Liverpool - Reap what you sow

With the reemergence of King Kenny as manager has come a whole new lease of life for Liverpool F.C. The wise Scot has used his American resources and invested heavily this transfer window, but predominantly in attack, leaving a suspect defense dwindling. Nevertheless, the emphasis at Merseyside is certainly spend lots and gain valuable players in the form of Charlie Adam, Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson. The three bright talents dazzled the Premier League last season and alongside January acquisitions Luis Suarez, Andy Carroll and a fit Steven Gerrard, Liverpool certainly have the potential to be a serious threat this season.

Is Charlie Adam guaranteed 1st team football?

The transfer window has certainly been busy for Liverpool and inflated prices for players has forced large sums of money to be traded for the players brought in. Stewart Downing cost a bulky £20 million but the creative left-winger has shown his ability to play at a high level, supply and finish. Andy Carroll will certainly relish the opportunity to find his way onto the end of Downing’s fantastic deliveries. Ex-Black Cat Jordan Henderson has also dawned the red shirt for an undisclosed fee rumored around £18 - £20 million – the young midfielders was highly sought after and it appears he will mature into a terrific talent for Liverpool. The signing of ex-Blackpool playmaker Charlie Adam for £7 million was definitely a bargain for the Reds as the Scot showed terrific form and consistency throughout his time with the now relegated Seasiders. With large depth in their attacking pool, one can’t help but wonder why there was no acquisition for a defender this transfer window. The incoming Jose Enrique deal could help bolster the defense but a couple of injuries could easily unbalance the back line. Clearly King Kenny is confident with his defensive roster and he will show the fans that Liverpool have an attacking philosophy.

What I want to see –

Keep Steven Gerard fit; An obvious statement but a fit Gerard will instill fear into any team not to mention inspire those around him. There’s no doubt that Liverpool need their leader back and while consistent groin problems plague Gerard, his position in the starting XI is all but guaranteed if he can keep healthy.

Consistency will make Carroll a top target man.

Get Andy Carroll up front and supported; An unfortunate beginning to Carroll’s career at Liverpool forced him onto the bench with injury woes but we certainly saw glimpses of the tall Englishman’s ability as a target man. All that can be done now is constantly playing Carroll together with Suarez and new signings Downing and Adam to ensure they gel together and form a fearsome attacking line.

Build Jordan Henderson’s confidence; It is clear that King Kenny sees Henderson as a hot prospect and that means he needs game time. While still young he has shown consistency during last season so getting the young lad onto the pitch will serve wonders to continue his progression into the heart of Liverpool’s future starting XI.

Luis Suarez has too much talent.

Luis Suarez magic; I think it really doesn’t matter what team you support when a player of such talent plays in the Premier League and you have the opportunity to marvel at his skills. I hope for the sake of football that Suarez stays fit and has a fantastic season to keep all of us entertained and Liverpool fans extremely happy.

Proposed Line-up –

GK – Reina

DR – Kelly

DL – G. Johnson

DC – Skrtel

DC – Carragher

CM – Gerard

CM – Meireles

LM – Downing

RM – Kuyt

FW – Luis Suarez

ST – Carroll

Will the arrival of Enrique provide enough defensive depth?

This starting line up emphasizes the sheer depth Liverpool possess in midfield. With Charlie Adam fighting for a role in the starting XI, Maxi Rodriguez, Joe Cole, Aquilani and Lucas all desperate to be a part of King Kenny’s team, there are certainly no shortages for cover. It makes sense that Liverpool sell one or two of the aforementioned players, preferably Rodriguez and Cole to free up some room and recover finances for the American investors. Nevertheless, injuries to the back line could be absolutely fatal to Liverpool’s consistency.

It's time for Downing to make his mark.

Predicted place in table – This is an incredibly difficult question to answer. If Liverpool go on a run and avoid any major injuries then they could contend with any team in the Premier League. Most pundits put Liverpool in 4^th place behind Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea but make no mistake about it, Liverpool can play with the big boys and a top 3 finish can potentially be on the cards this season.