Liverpool have been in great form in the calendar year 2013, and have impressed fans and neutrals alike with their playing style. They have routinely dispatched teams at home, and Anfield is once again becoming a fortress. Here’s a look at the best eleven players that have played for the Reds in 2013.
Goalkeeper: Simon Mignolet
Mignolet arrived in the summer with high expectations, and immediately pushed out fan-favorite Pepe Reina to Napoli in a loan move. He instantly endeared himself with the fans by saving a penalty on his debut. Although he recently made a couple of high profile errors at Manchester City and Chelsea, he has vowed to give his best, and he put in a good display against Hull to keep a clean sheet.
Right Back: Glenn Johnson
Johnson has had an injury plagued start to this season, but has since then been a constant on the right side of defense, apart from the occasional outing on the left. He has done well going forward, and has created chances for the team. Although Andre Wisdom has done well as a right back in 2013, Johnson’s experience and offensive qualities see him take the slot. He is currently nursing an ankle injury but he’ll undoubtedly be crucial in the run-in to this season.
Centre Back: Daniel Agger
Daniel Agger may have lost out on a regular starting place this season, but he had a great second half of the season and has been good when he has played. His ability to move forward with the ball is an asset considering the way Liverpool play, and he has looked dangerous from set plays this season scoring one and assisting another. Defensively however, he has looked vulnerable from corners and has on a couple of occasions been responsible for losing his man. His comfort on the ball and suitability to Liverpool’s style means that he get the nod ahead of Martin Skrtel. Agger left the field against Oldham with a calf injury and could face a spell on the sidelines.
Centre Back: Mamadou Sakho
The Frenchman arrived from PSG this summer as Liverpool’s marquee signing and he immediately slotted into the Reds defense. He is strong in the tackle and has great physical presence in the box, and while he may look ungainly with the ball at his feet at times, he is able to pick out a pass. A couple of poor second half showings should not mar what has been an excellent debut season for the 23-year old.
Left Back: Jose Enrique
Enrique is more of an automatic choice in this role, despite spending a significant amount of time in the infirmary of late. Summer arrival Aly Cissokho has been disappointing, prompting the need for manager Brendan Rodger to play youngster Jon Flanagan out of position at left back. With Enrique’s imminent return in a couple of weeks, fans will definitely be relieved considering some of the excellent movement and delivery the Spaniard provides from the left.