The Kopite View

I’ll be honest, that was harder work than it needed to be.

Liverpool went to Brentford, fell behind, struggled to make the most of their chances and then found themselves playing against ten men after Jérémy Jacquet was headbutted by Yehor Yarmoliuk just before half-time.

The Reds eventually got the job done, though, coming from behind to win 2–1 thanks to goals from Víctor Muñoz and Alexander Isak. Brentford finished with nine men after Vitaly Janelt was sent off late on.

It wasn’t perfect, but three points away from home are three points away from home.

Here are my Liverpool player ratings.

Starting XI

Alisson Becker – 7/10

A reassuring presence when Liverpool needed calmness at the back. He was authoritative on set-pieces and couldn’t do much about Brentford’s opening goal, with Keane Lewis-Potter’s header finding its way past him.

Ronald Araújo – 6/10

Solid enough defensively, but he struggled to make much of an attacking contribution down the right. His afternoon ended at half-time when Jeremie Frimpong came on, although that change didn’t exactly go to plan.

Jérémy Jacquet – 7/10

Another encouraging performance from the young defender. He communicated well with Virgil van Dijk, made some strong early challenges and produced an important intervention to deny Thiago.

The incident with Yarmoliuk was a strange end to the first half, but Jacquet kept his composure and Liverpool benefited from the red card. He’s becoming a seriously important player for Iraola.

Virgil van Dijk – 8/10

My pick of the defenders. He looked commanding for most of the afternoon and produced a superb last-man interception to prevent Brentford from getting a clear chance at goal.

There were a couple of misplaced passes early on, but he settled things down as Liverpool took control. Exactly the sort of leadership you need in a difficult away game.

Milos Kerkez – 6/10

He brought plenty of energy but had some uncomfortable moments against Dango Ouattara, particularly when Brentford looked to attack down the flank.

His work-rate became more valuable later on, stretching the opposition and helping Liverpool find space. Still, I’d like to see him become a little more composed defensively.

Alexis Mac Allister – 7/10

This looked like a better performance from Mac Allister. He seemed sharper on the ball and more willing to drive into dangerous areas.

His late first-half run ended with a penalty appeal that was overturned by VAR, but I liked the energy he brought to Liverpool’s midfield. I’d like to see more of this from him.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 6/10

A frustrating afternoon. Szoboszlai clearly wanted to make an impact after returning from injury, but he lasted only 32 minutes before being substituted. Liverpool will be concerned about another injury setback.

He also held on to the ball too long during one counter-attacking opportunity. It’s a small detail, but Liverpool need quicker decisions in those situations.

Víctor Muñoz – 8/10 — Man of the Match

What a performance from Muñoz.

He didn’t see enough of the ball early on, but he kept making runs and looking for opportunities. After Frimpong’s brief appearance, Muñoz was pushed into a deeper role at right-back, yet he still managed to make a decisive contribution.

His equaliser was brilliantly taken. He showed pace, confidence and composure when Liverpool needed somebody to step up.

I particularly liked that he didn’t let the tactical changes disrupt his performance. He kept going, kept looking for openings and delivered when it mattered.

Florian Wirtz – 7/10

Wirtz deserves credit for his contribution to the equaliser, producing the assist for Muñoz. He created a record nine chances according to the ratings report you supplied, and he looked more involved as Liverpool gained the numerical advantage.

I’d still like him to impose himself more consistently, but this was a useful contribution. The assist matters, and so does the creativity behind it.

Bradley Barcola – 6/10

A mixed afternoon. Barcola worked hard defensively and showed flashes of the pace and directness that make him such an exciting player.

However, he missed chances and made some poor decisions when Liverpool had opportunities to break forward. Those moments will frustrate him.

He did, though, play a part in the winner, with his contribution helping Isak finish the move. He also came close to scoring himself. There’s plenty to work with, but the final decision needs to improve.

Alexander Isak – 8/10

That’s what Liverpool signed him for.

After another spell out, Isak returned to the starting XI and scored the winning goal. He wasn’t involved in everything, and Liverpool will want more consistency from him, but his instinctive finish proved decisive.

I don’t want to gloss over the recurring injury concerns, because Liverpool need him available regularly. But when the chance came, he was in the right place and did his job.

Substitutes

Trey Nyoni – 7/10

Thrown into the game earlier than expected after Szoboszlai’s injury, Nyoni handled the occasion well. He looked comfortable and didn’t allow the circumstances to overwhelm him. Another encouraging outing for a young player trying to earn more opportunities.

Jeremie Frimpong – N/A

A difficult one. He came on at half-time but lasted only around six minutes before being forced off with an injury. Liverpool simply cannot afford another prolonged absence at right-back.

Rio Ngumoha – 8/10

I really enjoyed his contribution. Ngumoha brought energy, quick feet and the willingness to take defenders on. He helped Liverpool stretch Brentford and gave the attack a different dimension.

For a young player, he looks remarkably comfortable taking responsibility. I’d like to see Iraola keep finding opportunities for him.

Joe Gomez – 7/10

A steady contribution after replacing Muñoz late on. He helped Liverpool see out the game and added some defensive security when the points were still to be protected.

Lewis Koumas – 7/10

Used his minutes well after coming on for Isak. He worked hard, got involved and gave Liverpool another option late in the game. Nothing spectacular, but a useful contribution.

Andoni Iraola – 8/10

Iraola deserves credit for getting the win, particularly after Liverpool went behind and lost Szoboszlai early.

The introduction of Ngumoha gave Liverpool more energy, while Muñoz’s adjustment to right-back showed the manager was willing to find a solution when Frimpong went off.

There will be questions about Liverpool’s finishing and the injuries, but the team kept pushing and found a way to win.

My verdict

The biggest positives for me were Muñoz, Isak and Ngumoha.

Muñoz took his opportunity brilliantly, Isak showed why Liverpool need him fit and firing, and Ngumoha once again demonstrated that he deserves minutes.

Van Dijk and Jacquet were strong at the back, while Wirtz’s creativity helped Liverpool get back into the game.

