URGENT: A petition of justice everyone must sign

15-year-old Kevin Williams went to the FA Cup semi-final in 1989 and never returned home. Her mother, Anne Williams, had started an online petition in an attempt to overturn the course of death placed on her son. Anne Williams has ALL the evidence but she has been refused THRICE by the Attorney General to put Kevin’s course of death right.

Anne said: “I want a fresh inquest for Kevin and I want it to run up until 4pm when he died.”

Throughout all of Kevin’s inquests, it has been clear that they have been riddled by corruption. They have been surpressed by vital evidence but more crucially they have perverted the course of justice.

Kevin wasn’t brain dead at 3:15pm, unlike what the original inquests have ruled. Nor did he die of trauma asphyxia. In fact, he was saveable and basic medical treatment would have sufficed. Kevin was pulled out at 3:28pm alive. An off-duty policeman also found a pulse on Kevin at 3:37pm. A fresh inquest to put the course of death right is a must.

This isn’t about what football club you support. It is about the justice and closure for a mum after 23 years.

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/19149

URGENT: The petition has just TWO days left to run. The number of signatures is only on 41,000 at the time of writing. Please just take two minutes to sign this epetition and confirm your signature in your email otherwise it will not be counted. Do note the email could be in your spam/junk folder. The petition is only open to British citizens/UK residents.

Please sign, confirm your signature in the email, pass it on and spread the word. Make the difference.

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/19149

Justice for the 96.

A year on: Dalglish’s cruise docks at Anfield

Kenny welcomed in his spiritual home - Photo: LFCTV

What a mammoth difference a year makes for Liverpool. Sunday marks the anniversary of Kenny Dalglish’s return to Liverpool FC.

On New Year’s Day last year, the side eked out an unfashionable victory against Bolton, courtesy of Joe Cole’s goal in the 92nd minute. Although it panned out to be a winning start to 2011 for then-manager Roy Hodgson, the match was played out in front of 10,000 empty seats – hardly the sort of attendance you’ll expect at a world revered footballing institution. The morale amongst staff was lowly, the side was devoid of confidence and the Club lacked a direction.

Just five days later away at Ewood Park, Hodgson oversaw one of the most damning defeats of his reign. Liverpool felled so meekly to Blackburn Rovers. They surrended too timidly far often, especially on the road where they had only won once all season. At that point in time, Liverpool sat on negative goal difference hanging just four points off the relegation zone.

With fans having campaigned to relieve Hodgson of his duties for months, the latest blow proved to his last. Owner John W Henry, having assessed Hodgson for close to 12 weeks, decided that the axe should rightly fall on the English manager. In strode Kenny Dalglish, who was holidaying on a cruise in the Persian Gulf then to take charge of first-team matters starting with Manchester United in FA’s Cup 3rd round.

Although club legend Dalglish was not afforded the luxury of enjoying a winning start, signs were prevalent that it’s a start of a new dawn for everyone associated with Liverpool FC. Change was Liverpool’s most prominent constant as personnel came and go. In the January 2011 window, Dalglish oversaw the departures of Dutch hot-shot Ryan Babel as well as star striker Fernando Torres. Dalglish went on to break the Club’s transfer record – twice – in the space of two days as he signed Luis Suarez and Andy Carroll for a total combined fee of £58M.

Liverpool saw an immediate swing in fortunes on the pitch as Dalglish looked to reassert a feeling of normalcy around Anfield. It only took two winless games before Liverpool went on the sort of form which would draw envious looks from their fellow Premier League counterparts. A 3-0 win at Wolves proved to be a turning point – Liverpool continued to move from strength to strength as they registered wins against the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City – and there was even a concerted last-ditch push for a top-four finish which ultimately proved to be an excercise in futility.

Nevertheless, the astonishing swing of results with which Dalglish had overseen meant there was no hesitation for him to be handed a permanent contract. In May, the formalities were sorted and the club could move on safe in the knowledge that there was stability all around the echelons of Liverpool’s boardroom – something that was severely damaged during the predecessors’ tumultuous ownership.

