FROM the moment his appointment went from rumour to reality, maybe even before, opinions on whether Brendan Rodgers is up to the Anfield task have been mixed. To his credit though, Rodgers has shown no nerves and has thus far voiced his plans and views with the conviction of a man on a mission. This conviction however looks to be tested very early in the season with our first three home games coming against last season’s top three and this indisputably demands that Rodgers hits the ground running in his new position.
Not to overlook the significance of the first game of our campaign that sees us pitted against a West Bromwich side led by a man who should know our current team’s strengths and weaknesses and possibly driven by a hint of vengeance, but the importance of solid performances and accompanying results in these particular three games cannot be down-played for several reasons.
Our poor form at home was one of our major hindrances last season. Out of a possible 57 home points, we only managed to pick up 27 while winning just 6 games at the ground that had proved to be a fortress in seasons past. Rodgers will definitely know that good results from these three fixtures will be a boost to the team’s confidence and will definitely have a positive impact on both our home form and League campaign taking into account the magnitude of the games and their timing.
Aside from confidence in themselves, a good string of performances will also plant a seed of confidence in the manager’s ability and tactics. Tactical discipline on the field is always, in my opinion anyway, a reflection of the team’s belief in their manager’s ability. To ensure that the team play the way he wants them to, Rodgers must instil this belief quickly. There has been much talk of his brilliant inter-personal skills but I’m quite sure our new top man is reluctant to pass up the potential catalyst that is an early run of good form.
Then there’s us, the supporters; the making or undoing of every manager in the Kop’s long history. As I stated earlier, though we may be united in our support for Mr. Rodgers, our perceptions of him are still yet to be dispelled or confirmed- a task that lies with Mr. Rodgers himself. The team’s performance in these games should give early indications of the direction Rodgers is taking this great club. Even in the event of undesired results, a healthy amount of positives from these games will be imperative if Rodgers has any hope of winning over or at least retaining the trust of the Anfield faithful.
Brendan Rodgers most certainly has his work cut out for him in his first month of competitive action and must ensure that he employs the pre-season fixtures shrewdly if he wishes to have the best possible start to his Anfield career. Even though he has been assured all the time he needs to rebuild, impatience is rarely far away when bad results and football teams are involved but I think with proper use of the upcoming transfer window and co-operation from both players and the rest of the backroom staff, the stats will read in favour of Mr. Rodgers on the 23rd of September.
Follow me on twitter @salisadecade and let’s talk more about the greatest team in English football.
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