But the injuries are a worry. Szoboszlai’s early withdrawal and Frimpong’s brief appearance are not what Liverpool needed, especially with a busy run of fixtures ahead.

Still, Liverpool went behind and found a way to win away from home.

It wasn’t pretty, but it was a valuable three points — and Víctor Muñoz was the star of the show.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I think Florian Wirtz deserves a bit of credit after what he produced against Brentford.

Liverpool needed a response after that disappointing defeat to Manchester City, and the pressure on some of our big-money signings has been growing. Wirtz has been right in the middle of that criticism, with people questioning his goals, assists and overall impact.

But sometimes the numbers tell a different story.

Wirtz has broken a Liverpool record for chances created in a single Premier League game against Brentford.

And when you look at the wider Premier League numbers, it becomes even more impressive.

Only three players have created more chances in a league match over the last decade: Pascal Groß, Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes, who each managed 10.

That puts Wirtz in some pretty serious company.

This is what Liverpool signed him for

Let’s be honest, Wirtz hasn’t had everything his own way since arriving at Anfield.

The transfer fee has brought enormous expectations, and I understand why supporters want to see more goals and assists. When you spend that sort of money on an attacking midfielder, you expect him to make a difference.

But I have always felt that judging Wirtz purely on those numbers misses part of the picture.

He is a creative player. He wants the ball, looks for passes that other players might not see and tries to make things happen between the lines.

Sometimes those passes lead directly to goals. Sometimes they create the opportunity for somebody else to make the decisive pass. And sometimes the move breaks down before Liverpool get the reward.

That doesn’t mean the original idea was wrong.

Creating chances is a skill in its own right, and Wirtz showed just how good he can be at it against Brentford.

Liverpool have struggled to create clear opportunities consistently this season. Seeing Wirtz produce a performance like this is encouraging, particularly when the team still needs to find greater attacking rhythm under Andoni Iraola.

The Brentford performance mattered for more than one reason

Liverpool’s 2-1 victory was not straightforward.

Brentford took the lead through Keane Lewis-Potter, and the Reds had to work hard to get back into the game. Wirtz helped turn things around by setting up Victor Muñoz for Liverpool’s equaliser before Alexander Isak scored the winner. Brentford also finished with nine men after two dismissals.

That is the important context.

Wirtz wasn’t simply collecting impressive statistics in a game that meant nothing. He was contributing to a Liverpool comeback in a match where the team desperately needed three points.

And after the criticism following the Manchester City defeat, that matters.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, but winning away from home after falling behind is a positive response.

Wirtz played his part.

The criticism hasn’t disappeared, but this is encouraging

I’m not suggesting one performance suddenly answers every question about Wirtz.

He still needs to produce more goals and assists. Liverpool need their expensive attacking signings to become more decisive, and Wirtz himself will know that he can offer more in the final third.

But there is a difference between saying he needs to improve and claiming he isn’t contributing anything.

This record is a reminder of the creative ability he possesses.

And it comes at a time when Liverpool need somebody capable of unlocking stubborn defences.

I also think it should encourage Iraola to keep working with him rather than constantly changing his role. Wirtz needs to understand his teammates’ movements, while the players around him need to learn when and where to make the runs he is looking for.

That connection takes time.

The more regularly Wirtz creates chances, the greater the possibility that those opportunities will turn into goals and assists as Liverpool’s attacking play improves.

Of course, that improvement has to happen. Potential and impressive statistics only go so far if the team isn’t converting them.

But there are reasons to be encouraged.

Imagine when everything finally clicks

This is what makes Wirtz so interesting for me.

We’ve already seen flashes of his quality, and now we have a record-breaking creative performance to add to them.

He isn’t the finished product at Liverpool yet. I’m not going to pretend otherwise.

But I don’t want supporters to lose sight of what he can bring simply because the goals and assists haven’t arrived consistently enough.

A player who can create chances at this level is an asset Liverpool need to build around, not somebody we should be writing off.

Now the challenge is turning that creativity into regular end product.

If Wirtz can keep producing opportunities while developing a better understanding with Isak, Muñoz, Gakpo and the rest of Liverpool’s attack, there is every reason to believe we can see much more from him.

And that’s what I want to see.

More of those passes that open defences up. More chances created. More moments where Liverpool’s attackers are getting the ball in dangerous positions.

And, ultimately, more goals and assists to go with them.

For now, though, I think Wirtz deserves recognition for what he did against Brentford.

He has broken a Liverpool record, joined an impressive group of Premier League creators and helped the Reds secure an important victory.

That is something worth celebrating.

His critics are entitled to expect more from him.

But after this performance, I think they should also remember just how much creativity he can bring to Liverpool.

The end product still needs to improve. The talent is there. And I’m not giving up on Florian Wirtz.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool needed a response, and they got one.

After the disappointment of the defeat from Manchester City last weekend , Andoni Iraola’s side travelled to the Gtech Community Stadium knowing they needed to show more resilience. What followed was a frustrating first half, a controversial red card, and a second-half comeback that eventually earned Liverpool a massive 2-1 Premier League victory over Brentford.

But while I’m delighted with the three points, I’m not going to pretend it was all good news.

Liverpool had to come from behind, Brentford were reduced to nine men, and there were more injury concerns to worry about. Still, when the final whistle went, the Reds had done what mattered most: they had found a way to win.

Brentford take the lead – then lose their heads

Liverpool had plenty of possession, but Brentford made life difficult and looked dangerous when they had the opportunity to attack.

Just when it looked as though the sides would go into half-time level, Keane Lewis-Potter produced a superb header in the 44th minute to put the hosts ahead.

It was a blow for Liverpool, who had struggled to turn their possession into enough clear-cut chances.

Then came the incident that changed the game.

In first-half stoppage time, Yehor Yarmoliuk was sent off after making what referee John Brooks described as a “headbutting action” on Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet. The referee reviewed the incident before showing the Brentford midfielder a straight red card.

Brentford had been in control and were leading, but suddenly they were facing the second half with ten men.