In the summer transfer window, Dalglish and Comolli worked in tandem to scout, identify and buy players who could make a difference on this club. They believed that players who currently plied their trade in England should be of priority and in strode seven players. Doni, Coates, Enrique, Adam, Henderson, Downing, Bellamy now all roll of the lips of all Liverpool supporters.

There was a geniune wave of optimism amongst supporters so much so that there were even faint whispers of a looming title challenge. There was fresh impetus about the side whenever Liverpool play. And while some of the signings haven’t set the world alight with their displays, it is heartening to note that some players have become a model for consistency. Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel are currently playing their best form of their lives, shielded by an ever-present, but unfortunately presently crocked Lucas Leiva who once divided opinion amongst fans but is now one of the first names of the team-sheet. Bellamy and Maxi Rodriguez, veterans of the game have still plenty to contribute to the cause as Dalglish’s machine currently rolls on.

Whilst wheels of a possible title challenge have railed off, a finish in the top four is still very much on the agenda. Liverpool are currently just three points off that elusive fourth spot, in a far healthier position that they were just a year ago. Friday night’s sellout against third-tier Oldham at Anfield is just one obvious indication of that, compared to the 35,400 attendance that Hodgson saw on his final Anfield outing.

Liverpool must walk on from here, learning from past mistakes and applying it into the future. And no one knows better than Dalglish, who now looks towards his second year in the hotseat with Anfield rocking together.

Follow me on Twitter: @redsonfire

Preview: Liverpool v Oldham Athletic

The last time Oldham Athletic ran out on Anfield’s hallowed grounds, a certain fresh-faced Robbie Fowler laid his first print on English football as he notched his first league goal. Circumstances have drastically changed though, as now Oldham ply their trade in England’s third-tier, finishing a lowly 17th last season.

In their last npower League 1 clash, they were held to a 1-1 draw against rock-bottom side Chesterfield. It wasn’t the ideal way to kickstart preparations towards what would be their biggest match in years, but prior to the clash at Anfield, Oldham fans have something special in mind. The 6,000 Latics fans on the road will be looking to light up their phones simultaneously to leave an indelible mark on this fixture.

Meanwhile, Liverpool look forward to some respite in what has arguably been one of the toughest weeks in Dalglish’s regime. Prior to City’s game, the club released a statement citing their firm stance supporting Suarez while attacking The FA. Despite their admirable way in deciding not to appeal Suarez’s ban, it was met by huge comtempt by the media and opposing fans, who remain unimpressed over the fact that an apology was not delivered.

Dalglish’s side were humbled by their Manchester rivals at The Etihad, in what was surely a lesson for the Reds on the need to grab their chances. On the balance of play, Liverpool matched City but Mancini’s men ran out 3-0 winners despite registering lesser shots. Based on this aspect alone, it surely isn’t rocket science to determine that converting chances will win teams games. City did exactly just that, while Liverpool’s profligacy in front of goal continues.

On Wednesday night, in the face of unrelenting media pressure, Suarez delivered an apology via the ‘Kick It Out’ website.

He said: “I admitted to the Football Association commission that I said a word in Spanish once, and only once and I told the panel members that I will not use it again on a football pitch in England,” Suarez said in the statement provided by Liverpool. “I never, ever used this word in a derogatory way and if it offends anyone then I want to apologize for that.”

He will now serve the remainder of his 8-game ban, and will not be available at Dalglish’s disposal for this fixture. The Liverpool’s boss is also expected to rotate his squad with a mix of experience, wisdom and youth. Carragher is likely to partner Coates in the heart of defence, with youngsters Kelly and Shelvey all expected to be given a run-out at some point.

