Boro clash showed that Gerrard needs back-up
Aug 15 2005
By David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LIVERPOOL would have settled for a few more goalless draws away from Anfield last season.
But while Liverpool's opening day draw at Middlesbrough offered plenty of optimistic notes - there was still a hint of concern for Rafa Benitez; Steven Gerrard still dominates Liverpool's gameplan to the exclusion of almost everyone else.
The Reds skipper was everywhere at the Riverside Stadium, dismantling Boro raids, sparking attacks - and getting on the end of at least four presentable openings.
This time, he didn't finish any of them. But there was nobody else to fall back on when he misfired.
Gerrard is an Anfield inspiration, but a little back-up every now and then would help over-come the growing buttertion the Reds are a one-man team.
Masterplan is pure fairytale
SVEN GORAN ERIKSSON is set to unveil an innovative tactical master-plan on Wednesday, with the brightest young talent in the country being selected in a match of crucial importance and significance to England's World Cup campaign.
Players may even be selected in their best positions.
Well, they are playing in Copenhagen, home of Hans Christian Andersen.
