Apologies for if this seems like a dud debating point, if a debating point at all, but do our players have enough grit and determination to become successful?
If you look at us two seasons ago, we were rewarded with a Europa League spot by means of being the fairest team in Europe. In other words, our players committed the least amount of points in terms of commiting fouls, yellow and red cards (correct me if I am wrong, but this is how I have interpreted it).
At the same time, and especially last season, we had a player who was regarded as one of the best players in the world. He was also regarded as a nasty piece of work who defenders quite clearly, hated to play against. That's Luis Suarez. From watching him, he'd kick defenders, leave his foot in, and basically do anything to make his presence felt. As a defender, would you fancy your chances against him? I know I wouldn't. I could always kick him, but would I get one back twice as hard? That would be my worry. Even if I didn't kick him, would this player still end up kicking chunks out of me? Personally I wouldn't want to hold the responsibility of marking a player like him for 90 minutes. His football skills aside, is that something we are truly lacking throughout the team?
It's like the Arsenal of old vs the Arsenal of new. You'd fancy yourself against their current set of players when lining up in the tunnel. They are soft, lightweight and can be got at. No doubt they are incredibly talented footballers (that is for all to see), but they can be roughed up. Now try to rough up the likes of Adams, Keown, or even Vieira. Either they'd give you a kick back, or one of their team mates would.
A few weeks ago we got schooled by Real Madrid at Anfield. It wasn't the scoreline that upset me, but the lack of grit we showed throughout that game. We didn't do what British teams are or were once upon a time renowned for - getting in their faces and playing dirty. Instead we let the smallest man on the field, Isco, bully the likes of Henderson and Lallana. The only grit we did show were from our smallest two players - Coutinho and Sterling.
No wonder teams look so confident when they are up against us. Time to man up a little?
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