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Panel’s report on Suarez’s case smacks of uncertainty

It was New Year’s Eve. There was an awkward, eerie silence when something punctuated the air. Just as people were preparing to soak the festivities embracing the arrival of 2012, a report filtered through the Football Association official website. It was a 115-page document, detailing the supposed mischief and crimes of Luis Suarez, the Uruguayan who is currently embroiled in a racial storm with Manchester United’s Patrice Evra.

At initial glance, the report looked comprehensive in coverage, with points concisely elaborated and explained. The opening pages did provide a glimpse into Suarez’s alleged wrongdoings, which surely provided uncomfortable reading for Liverpool fans.

But delve deeper into it and one realises how astounding it is for 115 pages of bile to be written without concrete, hard evidence. The panel’s judgment smacked of uncertainty, rather than sureness. They seemed trigger-happy, eager to refute Suarez’s claims and even Kuyt’s, before treating Evra’s word as gospel.

From the off, the crux the panel agreed to address was wrong. Point 31.1 of the report states: “On the balance of probabilities, is the account of Mr Evra true and reliable?”

Surely this is never a proper way for any ruling, when both the player and critically the club’s legacy is on the line? This saga is intertwined with so many complexities – so to pass a judgement solely on the ‘balance of probabilities’ was wholly wrong. The logic was critically flawed at the most crucial area; how could someone’s fate be sealed based on guesswork?

As the BBC reported, this case was decided on a lower standard that than in criminal court of “beyond all reasonable doubt”. The panel, however, have failed to realise the extent of the huge ramifications that this case could have on Luis Suarez and Liverpool. Beyond matters on the football pitch, this case has the profound ability to impact Liverpool as a brand throughout the world.

Will investors such as shirt-sponsor Standard Chartered be lured away from a renewal of contracts after this sorry episode? And will future supporters be turned off from supporting the club based on an assumption of the panel, associating Liverpool with racism, despite a severe lack of hard evidence?

Later on, the panel decided that Evra was “true and reliable”, claiming: “Mr Evra was a credible witness. He gave his evidence in a calm, composed and clear way.”

Since when was credibility associated with a ‘calm, clear and composed’ manner? Again, logic severely failed here – no one gauges how credible another is based on body language. Someone like Suarez will undeniably be exasperated as it is him whom fingers will be pointed at, the spotlight shone at. As for Evra, he was free from the shackles of any possible ban. After all, the FA weren’t investigating him. So – to pass off Evra’s credibility on a basis of body language was severely wrong, especially when you consider that Evra did had the opportunity to watch footage of the events, whereas Suarez wasn’t provided that luxury.

The panel further rounded itself into comedy gold when their report categorically stated: “We found that Mr Evra’s account is probably what happened.”

There isn’t a need for much elaboration, as plain uncertainty and doubt still definitely very much exists in this case.

It is also appalling to note the outright lack of sense of direction within the panel. Obviously, the three men haven’t quite gotten their priorities crystal clear. The outright aim of this investigation was to prove whether Suarez was a racist, but quite clearly, contradictory statements lie in the heavily-worded report.

It said: “This case is not about whether Mr Suarez is in fact a racist. Indeed, the commission will no doubt conclude that there are some indications that he is not.”

And if this is in fact the case, what is the purpose of the whole investigation? What is there to prove if it isn’t about Suarez being racist? And if there were indications that he isn’t, why consider a heftier ban greater than 8 games, or why consider a ban even? The critical word here is ‘no doubt conclude’ and ‘he is not’, which just about sums up the fact that it all boils down to one man’s word against another’s, noting the panel’s inability to confirm whether or not the case has been indeed, solved.

It is quite ludicrous that such a case has dragged on for months, when basically nothing has been proven. It has been more than two months since Suarez’s and Liverpool’s name has been dragged through the mud, with it looking unlikely to end. Whatever the course of action Liverpool and their lawyers take, it is with faith that it is within the best interests of the club.

