Max Rudd – The Empire of The Kop https://www.empireofthekop.com Blog about Liverpool F.C. (LFC) and the Kop from true supporters for supporters worldwide. Tue, 05 Dec 2023 10:52:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.9 95610221 Sky Sports journo reveals what he’s ‘been told’ about Liverpool’s interest in Kylian Mbappe https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/journo-liverpool-mbappe-interest/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/journo-liverpool-mbappe-interest/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 22:10:45 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245582 Florian Plettenberg has provided an update on the future of Kylian Mbappe amid reported interest from Liverpool in the World Cup winner. The Reds have been long linked with a move for the PSG superstar, dating back to his time at Monaco as a teenager, with The Mirror reporting back in July that Jurgen Klopp’s […]

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Florian Plettenberg has provided an update on the future of Kylian Mbappe amid reported interest from Liverpool in the World Cup winner.

The Reds have been long linked with a move for the PSG superstar, dating back to his time at Monaco as a teenager, with The Mirror reporting back in July that Jurgen Klopp’s side were in talks with the 24-year-old.

The Anfield outfit have an abundance of talent at the top end of the pitch, including Mo Salah who was the subject of a huge £150m bid from the Saudi Pro League in the summer (Evening Standard), but any potential move for Mbappe would be a real show of intent from FSG.

Sky Sports reporter Plettenberg, however, has claimed (via his X page) Liverpool are ‘not pushing’ for the France international and added that Real Madrid remain the ‘most realistic destination’ should he leave the French capital.

READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp reveals he prevented ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player from leaving in the summer

Mbappe has become recognised as one of the best players in the world in recent seasons with his insane amount of goal contributions for the Ligue 1 champions.

He’s registered 229 goals and 100 assists in 277 appearances for the Parc Des Princes outfit and has 46 goals in 75 outings for his country.

He’s a clinical attacker and a player who would strengthen any side that he’s put in.

A move to Liverpool has always been unlikely due to his financial demands but some Reds supporters continue to retain hope with transfer links between the club and player never fully going away.

During the summer Klopp admitted that he and his staff ‘laugh’ when they see links between Liverpool and the attacker which pretty much tells you everything that you need to know.

If a move wasn’t already looking unlikely, it certainly looks it now!

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Jurgen Klopp reveals he prevented ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player from leaving in the summer https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/klopp-liverpool-player-transfer-prevention/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/klopp-liverpool-player-transfer-prevention/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 21:45:05 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245581 Jurgen Klopp has revealed he prevented one Liverpool player in particular from leaving the club in the summer. Caoimhin Kelleher was the subject of interest from the likes of Spurs, Brentford and Brighton (according to the Irish Independent) but the German tactician insisted that the stopper should remain on Merseyside despite having to settle for […]

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Jurgen Klopp has revealed he prevented one Liverpool player in particular from leaving the club in the summer.

Caoimhin Kelleher was the subject of interest from the likes of Spurs, Brentford and Brighton (according to the Irish Independent) but the German tactician insisted that the stopper should remain on Merseyside despite having to settle for a place as back-up to Alisson Becker.

At the end of last season Klopp claimed that only an ‘extraordinary offer’ would make him even consider selling the 25-year-old and the former Borussia Dortmund boss has now admitted that the fact our No. 62 is classed as ‘homegrown’ also played a role in the decision to block any potential move away.

“We had discussions in the summer obviously about [moving on] but as long as we don’t have a solution we cannot loan players,” Klopp said (as quoted by 90min). “He is homegrown and the first responsibility is to do the best for Liverpool and then we have to see how we can sort it.

“Now obviously for him, it is a situation he did not want to have, but, obviously, somehow yes because you want opportunities, you want to play, now he will get a few games, definitely. I trust him.”

READ MORE: Liverpool ‘keeping a close eye’ on Serie A talent who Schmadtke has recommended to Klopp – report

With Alisson sustaining a hamstring injury during our 1-1 draw with Manchester City last weekend, Kelleher is not set for a spell in the starting XI.

