The opening fixture of our Premier League season is significant for many reasons. One is that, since their promotion in 2008, Stoke has been the thorn in the side of Liverpool, from Rafa to Rodgers. Their physical and conservative style was the bane of our players, as they seemed to easily and effectively brush us aside without much hassle.
It is true that this physicality may not be a major player now that Stoke has been taken charge of by Mark Hughes. Judging by their signings, Stoke seem to be aiming for a less strength-oriented game, and may be less compact than under Tony Pulis.
Another reason for this game’s significance is that it is the first true yardstick that we have under Rodgers that will suggest progress from the largely mediocre years since 2008/09.
A lot lies on the first ten games for our season. With teams like Spurs and Everton getting stronger – the first with major signings and the second with new ideas from new coach Martinez – and not to mention the almost inevitability of a top three of the Manchester clubs and Chelsea, it is the first time in some times that hitting the ground running is a must.
Luckily, the fixture list has been kind. Of the first ten, only Manchester United (third game) and Arsenal (tenth game) are of higher quality than ourselves. An opening day win against Stoke is utterly imperative, both as a platform for momentum, and a signal of intent for teams with similar top-four ambitions.
And a scrappy win won’t be enough. We really have to play with intent and enthusiasm from the word go. A convincing win is what’s needed; to play Stoke off the park and put in a few goals past them.
The good news is that we’ve approached this pre-season very seriously, and have looked vibrant and sharp. All games have been taken care of professionally, and the team look coherent.
New signings Aspas, Mignolet and Toure have been impressive, and look like they have an immediate understanding of our philosophy. They really do seem to fit the profile. Other signing, Luis Alberto, looks to be adjusting, but has shown flashes of quality.
To add to that, Raheem Sterling has had a great pre-season, and looks to be playing with plenty of maturity. No longer hugging the touchline, he is an auxiliary second-striker (as role all of our wingers have adopted) and his team play and weighting of passes have been superb.
We have also seen the slow redemption of Lucas Leiva move through another increment. The Brazilian has looked incredibly sharp, and his defensive abilities seem to have returned. His brilliant eye for the first ball has been on show throughout our pre-season, and he really does aid our counter-attacks.
Joe Allen has looked good in his advanced role. His far-post runs have been something we sorely lacked last season. Neat and tidy passing, high energy and tenacity; Joe Allen’s great form from early last season is back.
Regarding transfers, perhaps we could have signed another attacker and defender. Strangely, Coates and Skrtel have remained, but both still appear unwanted by Rodgers. It will be interesting to see how all this will play out. I think whether or not Luis Suarez leaves will dictate transfer activity.
As it stands it has, all in all, looked promising. Barring the terrible loss to Celtic on Saturday, all signs point to something positive. Everything seems set for next Saturday, for what will be a pivotal day for Liverpool’s season.
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