Anyway, I absolutely support the FA’s intentions to kick racism out of football, but this sorry episode has evolved into nothing more than a witch-hunt. In light of Sepp Blatter’s insensitive comments, it seems as if the FA want to lead and prove how racism should be dealt with. Yet they’ve set double standards by not even temporarily revoking Terry’s England captaincy, in light of video footage even available for millions for viewing on YouTube which makes their organisation look like a complete, huge joke.

Follow me on Twitter: @redsonfire

In 7 screenshots: LFC 3-1 NUFC: In-depth look on how goals were scored

Liverpool saw off Alan Pardew’s Newcastle in what was a hard-fought victory for the Reds on their final game of 2011. It was interesting to see how Dalglish would tactically cope without their striker Luis Suarez, who represents the metronome of virtually all Liverpool’s attacks this season. Prior to this fixure, Liverpool have had to contend with 6 home draws, so the onus was on Liverpool to buck this trend as they looked forward to the new year. The omens shined for the Reds, as prior to this, Newcastle’s last goal at Anfield was back in 2004, with Patrick Kluivert doing the damage.

Dalglish fielded his side in what was more eminently a 4-1-4-1 formation. Spearing held the fort, replacing the injured Lucas Leiva in the process. Adam and Henderson were the central duo in the upper ’4 man midfield’, flanked by Bellamy and Downing, both of whom featured as inverted wingers. Carroll was lone striker up front, but more prominently operating as a ‘false nine’ as he constantly dropped deep.

For Newcastle, they played a 4-4-2 formation, much like how most had expected Pardew’s side to line-up. Ba partnered Vuckic up front, with Cabaye patrolling behind and Tiote the deep-lying midfielder. Gutierrez and Obertan made up the flanks and were backed up by Ryan Taylor and Danny Simpson respectively.

Newcastle’s goal

In some ways, Newcastle’s goal involved an element of luck. Johnson’s executed clearance smashed the face of Vuckic, who required treatment. Amidst all confusion, the game was still underway as Liverpool tried to regroup with the Mapgies in posession.

Assist leading to Newcastle's goal

However, what was puzzling was Johnson’s retreat back to the centre of the penalty area when the ball fell kindly to Newcastle’s possession. Downing had been tracking Gutierrez, so when Taylor arrived he created a man overload which Downing himself couldn’t handle. The support by Johnson was missing. When Gutierrez released for Taylor, there was simply too much space for him to exploit and the inswinging cross he sent in proved threatening enough for Newcastle to score.

Anyhow, considering that there was only Ba in that box, there wasn’t even a need for Johnson to be there in the first place. Had the opportunity for the cross been delayed; or had Johnson shut him down, then the goal could have been avoided.

Liverpool’s first goal

The first elements of the goal was made just after 28 minutes, when Adam’s corner was picked up by Newcastle. This was why Adam was on the right when he sent his low cross in, which was half-cleared, only for Bellamy to drill into the goal. But what was more interesting was the movement of Bellamy towards the build-up of the goal.

When Enrique sent a cross in from the left which was picked up by Adam, Simpson kept Bellamy in check, as seen below. There was even a slight tussle between both players, just about 10 seconds prior to the goal.

Bellamy being tightly marked by Simpson

But what was intelligent about Bellamy movement was his retreat to make it seem as if he didn’t pose much threat, but in truth he was escaping his marker to play a more central position, moving inwards where much space was left especially on the edge of the box. Simpson also didn’t do himself justice by turning his back and allowing Bellamy to escape, and before long, he was back at his goal-line, since he sensed an imminent shot.

Bellamy escaping Simpson's sight

Just by tracking the movement of both Simpson and Bellamy, it’s possible the escape of Bellamy from the left inwards didn’t help Newcastle’s cause. Bellamy created confusion. He started on the left, so Simpson came into direct competition with him, but when he came inwards, the lack of communication between Simpson and the central defenders surely played a part in the lead-up to the goal, where Bellamy was avoided time and most importantly, space so he could place his shot.

