Top four. I'm having trouble getting worked up over it, probably just me?

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

Finishing in the top 4 is undoubtedly progress on the last few seasons, and COULD be a sign that we're moving on the right direction, but it isn't something to celebrate. We should be challenging at the top, we were for a while this season, the the now annual problem of squad depth screwed us over again! That's where I'm falling to see progress, and I last the blame solely on the owners.

I feel exactly the same Mick.

This session has been one of missed opportunities IMO.

It's a huge deal. At the start of the season the majority of people on here wanted us to finish top 4. This is LFC hitting goals for the first time in a long time which is good progress.

I'm quite happy about us being ahead of Arsenal and Man U to be honest.

Getting Champions League football is also big deal and I'd feel like the season were a bit of a disaster if we didn't make the top four.

If you can't get excited about LFC playing at the highest stage a place where we have had some of our most famous games then you are tired of watching LFC.

Take a break.

Wow.

Just wow.

Maybe if it was Brendan who had us in this position you will be telling all and sundry about the fantastic achievement it was to finish in the top 4 after finishing 7th the year before.

You're one bad apple mate.

Wow.

Just wow.

Maybe if it was Brendan who had us in this position you will be telling all and sundry about the fantastic achievement it was to finish in the top 4 after finishing 7th the year before.

You're one bad apple mate.

Dear oh dear. Sometimes it's better not to type a reply, better to just leave the comment someones posted so people can see it in all it's glory.

I'll take that option here.

If you can't get excited about LFC playing at the highest stage a place where we have had some of our most famous games then you are tired of watching LFC.

Take a break.

I kind of have been doing mate, certainly emotionally anyway. Didn't kill myself trying to get a sream for the Stoke game for example, was happy to get the score updates and watch the highlights. Haven't bothered too much coming on here either, just kind of taking a bit of a backward step right now. No doubt next season or sooner I'll have the bug again, but at the moment I'm firmly in that "it's only a game" stage which is rare for me.

Clowns like the fella above hardly wet my appetite to get back into it either it has to be said.

I kind of have been doing mate, certainly emotionally anyway. Didn't kill myself trying to get a sream for the Stoke game for example, was happy to get the score updates and watch the highlights. Haven't bothered too much coming on here either, just kind of taking a bit of a backward step right now. No doubt next season or sooner I'll have the bug again, but at the moment I'm firmly in that "it's only a game" stage which is rare for me.

Clowns like the fella above hardly wet my appetite to get back into it either it has to be said.

Ignore that weapon of a try hard Mick.

Football can get like that at times. However I'm eager to see us fight tooth and nail to get back into the CL. As well as challenging in Europe's most prestigious cup, I'm hoping we can lure some proper quality signings in and simply go from strength to strength. Although the Ox rumour does have me wondering about that last part. 

I sort of get what you are saying to be honest Mick, I felt exactly the same before Arsenal and couldn't get myself
Up for it at all which is rare for me , but, and I think this is the crux, if we didn't have the start we did,would you be happy now?

Top 4 is progress without a shadow of doubt, and we have a manager good enough to lead us in Europe, I think the only doubt many of us have is transfers and if we can get enough quality in to challenge on all fronts!

Keep the faith mate

Sorry but I don't understand your position at all BigMick. We had a terrible January where we lost the chance of challenging for the league and were knocked out of 2 cups but since then we have regrouped and getting top 4 will be a great achievement and a sign of clear progress rather than the regression we enjoyed under TPM.
And just to think we managed this without Benteke ;-)

If we get top 4 and have a good transfer window then I for one am really looking forward to next season, especially playing in the CL again.

Sorry but I don't understand your position at all BigMick. We had a terrible January where we lost the chance of challenging for the league and were knocked out of 2 cups but since then we have regrouped and getting top 4 will be a great achievement and a sign of clear progress rather than the regression we enjoyed under TPM.
And just to think we managed this without Benteke ;-)

If we get top 4 and have a good transfer window then I for one am really looking forward to next season, especially playing in the CL again.

I get you Heimy,  I said in my original post that every dyed in the wool LFC fan ought to be excited about the top four, it's an excellent effort. This is even more the case when you consider we actually made a profit on transfers and it'll be only the second time in ten seasons or something that we'll have got there if we make it (and we will).

I know too that for modern fans the top four represents a holy grail, but maybe it's an age thing but I got more excited about our cup finals under Jürgen, our near miss under TPM, our Carling Cup win and beaten FA cup final under the king. The owners love top fours of course, but try as I might I just can't get excited about it.

No harm obviously to everyone else who can get worked up, I'm just being honest about my own feelings. As I say, it may well be other stuff we've got going on in all our lives, what with kids, families and the like.

Anyhow it'd be nice if we can do it. Like I said earlier, an excellent effort. BTW Jedthered might be onto something. If we were running on into fourth as opposed to holding onto it it might be a bit  less meh, who knows?

I kind of have been doing mate, certainly emotionally anyway. Didn't kill myself trying to get a sream for the Stoke game for example, was happy to get the score updates and watch the highlights. Haven't bothered too much coming on here either, just kind of taking a bit of a backward step right now. No doubt next season or sooner I'll have the bug again, but at the moment I'm firmly in that "it's only a game" stage which is rare for me.

Clowns like the fella above hardly wet my appetite to get back into it either it has to be said.

I always do this and that miserable month we had at the start of the year had me saying... F**k it, I'm not watching this sh*te next week.

But sure enough I simply can't miss a game haha even if we are getting battered I can't switch off . I'll gladly sit for a full match switching from stream to stream sometimes only catching 10 minutes of the match.

Footy really is like a drug to me . I'm dreading the summer with no football.

Thats all a bit random Mick ?

I'll tell you when I felt I couldnt give a sh*t  ( and this is me supporting from the sixties ) was in fact that dark afternoon in 2015 when we played the Everton game.  I couldnt believe we had reached the depths that we had .
Liverpool Football Club.
With our history tradition legacy et al here we were  having been saved by the  Yankee dollar being managed by an untried, untested, naive ,rookie manager that obviously someone somewhere had decided had been a "good idea".

One who had been given the Get Out Of Jail Free Card by  Kenny and Comolli , they having bought the enigma that was Luis Suarez who drove us to the title.
One we would have achieved if it hadn't been for naive ,inexperienced tactics and bizarre decisions.
I digress. That failure was enough in itself.

