Liverpool FC: It's all a part of the dance

It’s all a part of the dance.

Back in June 2012, when a young northern Irishman became the manager of Liverpool FC, there were a few eyebrows raised. After the Hodgson fiasco, and Kenny’s collapse, one could feel the abominable lull around Anfield. Liverpool had already changed three managers in less than 5 years. To assuage the instability, FSG turned to a certain Roberto Martinez after the Spaniard impressed during his tenure with Swansea and winning the Fa Cup against all odds with Wigan Athletic. However, the deal foundered due to “philosophical differences” and issues of “manager’s autonomy”. Henry and Co turned over to their second choice, and Brendan Rodgers welcomed the move with open arms.

One only needs to have a glance at the league table to see how far Liverpool FC has come under Rodgers. I still remember himsaying in the first episode of ‘Being Liverpool ” that “Liverpool is not a football club, it’s a way of Life”. Rodgers has brought with himself a philosophy that has taken over all the doubters, including me. When Rodgers signed, the best I was expecting was a Europa League place because seldom so called “small team managers” make it at the big stage.

Rodgers has not only proved that he can manage a big club but also handle both the star players and fringe players. In my opinion, re-establishing Gerrard in the DM role was a master stroke. Gerrard’s vision and precise ball distribution has been world class to say the least this season. It is probably one of the reasons for Daniel Sturridge‘s amazing goal scoring rate. In the summer of 2013, it was almost certain that Suarez would leave, seeking greener pastures. It’s hard to blame him, for the Uruguayan deserves all that and more. But the way Brendan and FSG handled the whole saga has proved idyllic for both Liverpool and Suarez.

Currently, the top scorer with 23 goals, Suarez’s form this season has been out of this world. Daniel Agger, for all his injury problems has remained loyal to Liverpool, and few would argue that Rodgers didn’t play any part in it. Under Rodgers, we are seeing a Jordan Henderson who is actually worth 20 million, probably more. I wonder if Ferguson’s infamous comment on Henderson’s gait galvanized the lad, but certainly Rodgers has showed faith in him. The former Sunderland player has been consistent this season with his perpetual running and tactical ability, which has improved thousandfold. After seeing the likes of Downing, Maxi, Jovanovic and Joe Cole, it’s an absolute delight watching wee Sterling, only 19, growing with every performance.

With 11 games to go and Liverpool only 4 points off the top, Liverpool is “Making us Dream”. And I think we have every right to. Nonetheless, Chelsea and Man City remain favorites. It’s hard to say what Liverpool can achieve this season. A Champions League berth is Liverpool’s to lose unless Manchester United actually win the Big Ears. We don’t know where Liverpool’s destiny will take the club.

As a fan, I want Liverpool players to just celebrate in the last 11 games, how far they have come and what they have learned. And who knows what we might achieve. Remember Istanbul? It’s all a part of the dance after all.