There was still a job for Liverpool to do, though. Having an extra player means very little if you cannot find a way through a determined defence.

Liverpool finally find their breakthrough

I wanted to see Liverpool come out after the break with more urgency, and eventually that extra pressure began to tell.

The equaliser arrived in the 62nd minute, and it was a lovely finish from Victor Muñoz.

Florian Wirtz picked him out with an excellent pass, allowing the Spanish winger to drive forward, cut inside and finish with his left foot past Caoimhín Kelleher.

That was exactly the sort of attacking quality Liverpool needed.

Wirtz deserves credit for creating the opening, while Muñoz showed composure to take his chance. It was an important moment for both players, particularly with Liverpool needing their attacking talent to start producing more decisive contributions.

At 1-1, the momentum was firmly with the visitors.

And eight minutes later, Liverpool completed the turnaround.

Isak delivers when Liverpool need him

Alexander Isak put Liverpool ahead in the 70th minute with a clinical finish.

Bradley Barcola headed down Alexis Mac Allister’s cross, and Isak did the rest, finding the net for his fifth goal of the season.

It was a striker’s finish, and a hugely important one.

Liverpool have invested heavily in their attack, and supporters want to see those players making the difference in matches like this. Muñoz and Isak delivered the goals, while Wirtz and Barcola were involved in the two decisive moments.

It was encouraging to see the attacking players combine to turn a difficult afternoon into a victory.

There is still plenty of room for improvement, but this was a reminder of what Liverpool can do when those players begin to click.

Brentford finish with nine men

The closing stages became increasingly difficult for the hosts.

Vitaly Janelt was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time for a foul on Liverpool substitute Rio Ngumoha, leaving Brentford with just nine players.

By then, Liverpool had already done the important work, but the second dismissal summed up a miserable finish for Keith Andrews’ side.

Brentford will feel that the first red card changed the contest, and it undoubtedly had a major impact. However, Liverpool still had to take advantage, find the equaliser and then score the winner.

They did exactly that.

The comeback will give Iraola something to build on, particularly after Liverpool had struggled to turn possession into goals in recent matches.

The injury concerns are a real worry

Unfortunately, there was a downside to the victory.

Dominik Szoboszlai was forced off before half-time with what appeared to be a recurrence of his hamstring problem. Jeremie Frimpong then came on at the break but was forced off again after only a few minutes.

That is the part of the afternoon I cannot ignore.

Liverpool have important fixtures ahead, and losing players just as they are returning from injury is the last thing Iraola needs. The full extent of either problem remains unclear, so we will have to wait for further updates.

Three points are brilliant, but Liverpool need their squad available if they are going to build any momentum.

A win Liverpool badly needed

I’m pleased with this result, and I think Liverpool deserve credit for responding after falling behind.

They could have become frustrated, especially with Brentford defending in numbers after the red card. Instead, they kept pushing, found a way through and scored twice in eight minutes to turn the game around.

Muñoz took his chance well. Wirtz supplied an important pass. Isak delivered the finish. Barcola and Mac Allister combined for the winner.

Those are encouraging signs.

Of course, the numerical advantage played a huge part, and Liverpool will need to be much better against opponents who keep eleven players on the pitch. But after recent disappointments, I am not going to complain about an away win earned through a second-half fightback.

Liverpool needed three points, and they got them.

Now the challenge is to build on this performance, get the injured players assessed and make sure this result becomes a turning point rather than a one-off.

Iraola will know there is plenty still to improve, but at least his players have shown they can respond when a match starts going against them.

And sometimes, particularly in a difficult season, that fighting spirit matters just as much as the football.

Three points, a comeback and a much-needed response. Now Liverpool have to make it count.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Now that is the team news I wanted to see.

Liverpool have named their starting XI to face Brentford this afternoon, and there are two massive boosts straight away.

Alexander Isak and Dominik Szoboszlai are both fit enough to start.

And if that wasn’t enough, Cody Gakpo has also recovered sufficiently to take his place on the bench.

After all the injury worries during the international break, that is a huge relief for Liverpool and Andoni Iraola.

This is a difficult away game against a Brentford side that has been in good form, and Liverpool need a response after losing 3-0 to Manchester City last weekend.

Getting three important attacking players back into contention could make a real difference.

Isak is back – and Liverpool need him

I’m particularly pleased to see Isak starting.

Liverpool have missed having their first-choice striker available, and his return gives the team a natural focal point through the middle.

He’s capable of stretching defences, linking up with the players around him and finding those little spaces in the penalty area that good strikers thrive on.

With Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola alongside him, there is certainly enough quality in this front line to cause Brentford problems.

The important thing now is getting Isak back into the rhythm of playing regularly. Liverpool have invested heavily in him, and the team needs him fit and firing as the season develops.

Obviously, we will have to see how he looks after his injury, but simply having him available to start is encouraging news.

Szoboszlai’s return is just as important

The other big boost is Szoboszlai.

His energy, pressing and ability to carry the ball forward are important to the way Liverpool want to play. He can drive the team up the pitch, win possession and make those late runs into dangerous areas.

His absence was another problem for Iraola to manage, particularly with Ryan Gravenberch suspended for this game.

Now Szoboszlai is back alongside Alexis Mac Allister in midfield.

That gives Liverpool a much more experienced combination, and I’m interested to see how they work together against Brentford.

Mac Allister’s ability to dictate play should complement Szoboszlai’s energy and movement. If Liverpool can get control of the midfield, it will give Wirtz and the forwards a better platform to influence the game.

And Gakpo is back on the bench

This might be the most encouraging part of the team news.

Gakpo is named among the substitutes after recovering from his ankle problem.

He isn’t starting, so we shouldn’t assume he is ready for a full match, but having him available gives Iraola another option if Liverpool need a goal or a change of approach later on.

The bench also includes Jeremie Frimpong, Trey Nyoni, Lewis Koumas and Rio Ngumoha.

That gives Liverpool a mixture of experience, pace and young attacking talent to call upon.

It is a much healthier situation than having to make do without Isak, Szoboszlai and Gakpo altogether.

