If Rio Ferdinand had been Jamie Carragher's partner for the last 4 years

[Parm]

To be fair moving the ball out of defence to start quick counter attacks has been part of the problem, however Ferdinand for all his obvious qualities is one of the least thoughtful defenders in the PL. I don't think this would make him an ideal fit for the way Rafa likes to construct a team.

It's no surprise that Rafa brought Agger in. He has the skill on the ball to start attacks and does not need to rely upon hopeful punts that Sami and Carra use.

[dww]

It's no surprise that Rafa brought Agger in. He has the skill on the ball to start attacks and does not need to rely upon hopeful punts that Sami and Carra use.

I actually think that Sami is a very good long passer. The trouble is that almost by definition a long pass is likely to be harder to control and we haven't had players with Zidane like touch up front during most of his time with us. Carra has improved but it is mostly playing a simple ball to the holding midfielder or the fullback in most space. Still the difference with Agger is marked.

[dom9]

Yeah because we've had such a **** defence over the last four years haven't we?

It's been our lack of goals over those years that have cost us a title shot, not the defence.

Is correct

[Joe Le Toff]

He's massively over-rated. He has lapses in concentration and is often troubled by strong, powerful strikers ie Yakubu, Duncan Ferguson a few year ago.
Don't get me wrong i'm not saying he's ****, he's a class act on his day but still he's way, way over-hyped and is found wanting at vital moments in certain games.

[Parm]

I actually think that Sami is a very good long passer. The trouble is that almost by definition a long pass is likely to be harder to control and we haven't had players with Zidane like touch up front during most of his time with us. Carra has improved but it is mostly playing a simple ball to the holding midfielder or the fullback in most space. Still the difference with Agger is marked.

I think Sami has got a bit better over the past 2 yrs with the passing, but that may be down to rafa improving players where he can. I think the same has happened with Riise, whilst he and Hyypia are not the best passers at the club their passing has got somewhat better.
Agree about Carra, he really does take the "defender first" role to the max!