Lacks the pace, but more than
makes up for it with his intelligent positioning. 6.5/10
Gabriel Paletta
This reserve team youngster from Argentina hasn't have the
best of seasons at Anfield. Limited opportunities were
handed out to him. And even when he was presented with
those opportunities, he spurned most of it and doesn't look
like a good defender to call upon in an event of an injury
crisis. 5/10
John Arne Riise
Better in terms of an attacking point of view than a
defensive one, John Arne Riise has another decent season at
Liverpool's left-back. Managed his usual contributions of
goals, but has to work on his defensive game. Looks better
at left midfield. 6/10
Fabio Aurelio
Rafa Benitez's ex-Valencia player arrived on a free transfer
last summer, and has proved to be good enough for the
Premiership. Has a good left foot, versatile, and can take
set-pieces. More of a left midfielder, still has quality
at left-back. 6/10
MY BLOG OPINION of Liverpool's Best Defender: Jamie Carragher
my thoughts at 11:03 am