Liverpool’s starting XI looks strong

Liverpool line up as follows:

Alisson; Araújo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Muñoz; Wirtz, Barcola, Isak.

Virgil van Dijk returns to the defence, with Jérémy Jacquet alongside him and Ronald Araújo at right-back.

For me, that back four has the potential to give Liverpool a solid foundation. Jacquet has impressed, Van Dijk brings leadership and experience, and Araújo offers defensive strength on the right.

Further forward, Wirtz and Barcola will be looking to provide the creativity and movement to support Isak.

There is plenty of quality in this team. The challenge is making it work together consistently.

Now Liverpool need to turn the boost into a result

I’m not going to pretend that getting three players back automatically guarantees a Liverpool victory.

Brentford are a difficult opponent, particularly at home, and Liverpool will have to earn this one.

But the team news has certainly improved my mood going into the game.

Isak starts. Szoboszlai starts. Gakpo is available if needed.

That gives Iraola more options, more quality and a much stronger attacking hand than he had available over the last couple of matches.

After the disappointment against Manchester City, Liverpool need a positive response. They need to start with intensity, move the ball quickly and take their chances when they arrive.

The excuses are beginning to disappear. Now it’s time for Liverpool to deliver.

Three important players are back in the picture, and that is a huge boost.

Let’s hope they can make it count at Brentford.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I know some Liverpool supporters will be disappointed to hear this, but I’m not surprised by the latest transfer update.

According to The Athletic’s James Pearce, Liverpool are expecting a relatively quiet January transfer window under Andoni Iraola.

The thinking is that the squad should be in a much healthier position by then, with Hugo Ekitike and Conor Bradley progressing towards returns from their long-term injuries.

Giovanni Leoni’s recovery is taking longer than originally hoped, however, so his return should not be treated as guaranteed for January. Iraola recently explained that the defender’s knee injury was more complicated than an ACL tear alone, and Liverpool are taking a careful approach.

But there is an important part of Pearce’s report that I think supporters should pay attention to.

Liverpool will still be ready to act if an unexpected opportunity presents itself.

And we have already seen exactly what that can look like.

Liverpool aren’t planning to spend for the sake of it

I can understand the thinking behind a quiet January.

Liverpool spent heavily in the summer, bringing in major attacking reinforcements and strengthening other areas of the squad.

The priority now should be getting those players settled, finding consistency under Iraola and making sure the team starts getting more from the talent already at Anfield.

There is little point signing another player simply because the transfer window is open.

January can be a difficult time to find value. Clubs are often reluctant to sell important players halfway through a season, and prices can rise when selling teams know a buyer is desperate.

If Liverpool believe their squad will be stronger once the injured players return, it makes sense to assess the situation before committing more money.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t positions that could be improved.

It simply means Liverpool may not believe they need to force a deal.

And, for me, that is a sensible distinction.

But remember what happened with Luis Díaz

This is the part of the report that caught my attention.

Pearce points to January 2022, when Julian Ward moved quickly to secure Luis Díaz from Porto after Liverpool had initially considered signing the Colombian the following summer.

Tottenham were also interested, but Liverpool acted when an opportunity emerged.

Porto needed the money, the circumstances changed and Liverpool were able to bring forward a deal they had already been considering.

Díaz arrived at Anfield and quickly became an important part of Jürgen Klopp’s team.

That is the sort of situation Liverpool will want to remain prepared for.

They might not enter January with a long list of players they are determined to sign. But if an ideal target suddenly becomes available at the right price, they don’t want to be caught unprepared.

A quiet transfer window and a passive transfer window are two very different things.

Liverpool can plan to do very little while still being ready to move quickly if the circumstances are right.

The returning players could make a real difference

Ekitike’s return would be particularly welcome.

Liverpool have invested heavily in their attack, but injuries have made it difficult for Iraola to work with his preferred options consistently.

Having Ekitike available again would give the manager another forward to work with and help ease the pressure on the players currently carrying the attacking responsibility.

Bradley would also be a major boost.

Liverpool have had to think carefully about their defensive options, and having a natural right-back available again would give Iraola more flexibility.

Leoni is another player worth watching, although his recovery needs to be handled carefully. Nobody benefits from rushing a young defender back before he is ready.

The important thing is that Liverpool’s squad could look very different by the time January arrives.

If those returning players are fit and performing well, the club may feel there is no urgent need to recruit.

But if injuries continue, or the team exposes a weakness that needs addressing, the plan could change.

I still think Liverpool need to be ready

Here is where I would be slightly cautious about assuming January will definitely be quiet.

We have seen how quickly football plans can change.

One injury can leave a position looking short of options. One unexpected transfer opportunity can change the recruitment picture. And sometimes a player Liverpool expected to be available simply isn’t ready when the club needs him.

That is why I like the idea of being prepared without feeling obliged to spend.

If Liverpool identify a player who genuinely improves the team, they should be willing to move.

But I wouldn’t want to see them spend £40m or £50m on somebody who isn’t the right fit simply because supporters are demanding a signing.

We’ve seen enough transfer windows to know that the right signing matters far more than the number of signings.

The door is still open

For now, the message from Pearce is fairly straightforward.

Liverpool expect January to be quiet, with returning players potentially strengthening the squad from within. But they will remain alert to opportunities that could improve Iraola’s options.

I don’t think supporters should interpret that as a promise that nobody will arrive.

And I certainly wouldn’t rule out another Luis Díaz-style opportunity if the right circumstances develop.

Liverpool have already shown they can move quickly when they believe a deal makes sense.

Now the challenge is getting through the next few months, seeing how the squad develops under Iraola and working out where genuine reinforcements might be needed.

I’m not desperate for Liverpool to sign somebody just to make January exciting.

I want them to get the best out of the players they already have, welcome the injured players back when they are ready and keep their options open.

If the perfect opportunity comes along, then go for it.

But if it doesn’t, there is no point forcing a deal.

A quiet January might be exactly what Liverpool need.

Unless, of course, another Luis Díaz opportunity suddenly appears.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll say it now: I believe Virgil van Dijk has at least another three years at the highest level.

