Left-back Jose Enrique has been speaking about Liverpool’s struggles this season, attempting to add some perspective to the current situation in the process.
With former players and mangers regularly adding their take on the ‘crisis’ which has enveloped Anfield of late, in addition to the usual outspoken media pundits, it is refreshing to hear from an existing player who is involved at the heart of the situation.
Despite cup success, Kenny Dalglish’s side have slumped down the table and currently lie in 8th position; a whopping 36 points behind leaders Manchester United. 2012 has proved a real struggle in the Barclays Premier League with only 2 wins recorded in the 13 games played since the turn of the year.
Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Aston Villa may have heralded an improved performance but some familiar issues resurfaced. Speaking to the Liverpool ECHO, Enrique explained: “Saturday was like so many games this season.
“We played some good football and it was disappointing to only get a point. We had some good chances to score but we missed them. We deserved to win.
“We have some amazing players up front but we haven’t had much luck in front of goal. We wanted to qualify for the Champions League. That’s the best place to be but it’s finished now. We have dropped too many points, especially at home.
“Teams have to have fear because they are playing Liverpool at Anfield but it hasn’t happened this season. Next season we can’t allow this to happen and we must be stronger at home.
“But the truth about this season is that we already have a cup in our pocket. And we are still playing for another one. No-one can say we haven’t won anything this season.
“I came here to win titles and play for good things. I’ve done that, I’ve already won one trophy.
“We will be playing in the Europa League next season and I’ve never played in that competition. That wasn’t our objective but that’s not that bad.
“At the moment this has been a great year for me and if we can take two titles in one season it will be amazing.”
Enrique, a £7m signing from Newcastle United in the summer, has arguably been Liverpool’s most consistent performer this season but with the league campaign proving a struggle the Spaniard concedes priorities have now changed.
“In the league we know we have to try to finish as high as possible but the truth is the league isn’t as important as the Cup now,” he added.
“In the league we aren’t playing for anything. The semi-final is very important. To play Everton in a derby at Wembley is one of the best games we can play and we will try to do well.
“It will be amazing – two teams playing at 200%. It will be a special game for everyone and we have to win.
“We have one game before then. We need to go to Blackburn and try to get a win for some confidence before the semi-final.
“We are motivated and we’re creating chances. The only problem is we aren’t scoring enough goals.”
Although most spectators will agree the majority of the clubs problems lie up front, the 26-year-old goes on to say that the whole team needs to improve and that he will not be taking his place for granted.
“When the team isn’t working we all have to improve,” Enrique said.
“I try to do my best but no-one is safe. Everyone has to improve and I have to improve a lot.
“I can only speak for myself but I want to play in every game and hopefully by playing against Blackburn I can get more confidence.
“It’s been difficult not just in the last few weeks but in the last few months.”
| Not a Vital Liverpool member? It’s a 100% free to join and get involved. Plus it only takes a few moments to sign up. Click here to become a member now! | ||