The Irishman kept a clean sheet as we defeated LASK 4-0 at Anfield last night and he’ll be hoping for more of the same on Sunday when we welcome Fulham to L4.

He’s a brilliant ‘keeper but unfortunately for him he’s got the ex-Roma stopper ahead of him in the pecking order.

Our No. 1 is recognised by many as the best goalie in the world. So although Kelleher may not have played as many games as he would’ve liked at the age of 25, he will have learnt an awful lot from his teammate which will set him in good stead for the remainder of his career.

The Cork-born talent, who Klopp described as ‘exceptional‘ following last night’s victory, is under contract with the Reds until the summer of 2026.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Liverpool ‘keeping a close eye’ on Serie A talent who Schmadtke has recommended to Klopp – report https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/schmadtke-liverpool-youngster-klopp-advice/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/schmadtke-liverpool-youngster-klopp-advice/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 21:15:04 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245579 Liverpool are ‘keeping a close eye’ on one Serie A talent who has been recommended to Jurgen Klopp by current sporting director Jorg Schmadtke. Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz has made five Serie A appearances for the Turin-based outfit this term and a fresh report from Calciomercato (via Sport Witness) now claims that Klopp’s side are […]

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Liverpool are ‘keeping a close eye’ on one Serie A talent who has been recommended to Jurgen Klopp by current sporting director Jorg Schmadtke.

Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz has made five Serie A appearances for the Turin-based outfit this term and a fresh report from Calciomercato (via Sport Witness) now claims that Klopp’s side are ‘following him closely’.

The 18-year-old first caught the eye of Schmadtke when he was progressing through the ranks at Bayern Munich and it’s believed that the German is a huge fan of the teenager.

READ MORE: Chris Sutton says Liverpool ‘should be able to cope’ without key duo as Fulham score prediction is made

The report adds that although Juventus are eager to retain the services of the exciting youngster, a move to Merseyside ‘cannot be ruled out’.

The Italian outfit would consider an offer, but only a ‘major’ one, and it remains to be seen how willing the Reds are to splash the cash on Yildiz.

The Turkey international is often deployed in an attacking midfield role or as a second striker but can operate anywhere across the frontline.

He netted in his nation’s 3-2 defeat of Germany in November and looks like a player who could go right to the very top.

Liverpool are pretty well stocked in the attacking areas at the moment and also have exciting talents like Ben Doak and Kaide Gordon continuing to push for first team minutes.

Schmadtke is clearly a fan of the Juventus prospect, however, so it remains to be seen what happens across the next few windows.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Chris Sutton says Liverpool ‘should be able to cope’ without key duo as Fulham score prediction is made https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/sutton-liverpool-fulham-score-prediction/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/sutton-liverpool-fulham-score-prediction/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 20:25:37 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245577 Chris Sutton believes Liverpool ‘should be able to cope’ without the services of Alisson Becker and Diogo Jota for Sunday’s clash with Fulham. The Craven Cottage outfit travel to Merseyside fresh off the back of a controversial 3-2 victory over Wolves at the start of the week while Jurgen Klopp’s side drew 1-1 with Manchester […]

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Chris Sutton believes Liverpool ‘should be able to cope’ without the services of Alisson Becker and Diogo Jota for Sunday’s clash with Fulham.

The Craven Cottage outfit travel to Merseyside fresh off the back of a controversial 3-2 victory over Wolves at the start of the week while Jurgen Klopp’s side drew 1-1 with Manchester City last weekend and thrashed LASK 4-0 at Anfield on Thursday night.

Alisson and Jota picked up injuries at the Etihad but Sutton thinks the Reds will still have enough to earn a much needed three points against Fulham.

“Fulham got a good win against Wolves on Monday, helped by a couple of big decisions going their way. They will need some more good fortune to get anything at Anfield, and I really don’t see that happening,” Sutton told BBC Sport.

