Originally posted by BigChief
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I think its a problem in a weakened side. Players around him dont know where to go or what he intends to do with the ball. Needs to be more fluidIn the beginning, Fowler created the Heaven and the Earth. -
A few good cameos there.
Stephenson and Rio were the two that stood out as "keep an eye on"In the beginning, Fowler created the Heaven and the Earth.Comment
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Players look sharp enough without hitting peak. Pne offered a good test and tried hard. Fans really good from both sides.One tit for another.
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Very emotional at the end there the players stood listening to the Jota song. The lads did unbelievably well today.Modifying post.Comment
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Yep, its going to be a tough season this.Originally posted by Buzzo View PostGlass half empty clubComment
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[ame]https://twitter.com/lfc/status/1944432534667895062[/ame]Modifying post.Comment
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Nailed it. He's exactly that. He's far too cocky as well for an average player at best. The further away he is from our team the better.Originally posted by Charly View PostComment
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That's the spirit!Glass Half Full
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Well I’m glad that’s behind us now. It was always going to be a difficult first match back but that was class from everyone concerned.
My thoughts : really impressed with Mama in goal, he didn’t have a lot to do but what he did was good & confident. Our youngsters in the first half, Luca Stephenson, Rio & Nyoni looked class . The distribution especially from Luca ( playing out of position ) was top notch. Gravenberch is a quality player that I love to watch.
2nd half I thought Kerkez shon. His link up with Gakpo was great to see. The whole ride side didn’t see that much of the ball. Doak looked to be trying too hard & im pleased he got the lucky break that led to the assist for Cody’s goal. Frimpong was similar in that it was a quiet debut. Really pleased for Darwin burying his chance & lovely dummy for Cody’s goal too. As for the keeper, Woodman, he started well then looked shaky.Last edited by SB; 14-07-25, 01:38 AM.Me, I’m either planning a holiday or I’m on one.Comment
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So were you impressed with Mama or was he shaky?Originally posted by SB View Post"We oil the jaws of the war machine and feed it with our babies."Comment
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The Echo’s ratings for the match are here
Me, I’m either planning a holiday or I’m on one.Comment
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Well summed up IMO. He took his chance well today.
LIVERPOOL’S RISING STAR: LUCA STEPHENSON SHINES UNDER ARNE SLOT
Liverpool fans had plenty to cheer about as Arne Slot’s side kicked off their pre-season with a confident victory over Preston North End. But while the scoreline pleased the crowd, it was the performance of Luca Stephenson that really caught the eye.
During his time at Dundee, Stephenson was deployed in multiple roles, including midfield and right wing-back. But against Preston, Slot handed him an unfamiliar task, placing him in the heart of Liverpool’s defence. Rather than looking out of place, Stephenson thrived.
His defensive work was assured, reading the game with sharpness and composure. More impressively, he dictated the tempo from the back, completing more passes (34) than anyone else on the pitch during the first half. That is no small feat, especially with the likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Joe Gomez sharing the field.
Stephenson’s ability to control play from deep highlighted not only his technical quality but also his football intelligence — something that can often separate a promising academy player from one ready for first-team responsibilities.
Arne Slot, fresh off winning the Premier League in his debut season with Liverpool, is known for valuing versatility and tactical understanding. Stephenson ticks both boxes. His years across various positions in Liverpool’s academy have made him an adaptable and reliable option, capable of stepping into almost any role when called upon.
This pre-season has shown that Liverpool’s depth runs deeper than many anticipated. With youngsters like Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni also impressing, the future looks bright at Anfield. But it is Stephenson’s blend of maturity, work ethic and calm under pressure that sets him apart.
SLOT’S TRUST EARNED, FUTURE BECKONS
Slot’s use of Stephenson in such a crucial position speaks volumes. In a game that demanded composure and leadership at the back, the youngster delivered. His loan at Dundee prepared him physically and mentally for these moments, and now he looks ready to fight for a place in Liverpool’s squad for the coming season.
Me, I’m either planning a holiday or I’m on one.Comment
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Trey Nyoni earned specific praise for his maturity and control. Lynch was emphatic: “He completes 100% of his passes, 29 out of 29… he just looks so composed on the ball.” The youngster’s defensive contributions were also noted: “Gets about a bit as well… can put his foot in, wins duels.”
Lynch believes Nyoni has a “chance for some games for him this season,” and that his impressive performance should “be enough to get him on the tour.” These are encouraging signs for Liverpool’s academy pipeline.
Me, I’m either planning a holiday or I’m on one.Comment
Didn’t take long did it
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