Rafas number 2

Well Rafa has done it again in Europe but we cant do owt in the league,does anyone else think we should get a ex player in as Rafas number 2?and what names would we throw in the hat?Sammy Lee as been mentioned what about John Aldridge or Jason Macateer thy have both managed clubs.Anyone else we can think of?

I would liked to have seen Gary Mac.....but that's not going to happen now, King Kenny would be a favourite of mine, but I'm not sure how he would get on with Rafa, being such a legend and worshipped so much at Anfield, it could actually work against him.

I'm sure all this though Kelv has recently been discussed in another thread? I might be wrong, did you search through first?

The only thing I could hear on the radio going up to the match was Aldo slagging Rafa off so I don't really see Aldo as an option.

Definately Phil Thompson though.  He's so F***ing passionate about this club, and is wasting away doing work for Sky when he only gets the piss taken out of him any way.

I'd love to see Phil Thompson back.

But on the other hand.  Is Rafa even thinking of getting another number 2?

I think he does need one...........behind every successful man is a WOMAN 

Maybe Rafa needs me, I could be the link between him and the players, I would certainly put an arm around the shoulder of Stevie G, and provide a shoulder to cry on.

No seriously, I'm sure Rafa misses Pako, he does need someone to share the burden of being in charge of such a fantastic club as ours is, the enormous pressures put upon him must be a constant worry, although I'm sure he enjoys picking up his rather large cheque every month, no more than he deserves though especially this season.

Tommo would be good Court......local lad, made it big, knows the ropes, did it under Houllier. 

Well Rafa has done it again in Europe but we cant do owt in the league,does anyone else think we should get a ex player in as Rafas number 2?and what names would we throw in the hat?Sammy Lee as been mentioned what about John Aldridge or Jason Macateer thy have both managed clubs.Anyone else we can think of?

God no not McAteer the man is a cretin. So embarassing seeing him on the telly always playing the dumb scouser role.

Rafas No: 2 should be EddieC ....but Eddie being such a busy man...I'd go for the next best thing and bring back Robbie Fowler (God) as Rafa's number 2.

Rafas No: 2 should be EddieC ....but Eddie being such a busy man...I'd go for the next best thing and bring back Robbie Fowler (God) as Rafa's number 2.

You know.  I know how much of a head above the clouds idea that is.  :

But that would be F***ing brilliant.

Eddie or God mate, which one

Eddie or God mate, which one

Head above the clouds? 

Hint hint

Put Eddie and God next to each other infact and we're playing the guessing game ladies and gentlemen!

Head above the clouds? 

Hint hint

Put Eddie and God next to each other infact and we're playing the guessing game ladies and gentlemen!

Sorry Court mate, it's 23.00 and I'm at work.....now I got ya.

Ian Rush as #2 and work with the boys on chances to goals ratio day in day out at Melwood.

Our finishing is our problem... Rafa can't help on that score, but Ian might.

Bring back Roy Evans as number 2.

After the disappointment of being passed over for the England job I don't feel up to having my confidence knocked again by applying for another role in football & missing out, but if someone wants to make an application on my behalf then feel free

It has to be Phil Thomson for me. Rafa is a moaner, we can see that he keeps on moaning in the dug out during a game. I believe he'll moan and moan and moan in the dressing room as well  after a bad game without really getting his message through to the players to the extend that the players will put on an ear plug if they could.  With iron Phil, the players will get the hair dryer if they don't perform and I believe he's not stingy with praises after a good performance. Besides that, he's a legend and has seen it all before.

After the disappointment of being passed over for the England job I don't feel up to having my confidence knocked again by applying for another role in football & missing out, but if someone wants to make an application on my behalf then feel free

 

No way Eddie it has to be me seeing as my Under 11s side won both league and cup last season, that has to set me in good sted.
OTherwise has to be a LFC legend in my opion Thommo, Rushy, King Kenny anyone in that mold, I think that would prove a positive move on Rafa and the owners part to bring in someone like that.

No to Aldo, he likes the grog to much!  The dream ticket Gary Mc is spoken for!!  Tommo I'm not to sure about. From a process of elimination it has to be Sammy, I was talking to him about a month ago and he's such a nice fella.
IRWT
WALK ON

I just want pako back. No time needed to work out one anothers ideas etc they already know how one another works and what they both specialie in, but i no he isnt coming back.

Interesting that a lot of people would like Thompson. Understandably so as well because he's got nothing but passion for Liverpool.
Personally I think the pairing of Houllier and Thompson ended up imploding on itself and the players didn't know who they were taking orders from in the end. You'd need someone to come in and not think they were the boss or knew better. Someone laid back with a healthy knowledge of the Liverpool way.

