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Liverpool Special: Champions League Or Europa League - Where Do Rafa's Reds Belong?
Goal.com UK singles out the men who are dragging Liverpool down...
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Nov 25, 2009 1:35:38 PM
For the first time in Rafael Benitez's reign, Liverpool have failed to reach the Champions League knock-out round. Having left themselves to the mercy of their Group E rivals, even a 1-0 win at Debrecen wasn't enough to keep them in the hunt.
It is perhaps appropriate that the Reds were ultimately undone by Juan Manuel Vargas, who scored Fiorentina's vital winner against Olympique Lyonnais. The Anfield outfit were linked with the Peruvian wing-back before he left Catania for La Viola; instead they bought Andrea Dossena.
Much has been said about the make-up of Liverpool's squad, and whether it boasts enough quality in depth to keep the club in contention for the big prizes.
Now they are in the Europa League, and one can't help but wonder whether many of Benitez's boys will find the second-tier tournament a more appropriate stage for their abilities...
GOALKEEPERS
Pepe Reina
First cab off the ranks is a man who is completely blameless for Liverpool's woes. As consistent as custodians come, Pepe is also an indefatigable leader and first-rate defensive marshal - and his distribution skills are unrivalled among his kind.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Diego Cavalieri
The Brazilian back-up hasn't had a sniff in Europe since joining the Reds in 2007. But although his appearances have been limited to domestic cup outings, he appears more than able as an understudy.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
DEFENDERS
Glen Johnson
The England full-back has been a revelation since his summer switch from Portsmouth. Some raised their eyebrows at the £18m price paid, but the former Chelsea man's invention and pace down the right has proven a life-saver for 'Pool, especially in the tight games.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Daniel Agger
The last few years have been frustrating for this young man, his stellar start to life on Merseyside cruelly halted by a metatarsal problem that snowballed into a rumbling mass of fitness issues. Although still prone to the odd gash or knock, when in the team he brings a calming presence to the back line - not to mention an elegance uncommon to most centre-halves.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Martin Skrtel
At one point, Skrtel was clearly Jamie Carragher's preferred partner - and perhaps rightly so. However, nearly two years into his Liverpool career, the Slovakian is looking less and less secure in every aspect of his game, and some are beginning to doubt whether he really is the long-term solution in the heart of defence.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Sotirios Kyrgiakos
One of Benitez's buys from the bargain bin last summer, the Greek veteran has made Sami Hyypia's departure all the more poignant. While hugely experienced, he has looked cumbersome when faced with decent opposition.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Jamie Carragher
The often-heralded 'soul' of LFC has had a mixed season to date, with some suggesting that his time at the top may finally be up. Nevertheless, he remains a fixture in Rafa's rearguard, and his leadership skills are needed now more than ever.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Fabio Aurelio
Another of the defensive mob whose Anfield stay has been blighted by injury. Still, the Brazilian has shown time and again an ability to perform in a number of roles, and his wicked left-foot makes him a lethal weapon at set-pieces.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Emiliano Insua
The young Argentine has established himself as the starting left-back due largely to Aurelio's fragility. An eye-catcher going forward, there are still concerns over his defensive awareness, but his potential is there for all to see in position he has a chance to make his own.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Martin Kelly
At just 19, this local lad was something of a surprise addition to Rafa's Champions League roster. However, the England Under-20 player impressed on debut when Lyon plundered Anfield, before injury forced him off.
Verdict: N/A
Stephen Darby
A homegrown talent, but one who has tasted only a few scattered minutes of first-team football. However, having won back-to-back FA Youth Cups and captained the reserves to glory, much is expected of the 21-year-old.
Verdict: N/A
Andrea Dossena
Since arriving from Udinese in 2007 for £7m - at the time Liverpool's most expensive defender - the Italian has been a huge disappointment. Now third in line for the left-back slot, and with transfer rumours circulating, his days at Anfield are surely numbered.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
MIDFIELDERS
Alberto Aquilani
More than a few questions were asked when Benitez forked out around £17 million on a player who had spent more time in the hands of Roma's doctors than on the pitch. Although yet to reach full fitness after ankle surgery in the summer, the midfield maestro has exuded class in what little game-time he has managed to date.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Steven Gerrard
What more can one say about 'Captain Fantastic' that hasn't already been said? He is the lifeblood of Liverpool Football Club - end of story.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Javier Mascherano
Widely regarded as one of the world's best defensive midfielders, the Argentine has taken on added responsibility since a certain Basque star left for Real Madrid. The 25-year-old has been among the few players to perform consistently well during the Reds' rough trot, despite concerns over his future.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Yossi Benayoun
Over the last 12 months, the Israel captain has blossomed into not only the Merseysiders' key creative outlet (behind Gerrard), but is currently considered one of the Premier League's most exciting attackers. A deadly dribbler, incisive passer and sneaky goal-getter, Yossi is capable of unlocking even the most organised of defences.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Lucas Leiva
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Albert Riera
He was a hit at first, but season two in England has been much harder work for the Spanish winger. Injuries and the stellar form of Benayoun have seen the former Espanyol star, who has been unkindly dubbed 'the new John Arne Riise' by some sections of the Kop.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Jay Spearing
It was never going to be easy for the tiny midfielder to live up to expectations after being tentatively tagged 'the next Gerrard', but his senior showings so far have left an awful lot to be desired. He may be destined to follow in the footsteps of Danny Guthrie, Darren Potter, et al.
