It was yet another horrible defensive display for Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool against Crystal Palace. However, even though the back line allowed three goals, the team was unable to score more than one goal against one of the Premier Leagues worst defenses.
Given the struggles that the team has had in putting the ball in the back of the net, and the general ineffectiveness of the strikers, the question has to be asked; should Rodgers try playing Raheem Sterling at striker?
The England international came unto the scene last season as the third member of the fearsome attack that launched Liverpool to second place in the Premier League. This season, the other two members, Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, have not been there to support the team.
Suarez was sold to Liverpool after yet another biting incident during the World Cup, while Sturridge has been sidelined by multiple injuries. The players brought in to replace them, Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert and Fabio Borini have been unable to provide the necessary goals needed to keep the team competitive.
Sterling is one of the best young talents in the world, he is blessed with great speed which, when paired with his incredible dribbling skills, makes him a difficult cover for any defender. He also has the ability to score like the best strikers in the world. These qualities would make him a perfect choice to be the striker in a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1.
Putting him upfront will also allow Rodgers to play another creative mind such as Adam Lallana or Emre Can, in midfield along with the other more established players. Playing him at the top would allow the team to be more fluid, make passing quicker and hopefully get the players in position to score. This would also make the team faster and able to break on the counter more easily.
The team desperately needs a spark, nobody has been able to perform consistently and this has led to many disappointing games for the Reds. Rodgers has to try everything he can to get the squad back on track before a big game against Manchester United in a few weeks.
This weeks match against Ludogorets in the Champions League should be a good opportunity for Rodgers to try something different and allow Sterling to settle into the role.
