Anfield Index
·22 de janeiro de 2025
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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·22 de janeiro de 2025
In the latest episode of Ben Foster Meets on Prime Video Sports, Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler sits down with former goalkeeper Ben Foster for an engaging discussion covering a range of topics, from the current state of Liverpool FC to player contracts and the art of football. Filmed during a friendly game of golf, the conversation is rich with insights, nostalgia, and plenty of humour.
As Liverpool continue their stellar season, Fowler was candid in his assessment of the team under current manager Arne Slot. Reflecting on Slot’s methodical approach, he stated: “He’s playing his team with the players Klopp built, but you’ve got to give him credit for coaching his way into them. He’s improved players like Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk.” Fowler praised Slot’s system for bringing “more composure at the back” while maintaining Liverpool’s attacking prowess.
Photo: IMAGO
Ben Foster chimed in, noting, “With Klopp, it was heavy metal football; with Slot, there’s a more methodical structure.” Fowler agreed, adding that the club has a unified atmosphere that seems to be propelling its success: “The club seems more united. Maybe that’s because Klopp is gone, and they know they need to stick together.”
A key talking point was the ongoing contract negotiations for Liverpool’s “Big Three.” While Fowler refrained from naming names, he speculated that two of the players might already have signed, leaving the third in limbo. “The club can’t come out and say two have signed because it makes the other one look worse,” he explained.
Photo: IMAGO
The potential departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold was discussed at length. When Foster asked about the prospect of Trent leaving for Real Madrid, Fowler acknowledged the allure of the Spanish giants: “It’s Real Madrid. They’ve got an aura about them. I get why players are drawn to them.” However, he was quick to emphasise the backlash such a move could incite among Liverpool fans, especially for a local hero: “Liverpool fans expect their own to be like Jamie Carragher—born into the community and loyal for life.”
Another highlight of the podcast was Fowler’s glowing praise for Mo Salah. “For me, Salah’s the best in the world at what he does,” Fowler said, despite acknowledging the criticisms of Salah’s defensive work. “His numbers are unbelievable, and his strength and speed scare defenders. Sometimes I watch him and think, how does he do it?”
Photo: IMAGO
The conversation then shifted to the evolution of football tactics, where Fowler reminisced about the days of two-striker formations. “Good players can adapt anywhere,” he insisted. When Foster asked if he’d thrive in today’s game, Fowler confidently replied, “I’d be good now because clever players handle whatever’s in front of them.”
Fowler also opened up about his aspirations to return to football management. “My next port of call is to get back as a head coach,” he revealed. While he admitted that managing in the UK remains a dream, he expressed pride in his overseas stints: “I’ve done the hard yards. I’ve gone out of my comfort zone and shown I’m serious.”
Man management, according to Fowler, is a crucial skill for modern managers. “Players respond to a good man manager. Everyone’s different, and if you create a great environment, they’ll enjoy being part of what you’re building,” he explained, crediting Roy Evans as a prime example of this approach.
The episode wasn’t all serious football talk; Foster and Fowler’s camaraderie shone throughout. From playful banter on the golf course to nostalgic reflections on their careers, the dynamic made for an entertaining and insightful watch.
As the podcast concluded, Foster summed up the day aptly: “Do you know who the winner was today? Golf.” But for Liverpool fans, the real winner might be the fresh perspectives Fowler brought to the table about their beloved club.