Early Thoughts

Two games in and so far no goals for and one against. About time I started calling for the managers head don't you think? Of course not. Although I do have a beef with whoever thought that starting the season so soon after the Wold Cup ended was a good idea. Five weeks to let the best players in the world (and the second best as well, sorry Dirk and Ryan) to have an end of season rest, and a pre season training regime and some match practice is a joke. The  English Premier League is no longer the best league in the world, just the biggest cash cow.

And as for the Europa League qualifying stages starting during the World Cup. Although, to be fair, I suppose UEFA didn't expect any teams with plenty of World cup players, to join the competition so early.

It was good to see the youngsters get a run out and let Roy see who has some potential to bring through for a chance this term. I don't think any of them have particularly shone, but none have disgraced themselves either. Lucas has grown in confidence and Jovanovic seems to have the right attitude, being the first player,along with Soto, to return from international duty to play in the warm ups.

But I am worried that with only three more games before the big kick off (you have to say that about the first game of the new season. It's the law) we will be very under prepared to take on Arsenal. If anything, the fact that the Gunners are our first opponents is something of a softener for two reasons. Firstly, they will have a number of late arrivals in their squad, and secondly, when we play Arsenal as our opening game, we seem to have a decent season.

Last week was positive for reds fans with the arrival of Danny Wilson and Joe Cole and the interview with Stevie G that suggested that he was here for the season. I think that Roy has made good plans for the playing side of the club and feel more optimistic on that front. Of course the big issue that still needs to be resolved is the ownership and until that is sorted, then we are still going to be running to stand still. I think that if Fernando Torres starts for the reds against the Gunners, then we can probably read that there is likely to be good news on the ownership issue. My belief is that if he receives certain reassurances, then he will stay with us.

Mascherano on the other hand just needs to hand in a transfer request and be done with it. Playing games like he seems to be is disrespectful to supporters who welcomed him when he was unwanted elsewhere. I'd just like the transfer funds now please (as long a Roy is allowed to reinvest it).

So Thursday will be our first real test.Our first must win game of the season (well maybe not, but definitely a can't lose game). How often will we hear those words in 2010/11? A must win game for Liverpool. Every one I hope.