People will point to his age and tell Liverpool they need to start planning for life without their captain. Of course they do. No player can go on forever, and Liverpool have to think about the future.

But there is a difference between planning for van Dijk’s eventual replacement and deciding that his time at the top is nearly over.

I’m certainly not ready to do the latter.

For me, van Dijk remains one of Liverpool’s most important players. He brings leadership, composure, experience and an authority that is incredibly difficult to replace.

And if Liverpool allow his contract to run down without finding an agreement, they could face a situation they really should be trying to avoid.

Losing their captain for nothing next summer.

Just look at what he is still capable of

I know van Dijk is no longer the player he was at his absolute peak. Nobody is suggesting otherwise.

But I still see a defender who can handle the demands of Premier League football and make the players around him better.

His positioning remains excellent. He reads danger early, organises the defensive line and knows when to step forward and when to hold his position.

Those qualities don’t disappear simply because a player reaches his mid-thirties.

In fact, experience can make them even more valuable.

And we’ve seen how important van Dijk has been while Liverpool’s defence has been adapting to Andoni Iraola’s methods. Having somebody who understands the demands of playing for Liverpool is a massive advantage.

You can buy pace. You can buy physical strength. You can recruit a talented young centre-back.

But you cannot simply buy van Dijk’s experience of leading Liverpool.

That is what makes him so valuable.

Semenyo’s pace tells you everything

One example that caught my attention was Antoine Semenyo’s incredible speed this season.

The Manchester City forward has been clocked at 35.74km/h, making him one of the fastest players in the Premier League so far. That top speed was recorded against Liverpool in City’s 3-0 victory at Anfield.

Now, I’m not going to pretend one statistic proves everything about a defender.

But it does highlight the sort of physical threat van Dijk still has to deal with.

Modern Premier League forwards are frighteningly quick. Give them space to run into and they can make even the best defenders look uncomfortable.

van Dijk’s job is to recognise the danger, position himself properly and make sure those forwards don’t get an easy route through.

And that is why I still have so much confidence in him.

He doesn’t have to win every race by simply trying to outrun an opponent. His reading of the game, strength and positioning are just as important.

Pace is one thing. Knowing how to defend against pace is another.

Van Dijk has spent years dealing with the Premier League’s best attackers. I don’t believe that experience suddenly stops being useful because he is 35.

Imagine the interest if Liverpool let him go for free

This is where Liverpool need to be careful.

van Dijk’s current contract is reported to expire in the summer of 2027. If he reaches that point without signing an extension, clubs across Europe could have the opportunity to pursue one of the most experienced defenders available without paying Liverpool a transfer fee.

And let’s be honest: there would be interest.

A centre-back with van Dijk’s experience, leadership and trophy-winning pedigree would attract attention, even at this stage of his career.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has also suggested that van Dijk could continue playing at a high level for another three years.

That doesn’t guarantee he will remain at his best for that long. Nobody can know that.

But it reinforces the point that van Dijk’s age shouldn’t automatically settle the argument.

Liverpool should be assessing what he is contributing now, how he is managing physically and whether his performances justify another deal.

For me, there is a strong case for keeping him.

Three years would show Liverpool still believe in him

I’d like Liverpool to offer van Dijk a new three-year contract.

That would take him into the summer of 2030, when he would be approaching 39. It would be a substantial commitment, and I wouldn’t expect the club to ignore the financial implications or the risk that his performances could decline.

But a contract doesn’t have to mean he plays every minute of every game.

Liverpool could manage his workload, rotate him when appropriate and gradually give younger defenders more responsibility alongside him.

That would allow the club to plan for the future without losing one of its most important leaders too early.

And if van Dijk continues performing at the level I believe he can, Liverpool would retain a defender who could make a real difference in the biggest matches.

It would also send a message to the dressing room that experience and sustained excellence still count for something at Anfield.

Liverpool need to plan ahead, not push him out

I understand the argument for succession planning.

Liverpool cannot depend on van Dijk forever, and the club must continue developing or recruiting centre-backs who can eventually take over.

But that process should happen alongside his continued involvement, not necessarily at his expense.

For me, the ideal situation is straightforward: Liverpool keep van Dijk, continue building the next generation of defenders and gradually reduce his workload as circumstances demand.

That is far better than reaching next summer and suddenly having to replace his quality, leadership and influence all at once.

You don’t replace a player like van Dijk with one signing.

You replace him over time.

And while he is still capable of contributing at the highest level, I believe Liverpool should be making the most of him.

Give the captain the contract he deserves

I know there will be supporters who think three years is too long. I understand that concern, particularly given Van Dijk’s age.

But I would rather Liverpool carefully negotiate an extension now than risk losing him for nothing and then discover just how difficult he is to replace.

He has given this club years of outstanding service, helped Liverpool win major trophies and carried the responsibility of being captain.

He deserves to have his future considered on the basis of what he can still offer, not simply the number on his birth certificate.

For me, Virgil van Dijk still has at least three years of top-level football in him.

Liverpool may need to manage him differently as time goes on, but that doesn’t mean they should be in a hurry to let him leave.

Give him a new three-year contract.

Build the next generation around him.

And make sure Liverpool don’t lose their captain without a fight.

vanDijk has earned that much — and I believe he still has plenty left to give.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Sixteen years is a long time in football.

Managers come and go, players become legends, painful defeats eventually turn into memories, and the celebrations are the moments supporters hope they will never forget.

For Liverpool, the last 16 years have certainly delivered all of that.

And now Linda Pizzuti Henry, the wife of principal owner John W. Henry, has shared a heartfelt message reflecting on Fenway Sports Group’s time at Anfield.

It is a personal reminder that Liverpool is about much more than the people who own the club. It is about the city, the supporters, the history and the experiences that make this football club so special.

But it also brings back memories of just how far Liverpool have travelled since FSG took over in October 2010.

Gerrard’s hat-trick was Linda’s first taste of Liverpool

One detail from Linda’s message immediately caught my attention.

