Liverpool has recently secured the transfer of Adam Lallana from Southampton, making him the 3rd signing of the summer, next to Rickie Lambert and Emre Can. Lallana had a stellar season in the 13/14 campaign, scoring 9 goals and 8 assists, impressing everyone as to the level he’s capable of. This obviously attracted the interest of Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, so much so that he was willing to pay the £25,000,000 asking price. Let’s take a look at what Lallana can offer Liverpool in this upcoming season.
Depth
If Liverpool had any weaknesses last season, it was their defensive capabilities and depth, so I’m glad they are beginning to address one of them. Throughout last season it was difficult to imagine what options Liverpool had if their starting players were to get injured. Rodgers seemed to have a starting XI that he did not tend to deviate from, with only 2-3 players rotating for long periods of time.
His lack of options off the bench was worrisome, as Liverpool lacked game changers that they could bring off the bench and make an impact when things were going stale.This is not to say that Lallana is going to be a bench player by any means, but rather that his inclusion provides competition and opportunities for players to rest and make an impact off the bench. It would be safe to label Lallana as a fierce competitor for Coutinho’s spot, and Rodgers will make sure that each player is giving a 110% every practice.
Flair and Versatility
Over the years Lallana has changed the way he plays the game, converting from an out and out winger to one of the most efficient number 10’s in league. A lot of people don’t realize that Lallana is not a young player anymore; he’s 26 years of age and has experience playing in the Championship, Premier League, and serving as captain to his beloved Southampton. His style of play has developed dramatically ever since his exposure to the Premier League and he has benefited from that greatly. Lallana’s versatility is something Rodgers will appreciate as he loves interchanging his attacking players across the front line, giving his team more options and tactical avenues.
Lallana brings pace, flair, and vision to the team he plays for, which is exactly what Liverpool could have more of in the final third of the pitch. His touch and quick acceleration could help Liverpool get out of situations where the game slows down and benefits the defending team. Another interesting note is that Lallana is the most fouled player in the EPL, with 76 fouls on him, just a head of Luis Suarez who had 67. This just goes to show how quick and agile his footwork is and his ability to break free from defenders.
In addition to Lallana, Rodgers is also considering the highly rated Lazar Markovic from Benfica and the young Belgium international striker Divock Origi. This is all in an effort to increase the firing power of the Liverpool squad and in preparation for the return of Champions League football at Anfield next season
Video- Lallana Poses with Liverpool Shirt
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