A classy, strong but silky centre-half from Croatia, a lot has been made of Dejan Lovren’s recent move to Merseyside.
Whether it’s the hefty transfer fee affixed to the deal or the Croat’s favoured position on the left hand side of a centre back duo, it’s fair to say that that there has been plenty of fall out in the days since the club’s recent confirmation.
I’ve decided to focus my attentions not on the transfer fee but on the reasons the club decided to pursue the player and how he will fit in to Rodgers’ master plan.
First and foremost, Lovren played predominantly as an left-sided centre back (LCB) at Southampton, and before that the same at Lyon.
This begged the question to many Liverpool fans “Where will this leave Mamadou Sakho?” This is with good reason as LCB is also Sakho’s best position.
Many would also argue that following a settling in period here and good form for France at the World Cup, Sakho is now our best option at centre back.
I agree. I believe too, that this is the opinion of a certain Brendan Rodgers. So let’s consider that Brendan has brought in Lovren as a suitor for the RCB spot alongside Sakho having not been fully convinced by either Skrtel or Agger, here are my reasons for the great desire to get Dejan to Anfield.
1. French Speaking
Lovren spent 3 and a half years in France and this will prove important alongside Sakho and in front of Simon Mignolet.
2. Leadership
Rodgers has spoken in great detail about the need for leaders on the pitch. He also said “he’s a leader and he can play” when asked about Lovren recently.
3. Right-footed
The sticking point for many fans, Rodgers obviously believes that because Lovren is right footed, he can move across to RCB relatively easily.
4. Premier League Proven
Obviously a deliberate ploy by Rodgers and the transfer committee this season as they go for Premier League proven players. Also important to mention Lovren’s ability to operate in possession football team making him well suited to Liverpool’s style.
5. Stopper/ Sweeper Combo
Dejan’s style should complement that of Sakho’s nicely with the French man operating as a stopper, coming out of defence and attacking the ball whilst the new boy’s good reading of the game should allow him to mop up behind. Lovren should offer a calming effect on the backline, something last years team was in desperate need of.
6. Desire
Finally, the schoolboy-like excitement Lovren emanates about playing for LFC. This attitude and desire is clearly something Brendan looks for in a player and will ensure 110% effort on the pitch. Anyone in doubt, should have a look at his face as he signed his contract!
These six reasons clearly show why Rodgers has put his trust in the Croatian and we think he has all the makings to go and fulfil every penny of that £20million transfer fee, and will prove a shrewd piece of business for the club.
What do you make of the signing of Dejan Lovren? Will he prove a good piece of business? What do you consider our best centre back partnership to be? Let us know your thoughts below.
Dejan Lovren and Daniel Agger form better partner ship than Sakho and Lovren.Please make the change.
I see a back 3 as an option for Rodgers going forward
Lovren cant play rcb. Period.
Make lovren and sktel.
The two defenders starting will be the two defenders on form and training the hardest.