The Gerrard role becoming restricted in the big games

Last season saw Steven Gerrard being used in a different role by Rafa Benitez. The attacking midfielder was pushed further up the pitch than ever before and began to form a lethal partnership with Fernando Torres. Whether this change occurred via a stroke of tactical genius or just a stroke of luck is unclear. What matters is; it worked; Liverpool ended the season in sensational form as they embraced a more attacking philosophy, demolishing the likes of Manchester United and Real Madrid. This season however, the tactic has not been as successful against the top teams as it was last season. In games against Fiorentina, Chelsea and Lyon, Gerrard has failed to make an impact in the way that he did last season.

Gerrard made his name as a central midfielder; in this position he can dominate games with his power and energy. Playing further forward, it is more difficult to receive possession of the ball and have the same impact. Last season, the change in position worked effectively because Liverpool had Xabi Alonso playing at the top of his game. Alonso could pick the ball up in deep positions and play it forward quickly and accurately to either Gerrard or Torres; he played a vital role in the building of attacks. With Alonso in the side, Liverpool dominated possession and so it was far easier to get Gerrard involved in the game. This season, without Alonso in the side, Lucas and Mascherano have not been able to fulfil the same role as the Spaniard. They are not as good at moving the ball quickly and Liverpool’s attacks are built more slowly. This laboured approach play allows Gerrard to be picked up more easily by opposition defenders and his threat can be nullified.

Against the weaker teams, Liverpool continue to dominate possession at Anfield and Gerrard has found success in the big wins against Hull and Stoke. These teams lack the quality to keep possession against Liverpool, but against the better teams when possession is shared more evenly, Gerrard has struggled in his new role. The game at Stamford Bridge was a perfect example of this as Gerrard was completely anonymous; he also found it difficult to make an impact in the losses against Lyon and Fiorentina as well. Interestingly, Liverpool’s most impressive victory this came against Manchester United in a game that Gerrard was not involved in and Benitez had to change his strategy.

The introduction of Aquilani may be the catalyst for a return to the style of play Liverpool employed last season; but until then, Gerrard’s role in the games against high quality opponents is something that Benitez may have to examine. He may be better off playing a more recognised front man in the form of Kuyt or Babel and moving Gerrard back into central midfield or onto the wings where he can receive possession more often and cause more damage.

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