When you think about the boot room, how blessed were we? There was only ever one 'boss' but there was many wise minds. Get Dalglish, Moran and Evans back on the books to talk football after every game with Rafa. Moran can put the kettle on....

Interesting that a lot of people would like Thompson. Understandably so as well because he's got nothing but passion for Liverpool.
Personally I think the pairing of Houllier and Thompson ended up imploding on itself and the players didn't know who they were taking orders from in the end. You'd need someone to come in and not think they were the boss or knew better. Someone laid back with a healthy knowledge of the Liverpool way.

When you think about the boot room, how blessed were we? There was only ever one 'boss' but there was many wise minds. Get Dalglish, Moran and Evans back on the books to talk football after every game with Rafa. Moran can put the kettle on....

When they showed that programme about Paisley last week on LFC tv, there was Bob, Joe Fagan, Ronnie Moran and Roy Evans, what a team eh!!!

All sitting having a cup of tea, surrounded by dirty boots......how times have changed   They were so happy and that's where everything happened, that's where they plotted the downfall of all the best teams in Europe.

 I like the idea of Ian Rush,He has got his coaching badges,is still in his 40s and he would be an asset for the forwards.Most important he learned his football the Liverpool way and knows the traditions of this great club.

I like the idea of Ian Rush,He has got his coaching badges,is still in his 40s and he would be an asset for the forwards.Most important he learned his football the Liverpool way and knows the traditions of this great club.

A maestro forward who would do wonders with our present crop of front men... personality wise would fit in perfectly with Rafa.

Rush for attack......Rafa for defense......I like it...

What about Garry Ablett ? Doing a fine job with the reserves and may see this as a step up

Alan Hansen would probably do a good job put i dont think he would want to leave match of the day. But i have said many times that i think Phil Thompson should get the job. Although i think him and Rafa would clash because they are both so passionate and are both stubborn.

Don't know how much should be made of it but Pako Ayesteran was at the match last night.

Wasn't close enough to try and speak to him, but it's the first time I've known him back here since he left.

Rushy would be a great idea but not as assistant, striker coach for sure! Need a team motivator who understands and connects with the players..who though? PAKO! Bring him back!

Just out of interest, has anyone looked at the title of this topic & thought it was about Rafa taking a sh*t?

Just out of interest, has anyone looked at the title of this topic & thought it was about Rafa taking a sh*t?

Nope, only you have that kind of mind Ed mate

Don't know how much should be made of it but Pako Ayesteran was at the match last night.

Wasn't close enough to try and speak to him, but it's the first time I've known him back here since he left.

In my assessment of Rafa, I can't see Pako coming back, It would be like Rafa saying "I got it wrong" but I wonder whether they spoke last night?
Pako would be the dream ticket, can't see it myself!
Sammy would be a fantastic addition though.
IRWT

I think Sami Hyypia could be a great number 2 (assistant manager Ed) after his playing days. Knows the players, gets along with everyone and a very very decent bloke. For now i think Sammy Lee.

Just out of interest, has anyone looked at the title of this topic & thought it was about Rafa taking a sh*t?

Eddie, trust you to think of that......made me smile though

Pako was at Anfield last night.........a bit of bridge building maybe, let's hope so, but somehow I can't see it

What about Garry Ablett ? Doing a fine job with the reserves and may see this as a step up

Cant see Garry making the move up, he is doing a great job for Raffa with the reserves, so many young lads who will be knocking on the 1st teams door next season.

I would like to see Phil Thompson, come back, or Sammy Lee.

Sami Hyypia, to start his coaching next season, and to get his badges.

Mods could you please set up a poll on who people would like to see making a returning to Anfield for the new season to assist Rafa, who in my opinion could do with the help (Paco de Miguel too lightweight in my honest opinion to be next to Rafa during big games).

Big clubs like Liverpool need two solid decision makers during games - one supporting and guiding the main man on the touch line:

Arsenal - Wenger, Rice
Man Utd - Fergie, Quieroz
Chelsea - Grant, Henk Tent
Liverpool - Benitez, De Miguel? ...don't think so...

Rafa share the load before DURING and after games, put a quality #2 in place for next season.

I would personally bring in Sammy Lee (comparitively too many bad vibes surrounding a Pako return, but would be happy if that happened too - maybe A-yester-an is a "yester-day figure at the club?).

Sammy Lee has done the big job (Bolton bad experience, knows the pressure) and speaks Spanish. I think Sammy's humble personality would suit Rafa's personality down to the ground, I really do.

IRWT (with Sammy's support?) POLL PLEASE.