Then within minutes of that game finishing came the news that he was gone ... and my hope came back.

I have as with many on this forum have lived many years with L.F.C. in my life. Since a kid.
Its been there as my constant through my own life's path so it ain't going anywhere soon.

Successes and failures . Wins and Losses.  Like LIFE really.

Am I happy that we are talking about scratching around for 3rd or 4th place  FFS  ?
No.
Of course I'm not.

We exist to win titles and win trophies and that I am sure we will.


It also has to be accepted Mick that today's game and the money in it represents a different time and place to the old order.

A different place to 1971 when I stood in your pub and The Prince Of Wales in SW19 betting all the Gooners a Pound and a Pint to beat them in the Cup Final.

F**k Charlie George.
Nearly bankrupted me.


That's one of a myriad of memories Mick.

Hold on to them mate . Remember.

"  at the end of a storm is a GOLDEN SKY "

Ed:   Do you know how many times I watched Bobby's goal from the Stoke game on repeat ?

Do you know the "hit"  that came from watching that .

Go Do. Then tell me you cant be arsed. 

Champions League?

GIZ!

Klopp's pretty good against the so called better teams.

F***ing right I want it.

If we don't then there's always the Europa...

Know full well what I'd rather have.

Europe always gives us the best nights whether we win the whole thing or not. It's where we should be.

Give me more of those nights like against Dortmund, last year, every year please.

I always do this and that miserable month we had at the start of the year had me saying... F**k it, I'm not watching this sh*te next week.

But sure enough I simply can't miss a game haha even if we are getting battered I can't switch off . I'll gladly sit for a full match switching from stream to stream sometimes only catching 10 minutes of the match.

Footy really is like a drug to me . I'm dreading the summer with no football.

Sydney fc straight up fella, that should wet the whistle! 

I kind of have been doing mate, certainly emotionally anyway. Didn't kill myself trying to get a sream for the Stoke game for example, was happy to get the score updates and watch the highlights. Haven't bothered too much coming on here either, just kind of taking a bit of a backward step right now. No doubt next season or sooner I'll have the bug again, but at the moment I'm firmly in that "it's only a game" stage which is rare for me.

Clowns like the fella above hardly wet my appetite to get back into it either it has to be said.

Like I said above Mick its exactly how I've been feeling and for a while now.

I think the 'modern game' has taken its toll.

I'm excited, want us to finish top 4 as all the noises coming out of the club is Klopp will have a big budget, being in the champions league will not only help him spend it, but will be an incentive for players to sign, maybe even stay.

Qualifying for Europe should be the minimum requirements every season, fourth would be a sign of progress but we shouldn't go all arsenal about it.

If we get CL and get the likes of   quality players such as  Lacazette  ..  Brandt ..   Van Dijk   into the team for the first season back in  there , then our famous nights will all come back.

Back where we belong .

At the top table .

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

I understand how you feel ‘Mick it is hard to work up some real excitement, and belief about Liverpool’s chances of finishing in the top four especially with our record for squandering chances and struggling against lower league opposition, and for most of the rest of this season that is exactly who we will face… and even when we have gone on the achieve second place and look to push on the following season, it has proven to be a false dawn in this millennium

2001/02 season under Gérard Houllier we finish 2nd and the following season 2002/03 we finish 5th
2008/09 season under Rafael Benítez we finish 2nd and the following season 2009/10 it’s 7th
2013/14 season under Brendan Rodgers it’ 2nd and then only to finish, (you guessed it), outside the top 4 again, in the 2014/15 season in 6th place

Do I believe that we can win the premier League again, under Klopp, Yes If he is backed without question, without restrictions and conditions…? Do I believe that this will happen under our current owner…? Not a chance in hell

Possibly the lack of enthusiasm is because of the threadbare squad we have and the knowledge that we are in no way prepared for the qualification a top four place presents.

The manager has been criticised by some but the elevated status we occupy is largely down to him.

I get what you're saying Mick 'cause I felt the same during/just after January.

Maybe that was because I'd been caught believing that we could win the league (a bit like the 'nearly year).

Then the anti-climax of a pure sh*te January [results/transfer window]... Knocked me back quite a bit it did and if I'm being honest, I'm not fully over the malaise but...

A readjustment of target; a race with the scum & Arsenal (both of which I have no respect for) and I'm buzzing again. Even if it is to a lesser degree.

One last thing which helps me - the thought that, if Jürgen can get this team over the CL line; what can he do with a few more quality signings. [Okay I've always thought and 'said' that but you get my drift 😎]

If you can't get excited about LFC playing at the highest stage a place where we have had some of our most famous games then you are tired of watching LFC.

Take a break.

We are a club that under these new owner are treading water, but none the less are slowly drowning, While teams around us like Spurs,Everton,Stoke are season by season bring in decent players and are reeling us back in on the head way we have made on them while we struggle attract,No not attract (because we do that readily enough) we struggle to sign these player dew in large part to the owners unwillingness to offer either an acceptable rate in the transfer market, and if by some chance that rate is accepted we offer the player derisory sum of money in wages which drives the player elsewhere... It is not about being
"tired of watching LFC."... Hell if Liverpool dropped into the Championship during the next two seasons I seriously doubt that they would lose one single supporter world wide, and if that's what it took to get rid of these arse clowns (FSG) and getting in proper owners, one that love Football, and love Liverpool FC and where not just in it for the money,willing to invest in the players and the club, then I for one would welcome it... It is not about being "tired of watching LFC." It is about being tired about seen our beloved club being use and abused 
 

Can't win the Champions league unless we're in it! 😉 I'm disappointed with the trophy less season, everyone should be, but I'll be happy with the prospect of playing in the CL next

Someone needs to remind the owners that football is a very physical game without any fancy protective gears or carrying a bat without physical contact, plus 90 minutes non-stop running while players get injured along the way, in case they are still learning about the game. Therefore, we need a bigger but real quality squad.

If we can't finish Premiership Champions, then I would certainly settle for fourth. Only one team can win the premiership,and it isn't our God given right to be that one. As Orchard said above, how can we win another Champions League cup if we are not in it?

My immediate aim is to re establish ourselves back in the position Rafa had us for most of his time here. With Klopp we have a manager, like Benitez, who could make us fly in the CL once again. So yeah, I would say it is a big deal for me. Not a cause for celebration but so important.