“Liverpool picked up an important point at Etihad Stadium last weekend but all three are needed here.

“The Reds are without goalkeeper Alisson and Diogo Jota but they should be able to cope without them. I fancy Mohamed Salah to score, and Jurgen Klopp’s side to win comfortably.

“Liverpool 3-0 Fulham.”

READ MORE: Klopp delighted with ‘very football wise’ Liverpool man who’s just signed new long-term deal

Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to once again deputise for the injured Alisson and it would be brilliant to see the Irishman keep another clean sheet.

It would give him a huge boost in confidence ahead of the run in the side he’s expected to receive in the build up to Christmas.

Marco Silva’s side do have some quality players at the top end of the pitch who have the ability to cause us problems so we need to ensure we’re right at it from the start.

Let’s hope Sutton’s prediction is spot on to ensure we keep pace with league leaders Arsenal who face Wolves tomorrow at the Emirates.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Klopp delighted with ‘very football wise’ Liverpool man who’s just signed new long-term deal https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/klopp-delighted-football-wise-liverpool-man/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/klopp-delighted-football-wise-liverpool-man/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 19:40:20 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245576 Jurgen Klopp was delighted with the performance of one Liverpool player last night after he made his long awaited return from injury. Conor Bradley, who was a late substitute as the Reds defeated LASK 4-0 at Anfield in the Europa League, enjoyed a successful spell on loan at Bolton Wanderers last term winning the club’s […]

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Jurgen Klopp was delighted with the performance of one Liverpool player last night after he made his long awaited return from injury.

Conor Bradley, who was a late substitute as the Reds defeated LASK 4-0 at Anfield in the Europa League, enjoyed a successful spell on loan at Bolton Wanderers last term winning the club’s player of the season award.

He made his sixth senior appearance for Liverpool against the Austrian outfit last night and our German tactician has labelled the Northern Ireland as ‘a real talent’.

“I love it – you can see in those few moments that he is a real talent for us,” Klopp told TNT Sports (via Football365).

“We really count on him. It is so nice. There are a lot of positives. I told him after the game to enjoy it. He is very football wise but the body still needs to grow.”

READ MORE: ‘I didn’t know he had that’ – Joe Cole was blown away by what 21-y/o Liverpool ace did last night

As well as making his return to action last night, the 20-year-old today signed a new long-term deal at the club.

During the remainder of the campaign Bradley will challenge Trent Alexander-Arnold for a spot at right back and will be eager to earn more minutes in the cup competitions.

Our No. 84 still has a lot of learning and development to do, however, but he’s certainly showing plenty of promise at his tender age.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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‘I didn’t know he had that’ – Joe Cole was blown away by what 21-y/o Liverpool ace did last night https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/joe-cole-blown-away-liverpool-ace/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/joe-cole-blown-away-liverpool-ace/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 19:05:03 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245575 Joe Cole has admitted he was surprised by the pace one Liverpool ace showed during yesterday’s 4-0 defeat of LASK. The victory over the Austrian outfit ensured Jurgen Klopp’s side have progressed through to the knockout stages of the Europa League with a game to spare. Cody Gakpo grabbed a brace in front of a […]

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Joe Cole has admitted he was surprised by the pace one Liverpool ace showed during yesterday’s 4-0 defeat of LASK.

The victory over the Austrian outfit ensured Jurgen Klopp’s side have progressed through to the knockout stages of the Europa League with a game to spare.

Cody Gakpo grabbed a brace in front of a packed crowd inside Anfield and ex-Red Cole said after the game that the Netherlands international ‘looked blistering’ during the game and insisted he’s excited about what’s still to come from the 21-year-old.

“He was probing, getting into good positions and what I do like about him is how comfortable he is on the ball,” Cole told TNT Sports (via Rousing The Kop).

“He showed a yard there. I didn’t know he had that kind of speed. He just took off. That’s why I think there’s more to him, because I have not seen that. How long have we watched Cody Gakpo play? I have not seen him open his legs like that. He looked blistering.”