Who would you like to make a return as Rafa's #2 next season:

Bring in Sammy Lee
Bring back Pako Ayesteran
Stick with Paco de Miguel

Really interested to see your views fellow Red peeps.

*EDIT*: Done!

Sammy Lee has done the big job (Bolton bad experience, knows the pressure) and speaks Spanish. I think Sammy's humble personality would suit Rafa's personality down to the ground, I really do.

I have to say, I agree with you Don   Sammy's calming influence, knowledge of the game,, history of LFC, and Spanish speaking make him an ideal candidate, although if Pako were to come back, as long as him and Rafa could mend their relationship, I think it could work again, or at least I'd like to think it could.

Out of interest why did he do sooo badly at bolton?

I dont know much about him so im not trying to see his isnt good in terms of football or anything.

Whenever i saw his interviews it just seemed like he couldnt handle pressure well atall he always looked like he was expecting to lose his job sooner rather than later. It was a daunting job taking over from an icon at bolton as allardyce was but i am not convinced in the slightest by sammy due to all that bolton fiasco. If he is good enough to be rafas number 2 that im all for it but he just seemed to make alot of bad decisions at bolton.

In all honesty i just want Pako back. Wish the fans showed as much passion for getting him back with signs in the crowd as they do with signs for getting the yansks out. Him and rafa such a good partnership and i truly miss pako he was great.

Out of interest why did he do sooo badly at bolton?

Some people arent meant to be first team managers. Sammy is part if a breed who cant make the transition from number 2 to 1. No matter how good their team is, if they cant do the job it will show.

Look at Stewart Houston - Assistant at Arsenal during the early 1990's. Went to QPR and got sacked that December in his first season.

Phil Neal - May i say more?

Chris Hutchings - Former Wigan boss, where is he now?

Stuart Gray - Former Southampton assistant, took over at the club and gone out the door soon after.

Les Reed - At Charlton, brief spell.

AND

Carlos Quieroz - Real Madrid didnt seem to succeed under him.

Just that transistion between 2 and 1 effects them. All in the head i think, some cant handle the extra work load or take on pressure. Hope it helps lilcisse.

Mods could you please set up a poll on who people would like to see making a returning to Anfield for the new season to assist Rafa, who in my opinion could do with the help (Paco de Miguel too lightweight in my honest opinion to be next to Rafa during big games).

Big clubs like Liverpool need two solid decision makers during games - one supporting and guiding the main man on the touch line:

Arsenal - Wenger, Rice
Man Utd - Fergie, Quieroz
Chelsea - Grant, Henk Tent
Liverpool - Benitez, De Miguel? ...don't think so...

Rafa share the load before DURING and after games, put a quality #2 in place for next season.

I would personally bring in Sammy Lee (comparitively too many bad vibes surrounding a Pako return, but would be happy if that happened too - maybe A-yester-an is a "yester-day figure at the club?).

Sammy Lee has done the big job (Bolton bad experience, knows the pressure) and speaks Spanish. I think Sammy's humble personality would suit Rafa's personality down to the ground, I really do.

IRWT (with Sammy's support?) POLL PLEASE.

Who would you like to make a return as Rafa's #2 next season:

Bring in Sammy Lee
Bring back Pako Ayesteran
Stick with Paco de Miguel

Really interested to see your views fellow Red peeps.

*EDIT*: Done!

Good post, I also concur with your assumptions aswell. Sammy Lee would be an ideal No2. Which leads me to conclude this thread was not about Rafa taking a sh*t after all, phew (wipes brow)

Some people arent meant to be first team managers. Sammy is part if a breed who cant make the transition from number 2 to 1. No matter how good their team is, if they cant do the job it will show.

Look at Stewart Houston - Assistant at Arsenal during the early 1990's. Went to QPR and got sacked that December in his first season.

Phil Neal - May I say more?

Chris Hutchings - Former Wigan boss, where is he now?

Stuart Gray - Former Southampton assistant, took over at the club and gone out the door soon after.

Les Reed - At Charlton, brief spell.

AND

Carlos Quieroz - Real Madrid didnt seem to succeed under him.

Just that transistion between 2 and 1 effects them. All in the head I think, some cant handle the extra work load or take on pressure. Hope it helps lilcisse.

After reading your post it reminded me of Wilf McGuinnes at Manure.he was groomed to take over from Mayy Busby and only lasted 1 season,he just could not handle the job.He took over in 1969 and was gone in 1970.

Just out of interest, has anyone looked at the title of this topic & thought it was about Rafa taking a sh*t?

Eddie yeah number 2 always can lead to confusion.

