Ok Ryan Babel has said a lot. He has performed both on and off the feel in a poor fashion. Something the Reds are not too familiar with, we have people who are staunch in getting his disruptive, whingeing butt out. Well I say let's give the lad a final go. He wants to play upfront, I do not see any wrong in placing him with N'gog for the time being whilst Nando is out. This could really be his time to shine, with such a big arrogant statement from himself, I think the onus is on Rafa to shut him up finally. He can only truly do this by having him play in his desired position which is upfront. Let's see what he has to offer in that capacity, really and truly the little glimpses we see him there are quite interesting and oft reaps some rewarding play from himself.
I am not a fan of Babel's attitude. I am not even one of his bigger fans, I think he has done reasonably well enough to be play in his preferred role. Even if this means, for a couple of games; as we are trying to salvage our season it may seem the most ludicrous of things to do. But he seems bent on proving a point. Let's give him that opportunity, we can't truly say he has been given a fair shot. Lucas has had some howlers but he has bounced back. He stated categorically clear that he is willing to sweat blood to prove this club he's worthy. Ryan Babel is a different type of character, he came here with much more on his plate to prove. Much more acclaimed as a true talent. No one should really debate that. Yet we are here because he said something that sounds very distasteful on the mouth.
At first I was very angry at his remarks but I get the feeling he has the arrogance of a superstar, so he perhaps won't come out and say he'll sweat blood. Rather, I think Babel is more inclined to say he should be playing. Many other managers would throw him in there and say have a go. Rafa is much more unlikely to do so. Babel is a class act on his day, and his behaviour off the pitch reflects that. I am sure he wants to play for this club. Why? He still seems to be keen in making an impact when he comes on the pitch. Whenever you see that, then you know a player's heart. If he really wanted to leave, like Dossena does, he would have kept his mouth shut and not try to take on players he has to prove his talent.
Much can be said about his confidence taking a huge blow. His touch not as confident as it once was, not being as assured not making his mind up in his movement. A constant plague of indecision. Yet, he's still beseeching to the manager, even in such a low class way. Even threatening that leaving may be his only option, that's a different kind of heart if you ask me. Not the one to talk nice things and be all sugar coating in approach, but one filled with desire to be counted as a player no matter how deleterious the comments, his comments are. And his disbelief at his failing to make a significant mark is another strength that Babel has shown.
We all deep down inside have respect for this lad. We know of his talent, we know of his potential. Let us not make the mistake and lose one of the better players in the coming decade, due to the fact his attitude is emblematic of Eric Cantona or some other arrogant player, maybe Ronaldo. But let us have him enjoy his football here in the Red shirt whilst he wants to. Clearly he wants to. I strongly believe if he gets the backing he needs he will perform. He's a confidence player, its on E at the moment.
Ryan Babel is far more talented than Theo Walcott, I will take that argument with anyone. I don't think Theo would be able to stand the treatment Ryan has got. Ryan has took his chances in many matches as an impact player only to be dropped. Wenger has more confidence bringing up youngsters that is clear. Rafa needs to realise this lad needs a chance to prove himself. Lucas proved himself when he didn't even deserve it. Why not Babel? If I were him I would whinge too! No way would Gerrard want to be treated like that, he simply wouldn't have it especially when he has done enough to be given a good chance.
Babel has flopped some of his chances, but maybe he needs a proper good run to get his confidence back. Not as winger but as a front man, and if he's going to play on the wing let it be the right.
Ryan Babel @ Liverpool Compilation
