jtras2

Fair points, Truomo and Rotpeter. I agree we won't (and shouldn't) see the exact blueprint Rodgers originally brought from Swansea, but after a season in which we lacked any sense of identity of conviction, I think we'll see a side with a more consistent style, with high pressing, fluid movement and confidence in possession-all components of that philosophy-featuring prominently. It's encouraging that Rodgers has introduced more direct options within this approach (Benteke, Firmino, Ibe), and I'm by no means saying we should attempt to tiki-taka our way around midfield for 90 minutes-something I should perhaps have made more clear in the article. The point was Rodgers arrived with a clear (and overly dogmatic) philosophy, took pains to sow the seeds for it, found a potent variation and then when adversity hit this past season, flitted though a host of different approaches for a side that looked increasingly rudderless and lacking in conviction. I believe lessons have been learnt, and that we'll see a Liverpool that more consistently executes elements of the death by football mantra-with much more intense pressing, fluid movement and sharp passing than we became accustomed to seeing from last season's side. And I believe through that consistency (allowing for some flexibility of course), we'll see players thrive in more clearly-defined roles, along with a more cohesive side who share a clearer vision for success. A fella can dream...cheers for reading, and for the feedback.

Thanks Gav. I did mean humbled though, kmb986. Liverpool were riding high, particularly off their demolition of Spurs at White Hart Lane and I think it was a humbling experience to lose a pair of leads and walk away from those two matches without a point. They weren't outclassed, and after standing toe to toe with two title contenders one can't say they were devastated, but I'd argue they were indeed humbled-knocked down a peg after a pair of setbacks-though you're certainly welcome to disagree.