Season Review Part Three: Midfielders

Liverpool

Georginio Wijnaldum

The central midfielder was Liverpool’s top representative in this area of the pitch having played a total of 36 league games, and gradually built his way towards becoming one of the club’s most impressive players this season. Eyebrows were certainly raised at his big-money signature from Newcastle, but Wijnaldum has now established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet with some fantastic performances. Gini was extremely disciplined in a highly demanding midfield role as he picked up just two yellow cards all season, often outmuscling opposing forwards, while contributing in equal measure up front with six goals and nine assists.

Emre Can

As Liverpool’s second most prominent midfielder this season, Can has succeeded in stepping up to the plate when Jordan Henderson was ruled out through injury. The powerful midfielder has come on leaps and bounds under fellow German Klopp, and much like Wijnaldum, he has impressed at both ends of the fields. His relentless defending was often rash at times as he gave away silly fouls and picked up unnecessary yellow cards, but his surging runs forward have been hugely significant throughout a long season. With five goals and two assists, Can has proved just how important he is to Klopp’s long-term plans, and has unquestionably cemented his position in the heart of the midfield.

Philippe Coutinho

Liverpool’s little magician was once again the star performer of the season and must be retained at all costs as the club aim to truly regain their Champions League status. The Brazilian was all-too-often heavily relied on by the Reds in their time of need, and the quick feet of Coutinho were always there to answer the call, with countless important and often incredible goals to win crucial games. With 13 goals and seven assists, Liverpool simply wouldn’t have finished in fourth place. His stunning goals, passes, and chances created were all hugely significant throughout the season, and he will continue to be the club’s star performer in the next coming seasons as long as Klopp secures his services for the long-term future.

Adam Lallana

The England international contributed to this successful season with eight goals and seven assists from his 31 appearances. His connection with Klopp has undeniably proved vital throughout the campaign, and again Lallana is another who seemingly has a bright future at Anfield after somewhat of a stuttered start. He is slowly becoming a fan favourite at the club, although admittedly could be more clinical up top and perhaps develop his tracking back but, the attacking midfielder was very assured in a strong season personally, helping his club regain their rightful Champions League place.

Jordan Henderson

Another England international who started brightly with fantastic passion and love for the club, and was sorely missed towards the end of the campaign with his unfortunate injuries. His drive going forward helped the likes of Coutinho and Firmino as they often linked up well, while his tracking back was exemplary as he outclassed many opposing players, several of whom who are highly regarded as the best midfielders in the league. Another who stepped up to the plate in important games, Henderson also formed a bond with Klopp and will certainly be viewed as a crucial cog in the Liverpool machine as their squad will inevitably grow bigger over the summer.

var referee working in var control room

Liverpool’s Worst VAR Decisions

Refereeing has always been an integral part of football, whether we like it or not. When a decision goes in your team’s favour, the referee could be carried out of the ground on a sedan chair. When they make a decision that is to the detriment of your club, however, they might as well try […]

Read More
steven gerard with european cup 2005

John Barnes, Luis Garcia and Steven Gerrard: The greatest Liverpool midfielders of all time

Analysing club history can give you goosebumps, especially when re-watching old or even recent footage. From hearing the names through the tannoy or the commentator, to seeing the goals and the nostalgia of your favourite heroes lifting trophies aloft. In a player’s career, they may only have stayed at Anfield for a short time or […]

Read More
man city and liverpool players

Manchester City vs Liverpool, the ULTIMATE combined starting lineup

Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool return fresh from the international break, but face a major test against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City this Saturday lunchtime. In recent seasons, the two juggernauts have gone toe-to-toe for the Premiership title. This match would have been a winner takes all to go on and win the league. Now Liverpool have experienced […]

Read More