Liverpool’s second goal

Perhaps what was most interesting about Bellamy’s free kick was that it caused confusion. If you looked carefully at the replays, just as Bellamy was about to connect boot to ball, he displayed several hand gestures that instructed Carroll to move closer towards goal. Carroll did, pulling his marker along with him.

Carroll and his marker

Thus Krul did have a dilemma. Was it going to be a straighforward save, or was it going to deflect of anyone such was the proximity of the ball towards Carroll and two of Newcastle’s players? It did confuse him, he jumped awkwardly, and to compound matters further, Simpson was also a confued person as Carroll moved his head just as Bellamy’s ball came.

Crucially, the ball was on target, which did cause trouble in itself. The presence of Carroll aided by the sudden movement added to a possible confusion amongst three of Newcastle’s players and a careless goal was conceded.

Liverpool’s third goal

Bellamy went off for Kuyt after he had a gash to his upper eyelid, meaning he needed five stitches. Kuyt played in a role similar to that of Bellamy, as he featured on the left. It all began when Kuyt’s high pressing forced Simpson to put the ball in the stands for a throw-in, which resulted Liverpool regaining possession high up the pitch.

Kuyt's pressing on Simpson

From the resulting throw-in, Spearing released the ball through to Henderson. Here’s where the class of Gerrard shone through.

Gerrard running into left-hand channel

World class players can read the game a few steps forwards and in this instance it is exactly what Gerrard is all about. Even before the ball arrived at Henderson’s feet, Gerrard had already spotted the space in the left-hand channel. The timing of the run was perfect. As Henderson received the ball, Gerrard was just beside him which allowed Henderson to release the ball a few steps forward to help Gerrard beat his nearest man.

Gerrard on 'level terms' with Henderson before the release

Conclusion

It was a game whereby individual player movements have resulted in the exploitation of space, which led to the goals. The likes of Bellamy and Gerrard have shown an innate ability to make runs, create space, and then exploit it. Perhaps that’s what been missing in the current Liverpool side which has resulted in many drab draws at home this season.

You can follow me on Twitter @redsonfire

Gerrard’s still Liverpool’s best as he proves critics emphatically wrong

Gerrard's still Liverpool's best - Photo: LFC

The phenomenon that is Steven Gerrard ensured that Liverpool signed off 2011 on a high note. After a summer which saw them finally pampered in the transfer market, many observers felt that Dalglish wouldn’t need to be heavily reliant on their skipper for inspiration, vision and goals. If yesterday’s resounding win against Newcastle was a trailer of things to come, then Gerrard has proved those critics emphatically wrong. Despite being subdued to just two starts in as many games this season, his 30-minute cameo was full of verve and vigour. It was sparkling; as he took centre-stage with a sublime finish through the legs of Tim Krul.

After a rather iffy start from both sides, the Mapgies took the lead against the run of play. But they won’t care. As Vuckic worried with his jaw, Liverpool worried with their possession. Ryan Taylor swung one in, Liverpool stood static, and the ball took through mysterious deflections as Reina helplessly looked on.

Liverpool were shell-shocked, the mood at Anfield turned dour. But another of Liverpool’s old guard, a veteran of some sorts, had other ideas. Now against a wall of defenders, Bellamy saw a ball fall kindly into his path from just inside the penalty area, and he expertly drilled it into the bottom left-hand corner, evading the limbs of the Geordies. Four minutes was all it took to put Liverpool back in the frame.

And then a sense of deja vu happened. The Reds created more opportunities than their fellow counterparts, but no one was on hand. Enrique’s low cross was only met by a retreat of Downing, then Adam watched Skrtel’s header from a corner sail harmlessly wide, when he knew he could have converted. At half time, Liverpool fans could be forgiven if they thought their overriding sentiment was one of frustration at full time.