READ MORE: ‘Worst coach I have ever had’ – Ex-Red makes his thoughts about Brendan Rodgers very clear

Gakpo was signed from PSV in January in a deal worth an initial £35m but is yet to nail down a regular starting spot under Klopp.

Our German tactician does have plenty of options in attack which makes it somewhat difficult to get our No. 18 into the starting XI but his performance last night will have done his chances of earning regular game time no harm whatsoever.

Our No. 18 now has six goals and one assist in 16 appearances this term (across all competitions) and will be needed in the coming weeks as we attempt to tackle the hectic Christmas schedule.

When Fulham visit Anfield on Sunday that will kickstart a run of 11 games in 29 days for the Reds – which includes clashes against Manchester United, Arsenal and Newcastle.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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‘Worst coach I have ever had’ – Ex-Red makes his thoughts about Brendan Rodgers very clear https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/ex-red-brendan-rodgers-admission/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/ex-red-brendan-rodgers-admission/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 15:30:22 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245564 Brendan Rodgers almost ended Liverpool’s long wait for a league title back in 2014 only to miss out to Manchester City by two points. The Northern Irishman tried his very best to bring the glory days back to Anfield and although he gave it a good shot he didn’t quite succeed. The likes of Luis […]

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Brendan Rodgers almost ended Liverpool’s long wait for a league title back in 2014 only to miss out to Manchester City by two points.

The Northern Irishman tried his very best to bring the glory days back to Anfield and although he gave it a good shot he didn’t quite succeed.

The likes of Luis Suarez, Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge were just a few of the players that thrived under the current Celtic boss but one former Red has described Rodgers as ‘the worst coach I have ever had’.

Mario Balotelli, who was a surprise signing back in 2014 as we attempted to replace Luis Suarez who had signed for Barcelona, has labelled the 50-year-old as a ‘disaster’.

Speaking to TVPlay (via The Mirror), Balotelli said: “Brendan Rodgers is the worst coach I have ever had. He was number one as far as training sessions were concerned, with keeping possession of the ball and the small-sided games. But as a person he was a disaster.”

READ MORE: Michael Owen says 24-y/o Liverpool attacker has ‘got to do his talking on the pitch’

Balotelli was quite a character, both on and off the pitch. He netted four goals in 28 appearances for Liverpool during his 12-month spell at the club and it’s fair to say things didn’t quite go to plan for him at L4.

It’s interesting that the Italy international has claimed that Rodgers’ training sessions were impressive, but the pair simply didn’t get on with one another on a personal level.

Our former No. 45 was loaned out to AC Milan after one season in a red shirt and then joined Nice on a free transfer when his deal at Liverpool expired.

He’s currently plying his trade in Turkey with Adana Demirspor.

Rodgers, meanwhile, has enjoyed successful spells with Celtic and Leicester City since his time in charge of the Merseysiders.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Michael Owen says 24-y/o Liverpool attacker has ‘got to do his talking on the pitch’ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/michael-owen-liverpool-attacker-admission/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/michael-owen-liverpool-attacker-admission/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:25:24 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245562 Michael Owen has claimed that one Liverpool ace in particular has ‘got to do his talking on the pitch’ in order to nail down a regular spot in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI. Cody Gakpo has only started 50% of the Reds’ games this season (across all competitions) but did his chances of earning more regular […]

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Michael Owen has claimed that one Liverpool ace in particular has ‘got to do his talking on the pitch’ in order to nail down a regular spot in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI.

Cody Gakpo has only started 50% of the Reds’ games this season (across all competitions) but did his chances of earning more regular minutes no harm whatsoever with a strong performance against LASK at Anfield last night.

The Netherlands international netted a brace as Klopp’s side secured a 4-0 victory and secured their passage through to the knockout stages of the Europa League with a game to spare.

The Liverpool squad is stacked with plenty of attacking quality this term but ex-Red Owen believes Gakpo must make one position his own in order to become undroppable.