Her first Liverpool match was on November 4, 2010, when Steven Gerrard came off the bench to score a stunning hat-trick in a 3-1 Europa League victory over Napoli.

What an introduction that must have been.

Liverpool were trailing at half-time before Gerrard came on and turned the game around, scoring three times in the closing stages to produce one of those unforgettable European nights at Anfield.

Linda recalled how she had no idea just how much Liverpool, the city and its supporters would come to mean to her family when she and John first became involved with the club.

She also thanked supporters for welcoming her as she learned about the culture and traditions of Liverpool.

That matters because Liverpool is not a club you can understand simply by looking at its balance sheet or counting its trophies.

You have to understand the people who follow it, the history they carry and the expectations that come with wearing that shirt.

And Linda’s message suggests those experiences have become an important part of her family’s connection with the club.

Sixteen years of incredible highs and painful lows

Linda also reflected on the victories, heartbreaks and people who have shaped the journey.

She wrote:

“We’ve celebrated many incredible victories together since then in our epic quest to win and restore the club.”

There is certainly plenty to look back on.

Liverpool won the Champions League in 2019 under Jürgen Klopp, ending a long wait for another European Cup. A year later, the club finally lifted the Premier League title, bringing an end to a 30-year wait for a league championship.

There have been FA Cup and League Cup triumphs, the Club World Cup and countless nights at Anfield that supporters will remember for the rest of their lives.

But there have been difficult moments too.

The heartbreak of coming so close to the Premier League title in 2018/19 and 2021/22 still hurts. The European Super League proposal in 2021 caused enormous anger among Liverpool supporters, forcing the club to withdraw and John Henry to apologise.

That is the reality of FSG’s time at Liverpool. It has brought major success, but it has also included decisions that tested the relationship between the owners and the supporters.

Linda did not shy away from acknowledging that supporters have challenged the ownership, either.

She wrote that Liverpool fans had “welcomed us, challenged us, made us laugh” and repeatedly reminded her family what makes the club special.

I think that is an important part of her message.

Liverpool supporters will celebrate the good times, but they will also speak up when they believe the club is heading in the wrong direction. That is part of being a supporter, and it is something the ownership has had to learn to live with.

The trophies tell only part of the story

Linda also shared her pride in the silverware Liverpool have collected since 2010, referring to a photograph of the club’s trophy cabinet.

And nobody can deny that Liverpool have enjoyed some remarkable achievements during FSG’s ownership.

The Champions League and Premier League victories under Klopp will always stand out. They helped restore Liverpool to the top of English and European football after a difficult period before the takeover.

Yet supporters will always have different views on how the club has been run.

Some will point to the trophies, the redevelopment of Anfield and the improvements to the club’s training facilities. Others will question transfer spending, ticket prices and whether the owners have always shown enough ambition in the market.

Both sides of that debate are part of Liverpool’s story.

For me, the important thing is that Liverpool remains a club with enormous ambitions and supporters who expect those ambitions to be matched by decisions off the pitch.

Winning trophies is brilliant, but the challenge is to keep building a team capable of competing for them.

That responsibility does not disappear because the owners have been at the club for 16 years.

Liverpool has become part of the Henry family’s life

The most touching part of Linda’s message, though, was not about the trophies.

It was about the people.

She spoke about hearing supporters’ stories, singing at Anfield and watching her children grow up loving Liverpool.

She also thanked the remarkable people who have worked hard for the club over the years.

That is a reminder of something easy to overlook when football ownership becomes a debate about money, recruitment and results.

There are thousands of people behind the scenes who help make Liverpool what it is. There are generations of supporters who have passed their love of the club on to their children. And there are families who have built some of their most treasured memories around following the Reds.

Linda’s message recognises that connection.

She finished by saying she was filled with gratitude to be part of the Liverpool community and thanking supporters for sharing the journey with her family.

“You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

It was a fitting way to end.

Sixteen years on, the journey continues

I think Liverpool supporters can appreciate the sentiment behind Linda’s message, even if they do not agree with every decision FSG have made.

The relationship between a football club’s owners and its supporters will never be straightforward. Fans want success, ambition and investment, and they will always hold those in charge accountable.

But Liverpool’s history over the past 16 years has included some extraordinary moments.

Gerrard’s hat-trick against Napoli was Linda’s first taste of Anfield. The Champions League triumph in Madrid followed years later, before Liverpool finally became Premier League champions under Klopp.

There have been incredible celebrations, heartbreaking disappointments and changes that nobody could have predicted back in 2010.

Sixteen years later, Liverpool remains one of the biggest clubs in world football, with supporters who expect the next chapter to be just as ambitious as the last.

Linda’s message is a personal reflection on that journey, and it is clear that Liverpool has become far more than a business interest to her family.

Now the challenge for FSG is to keep earning the trust of the supporters who make this club what it is.

Because trophies matter. Results matter. The decisions made in the boardroom matter.

But as Linda’s words remind us, the people are what make Liverpool special.

And that is something every owner should understand.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Now this is something I’m genuinely looking forward to.

Jude Law is set to play Bill Shankly in a new drama series about the Liverpool legend, with Adolescence writer Jack Thorne working on the project.

According to Deadline, Law is attached to star as the man who transformed Liverpool Football Club and laid the foundations for the success that followed. The series is being developed with A24 and Box To Box Films, with the story centred on Shankly’s remarkable reign and Liverpool’s rise during the 1960s.

And as a Liverpool supporter, I think this has the potential to be something special.

But there is one thing I really hope the people making it understand.

Bill Shankly wasn’t just a football manager. He changed Liverpool Football Club forever.

Jude Law has a huge role to fill

Law is an interesting choice for Shankly.

He is an established actor who has taken on a wide range of roles, but portraying a figure as important to Liverpool supporters as Shankly comes with a different kind of responsibility.

Shankly wasn’t simply the man in the dugout picking the team. He built a culture, connected with supporters and helped create the identity that still runs through the club today.

He arrived at Anfield in December 1959, when Liverpool were in the old Second Division. By the time he retired in 1974, he had led the Reds to three league championships, two FA Cups and the UEFA Cup.