Nearing the hour-mark, Dalglish played his cards and called on his talismanic captain. Alan Pardew looked as the 31-year-old readied himself, with the look of fear palpable. He could be forgiven for fearing the worst. Gerrard came on to a rapturous reception, as a languid Adam took his place on the bench.

About five minutes had elapsed when the presence of Gerrard rubbed off Bellamy. Agger’s mazy run was checked by Tiote. Probert looked, then blew. 30 metres was all that separated Liverpool from goal, and certainly within striking distance for Bellamy. He calmed, focussed, before firmly delivering the boot to the ball. It flew at such velocity, spinning with cunning over the top of a carefully assembled wall, and wrecked havoc in the area. It slid through the grasp of Krul as confusion and miscommunication ensued between him, and Simpson. The ball sneaked into the back of the net, and Bellamy wheeled off. Liverpool turned the game around, and were firmly in cruise control.

On 77th minutes, Gerrard rampaged through the left channel of Newcastle’s defence. Henderson released, Gerrard gleefully received, turned, took, and shot through the legs of a despairing Krul from a tight angle. It was simply a professional finish. It was fitting that Gerrard signed off 2011 for Liverpool in such emphatic fashion.

I’m on Twitter: @redsonfire

Liverpool v Newcastle United Tactical Preview: Ba’s more than just a goal-scorer

The script had been written for the majority of matches at one of football’s most famous cathedrals. Whispers of it that bellowed against Sunderland had haunted Liverpool against many sides which came, but not so much conquered. Yet they sneaked away gleefully, and more so with relief. For the six sides that garnered a point at Anfield, it was one gained, not two lost.

The latest beneficiaries of Liverpool’s charity were Blackburn Rovers. Rocked in political turmoil, Dalglish’s former club rocked the very foundations of The Kop as they held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw on Boxing Day. As Liverpool players contemplated a stalemate which is potentially damaging to their Champions League prospects, the final home game of 2011 might provide some respite as they look to end it off with a bang.

Probable team line-ups

Probable team line-ups

Liverpool will be without influential striker Luis Suarez, after the FA imposed a one-match ban on him following his finger gesture aimed at Fulham’s supporters in the aftermath of Liverpool’s 1-0 reversal at Craven Cottage earlier this month. Dalglish is therefore likely to hand Andy Carroll a start against his boyhood club, partnering another ex-Geordie in the mould of Craig Bellamy up front to supply the goals that have mysteriously been in short supply since the start of the season.

Jose Enrique, who was on Newcastle’s books before his summer move to Merseyside, is set to start for the first time against his ex-team-mates. Meanwhile, though talismanic captain Steven Gerrard was handed a 20-minute cameo against Blackburn on Boxing Day, he looks likely to be handed a place on the bench as he works his way towards match fitness.

At the opposition’s end, Newcastle’s manager Alan Pardew is likely to persist with his highly trusted 4-4-2 formation, partnering Ba with Best at the apex of his attacking pyramid. Trailing closely behind is the craft of Cabaye intertwined with the graft of Tiote, flanked by Obertan and a more defensive-minded Gutierrez. Davide Santon has recovered from injury, while Gosling three-match ban has expired and will be available for selection tomorrow.

Newcastle United, The Opponent

When the 2011/12 edition kicked off back in August, no one could have predicted that Newcastle would be this season’s surprise package. A run of sterling results saw them remain unbeaten through into November, only for a certain Manchester City to unpick their stingy backline which saw the Magpies fall to their first defeat on November 19. Despite going six matches win-less since, they have managed to reverse the rot and returned to winning ways, comfortably beating Bolton 2-0 on Boxing Day to cement their position in the top 7 of the Premier League.

Alan Pardew, the man behind it all, deserves great credit for navigating Newcastle through a murky terrain. When all seemed well for Newcastle, Mike Ashley ironically turned the tide against his own club when he renamed the historic ground ‘Sports Direct Arena’, much to the disgust of their supporters. The manager also reluctantly parted with a few key players throughout 2011, most notably Carroll, Enrique, Barton and Nolan, but his astute summer dealings have propelled Newcastle to the upper reaches of the Premier League table.