“It’s good being versatile. But if he was that good, and he was one of the first names on the team sheet, he would only have one position. You don’t move Mo Salah from the right-hand side,” Owen told TNT Sports (via The Mirror).

“If he’s going to be a top player for Liverpool I think he’s got to put in performances whereby Jurgen Klopp says, ‘right, Cody Gakpo, in the team, in that position, because he’s so vital’. At the moment he fits in a little bit which probably helps him get games under his belt.

READ MORE: (Video) ‘What do you want me to do?’ – Owen reveals he tried for LFC move before joining Man Utd in 2009

“But I think he’ll want to be better than that to be a regular starter. I think the manager will decide that in terms of where he plays. He can just affect it by how he plays when he gets the chance like tonight, that’s the only way he can affect it as a player.

“You can’t knock on the manager’s door – well you can, but it’d be a pretty stupid thing to do to knock on the manager’s door and say ‘I’m only playing this position now’ because you might find yourself on the bench a lot of the time, so he’s got to do his talking on the pitch.”

Gakpo joined the club from PSV back in January and has threw in some decent performances but you can’t help but feel that there’s still a lot more to come from the 21-year-old.

During his time at his boyhood club in the Eredivisie, our No. 18 was deployed as a left winger who often cut inside and registered plenty of goal contributions.

Since moving to Merseyside, however, the Dutchman has played in numerous positions including as a central striker and as part of a midfield three.

It seems that Klopp is yet to decide where the forward is most effective but with the likes of Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota competing for the same positions as Gakpo – it was never going to be easy for him to break into the starting XI.

We’re confident that the Eindhoven-born talent will be a vital player for the club moving forward but it’s important that we remain patient.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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(Video) ‘What do you want me to do?’ – Owen reveals he tried for LFC move before joining Man Utd in 2009 https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/owen-liverpool-man-utd-transfer-admission/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/owen-liverpool-man-utd-transfer-admission/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:45:10 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245558 Michael Owen became known as a traitor back in 2009 when he decided to join Manchester United following the expiry of his contract at Newcastle. The 43-year-old scored 158 goals in 297 appearances for Liverpool between 1996-2004 before joining La Liga giants Real Madrid in a deal worth £8m. He was one of best strikers […]

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Michael Owen became known as a traitor back in 2009 when he decided to join Manchester United following the expiry of his contract at Newcastle.

The 43-year-old scored 158 goals in 297 appearances for Liverpool between 1996-2004 before joining La Liga giants Real Madrid in a deal worth £8m.

He was one of best strikers in world football during his time at Anfield and was the deserving winner of the Ballon d’Or in 2001 following Liverpool’s treble-winning campaign.

READ MORE: Journo says 21-y/o Liverpool man is ‘going to be some player’ when he gets ‘properly up to speed’

His relationships with Kopites soon turned sour in 2009, however, when the forward decided to head to Old Trafford on a free transfer.

Speaking to Simon Jordan on his Up Front podcast (via @ianyoungkop on X), Owen explained that his ‘first point of call’ when leaving Newcastle was to try and rejoin Liverpool.

The Chester-born former England international explained that he rang Jamie Carragher and asked the Scouser to speak to Brendan Rodgers to see if he was interested in bringing him back to L4.

This is rather confusing, though, as Rafa Benitez was in charge in 2009 and not Rodgers.

Our former No. 10 also mentioned that Liverpool were working on a deal to sign Robert N’Gog at the same time he was looking to head back to Merseyside.

We think you mean, David N’Gog, Michael!

Check the video below:

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Journo says 21-y/o Liverpool man is ‘going to be some player’ when he gets ‘properly up to speed’ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/journo-liverpool-man-praise/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/journo-liverpool-man-praise/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:10:28 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245552 One Liverpool ace is ‘going to be some player’ when he ‘gets properly up to the speed with English football’, that’s according to journalist Dominic King. The Netherlands international was handed another start by Jurgen Klopp last night as the Reds defeated LASK 4-0 at Anfield in the Europa League to secure their passage through […]

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One Liverpool ace is ‘going to be some player’ when he ‘gets properly up to the speed with English football’, that’s according to journalist Dominic King.