Once a boss from the UK came over to Madrid for a day, on business. We took a break and were walking through the streets and found this African chap selling dodgy DVDs.

My then boss says to me "Ask him if he has got some decent porn"... so I ask the guy that points to a few DVDs on the corner of the blanket covered with DVDs...

My then boss says to me "But they've got to be region 2"... so I went on to ask the African chapy in Spanish if the DVDs in question had "up the shi**er action".... my boss who understands the word "culo"... looked at me in total horror and disbelief.

True story... we still laugh about it now.

Hope this post hasn't offended anybody... just had to share while we were discussing numero dos.

Eddie yeah number 2 always can lead to confusion.

Once a boss from the UK came over to Madrid for a day, on business. We took a break and were walking through the streets and found this African chap selling dodgy DVDs.

My then boss says to me "Ask him if he has got some decent porn"... so I ask the guy that points to a few DVDs on the corner of the blanket covered with DVDs...

My then boss says to me "But they've got to be region 2"... so I went on to ask the African chapy in Spanish if the DVDs in question had "up the shi**er action".... my boss who understands the word "culo"... looked at me in total horror and disbelief.

True story... we still laugh about it now.

Hope this post hasn't offended anybody... just had to share while we were discussing numero dos.

Very amusing   

For any confused readers - "region 2" is actually a DVD format that changes in different geographies.

Is there a region 3 Don? What would you have requested from the salesperson? The mind boggles................. ...
 

Is there a region 3 Don? What would you have requested from the salesperson? The mind boggles................. ...
 

Don't go there...

Best left I think!! (And we're going to get spanked for going off topic - region 4 perhaps?)

 

Now now chaps this is getting very smutty 

Spanked 

Now now chaps this is getting very smutty 

Spanked 

Mas por favor...

On topic boys and girls... and all those in between (Richo).

Raffa is his own man and I think he's already spreading the work load and if he thinks he needs an assistant he will get one. I think this season has been a poor one by Raffa's standards and with a little extra quality added up front we won't be far off with or without an assistant. We also have some quality coming through our youth & reserves teams and with the addition of 7 players on the bench next season we should see more of the kids. If we can qualify for ECL with a game or two to spare I think we may see 1 or 2 of the kids before seasons end....

Raffa is his own man and I think he's already spreading the work load and if he thinks he needs an assistant he will get one. I think this season has been a poor one by Raffa's standards and with a little extra quality added up front we won't be far off with or without an assistant. We also have some quality coming through our youth & reserves teams and with the addition of 7 players on the bench next season we should see more of the kids. If we can qualify for ECL with a game or two to spare I think we may see 1 or 2 of the kids before seasons end....

Good point regarding the 7 players on the bench factor - which will work in our favour next season.

Some people arent meant to be first team managers. Sammy is part if a breed who cant make the transition from number 2 to 1. No matter how good their team is, if they cant do the job it will show.

Look at Stewart Houston - Assistant at Arsenal during the early 1990's. Went to QPR and got sacked that December in his first season.

Phil Neal - May I say more?

Chris Hutchings - Former Wigan boss, where is he now?

Stuart Gray - Former Southampton assistant, took over at the club and gone out the door soon after.

Les Reed - At Charlton, brief spell.

AND

Carlos Quieroz - Real Madrid didnt seem to succeed under him.

Just that transistion between 2 and 1 effects them. All in the head I think, some cant handle the extra work load or take on pressure. Hope it helps lilcisse.

Thanks for that don some good points in there

Thanks for that don some good points in there

Was crouchies post not mine... credit where credit is due... they are very valid points.

Still feel the club needs to find a space for the likes of a Sammy Lee.

Did you know that when Rafa joined he didn't actually want Sammy Lee to leave... but Sammy felt he had to.

Did you know that Sammy Lee actually helped Rafa's back room staff to settle at Mellwood by showing them all around before he left.

Did you know that Sammy quite explicitly and contradicting Souness on that Robinson documentary says he totally believes in Rafa's system and management style / tactics.

Sammy Lee all the way for me... but hey Pako and Rafa were a proven winning for years and years... life is too short to hold grudges forever.  They should BOTH forgive (but not forget).

O yeah didnt even look Cheers crouchi

O yeah didnt even look Cheers crouchi

Yeah you bloody well better appreciate it mate!

Yeah you bloody well better appreciate it mate!

haha

I've never seen so many fellow reds to be as fickle as much as I have recently re Rafa. He's done so much for us and I believe he will continue to improve on results. Funny since Inter game they've disappeared.

However can he continue to do things alone?
Pako's been seen around, is he back?
would you go for Sammy Lee?
Phil Thompson?
 Dream team King Kenny as his assistant - never happen I know