Liverpool have had another turbulent season this time around. There was a change of manager mid-season as Brendan Rodgers was replaced by Jurgen Klopp. They finished in a lowly 8th position on the Premier League table, lost two heartbreaking cup finals, yet there were some bright spots which gave Liverpool fans hope for a bright future ahead.With Jurgen Klopp set to have his first full season in charge of the Reds, the upcoming season promises to be a good one for all the Reds fans.
We take a look at the top 5 players from Liverpool's 2015/16 Premier League season:
#5 James Milner
Although James Milner did not start too brightly, he recovered very well to end the season as one of Liverpool’s best players. Milner is a complete professional and has always been one of the go-to players for all the managers in the various teams he has played for. Currently the vice-captain of Liverpool, James Milner has been turning in some crucial performances for his team.
Jurgen Klopp revealed his admiration for Milner when he said:
“Milner? The complete football player, the perfect professional.”
Although he missed a few games due to injury, 5 goals and 11 assists in 28 Premier League games is not at all a bad return. A player who always gives his 100% no matter what the situation, Klopp will be looking for other players in the Liverpool squad to follow Milner’s example.
#4 Emre Can
Emre Can has become a regular in the Liverpool first team this season. Considered to be one of the most promising youngsters in Germany, Can has played a variety of positions in his short career.
Mainly a central midfielder, Emre Can has played as a defensive midfielder, centre back and right back for his club.
Can's ability to attack and defend from midfield has seen him compared to fellow German midfielders Michael Ballack and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Germany national coach Joachim Low also reserved praise for the Liverpool youngster.
“Can has a good all-round game and is a complete player. The fact that he can play many different positions make him an important player for Germany.” One of the players who always seems to perform on the big stage, Can is definitely a player who can grow to become
#3 Roberto Firmino
One of the few successful signings under Brendan Rodgers, Roberto Firmino has shown glimpses of his amazing quality this season. He struggled to get into the starting 11 under Rodgers, but he was one of the first names on the teamsheet under Jurgen Klopp.
Firmino played a major role in the landmark victories over Chelsea and Manchester City. A player capable of scoring and creating, A player capable of playing as a false 9 or as a central attacking midfielder, Roberto Firmino provides any manager plenty of attacking options. 10 goals and 7 assists in 31 Premier League appearances make him one of the leading attacking outlets of this Liverpool side.
Full of running, industry and capable of producing brilliant moments regularly, Firmino has been one of the few bright sparks in Liverpool’s dreary season.
#2 Dejan Lovren
One of the most improved players for Liverpool this season, Dejan Lovren has been a rock at the heart of the defence. The much-maligned centre-back has answered his critics in style putting in solid performances and bailing out his team on plenty of crucial occasions.
Probably Lovren’s most important moment of the season was when he scored the sensational and emotional last minute winner against Borussia Dortmund which gave Liverpool fans their favourite moment of the season. The Croatian has shown his importance to the Liverpool squad this season, and he has become an indispensable part of this Liverpool side.
Under Jurgen Klopp the Croatian’s numbers have been absolutely astonishing. In 29 starts under Jurgen Klopp, the Croatian has managed to keep 14 clean sheets. He was also one of the key contributors to Liverpool's run to the Europa League final.
With Martin Skrtel set to leave and the future of Kolo Toure uncertain, Dejan Lovren will be expected to lead the Liverpool backline next season.
#1 Philippe Coutinho
The little Brazilian has been absolutely brilliant for Liverpool this season and he has set up many goals and scored some stunning long-range efforts. The magician as he is fondly called by Liverpool fans has created plenty of magic already and is one of the few truly world class superstars plying his trade at Anfield.
Already voted as Liverpool player of the season, Coutinho will be hoping to make a huge impact next season as well under Jurgen Klopp. Probably Coutinho’s best moment of the season came in the Europa League second leg against Manchester United where he scored a brilliant solo effort.
Liverpool will have a tough task on their hands to keep Coutinho on their books as both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are reported to be interested in the Brazilian playmaker. Phillipe Coutinho has undoubtedly been Liverpool’s best player this season.