The Netherlands international was handed another start by Jurgen Klopp last night as the Reds defeated LASK 4-0 at Anfield in the Europa League to secure their passage through to the knockout stages with a game to spare.

The 21-year-old showed glimpses of his potential against the Austrian outfit and is certainly pushing for a regular starting spot under our German tactician.

The Daily Mail writer, writing on his X page, is excited by the former Ajax midfielder’s potential following his summer move from Bayern Munich.

READ MORE: ‘Best display of the season’ – Pearce says ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player ‘looked the part’ against LASK

Gravenberch was one of four midfielders signed in the summer as Klopp completed an overhaul in the middle of the park.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister have nailed down regular starting spots but the likes of Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliot are all competing alongside our new No. 38 for the third and final spot in the engine room.

The Dutchman is a rather unique player in the sense that he’s a powerful dribbler of the ball and someone who can beat his mean seemingly with ease.

Following a number of impressive performances since moving from Bayern it’s somewhat surprising that Thomas Tuchel was willing to let the dynamic midfielder leave the club.

He looks like someone who has a bright future ahead of him and we look forward to seeing him continue to develop under Klopp and Co.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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‘Best display of the season’ – Pearce says ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player ‘looked the part’ against LASK https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/peace-liverpool-player-huge-praise/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/12/01/peace-liverpool-player-huge-praise/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:45:03 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245549 Liverpool cruised to a 4-0 victory over LASK at Anfield last night to book their place in the knockout stages of the Europa League with a game to spare. Nine changes were made to the side that drew with Manchester City on Saturday with only Kostas Tsimikas and Mo Salah retaining their spot in the […]

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Liverpool cruised to a 4-0 victory over LASK at Anfield last night to book their place in the knockout stages of the Europa League with a game to spare.

Nine changes were made to the side that drew with Manchester City on Saturday with only Kostas Tsimikas and Mo Salah retaining their spot in the starting XI.

One of the many changes came between the sticks with Caoimhin Kelleher once again deputising for Alisson Becker.

The latter sustained a hamstring injury during our clash with City at the weekend and is set for a spell on the sidelines meaning our No. 62 is set for an extended run in the side and last night was his ‘best display of the season’ according to The Athletic’s James Pearce on X:

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The Ireland international is a brilliant player. It’s just unfortunate for him that he’s up against one of the best ‘keepers in the world for a spot in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI.

At 25 years of age you would perhaps forgive Kelleher, who our German tactician has previously labelled as ‘exceptional’, for seeking a move away to a club where he’d be first choice but he’s continuing to work hard and let’s hope he can make the most of the run he’s about to get in the team.

He made a number of quality saves last night to ensure we kept a clean sheet and he’ll be eager to do exactly the same again when Fulham visit Anfield on Sunday.

📖 Anfield Annals: Matt McQueen the Anfield All-Rounder who did everything in 36 years as a Red

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Journo says 25-y/o Liverpool man ‘might look for a transfer’ if game time doesn’t improve https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/journo-liverpool-player-admission/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/journo-liverpool-player-admission/#respond Tue, 28 Nov 2023 22:10:45 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245413 Liverpool may have earned a point against against Manchester City on Saturday in what was a great result for Jurgen Klopp’s side but the game brought with it some disappointment for the Anfield outfit. Diogo Jota was substituted in the second after appearing to pick up an injury while Alisson Becker played the full game […]

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Liverpool may have earned a point against against Manchester City on Saturday in what was a great result for Jurgen Klopp’s side but the game brought with it some disappointment for the Anfield outfit.

Diogo Jota was substituted in the second after appearing to pick up an injury while Alisson Becker played the full game but was clutching his hamstring during the final stages of the clash.