The alternative of Europa League and having to go to some crumbling hole of a stadium in sub zero Russia on a Thursday tea time is enough to make me cry.

If we can't finish Premiership Champions, then I would certainly settle for fourth. Only one team can win the premiership,and it isn't our God given right to be that one. As Orchard said above, how can we win another Champions League cup if we are not in it?

I don't think that anyone believe that it is our "God given right" to win anything, i would just like to have a team that is on the same level (player wise) as everyone else because the owner are backing the manager without stupid proviso then if we lose we do so without being handicapped

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

I thought this was a very honest, transparent and concisely stated opinion. I think most of us have been somewhere in this neighborhood at one point or another in the past several years. He doesn't use this as a springboard to have a go at the owners or fans who are excited about the future under Klopp, he just shares that he's having trouble at the moment getting up for the run-in.

My best antidote for this is to remember following my team as a kid, pouring over every word of the paper or giddily waiting for the game to come on the radio or TV, or being excited for days before going to an actual game. Sure, we grow up and real life has a way of tempering our excitement because we know there are some things more important, but that kid is still somewhere inside each of us. Maybe there are some kids like that in your family or your neighborhood. They can serve as a pretty good reminder of how much love we can have for this.

Hang in there and I hope the team give you (and all of us) something to smile about in the weeks ahead.

My best antidote for this is to remember following my team as a kid, pouring over every word of the paper or giddily waiting for the game to come on the radio or TV, or being excited for days before going to an actual game. Sure, we grow up and real life has a way of tempering our excitement because we know there are some things more important,

 but that kid is still somewhere inside each of us.

Maybe there are some kids like that in your family or your neighborhood. They can serve as a pretty good reminder of how much love we can have for this.

Hang in there and I hope the team give you (and all of us) something to smile about in the weeks ahead.

This .

Brilliant Post Robby.

my disappointment is the fact that we couldve been challenging for the league but now we are fighting for top four. 

when you have such a great record vs the other top 6. if you can just grind out thebother games typically you would win as the top 6 games are almost like 6pt swings

the fact we are nowhere close to chelsea tells you just how badly we messed up our other games

For the first time in just under a decade, we will have a world-class manager leading us in Europe's top-tier competition. A man who took us to the Europa League final within his first 8 months here, beating the likes of United and Dortmund along the way. If the prospect of Champions League football for next year doesn't excite you considering all this, then you have a problem.

However pissed off i feel after a defeat and times when i feel dismay and wonder where we are going I still come back for more. The old saying you can put up with the despair but it's the hope that kills you is very apt. Bit of a tangent but it is like a drug that keeps pulling me back in.

I won't celebrate at top 4 finish because that is what we should be doing every year. I won't celebrate as if we won a trophy like Arse do but it is a sign of progress.

It should not be a prize but a sign of us wanting to be the best again. We should aim higher than top 4 finish (not for this season.).

Perhaps it's the fact that we have nothing to actually win this season that has you feeling that way Mick? Other than that I'm at a loss because the signs for encouragement are everywhere! (Apart from the owners but let's leave that for their thread)

Personally I'm buzzing with how Klopp has us playing and the progress we're making. When it comes to personal lows, in football terms, those came most deeply under Hodgson and then subsequently with Brendan for his final 1 1/4 seasons. With Hodgson it was embarrassing on every level so that's best left because I feel that's obvious but when it came to Brendan I was like Skip. I'd totally lost all hope and even though I didn't miss a match, watching us became like groundhog day, same mistakes, same problems with transfers, no clear system and so many square pegs in round holes that there was absolutely no way we could find even a glimmer of hope.

Thankfully Jürgen has come in and fixed so many of those issues, we can debate at length about how poor this squad is and how suicidal he was to go into this season with so few players but in truth when you look at what he actually took over, if you really look honestly without any bias then it's remarkable how quick he's turned us around. I have to laugh when I hear "missed opportunities" being mentioned when the above is taken into account. Sure we were in title winning form up to Christmas but those who expected total consistency and being able to sustain it for the entire season on the back of the squad he inherited and only one summer window are being horribly unfair.

We could still realistically finish near or over 80 points this season. Granted that over 80 is unlikely but to me at the very least we're looking like making up around 16 points on last season and finishing around 76 points, that in anyone's book is an enormous leap forward. Then factor in the circumstances of those gains, have we been lucky? No, in  most games we've actually been the best team, if I were to argue it any way I'd suggest we're on the low side of what we've 'deserved' in terms of performances. Have we been lucky in terms of injuries, no, again I think we've had it pretty rough. We've had few options up top due to injuries to Ings and Sturridge, in defence we've only been able to play our first choice pairing in about a 3rd of games (think we've not lost when they've played) and in midfield it's been a similar story. How often have Henderson, Lallana, Gini played together and when they have, what have the results been?

Then let's look at our attack, with all the above taken into consideration, we're still the top scoring team in the entire league. That's quite an achievement already, it's been thrilling to watch us in so many games this year. It's so easy to see where improvements can be made but even with that we're still producing this, for me that's what is so impressive. Yes individually we have weaknesses but as a whole we're still knocking in the most goals and that should be scary for our rivals because a couple of gems added into this line-up and we could push that number up a notch or two again next year and will other's really be able to live with that?

Defensively, as said, we've had our troubles through injuries and there's for sure work to be done in this department. The last time I was truly confident in our defence was under Kenny and Clarke and while it would be nice to get back to that solidity I've always preferred winning games in a "we'll score more than you" manner. So as long as it's tightened slightly in the summer I'll be happy.

Just as Dave says above, Jürgen has so far produced an outstanding record against the top teams, so I'm massively excited about how we will get on in the CL. I don't think for a moment we'd win it on our first stab back but I certainly think we'll have some brilliant nights again with end to end footy to thrill. That alone has me pumped for this run-in, sure 2nd is nowhere and all that but there is now a reward for 2nd-4th and that reward is getting to see our team and manager pit their wits against the best. There's no better measure of where you are in terms of the best around than in the CL and I can't wait for us to be back there.

Exciting times and I'm sure once next season starts you'll have your spark back again Mick.

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

It's incredibly important , just imagine how you will feel if we don't . For me the league is the one and only but we need to sign Champions league footballers to progress.

