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RedReason,

Then how does RvP's arrival have any baring on Valencia's inability to beat a fullback (or at least try), his inability to offer a goal threat whatsoever and to put decent crosses into dangerous areas so that, at least by pure chance, something comes of one?

I said some time ago - long before this 'dip' in from, that i prefer his at right back. For me - at least in this sort of form - that's the only place he should be playing (as cover for Rafa, of course).

Nuri Sahin scored two goals today.

A sign that the Bundesliga is of a lower standard than the PL or that he just suits Dortmund?

A sign that the Bundesliga is of a lower standard than the PL or that he just suits Dortmund?
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The latter.

The PL is of a higher standard than the Bundesliga, though. So in a way, you're correct on both counts, although not necessarily related to Sahin in regards to the former.

berbaking

mate its how we set up at the moment. RVP is mainly always up front and hence has people around him.

Prior to RVP we had 11 men in our half and the opposition fullbacks would venture into our half too, Valencia basically kicked and rushed with rooney busting a gut to get in the middle

bundesliga is a higher standard than the prem

I actually felt sorry for sahin. His purpose of coming to LFC was to get fit and get going with his career. Just the wrong time imo

I think given games and time he will be a force again

I don't buy that for a second. It doesn't excuse his inability to take a man on or put a decent cross into a good area. And AV has never been much of a goal threat.

To be honest, i've never rated the guy all that highly anyway so im not overly surprised by this 'dip' in form. But you'd at least expect, even if by the law of averages, a goal or a few dangerous deliveries per game...

Valencia has lost pace, this is the main problem. His whole game is based on physical ability, rather than technical ability. His crossing has never been that good. He has always lacked variety in his crossing is more hit and hope, rather than pick someone out. Nani has always been the far more accomplished crosser. He can cross with both his feet and has more variety, hence the better assist count. Valencia is only going to get worse. we should sell him and buy a new winger. he is 28 soon and certainly does not deserve a new contract.

berba - like you I always said he was limited. However he suited the system and it worked.

I don't think he could 'beat' a man in the way that nani or even youing beat a man. Valencia basically blazed them for pace. Pace which he still has

As for crossing, LOL, that's what he still does to a degree. head down and boom. whether anyone is there or not.

Also look at RVPs movement, everyone bar Valencia picks it. Basically he moves to the front post and watches the ball sail over his head to no one in particular

Valencia is a cart horse.

He's been average ever since he signed because he is an average one dimensional player.

He won poty last year because mod sympathy after his injury and as confidence booster. In no way did he deserve it.