The full extent of the two injuries are yet to be discovered, however, but if our No. 1 is set for a spell on the sidelines it will open up an opportunity for Caoimhin Kelleher to deputise – a player who ‘might look for a transfer’ if his game time at L4 doesn’t improve according to journalist Dean Jones.

“Yeah, I think Alisson is probably more of a concern than Jota just because of the fact that Liverpool have got a lot of options that can alternate with Jota,” Jones told GIVEMESPORT. “But obviously, it’s not ideal, because you don’t want to lose him again. 

READ MORE: Mellor singles out ‘brilliant’ Liverpool man for praise after what he did in added time against Man City

“In terms of Kelleher, it’s something that he’s been crying out for. If he doesn’t get a chance properly at Liverpool this season, you do wonder if he might look for a transfer. There are certainly loads of clubs that have been sniffing around that situation over the course of this year.”

Kelleher is a brilliant ‘keeper in his own right but has understandably had to settle for a spot behind Alisson in Klopp’s pecking order.

The Ireland international has impressed when called upon down the years by our German tactician and it would be somewhat understandable if he was to push for a move away from the club.

It’s difficult for a player of his talent to spend so much time on the bench but the 25-year-old will be aware of how much he’s developed just from training alongside the ex-Roma man.

We certainly hope Alisson’s and Jota’s injuries are not too serious, but the prospect of our No. 62 receiving an extended run in the side is something that he’ll be looking to make the most of.

Premier League clubs, including Spurs, Brentford and Brighton (according to Irish Independent), were believed to be some of the sides interested in Kelleher towards the back end of last season with Klopp previously saying only an ‘extraordinary offer’ would make him consider selling the shot stopper.

🤩 EOTK FPL Gameweek 13 Review 🤩: Trippier OUT & Zinchenko IN? Gordon the ultimate differential? Haaland & Salah must-haves

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Mellor singles out ‘brilliant’ Liverpool man for praise after what he did in added time against Man City https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/neil-mellor-liverpool-man-praise/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/neil-mellor-liverpool-man-praise/#respond Tue, 28 Nov 2023 20:40:22 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245411 Neil Mellor has singled out one Liverpool player in particular for praise after a vital contribution he made during added time of the Reds’ clash with Manchester City on Saturday. The Sky Blues took the lead through Erling Haaland’s strike in the first half only for Trent Alexander-Arnold to drag the Anfield outfit level 10 […]

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Neil Mellor has singled out one Liverpool player in particular for praise after a vital contribution he made during added time of the Reds’ clash with Manchester City on Saturday.

The Sky Blues took the lead through Erling Haaland’s strike in the first half only for Trent Alexander-Arnold to drag the Anfield outfit level 10 minutes from time with a superb effort.

Pep Guardiola’s side pushed hard for a winner and could’ve snatched all three points late on had Joel Matip not made a ‘brilliant’ block to deny Haaland from tapping home Bernardo Silva’s shanked effort – something Mellor highlighted on his X account.

READ MORE: Ex-Red claims Liverpool summer signing ‘is a revelation’ as title race claim is made

Matip is a very underrated player. Our No. 32 has been a Liverpool player since signing from Schalke as a free agent in 2016 and has won every major trophy possible during that time.

He’s a solid option at centre half alongside Virgil van Dijk but is out of contract at the end of the season and it remains to be seen whether he’ll be offered a fresh deal.

The former Cameroon international made his 200th appearance for Klopp’s side on Saturday and had a solid game.

Ibou Konate has often been selected ahead of Matip in recent seasons, understandably so, but we’re delighted to see big Joel performing well.