I can't be arsed listening to talk of CL football harming our league chance's , it is what it is . We need CL and we need better footballers or in 2 years we could be watching what we are watching now.

I can say I am exited as sadly this is what I ecpected  at start of season . The league is stronger and we have improved in points total . Coupled with the fact we have spent  very little compared with others I think this is a stepping stone to future success depending on what money is laid out this summer

Instead of thinking of it as finishing in the top 4 is somehow an achievement (no silverware for that) I think about it as finishing above all the other plebby teams, the more points difference the better. Everton f.off,  Arsenal f.off and Man u f. right off.
 It's shameful that Everton have been around us and finished higher than us in recent years.

I get what you're saying Mick 'cause I felt the same during/just after January.

Maybe that was because I'd been caught believing that we could win the league (a bit like the 'nearly year).

Then the anti-climax of a pure sh*te January [results/transfer window]... Knocked me back quite a bit it did and if I'm being honest, I'm not fully over the malaise but...

A readjustment of target; a race with the scum & Arsenal (both of which I have no respect for) and I'm buzzing again. Even if it is to a lesser degree.

One last thing which helps me - the thought that, if Jürgen can get this team over the CL line; what can he do with a few more quality signings. [Okay I've always thought and 'said' that but you get my drift 😎]

Understand what you're saying Mick. Same as bbb, January was like a serious kicking in the nads. 2016 we'd been excellent, and 1st month of Jan we were as bad as we'd been good before that. Massive disappointment. Nobody really wanted to say it, but from having so many possibilities before xmas, we were pretty much out of the running to win a trophy 4 weeks into new year. Painful. And the performances, against teams we should have been doing so much better against, made it worse.

But the CL has kept the interest going, we've improved in spite of injuries, we're ahead of Utd and Arse, and not out of getting 3rd. It's not a trophy, and for me the CL places have lost some of the sheen they had ... in that I don't think finishing in those places is as much of an attraction when it comes to signing players as they were even a few years back due to the amount of cash sloshing around the 'big clubs' (look who Utd signed without CL footy to attract them).
Still, looking to next year, the CL place can still help when making signings AND we'd get to play in the best footy competition on the planet. That would really be something to look forward to.
And finishing further up the table, and with the highest points we can, IS something we can measure progress against, and look to improve on next season, so it's important the players don't give up and pick upm every point they can.

And yea, personal stuff can put the footy into serious perspective
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUsWxOZolVQ
but nothing a good 4-0 win from us can't help fix

Like I said above Mick its exactly how I've been feeling and for a while now.

I think the 'modern game' has taken its toll.

I don't think the ' modern game ' would be taking such a toll if we had been winning league championships. Lack of success is what grates , especially to older fans who witnessed our great teàms.

I get what you're saying Mick 'cause I felt the same during/just after January.

Maybe that was because I'd been caught believing that we could win the league (a bit like the 'nearly year).

Then the anti-climax of a pure sh*te January [results/transfer window]... Knocked me back quite a bit it did and if I'm being honest, I'm not fully over the malaise but...

A readjustment of target; a race with the scum & Arsenal (both of which I have no respect for) and I'm buzzing again. Even if it is to a lesser degree.

One last thing which helps me - the thought that, if Jürgen can get this team over the CL line; what can he do with a few more quality signings. [Okay I've always thought and 'said' that but you get my drift 😎]

Did you really think we could win the league in December ? If you don't mind me asking but are you old enough to have watched us through the 70's & 80's ? 

My wifes cousins husband is a Man Utd fan and when we were having dinner with them in early December i told him if you offered me 4 th place now i would bite your hand off.  He agreed with me that our defence was a joke  and could never sustain a title challenge.
The next day i had my two brothers telling me we could win the league and couldn't understand why i didn't think so.

So where you just getting caught up in it a bit or did you really believe we could win it ?

we could still win the league

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

It definitely represents progress, and is needed for the club to progress but yes, it's not something to get excited about and no matter where we finish this season, I'll be hard pressed to call it a successful season after having crashed out of the title race and two Cups in Jan.

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

Probably because we have not got CL yet. If we qualify for CL you will not feel like that anymore. It is likely you are not excited in case we mess up the opportunity.

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

I agree, we know if we qualify, we are gonna need a stronger squad, but all theses muppet owners promised us when they did take over, was to do it.  end of.    If/when we do qualify,  lets see what they do then.

I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

What have you been getting worked up about then watching Liverpool for the last 10 years?

None of us think that 4th is the holy grail but we've gone from being a top four club under Benitez to a top 8 club for most of the past 7 years.

So it is important to get back up into the category of contenders rather than outsiders.

Understand what you're saying Mick. Same as bbb, January was like a serious kicking in the nads. 2016 we'd been excellent, and 1st month of Jan we were as bad as we'd been good before that. Massive disappointment. Nobody really wanted to say it, but from having so many possibilities before xmas, we were pretty much out of the running to win a trophy 4 weeks into new year. Painful. And the performances, against teams we should have been doing so much better against, made it worse. 

Pretty much lasted February as well.

Mick feels apathetic now, that's how it was during those dark two months for me.

Agree with Orchard Red, missed opportunity this season, could have been more. Next season will be significantly harder IMO.

We could've easily had a league cup in our cabinet this season already, but for the semi final to fall during our implosion period, had we won that competition and finish in the top 4, this season would have a very different feel to it. Winning the league cup in 2011 was a fantastic experience, I remember watching it with three of my boys, it cemented them as Liverpool supporters, it was hard to celebrate qualifying the the CL in 2014 as if felt more like a runners-up prize after narrowly missing out on the title.
If we do finish in the top 4 this season it we'll feel more like relief than success, but it is absolutely essential if we have any ambition for this club next season.

Did you really think we could win the league in December ? If you don't mind me asking but are you old enough to have watched us through the 70's & 80's ? 

My wifes cousins husband is a Man Utd fan and when we were having dinner with them in early December i told him if you offered me 4 th place now i would bite your hand off.  He agreed with me that our defence was a joke  and could never sustain a title challenge.
The next day i had my two brothers telling me we could win the league and couldn't understand why i didn't think so.

So where you just getting caught up in it a bit or did you really believe we could win it ?

I thought we could at least keep pace before we imploded in Jan/Feb. The early season signs were very encouraging and I'd expect that from a world class manager. I wouldn't expect a manager of Klopp's calibre to exhibit a half a season wonder show.

