Do we need a new captain?
Posted: Mon Mar 07, 2005 12:44 amIf Rafa were to consider changing the captaincy even if only on a temporary basis, I reckon it could only have a good effect on us.
This stage of the season is perhaps not the ideal time to make changes, but equally it is the time for strong leadership. Stevie was an exemplary Captain for us last season, but it's always easier to lead when things are going well. What's more important is how you can get the team going when things are going against you, and games are slipping away into draws and defeats.
Gerrard is an exceptional player, but I'm not convinced he is a natural leader. Last season he responded, this season he has appeared burdened, especially of late. Any negative talk about him is magnified because he is the one who has to lead the team. I reckon he'd feel less pressure to perform, and would receive more positivity from the fans and the players around him.
So, the candidates would be:
Carragher - not much to say here, he's a massive fan first and foremost, on and off the pitch. His statements to the press are a breath of fresh air, with optimism and fierce belief in the team and manager. Would only respond by raising his game. The obvious candidate.
Riise - energy in abundance, a powerful figure who would command respect. His dedication to the cause has never been in question, even in the last couple of seasons where he has not been as effective. Has ambitions to captain his national team and I don't see why he could not in time.
Baros - Great young talent who never stops trying. Usually ignores team mates in better positions - but why should the captain not lead by example? Er, loves Barcelona.
Ok, so realistically there are only 2 possible candidates. This is not some kind of attack on Gerrard, just a way I think would help him (and by association, the entire team) play better between now and the end of the season. Perhaps if he is still with us next season, with all the hype and speculation a thing of the past and a rejuvenated will to succeed for LFC, he could be reinstated. But having our leader on the pitch with so much negativity surrounding him benefits no-one.
This stage of the season is perhaps not the ideal time to make changes, but equally it is the time for strong leadership. Stevie was an exemplary Captain for us last season, but it's always easier to lead when things are going well. What's more important is how you can get the team going when things are going against you, and games are slipping away into draws and defeats.
Gerrard is an exceptional player, but I'm not convinced he is a natural leader. Last season he responded, this season he has appeared burdened, especially of late. Any negative talk about him is magnified because he is the one who has to lead the team. I reckon he'd feel less pressure to perform, and would receive more positivity from the fans and the players around him.
So, the candidates would be:
Carragher - not much to say here, he's a massive fan first and foremost, on and off the pitch. His statements to the press are a breath of fresh air, with optimism and fierce belief in the team and manager. Would only respond by raising his game. The obvious candidate.
Riise - energy in abundance, a powerful figure who would command respect. His dedication to the cause has never been in question, even in the last couple of seasons where he has not been as effective. Has ambitions to captain his national team and I don't see why he could not in time.
Baros - Great young talent who never stops trying. Usually ignores team mates in better positions - but why should the captain not lead by example? Er, loves Barcelona.
Ok, so realistically there are only 2 possible candidates. This is not some kind of attack on Gerrard, just a way I think would help him (and by association, the entire team) play better between now and the end of the season. Perhaps if he is still with us next season, with all the hype and speculation a thing of the past and a rejuvenated will to succeed for LFC, he could be reinstated. But having our leader on the pitch with so much negativity surrounding him benefits no-one.