🤩 EOTK FPL Gameweek 13 Review 🤩: Trippier OUT & Zinchenko IN? Gordon the ultimate differential? Haaland & Salah must-haves

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Ex-Red claims Liverpool summer signing ‘is a revelation’ as title race claim is made https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/ex-red-liverpool-signing-revelation-admission/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/ex-red-liverpool-signing-revelation-admission/#respond Tue, 28 Nov 2023 19:45:08 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245409 David James has claimed that he’s ‘not surprised’ Liverpool appear to be challenging for the Premier League title this term. The Reds’ 1-1 draw against Manchester City on Saturday means Jurgen Klopp’s side are third in the table, just two points behind league leaders Arsenal after 13 games. One of the main reasons behind Liverpool’s […]

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David James has claimed that he’s ‘not surprised’ Liverpool appear to be challenging for the Premier League title this term.

The Reds’ 1-1 draw against Manchester City on Saturday means Jurgen Klopp’s side are third in the table, just two points behind league leaders Arsenal after 13 games.

One of the main reasons behind Liverpool’s strong start to the season is down to the midfield overhaul which our German tactician completed in the summer.

One of our summer signings, Dominik Szoboszlai, has been labelled a ‘revelation’ by ex-Red James who believes the Anfield outfit are firmly in the title race.

“I’m not surprised,” James told Sky Sports (via HITC). “Right at the beginning of the season, I thought the signings were right.

“A lot of midfield players were lost during the summer. Sometimes losing players makes you stronger because you don’t have to deal with so many in and out players, if you like.

“The likes of Szoboszlai, this guy is a revelation. He is a firm fan favourite already. I just think the way the team are playing, they are playing with confidence.

“Are they in a title rice? Absolutely.”

READ MORE: (Video) Szoboszlai catches up with RB Leipzig head coach ahead of their UCL clash with Man City

All of our four summer signings have showed what they’re made of during the early stages of their Liverpool careers.

Szoboszlai, however, is the one player that has stood out this term with a number of lively performances in the middle of the park.

The Hungarian brings a lot of energy and quality to our engine room which is refreshing to see following last season’s dismal campaign.

We’ve started well this term but there’s still a long way to go before – we’ve achieved nothing yet.

🤩 EOTK FPL Gameweek 13 Review 🤩: Trippier OUT & Zinchenko IN? Gordon the ultimate differential? Haaland & Salah must-haves

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(Video) Szoboszlai catches up with RB Leipzig head coach ahead of their UCL clash with Man City https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/szoboszlai-rb-leipzig-teammates-reunion/ https://www.empireofthekop.com/2023/11/28/szoboszlai-rb-leipzig-teammates-reunion/#comments Tue, 28 Nov 2023 19:15:14 +0000 https://www.empireofthekop.com/?p=245406 Dominik Szoboszlai is loving life on Merseyside following his summer move to Liverpool from RB Leipzig but it’s clear that the Hungarian still has a soft spot for his former employees. The Bundesliga outfit travelled to Manchester yesterday ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City at the Etihad tonight and our new No. […]

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Dominik Szoboszlai is loving life on Merseyside following his summer move to Liverpool from RB Leipzig but it’s clear that the Hungarian still has a soft spot for his former employees.

The Bundesliga outfit travelled to Manchester yesterday ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City at the Etihad tonight and our new No. 8 took time out of his day to go and visit his old teammates at their team hotel.

READ MORE: Liverpool admire ‘Champions League level’ gem touted for ‘big future’; Tyler Morton knows him well

The 23-year-old made 91 appearances for Leipzig before completing a £60m move to Jurgen Klopp’s side in July.

Marco Rose was delighted to see Szoboszlai in person again and greeted the dynamic midfielder warmly in a clip uploaded by RB Leipzig on X (via @Watch_LFC), with the Hungary skipper also greeting Fabio Carvalho – who is on loan at the Red Bull Arena from Liverpool for the season.

City and Leipzig have already qualified for the knockout stages ahead of tonight’s clash but are now battling to secure top spot in Group G.

Let’s hope the Germans can pull off a mini-upset against Pep Guardiola’s side who played out a 1-1 draw with us on Saturday.

Check Szoboszlai and his former head coach below:

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