Ronny Goodlass talks tactics: Liverpool v Newcastle

Mar 8 2008

WILL Newcastle adopt a cautious approach at Anfield, or will manager Kevin Keegan decide they have nothing to lose and go for goals?

First, though, they will have to find a way to keep the shackles on Fernando Torres.

Defence

Communication will be the key among the Newcastle defenders.

Torres has the kind of movement and pace to trouble any defence, and if the Spaniard moves the opposition backline around, it opens up spaces for players Steven Gerrard to race into.

Given the variety in attack Liverpool possess goalkeeper Steve Harper is likely to be in for a busy afternoon. He has found himself playing second string to Shay Given for much of his time at Newcastle, but is competent keeper in his own right. He is calm and doesn’t get ruffled, qualities he will need at Anfield, as well as being agile and a good shot stopper.

Habib Beye adds the experience of a World Cup quarter-final appearance, UEFA Cup final place and a French Cup win with Strasbourg to the defence. However he has struggled to adapt to the pace of the Premier League, Ryan Babel take note!

Steven Taylor, a former Academy player, is the pick of the visitors’ defence and has a first class attitude to his job. The sort of player to throw in last-ditch blocks and tackles to help his team. Abdoulaye Faye was signed initially by Sam Allardyce as a midfielder at Bolton, but since coming to Newcastle has been used in the centre of defence. Strong in the tackle and good in the air.

Sanchez Jose Enrique is a useful tackler, but also likes to push forward down the line.

Midfield

Nicky Butt could have a pivotal role to play.

There is not enough space to list his honours during his time at Manchester United and he remains an industrious, skilful, ball-winning midfielder. His distribution is good and his experience will be important in helping the younger players through the game. Likely to be asked to sit in front of the back four, how he fares in combating the breaks from midfield of players like Gerrard will be important to the outcome.

Alan Smith may be asked to continue in a midfield role, especially in the absence of Joey Barton due to the conditions of his bail.

Smith may have to link midfield and attack if Keegan opts for a lone striker. Midfield duties mean the goals have dried up for Smith, who scored with his first touch on his debut for Leeds in 1998.

Always aggressive wherever he plays, he will give 100 per cent for the team.

Damien Duff will provide a threat from the flanks, as he can switch between either.

Attack

Michael Owen has a proven record as a goalscorer with 157 during his time at Liverpool.

He does not possess the electric pace of earlier in his career, but is quick enough. Allied to his know-how, it means he gets into all the right kind of positions and cannot be ignored.

Obafemi Martins will add strength and speed up front and his 28 goals in 88 Serie A games with Inter Milan make him one to watch.

Dangerman

JAMES MILNER – a tricky customer who can deliver good crosses but will also take a more direct route on occasions and look to get a strong shot away.

Overall verdict

The Keegan factor has not worked and Newcastle are low in confidence after a run of seven games without a win.

Liverpool, in contrast, are putting together another unbeaten run and are scoring plenty of goals. I can’t see Newcastle halting them today.

Ronny Goodlass was talking to RICHARD WILLIAMSON