This also leads to another problem regarding possession. If a team such a Wolves presses high up the pitch and man marks outlets in midfield for the goalkeeper and the defenders to pass to, there is little choice but to hoof the ball down field. The many aimless balls by Pepe Reina against Wolves is testament not so much to a deliberate policy to go long but due to the lack of pressing and high line to get the ball moving forward. This problem was addressed in part with the introduction of Daniel Agger and Fabio Aurelio into the team against Bolton on Saturday.
Agger brings two essential elements to the Reds backline, extra mobility and the ability to pass the ball. Agger’s extra mobility helped the Reds keep a higher line against Bolton on Saturday while they were helped by the Trotters not pressing anywhere near as much as Wolves. On the ball, Agger, like Aurelio, passed short into space in midfield as well as making some trademark raids into the opposition half, something Soto and Skrtel are incapable of doing. On top of this, Agger is competent in the air as well as the best tackler out of the three available centre-backs. Although Kevin Davies scored from a set-piece, Agger had the forward’s number in open play for most of the afternoon. His mobility and anticipation made it difficult for Davies to just outmuscle him when the ball was in the air, and combined with his capabilities on the ball, Roy must see the great benefits the Dane brings to the team. The Reds boss did say after the match:
“He played well and I’m sure he’s more than satisfied with his own performance. It was a good day all round for him.”
Agger’s display will hopefully persuade the manager to continue with him as first choice for upcoming matches. He may return to Soto and Skrtel against Blackburn due to Rovers physical prowess but that would be a very unwise move in my opinion.
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When fit Dan Agger is by far the best center back at the club. The problem is maintaining his fitness.
He is wasted as a centreback, he should be in central midfield.
stupid ! just play him defensive midfield instead of Lucas and also G.Johnson right wing instead of Kuyt