The question should be Littleface, did you really expect us to blow that form, and in the process undermine it so spectacularly in the space of 1-2 months? Going from one extreme to the other like that was bound to take the wind out of the sails, it did me. It was polar opposites and the shock of that wasn't good - Losing to Wolves at home, c'mon man did you expect that dross after the early season form?

I didn't. I believe Klopp should have turned it around quicker. Signs were beginning to show we were getting leggy and even tactically low half (division) managers started to get the measure of us.

I didn't expect us to win it in December (silly that), but I didn't expect us to implode so drastically. That was low. And nothing can dress that up. Klopp has even admitted he got that wrong - not reinforcing - so all the excuses about the squad he was left with 15 months prior to that doesn't wash. He's man enough to admit it - which is all that matters.

By the same token, we're in the hunt for the Arsenal achievement cup right now, and even though that is a slur aimed at the gooners, we haven't been here for a few years.

It's important we consolidate it this year, and then stay there which Rodgers failed to do, and make it ours. So we are regularly playing CL football. We've then got to build on that and challenge for the title not just hang around there like Arsenal, and possibly win some domestic cups in the process. Huge asks, no matter the manager.

It's only going to get tougher and it's imperative Klopp & co. firstly buy right, and don't underestimate the rigours of English football again. Though I'm certain he will have learned the latter merely from our weak domestic squad this season.

This is what I expect now, going from a "novice" to a "world class" manager. Firm but fair expectations.

It's important we consolidate it this year, and then stay there which Rodgers failed to do, and make it ours. So we are regularly playing CL football. We've then got to build on that and challenge for the title not just hang around there like Arsenal, and possibly win some domestic cups in the process. Huge asks, no matter the manager.

It's only going to get tougher and it's imperative Klopp & co. firstly buy right, and don't underestimate the rigours of English football again. Though I'm certain he will have learned the latter merely from our weak domestic squad this season.

This is what I expect now, going from a "novice" to a "world class" manager. Firm but fair expectations.

How many years were we at the top table playing in Europe before Souness broke the chain?
Every year .

Personally the loss of CL league football from Sky and ITV have ruined the feel of the tournament for me.

BT get a lot of good press but in all honesty they've just added an extra cost to following the sport and made it even more exclusive.

They've also failed to recreate the same buzz and atmosphere around these big games and i'm sure viewing figures are reflecting that.

How many years were we at the top table playing in Europe before Souness broke the chain?
Every year .

I think his very appointment was the pivotal moment of our decline.

To be fair, Ian Rush, John Barnes, Peter Beardsley, Steve McMahon, Ray Houghton, Jan Molby, Ronnie Whelan, Steve Nicol, and Bruce Grobbelaar were all knocking on (30 or over), and that isn't easy, but still...

Paul Stewart & Julian 'thug' Gicks. FML

I think his very appointment was the pivotal moment of our decline.

Couldn't agree more on that one .

Man, as much as it sucks that we're out of the league race - I struggle to wonder where the mindset of the fan is not being able to get some fire in the old loins (no, not talking about questionable birds and the problems that arise post 4am 'U UP?' texts) for the prospect of being back in the big dance that is Champions League.

Yep, I F***ing wish we were in the title race. But lets be real, its been Chelsea's for a while now and it's not even close. We simply did not have the squad/luck to keep pace. AFCON was a F**k up of a month both with Mane going and the Matip shitshow. Lallana being in and out, Coutinho gone for a fair hunk - that's our team. Goalkeeping issues and the standard Liverpool defensive Benny Hill episode - it's really a F***ing miracle that we aren't sweating more. Have Arsenal to thank for that I guess! As well as Mourinho showing that he is just a man with a F***ing sh*t attitude and not the messiah that the media tried to make him for the last decade or so.

So we're not in the title race. But F**k me, we're gonna be back in the top four. We're gonna be in the Champions League. Let me ask this question of you all, what is one of the biggest pride points we all go back to when discussing Liverpool's success, our pride in our history, the love for the heroes of yesteryear? It's '77, winning the F***ing thing for the first time! It's '78 and watching that legend of Kenny beginning with that chip of beauty. It's '81 and knocking off Real F***ing Madrid! '84, and sinking those bas**rds in their own back yard in Rome. And '05, the greatest Champions League match of all time. We are the best to ever row over the channel and take on the elite of Europe. We won it five times. FIVE TIMES. Who's the last team to knock off Barca in the round of 16? Still us. Europe has been laughing without the menace of the reds coming over the hill, as who's there to really challenge? We are meant to be there.

However, while I say we are meant to be there - you also have to earn it. We've been dogs knackers for years now, bar that one magical year under BR that still ended in tears - and he couldn't manage in Europe to save his wee life. The league is an absolute dog fight, you have to EARN top four. To be in the Champions League from the Premier League means you've beaten out some F***ing quality to get there, and thats something to be proud of. Yeah, there's no trophy. But F**k, if we finish above United to get there (hope to F**k someone beats them in Europa) then get in.

This isn't even mentioning the obvious financial reward, the ability to offer CL footy to the elite players we need to target for this squad - which are fundamental to reaching where we believe we should be. Yes, we are Liverpool. We are a club that is beyond the mortal realm as far as our history and culture is concerned. But even gods must be humbled, and we have been for the last twenty-five years. We must learn to appreciate the small things, to appreciate taking the step back into the top four. Then, then we can truly appreciate the journey back to where we truly belong. Then the gravity of that league win - it is coming - will be ever more profound when these steps are looked back upon through misty eyes and many, many pints of lager tasting that much more sweeter than ever before.

 

Mick, its a brave and honest post, as others have said.

I'd guess you're of the same generation as me - we grew up with success and being the best (not just one of the best) every single year.  It kind of colours your expectation for life, doesn't it?

I forget sometimes that so many of our fans are too young to have ever known that consistent success (save the 2005 Champions League win and an occasional domestic trophy), and have a more 'realistic' (ie lower) expectation level of the club as it has toiled for the last two (nearly three! - Jeez I'm getting on a bit..) decades.

Yes, for you and me the idea of celebrating coming fourth is a bit of a washout.  Coming first year on year was the expectation, not the aim.  We were p***ed off, shocked and horrified when we came second!

In the game's modern context I can see how coming fourth is an achievement, as I'm sure can you.  But you're right, its not the sort of achievement we used to get goose pimples about at all, is it?