Verdict: NEITHER
Damien Plessis
The young Frenchman showed huge promise in his earliest first-team outings, which included a very classy Premier League debut against Arsenal. His form has tapered worryingly since then, however, and he's fallen well down the pecking order.
Verdict: NEITHER
FORWARDS
Fernando Torres
Not one of Benitez's signings - and there have been several brilliant ones, mind - has made such an impact as 'El Nino'. With a record of 60 goals in 96 games for the Reds, it's easy to see why the Spain star is often hyped as the world's greatest hitman.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Ryan Babel
Bought in the same summer as Torres, the Dutchman's time at Anfield has been decidedly less glorious. Questions linger over his work ethic and mentality, and he has been largely confined to a bench role - a station that should be well beneath one so obviously gifted.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Andriy Voronin
From his lousy goal return to his stupid ponytail, this man has done little to endear himself to the Scouse support. The Ukrainian is clearly more comfortable in the somewhat more forgiving climate in which the Bundesliga's mid-table teams exist.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Dirk Kuyt
His surname was once a source of great consternation for commentators worldwide, and lately his performances have had a similar effect on the fans. Nobody works harder, but when the goals dry up - as they have this season - it's tough to justify his ever-presence in the starting XI. Still, as a spare-parts man he can more than earn his keep at the top.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
David Ngog
His audition for France's Olympic diving team has earned him scorn, but this young striker has a future at Liverpool. The former Paris Saint-Germain prospect has done better than expected when deputising for Torres and, at just £1.5 million, could yet prove to be one of Benitez's better buys. However, looking at other genuine Champions League sides and their second choice strikers leaves Liverpool's front line looking a little too short - at least for now.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
FINAL COUNT
Champions League: 13
Europa League: 8
Neither: 2
N/A: 2
Mick Maguire, Goal.com UK
How do Liverpool match up with other leading squads in Europe? Join the debate below...
It is perhaps appropriate that the Reds were ultimately undone by Juan Manuel Vargas, who scored Fiorentina's vital winner against Olympique Lyonnais. The Anfield outfit were linked with the Peruvian wing-back before he left Catania for La Viola; instead they bought Andrea Dossena.
Much has been said about the make-up of Liverpool's squad, and whether it boasts enough quality in depth to keep the club in contention for the big prizes.
Now they are in the Europa League, and one can't help but wonder whether many of Benitez's boys will find the second-tier tournament a more appropriate stage for their abilities...
GOALKEEPERS
Pepe Reina
First cab off the ranks is a man who is completely blameless for Liverpool's woes. As consistent as custodians come, Pepe is also an indefatigable leader and first-rate defensive marshal - and his distribution skills are unrivalled among his kind.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Diego Cavalieri
The Brazilian back-up hasn't had a sniff in Europe since joining the Reds in 2007. But although his appearances have been limited to domestic cup outings, he appears more than able as an understudy.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
DEFENDERS
Glen Johnson
The England full-back has been a revelation since his summer switch from Portsmouth. Some raised their eyebrows at the £18m price paid, but the former Chelsea man's invention and pace down the right has proven a life-saver for 'Pool, especially in the tight games.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Daniel Agger
The last few years have been frustrating for this young man, his stellar start to life on Merseyside cruelly halted by a metatarsal problem that snowballed into a rumbling mass of fitness issues. Although still prone to the odd gash or knock, when in the team he brings a calming presence to the back line - not to mention an elegance uncommon to most centre-halves.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Martin Skrtel
At one point, Skrtel was clearly Jamie Carragher's preferred partner - and perhaps rightly so. However, nearly two years into his Liverpool career, the Slovakian is looking less and less secure in every aspect of his game, and some are beginning to doubt whether he really is the long-term solution in the heart of defence.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Sotirios Kyrgiakos
One of Benitez's buys from the bargain bin last summer, the Greek veteran has made Sami Hyypia's departure all the more poignant. While hugely experienced, he has looked cumbersome when faced with decent opposition.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Jamie Carragher
The often-heralded 'soul' of LFC has had a mixed season to date, with some suggesting that his time at the top may finally be up. Nevertheless, he remains a fixture in Rafa's rearguard, and his leadership skills are needed now more than ever.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Fabio Aurelio
Another of the defensive mob whose Anfield stay has been blighted by injury. Still, the Brazilian has shown time and again an ability to perform in a number of roles, and his wicked left-foot makes him a lethal weapon at set-pieces.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Emiliano Insua
The young Argentine has established himself as the starting left-back due largely to Aurelio's fragility. An eye-catcher going forward, there are still concerns over his defensive awareness, but his potential is there for all to see in position he has a chance to make his own.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Martin Kelly
At just 19, this local lad was something of a surprise addition to Rafa's Champions League roster. However, the England Under-20 player impressed on debut when Lyon plundered Anfield, before injury forced him off.