That is an extraordinary transformation.

And it wasn’t only about winning trophies. Shankly understood the relationship between the club and the people who followed it. He made supporters feel part of something bigger than the football played on the pitch.

That’s what I want to see brought to life.

Not just the famous quotes or the celebrations, but the personality, the determination and the connection with the city.

This is a story about Liverpool, not just football

One of the most encouraging things about the project is that the original announcement from Liverpool confirmed the series would explore the club against the backdrop of Liverpool during the 1960s, when music and culture were transforming the city.

The club also confirmed that filming was planned in Liverpool and at Anfield, with Shankly’s granddaughter, Karen Gill, involved to help ensure historical accuracy.

That matters.

Liverpool in the 1960s was about far more than football. It was a city with its own identity, humour, pride and working-class spirit.

Shankly understood that connection. He famously believed the club belonged to the people, and his relationship with the supporters became a defining part of his legacy.

I hope the series gives that side of the story plenty of attention.

Because if all we get is a collection of famous matches and trophies, it will miss something important.

The real story is how Shankly made people believe in Liverpool again.

Jack Thorne is an intriguing choice

Thorne’s involvement is another reason to be interested.

He wrote Adolescence, the drama that attracted enormous attention for its powerful storytelling and performances. This Liverpool project gives him the chance to explore a very different subject, but one with plenty of emotional depth.

Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has previously described the project as a story about family and relationships through the lens of a football club. That is a promising way to approach it.

After all, Liverpool’s history is full of moments that go beyond results.

It’s about generations of supporters passing their love of the club down through their families. It’s about what happens in the stands as much as what happens on the pitch. And it’s about the people who helped turn a football club into such an important part of a city’s identity.

Shankly is the perfect figure through whom to tell that story.

Getting Shankly right is the biggest challenge

I’ll be honest, though. I’m excited, but I’m also hoping the people behind this understand just how much Shankly means to Liverpool supporters.

You can’t manufacture that connection simply by putting a famous actor in a tracksuit and having him repeat a few well-known quotes.

Shankly had a particular way of speaking, a sharp sense of humour and a fierce belief in what Liverpool could become. He demanded hard work, but he also understood the importance of making people feel involved in the club’s journey.

That balance is what made him so special.

Law will have a difficult job capturing all of that, and Liverpool fans will naturally be watching closely.

But if the writing is right and the performances do justice to the people involved, this could be a wonderful way of introducing Shankly to supporters who never had the chance to see him manage Liverpool.

And for those who grew up hearing stories about him, it could be a chance to revisit an extraordinary period in the club’s history.

I want a series that makes Liverpool fans proud

The project is still developing, and a broadcaster or streaming platform has not yet been announced. So there is plenty we still don’t know about when we’ll see it or exactly how the story will unfold.

But the potential is enormous.

Imagine seeing Anfield in that era, the atmosphere around the city and the growing belief that Liverpool could become one of the biggest clubs in the country.

Imagine the story of Shankly building his team, challenging the established order and creating the foundations that Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan would later build upon.

And imagine the series capturing the emotion of thousands of supporters singing You’ll Never Walk Alone.

That is the sort of moment that could make this more than just another football drama.

For me, this has to be about the man who helped shape the club we love, and the city that helped shape him.

Jude Law has a huge responsibility, but this could be something truly special.

Bill Shankly deserves a series that does justice to his legacy.

And if the people behind it get that right, I think Liverpool supporters will be watching every minute.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I like what Jérémy Jacquet has said ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Brentford, because he understands exactly what this game is going to require.

No excuses. No talking about the Manchester City defeat for another week. No getting carried away after a good night in Europe.

Liverpool need to get back to winning ways in the Premier League.

And Jacquet knows it.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s match at the Gtech Community Stadium, the Liverpool defender made it clear that Andoni Iraola has already warned his players what they are going to face.

“It’s going to be a big game for us,” Jacquet said. “The manager has already told us that it’s going to be a battle all over the field.”

That sounds about right to me.

Brentford are not going to make life easy for Liverpool, and we cannot afford to turn up expecting the result to take care of itself.

Jacquet knows what is coming

What I particularly liked about Jacquet’s comments was his acknowledgement that Liverpool have had limited time to prepare.

“We’ve been working hard in training, even though time has been a bit short. We will be ready for tomorrow,” he explained.

Liverpool have had a demanding schedule, with the Champions League trip to Austria followed by another Premier League fixture just a few days later.

There is no point pretending that is ideal. Recovery time is limited, and Iraola has already indicated that rotation will be important during this busy period.

But every club competing in Europe has to deal with these demands.

Liverpool have a squad full of talented players. Now they need to show they can handle the workload without allowing their league performances to suffer.

And Brentford will test them.

The Bees have made a strong start to the campaign and remain unbeaten in the league after their opening six matches. They also have several different goalscorers, which makes them difficult to prepare for.

This is not a team Liverpool can simply brush aside.

The LASK win was good, but the league is what matters now

Jacquet also pointed to Liverpool’s response in Austria after the disappointing defeat to Manchester City.

“I think that we’ve already shown how we can bounce back over in Austria but now it’s important to get back to winning ways, this time in the Premier League.”

I agree with him completely.

The 6-3 victory over LASK was entertaining, and it was encouraging to see Bradley Barcola score a hat-trick while Liverpool’s younger players also made their mark.

But European football and the Premier League are different challenges.

Liverpool cannot assume that the space they found in Austria will be available against Brentford. The home side have been difficult to beat, and they will be looking to make this an uncomfortable afternoon from the first whistle.

The 3-0 defeat to Manchester City was a reminder that Liverpool still have work to do. One excellent European performance does not suddenly solve every problem.

What I want to see now is consistency.

Can Liverpool carry that attacking confidence into the league? Can they defend properly when Brentford put them under pressure? And can they stay patient if the game becomes a physical battle rather than an open contest?

Those are the questions that matter.

Jacquet has become an important player already

There is also a personal side to this story that I find encouraging.