The highly preferred formation for Pardew so far has been the 4-4-2. Generally, Newcastle adopt a very direct mentality, coupled with a high-tempo style of play.

Newcastle’s midfield pairing of Tiote and Cabaye marries industrious with the rough. Cabaye’s role looks towards integrating the flanks with the strikers, being the middleman of it all. He plays in a slightly advanced midfield position, looking for holes in the opposition’s defence to tread balls through. His nature is similar to that of Meireles at Liverpool, but he more or less revels in a more attacking role, as Tiote is the one who holds the defensive fort and protects the backline, much like how Lucas does at Liverpool. Tiote doesn’t go forward as often, he’s plays the role of a patroller. In circumstances whereby he receives the ball, he often feeds a short one for the more adventurous nature of Cabaye to exploit.

What’s also interesting to observe is that Newcastle’s right flank is generally more attacking than their left. On the right, Obertan looks more towards cutting in with Simpson maruding down, hugging the touch-line especially whenever Newcastle are in possession. On the other flank, Ryan Taylor has a tendency of playing long balls with his preferred right foot towards the opponent’s penalty area for the likes of Ba, Best or Obertan to take advantage of.

General player movement

Newcastle’s strengths point to the fact that Pardew had managed to suit his tactics and modify the 4-4-2 in such a way as to bring out the best in every player on the pitch. The conventional formation integrates tactics which are unconventional where specific, but different roles are demanded in each position. For example, the right flank is unique from its left flank, where player-specific instructions have brought the best out of each player in their own roles.

Pardew’s summer acquisition of Ba has brought about massive benefits. Demba Ba is a player reborn, playing just about the best football of his life. Signed for nothing from West Ham, he has defied all odds and spearheads the scoring charts with 14 goals in 17 League games. Arguably the signing of the summer, Ba’s influence extends beyond that of goal-scoring.

His threat lies in his tendency to drop back, dragging the opponent’s defence along with it, causing their backline to lose shape which allows Newcastle to explore other outlets to attack. As shown in a passing heatmap against Bolton below, he doesn’t get into the 6 yard box, instead preferring to lurk outside, drop deep, waiting for the right opportunities to arise. It simultaneously allows the other players to get into the crucial positions as to attack the opponent’s goal. What is crucial in Ba’s play, other than his goal-scoring, is also his intuitive, sixth sense movement.

Ba's passing heatmap

Dalglish’s tactical approach

It will be interesting to see how Dalglish approach this game tactically.

A strike partnership of Bellamy and Carroll will be interesting – utilising both Bellamy’s acceleration and Carroll’s aerial prowess. Newcastle’s defenders aren’t the fastest players so Bellamy’s acceleration especially on the counter-attack might help Liverpool. In order to rectify Liverpool’s goal-scoring dilemma, it’s unlikely that Carroll and Bellamy will be played as ‘false nines’, which involves constant dropping back and might remove the threat from the box, especially considering Carroll’s game-intelligence and movement isn’t top-notch.

What is could be more crucial for Liverpool is to dominate the middle of the park. With acres of space between Tiote and Cabaye especially when Newcastle attack, stealing the ball in that zone will be key; interceptions, tackles, and the reading of the game for both Adam and Henderson could be crucial. Breaking down Newcastle’s play especially in that area can be crucial – it will be up to Henderson and Adam to exploit that.

Conclusion

Liverpool’s home form doesn’t make for good reading – but Newcastle haven’t scored at Anfield since Patrick Kluviert did back in 2004. But Newcastle have proved that they will be no walkovers, both City and Chelsea found the going quite tough even though they both won, and Newcastle snatched a point under the jaws of Manchester United at Old Trafford. They will come to Anfield with belief and confidence. What’s left of the fixture is to see how the script will be read.

You can follow me on Twitter @redsonfire