Verdict: N/A
Stephen Darby
A homegrown talent, but one who has tasted only a few scattered minutes of first-team football. However, having won back-to-back FA Youth Cups and captained the reserves to glory, much is expected of the 21-year-old.
Verdict: N/A
Andrea Dossena
Since arriving from Udinese in 2007 for £7m - at the time Liverpool's most expensive defender - the Italian has been a huge disappointment. Now third in line for the left-back slot, and with transfer rumours circulating, his days at Anfield are surely numbered.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
MIDFIELDERS
Alberto Aquilani
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Steven Gerrard
What more can one say about 'Captain Fantastic' that hasn't already been said? He is the lifeblood of Liverpool Football Club - end of story.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Javier Mascherano
Widely regarded as one of the world's best defensive midfielders, the Argentine has taken on added responsibility since a certain Basque star left for Real Madrid. The 25-year-old has been among the few players to perform consistently well during the Reds' rough trot, despite concerns over his future.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Yossi Benayoun
Over the last 12 months, the Israel captain has blossomed into not only the Merseysiders' key creative outlet (behind Gerrard), but is currently considered one of the Premier League's most exciting attackers. A deadly dribbler, incisive passer and sneaky goal-getter, Yossi is capable of unlocking even the most organised of defences.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Lucas Leiva
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Albert Riera
He was a hit at first, but season two in England has been much harder work for the Spanish winger. Injuries and the stellar form of Benayoun have seen the former Espanyol star, who has been unkindly dubbed 'the new John Arne Riise' by some sections of the Kop.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Jay Spearing
It was never going to be easy for the tiny midfielder to live up to expectations after being tentatively tagged 'the next Gerrard', but his senior showings so far have left an awful lot to be desired. He may be destined to follow in the footsteps of Danny Guthrie, Darren Potter, et al.
Verdict: NEITHER
Damien Plessis
The young Frenchman showed huge promise in his earliest first-team outings, which included a very classy Premier League debut against Arsenal. His form has tapered worryingly since then, however, and he's fallen well down the pecking order.
Verdict: NEITHER
FORWARDS
Fernando Torres
Not one of Benitez's signings - and there have been several brilliant ones, mind - has made such an impact as 'El Nino'. With a record of 60 goals in 96 games for the Reds, it's easy to see why the Spain star is often hyped as the world's greatest hitman.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Ryan Babel
Bought in the same summer as Torres, the Dutchman's time at Anfield has been decidedly less glorious. Questions linger over his work ethic and mentality, and he has been largely confined to a bench role - a station that should be well beneath one so obviously gifted.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Andriy Voronin
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
Dirk Kuyt
His surname was once a source of great consternation for commentators worldwide, and lately his performances have had a similar effect on the fans. Nobody works harder, but when the goals dry up - as they have this season - it's tough to justify his ever-presence in the starting XI. Still, as a spare-parts man he can more than earn his keep at the top.
Verdict: CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
David Ngog
His audition for France's Olympic diving team has earned him scorn, but this young striker has a future at Liverpool. The former Paris Saint-Germain prospect has done better than expected when deputising for Torres and, at just £1.5 million, could yet prove to be one of Benitez's better buys. However, looking at other genuine Champions League sides and their second choice strikers leaves Liverpool's front line looking a little too short - at least for now.
Verdict: EUROPA LEAGUE
FINAL COUNT
Champions League: 13
Europa League: 8
Neither: 2
N/A: 2
Mick Maguire, Goal.com UK
How do Liverpool match up with other leading squads in Europe? Join the debate below...
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