So take heart, me old lad, some of us have complete empathy with how you feel. 

Hope whatever's happening in the rest of your life becomes an easier weight to bear.  We all have them, and our backs don't get any stronger.

And then the whistle blows on the next match and we're 15 again.  YNWA.   

Man, as much as it sucks that we're out of the league race - I struggle to wonder where the mindset of the fan is not being able to get some fire in the old loins (no, not talking about questionable birds and the problems that arise post 4am 'U UP?' texts) for the prospect of being back in the big dance that is Champions League.

Yep, I f**king wish we were in the title race. But lets be real, its been Chelsea's for a while now and it's not even close. We simply did not have the squad/luck to keep pace. AFCON was a f**k up of a month both with Mane going and the Matip shitshow. Lallana being in and out, Coutinho gone for a fair hunk - that's our team. Goalkeeping issues and the standard Liverpool defensive Benny Hill episode - it's really a f**king miracle that we aren't sweating more. Have Arsenal to thank for that I guess! As well as Mourinho showing that he is just a man with a f**king sh*t attitude and not the messiah that the media tried to make him for the last decade or so.

So we're not in the title race. But f**k me, we're gonna be back in the top four. We're gonna be in the Champions League. Let me ask this question of you all, what is one of the biggest pride points we all go back to when discussing Liverpool's success, our pride in our history, the love for the heroes of yesteryear? It's '77, winning the f**king thing for the first time! It's '78 and watching that legend of Kenny beginning with that chip of beauty. It's '81 and knocking off Real f**king Madrid! '84, and sinking those bas**rds in their own back yard in Rome. And '05, the greatest Champions League match of all time. We are the best to ever row over the channel and take on the elite of Europe. We won it five times. FIVE TIMES. Who's the last team to knock off Barca in the round of 16? Still us. Europe has been laughing without the menace of the reds coming over the hill, as who's there to really challenge? We are meant to be there.

However, while I say we are meant to be there - you also have to earn it. We've been dogs knackers for years now, bar that one magical year under BR that still ended in tears - and he couldn't manage in Europe to save his wee life. The league is an absolute dog fight, you have to EARN top four. To be in the Champions League from the Premier League means you've beaten out some f**king quality to get there, and thats something to be proud of. Yeah, there's no trophy. But f**k, if we finish above United to get there (hope to f**k someone beats them in Europa) then get in.

This isn't even mentioning the obvious financial reward, the ability to offer CL footy to the elite players we need to target for this squad - which are fundamental to reaching where we believe we should be. Yes, we are Liverpool. We are a club that is beyond the mortal realm as far as our history and culture is concerned. But even gods must be humbled, and we have been for the last twenty-five years. We must learn to appreciate the small things, to appreciate taking the step back into the top four. Then, then we can truly appreciate the journey back to where we truly belong. Then the gravity of that league win - it is coming - will be ever more profound when these steps are looked back upon through misty eyes and many, many pints of lager tasting that much more sweeter than ever before.

 

Fantastic post, well said.

Wouldn't say I'm excited about finishing top four but I would say that if we don't I'll be pretty bummed if that makes sense. Top 4 should be a given year in and out for this team, it shouldn't be something to aspire to. It should merely be a consolation prize if we don't win the league every year.

I'm not excited about finishing 3rd or 4th, but I am excited by the prospect of making ECL

I understand the thinking that we are Liverpool and should be looking at winning titles, but the reality is, we've been nowhere for way too long and this is our opportunity to play on the biggest stage in world (yup, bigger than the world cup for me) football. Our chance for Munich, Barca, Madrid, Juve etc to rub shoulders with us. It's also a 'nowhere to hide' scenario for FSG; they simply have to splash the cash now.

Not to mention the cash we'd get for entering the competition and how Klopp tends to do really well in cup competitions. If he can go one game better than he usually does, we could surprise a lot of people.

#Rafelikesthis

So, whilst I do have both eyes firmly on league titles and winning trophies, and I do understand why you (Bigmick) and others might feel a little flat about it all, I look at all of this long term and want to start bringing those special European nights back to Anfield. The longer we stay in the ECL the better opportunities we have to bring a higher level of player to the club, which in turn keeps those European nights at Anfield; and seeing how we have increased our capacity, that should make those European nights even better.

I'm not excited about finishing 3rd or 4th, but I am excited by the prospect of making ECL

I understand the thinking that we are Liverpool and should be looking at winning titles, but the reality is, we've been nowhere for way too long and this is our opportunity to play on the biggest stage in world (yup, bigger than the world cup for me) football. Our chance for Munich, Barca, Madrid, Juve etc to rub shoulders with us. It's also a 'nowhere to hide' scenario for FSG; they simply have to splash the cash now.

Not to mention the cash we'd get for entering the competition and how Klopp tends to do really well in cup competitions. If he can go one game better than he usually does, we could surprise a lot of people.

#Rafelikesthis

So, whilst I do have both eyes firmly on league titles and winning trophies, and I do understand why you (Bigmick) and others might feel a little flat about it all, I look at all of this long term and want to start bringing those special European nights back to Anfield. The longer we stay in the ECL the better opportunities we have to bring a higher level of player to the club, which in turn keeps those European nights at Anfield; and seeing how we have increased our capacity, that should make those European nights even better.

Indeed.

Just as it's Liverpool FC long term and not Arsenal FC long term if you get my drift.

It's not an achievement, neither is being a runner up in finals an achievement, it's winning trophies and titles that are the achievements.

This (CL qualification) is a massive step in the right direction. if nothing else.

Sydney fc straight up fella, that should wet the whistle! 

Are they a decent watch mate? Might get on them. Probably be crazy hours for me though won't they.

Are they a decent watch mate? Might get on them. Probably be crazy hours for me though won't they.

F**k knows mate. 

End of season depression will have already set in by then.   

I feel similar myself actually, obviously I know it's good but I fear that with us it isn't seen as a stepping stone to greater things.

Everything about the way the club is run tells me that top 4 IS the goal and it's about consolidating regular CL football rather than pushing on.

But for now, I'll take it (if we get it). Those European nights have really been missed and with Klopp in charge the amotspheres will be incredible.