Jacquet has made an impressive start to life at Liverpool, featuring in all six of the club’s Premier League matches so far. He was also named Liverpool’s standout player for the opening weeks of the season and nominated for the league’s September Player of the Month award.

For a young defender adapting to English football, that is a terrific start.

He has looked composed, competitive and willing to take responsibility. His partnership with Virgil van Dijk is developing, and Liverpool look more settled defensively when the two play together.

I don’t want to put too much pressure on him, because he is still learning. But Jacquet has given supporters plenty of reasons to be excited.

His comments also suggest he understands that good performances only mean so much if the team gets the results.

That is the attitude Liverpool need throughout the squad.

Saturday is about more than a reaction

I don’t expect every Liverpool performance under Iraola to be perfect. This is a new team, a new system and a demanding season.

But there is a difference between accepting that the team needs time and accepting dropped points because the performance has not been good enough.

Liverpool have already shown what they can do. Now they need to show they can do it regularly.

Brentford will make them fight for every ball, and Jacquet has already made clear that the players have been warned about the challenge ahead.

I want Liverpool to match that intensity, win their individual battles and make better use of the ball when opportunities come.

Most importantly, I want the Reds to come away with three points.

The LASK win was a good response. Now Liverpool need to prove they can respond in the Premier League too.

Jacquet sounds ready for the battle.

Let’s hope the rest of the team is.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool are continuing talks with Rio Ngumoha over a new five-year contract, and I think there is one thing the club must get right if they want to secure his future.

They have to give him a genuine pathway into the first team.

That is what attracted Ngumoha to Anfield in the first place, and it is something Liverpool cannot afford to forget as they work to tie down one of their most exciting young players.

According to The Times’ Paul Joyce, discussions are continuing over a new five-year deal, which Ngumoha has been eligible to sign since turning 18 at the end of August. The winger is clearly looking for opportunities to develop at senior level, which helps explain why he chose Liverpool over remaining at Chelsea.

And honestly, I can understand that completely.

Ngumoha didn’t leave Chelsea just to sit on a bench

Let’s not forget why Liverpool worked so hard to bring him to Anfield in 2024.

Ngumoha had been at Chelsea since childhood, but Liverpool offered him a route towards first-team football that he believed was right for his career.

He has since spoken openly about that decision, explaining that Liverpool felt like the right option because he could see an opportunity to showcase his ability. He has also credited Arne Slot with helping him make the transition into senior football.

That tells us plenty about what matters to him.

Yes, a new contract is important. Yes, the financial security that comes with it matters.

But for a young player with Ngumoha’s ambition, the chance to play football has to be just as important as the length of the deal.

He wants to improve. He wants to compete. And he wants to prove he can become a regular Liverpool player.

The club need to show him that there is a plan for making that happen.

Liverpool have already seen what he can do

I’m not suggesting Ngumoha should automatically start every game because he’s young and exciting.

Nobody should be handed a place purely because of their age.

But he has already given Liverpool plenty of reasons to take him seriously.

His dramatic winner against Newcastle in August 2025 announced him to the Premier League, and he has continued to earn opportunities with the senior squad. He has also progressed to the England senior setup, another significant milestone in his rapid rise.

What I like most is that he doesn’t appear frightened by the occasion.

He wants the ball, takes on defenders and is prepared to try things. That directness is valuable in a Liverpool side that needs players capable of making something happen when opponents are sitting deep.

Of course, there will be difficult games. His decision-making will need to improve, and goals and assists will eventually have to follow more consistently.

That’s normal for an 18-year-old.

The important thing is that Liverpool have a young winger with the confidence to try to make a difference.

Iraola has a big role to play

This is where Andoni Iraola comes into the picture.

A five-year contract would protect Liverpool’s investment, but it won’t mean much to Ngumoha if he cannot see how he fits into the manager’s plans.

Iraola has shown a willingness to use young players, and Liverpool supporters have already seen encouraging signs from Trey Nyoni and Lewis Koumas. Ngumoha should be part of that same conversation.

He doesn’t need to play 90 minutes every week.

There is a big difference between giving a youngster time to develop and expecting him to carry the attack.

Liverpool can manage his minutes, give him opportunities from the bench and start him in games where his pace and unpredictability could be particularly useful.

But those opportunities need to be meaningful.

If Ngumoha performs well, he should have a chance to keep his place. If he struggles, the manager can help him understand what needs to improve.

That is how young players develop.

The contract matters, but the pathway matters more

Liverpool are right to prioritise this agreement.

Ngumoha’s potential is obvious, and the club will know that other teams are watching his progress. Reports in recent weeks have also linked Arsenal and Bayern Munich with interest in the winger, although Liverpool’s intention is to keep him at Anfield.

But I keep coming back to the same point.

Liverpool cannot simply tell Ngumoha how much they believe in him. They have to demonstrate it.

That means giving him opportunities, being clear about his development and showing that strong performances will be rewarded.

He chose Liverpool because he believed the pathway was there.

Now the club have to make sure that belief continues to be justified.

This could be a huge deal for Liverpool’s future

I would love to see Ngumoha sign a new five-year contract.

He is exciting to watch, he has enormous potential and I think Liverpool could have a special player on their hands if his development continues in the right direction.

But the biggest part of this story isn’t the number of years on the contract.

It’s whether Liverpool can give him the football he wants.

Ngumoha has already taken a risk by leaving Chelsea to pursue his ambitions at Anfield. Liverpool have rewarded that decision with first-team opportunities, and the next step is making sure he continues to feel that he can progress here.

I don’t expect him to become a superstar overnight. There will be setbacks, frustrating performances and periods when he has to be patient.

That’s football.

But if Liverpool give him a genuine chance to develop, I think he could become an important player for Iraola over the coming years.

Get the contract sorted.

Keep showing him the pathway is real.

And give him the chance to prove just how good he can become.

Because Liverpool didn’t bring Rio Ngumoha to Anfield simply to keep him away from Chelsea. They brought him here because they believe he can become a Liverpool star.

Jamie (The Kopite View)