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

I fully understand how you feel bigMick, its hard to get excited about finishing in a CL position, unless of course we finish as champions, we have undoubtedly made progress and we will continue to do so, but its not a trophy and its certainly not worthy of any kind of celebration, we will of course all welcome it with open arms and i'd hazard a guess that most of us will be saying 'about time too',

Most of us if asked back in August would have settled for a top 4 finish and i'm guessing most of us feel somewhat disappointed we didn't win any silverware, perhaps that is what we kind of expected at the start so therefore ending the season top 4 feels like a anti-climax,

while top 4 is progress for us, and it is, small steps and all that, a club our size should always strive to be the best, for me we are still in our infancy under Jürgen, so for him to have us more or less playing CL next season, after his first full season isn't to shabby at all, and when you consider the size of our squad and all the injuries to key players, it is pretty damn good to be fair.

Onwards and Upwards as we all say !


YNWA

bigmick you are probably feeling this way because we should be streaking it at the top of the League after the start of the Season we had. It's gone completely tits up since the start of this Year and here we find ourselves fighting to get in the Top 4 when we should have been looking behind us and laughing at all the cu*ts below us!   I'm still F***ing shattered with January and February. I'm just hoping next year if we are in a similar position, our keys players stay fit and there is NO F***ing AFCON!!!

This isn't a pop at anyone who is, as I'm sure every die hard Liverpool fan really OUGHT to be rattling the sabres and urging the lads onto top four glory. It's just a comment on where I am at the mo, and to be honest aside from finishing above Man U which would be nice as a load get in the pub, I'm having trouble getting worked up about the whole thing.

I know it's "progress" and all that, and I know it ought to make us able to sign better players, but for some reason it just ain't doing it for me. Maybe it's stuff outside football that is the reason I don't know, just ignore me (shouldn't be too difficult ).

May be we should finish 5th then. 

Are they a decent watch mate? Might get on them. Probably be crazy hours for me though won't they.

They're easily the best team in the A-League. After 27 games they're 17 points above 2nd place, they've scored the most goals and conceded by far the least amount and have only lost once. They play some good football too.

I thought we could at least keep pace before we imploded in Jan/Feb. The early season signs were very encouraging and I'd expect that from a world class manager. I wouldn't expect a manager of Klopp's calibre to exhibit a half a season wonder show.

The question should be Littleface, did you really expect us to blow that form, and in the process undermine it so spectacularly in the space of 1-2 months? Going from one extreme to the other like that was bound to take the wind out of the sails, it did me. It was polar opposites and the shock of that wasn't good - Losing to Wolves at home, c'mon man did you expect that dross after the early season form?

I didn't. I believe Klopp should have turned it around quicker. Signs were beginning to show we were getting leggy and even tactically low half (division) managers started to get the measure of us.

I didn't expect us to win it in December (silly that), but I didn't expect us to implode so drastically. That was low. And nothing can dress that up. Klopp has even admitted he got that wrong - not reinforcing - so all the excuses about the squad he was left with 15 months prior to that doesn't wash. He's man enough to admit it - which is all that matters.

By the same token, we're in the hunt for the Arsenal achievement cup right now, and even though that is a slur aimed at the gooners, we haven't been here for a few years.

It's important we consolidate it this year, and then stay there which Rodgers failed to do, and make it ours. So we are regularly playing CL football. We've then got to build on that and challenge for the title not just hang around there like Arsenal, and possibly win some domestic cups in the process. Huge asks, no matter the manager.

It's only going to get tougher and it's imperative Klopp & co. firstly buy right, and don't underestimate the rigours of English football again. Though I'm certain he will have learned the latter merely from our weak domestic squad this season.

This is what I expect now, going from a "novice" to a "world class" manager. Firm but fair expectations.

Pretty much agree with all of that. I did think we were gona tail off but not as spectacularly as we did. The defence was always the reason why i thought it could go tits up.

I think his very appointment was the pivotal moment of our decline.

To be fair, Ian Rush, John Barnes, Peter Beardsley, Steve McMahon, Ray Houghton, Jan Molby, Ronnie Whelan, Steve Nicol, and Bruce Grobbelaar were all knocking on (30 or over), and that isn't easy, but still...

Paul Stewart & Julian 'thug' Gicks. FML

Not just that but the way Sir John Smith was ousted and some no mark like Noel White taking over in the boardroom didn't help.

It's a massive deal.

This is the first time where we are a decent side and we're not relying on just one or two players unlike the title challenge three years ago.

It's more of a team effort this time - that is something to build upon, and something we haven't had since Benitez.

Klopp has to be given credit for that. It's not a season of 'missed opportunities' because quite frankly, the squads above us are better. We don't have the depth at all and to think otherwise is ridiculous.

We need to build on what we've got and then challenge. The style and philosophy is fine, now we just need more quality. That's up to FSG now - time for them to deliver and stop penny pinching with a pathetic transfer strategy.

Well, hope Firmino had you leaping about the place today Mick, he did me    Nice 3 pts today, decent enough game I thought, on top for most of it, dug in at the end. Should really have put them away more comfortably. AND sent Tony Pubis home with nought, bonus

Problem is its not a trophy, and we would all prefer a trophy as we have not had many in recent times. But we have also not had much champions league football in recent times either, so its all good if we do get top 4, it looking likely to be another season where we dont win the league but have picked up enough points to have won it in another season.

Its progress as noted above, but thats all.

From what I've read, I'm with the majority.

Totally understand what you're saying Mick, and I get the lack of excitement for the way the league has gone after that start and it all seems a bit anticlimactic given what we all started to dream of earlier.

The excitement lies in the future of the club if we do however return to the grandest stage in European football, as it is where we belong, and nothing quite beats Anfield on a European night.

The summer will also be interesting as we have heard a lot of 'you need to be in the champions league to attract the best talent', we would finally see if dem owners will put their money where it matters and invest in the squad.

So yes, it's hard to be excited about finishing 4th, even 3rd, but the prospect of what comes with finishing there, and the future of the club is worth getting excited about.

The alternative of Europa League and having to go to some crumbling hole of a stadium in sub zero Russia on a Thursday tea time is enough to make me cry.

The last time we went out there, we won 1-0 in Kazan. I wasn't crying. I would gladly take it, if it was either that or nothing at all as it has been this year. Obviously you'd rather go to a crumbling hole in St. Petersburg at 5pm on a Wednesday night instead. Which is quite possible if we're in the European Cup again.

Klopp was appointed to get us into the European Cup, and it looks like we will get there. But it's a relief, not an achievement. We were not expected to win the league, but nobody will care about who will win it, as nobody bar themselves will give a sht.

The rewards for finishing in the top 4 come next September. I'm sure not many will have trouble getting worked up about it then.

I'm not excited about finishing 3rd or 4th, but I am excited by the prospect of making ECL

I understand the thinking that we are Liverpool and should be looking at winning titles, but the reality is, we've been nowhere for way too long and this is our opportunity to play on the biggest stage in world (yup, bigger than the world cup for me) football. Our chance for Munich, Barca, Madrid, Juve etc to rub shoulders with us. It's also a 'nowhere to hide' scenario for FSG; they simply have to splash the cash now.

Not to mention the cash we'd get for entering the competition and how Klopp tends to do really well in cup competitions. If he can go one game better than he usually does, we could surprise a lot of people.

BIG European nights .

Doesn't that float your boat Mick ?



Theres always the local clubs to you.
You know the ones . The ones the supporters chop and change to as much as they change their underpants.

May not have to be bothered after today's result .

I'm really not feeling good about this now...amazing what a Home defeat will do to your confidence. Haven't looked at the Table for fear of being sick at work but is it out of our hands now?

I'm really not feeling good about this now...amazing what a Home defeat will do to your confidence. Haven't looked at the Table for fear of being sick at work but is it out of our hands now?

It is Utd if they win all their games would take over, and Arsenal could too on goal difference.

It is Utd if they win all their games would take over, and Arsenal could too on goal difference.

 


FFAAAARRRRRRRKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK KKKKKKKKKKKKKK

We'll finish 5th or 6th. Look at our season and how we constantly struggled every then and now. And we miss 3 key players. To have a chance at top4 we would need to win out, can't see it. Hate to piss against the wind here, but it also doesn't make sense to have demands and hopes that just doesn't match LFC's here-and-now capability.

We'll finish 5th or 6th. Look at our season and how we constantly struggled every then and now. And we miss 3 key players. To have a chance at top4 we would need to win out, can't see it. Hate to piss against the wind here, but it also doesn't make sense to have demands and hopes that just doesn't match LFC's here-and-now capability.

I love how we never see people like you post till things get tough then you crawl out of the woodwork to complain and have a moan. Why do you even support this team if all you are going to do is cry when we lose?

I love how we never see people like you post till things get tough then you crawl out of the woodwork to complain and have a moan. Why do you even support this team if all you are going to do is cry when we lose?

Exactly Right .

Losers themselves .

Still don't know what happened to Hollywood and Fried Egg who mysteriously evaporated into thin air (together ?) after causing turbulence on the forums.

Crawled back into their holes.

Two more of life's losers .

To be honest I said just after crimbo that we would not get top4 with this squad. We needed to bring in 2/3 in the window and I thought injuries would cost us. Now it looks as if I was wrong as we have scraped just about enough points to make it. Arsenal blowing it has helped as well. Not in the bag yet but it's in our hands.

I agree top 4 doesn't excite, may be like a cup final or a big European night at Anfield but it's vital money wise and to bring in top talent.

I think we are locked for 4th after ManU's loss today, ManC will make 3rd since they have an easy remaining schedule. CL - even qualification - should open doors that were closed so far. Remember what we could do before January...and we'll be even better/deeper next season.

https://youtu.be/vJbg3Ur3FZc

Well we made it into the top four, and over the course of the season we absolutely deserved it. We were a bit fortunate today with the penalty call IMHO, but we've had our share of bad luck and then some so it would take some sort of tosser to begrudge us.

I got a wee bit more into the whole thing again as we progressed, and got pretty fired up by the West Ham performance. Today once we'd calmed down a bit was good too, and I am hopeful we are beginning to hatch a plan to beat the bus parkers. That's what I take out of it anyway.

As for the Champions league, well I'll see if I can't get up to Liverpool for a game or two as I enjoy those nights. Realistically though we are unlikely to win it, and it is very likely to negatively impact on our league challenge. That said, providing there is a combination of Jürgen realizing that trying to get through a season with such a weak squad was a bit silly, AND the owners backing him properly in the transfer market, the impact on the league campaign may not be so keenly felt. If we DON'T though signicantly strengthen the squad, and I mean REALLY significantly, then we may find ourselves out of the Champions League quick smart AND struggling to keep up with much bigger spenders in the league.

I think it's a really good effort for the manager to get this squad into the top four with our injuries. He's proven he is THE man for the job, and he should be properly backed now, no more excuses and no more penny pinching.

it is very likely to negatively impact on our league challenge.

It really depends on how we fare.  If we play well and win our midweek CL matches, that can help build confidence and form that carries into the league matches. 

It feels good to be back!!  Now it's up to Jürgen and the owners to flex some muscle and bring in the necessary players to consistently win domestic and European trophies. 

It really depends on how we fare. If we play well and win our midweek CL matches, that can help build confidence and form that carries into the league matches. 

It feels good to be back!!  Now it's up to Jürgen and the owners to flex some muscle and bring in the necessary players to consistently win domestic and European trophies. 

I get your point about momentum and the like Harold, but I can't agree that it will do anything other than make it much harder in the league. If you're playing Away at Watford on the Saturday I cannot see how your chances are improved by a trip to Trabzonspoor on the previous Wednesday, even if you win the game in Turkey.

It has been proven now enough times IMHO to be considered a fact. Taking part in European competition makes it harder to win league matches, not impossible, but harder. The reverse obviously applies when you have no European games at all, as shown by us in the "nearly" season and Chelsea this time around. It is for me the one and only aspect of our season which leaves me a little disappointed, given we weren't in Europe this season we really ought to have been able to have a better go at the domestic cups.   

Lovely to look down the Table and see The Arse, The Scum and the Bitters with sore necks looking up!!

I'm properly excited. First time I've been so excited since that BR season. My only worry is that we have a thin enough squad, so we clearly can't cope with CL footy as well as PL next season as it is, desperately need strengthening. But f*** yea I'm worked up about it.

Hoping Klopp will bring that kind of footy we were playing before xmas to CL and dazzle a few more players into signing for us

Lovely to look down the Table and see The Arse, The Scum and the Bitters with sore necks looking up!!

Oh Yes.    Oh Yes.

Enjoy   !