Liverpool FC: 4 Players Who Should See Increased Playing Time

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Liverpool's league campaign is pretty much over. The loss at the weekend took their recent run of form to a dismal five losses out of six games.

With the Reds facing an 11-point gap between themselves and sixth-placed Newcastle, it's clear to see there won't be any UEFA Champions League football at Anfield next season.

With that said, there's almost nothing to play for in the league. Why not try something different?

Kenny Dalglish should look to use a few more players in regular roles. Here are four players who could use some increased playing time.

Enjoy the slideshow!

Andy Carroll

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It's got to the point where £35-million man Andy Carroll just needs to play games. Lots and lots of games.

It seems like it's probably only a matter of time before he finds his scoring touch, but Liverpool fans are divided on whether to keep the faith or cut the losses.

We all want him to succeed because it's getting embarrassing. This article shows you just how statistically embarrassing it's gotten this season.

This weekend's game against Newcastle epitomised what Andy Carroll has shown all season—a lack of form and a complete lack of confidence.

He's been in and out of the team all season and I believe that, should he be fit enough, he should start all of the remaining Premier League games.

If he finds his touch, he'll be set to go for next season. If he doesn't, Kenny Dalglish might have a difficult decision to make over the course of the summer.

Jonjo Shelvey

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Jonjo Shelvey was given a chance against Newcastle but didn't quite shine as I'd hoped he would.

However, with just two Premier League starts to his name, it's not surprising he wasn't able to take the game by the scruff of the neck.

Shelvey was brought to the club from Charlton Athletic with some considerable promise but it's got to the point where you either use it or lose it.

Jonjo Shelvey needs games. Whether that's at Liverpool or on loan at a Premier League club next season is up to the manager, but Shelvey's potential is on the verge of disappearing.

We don't want another Stephen Ireland or Michael Johnson.

Raheem Sterling

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Not only are the Liverpool fans crying out for Raheem Sterling to be given a run of games, so is his mother.

Sterling is undoubtedly one of the most talented young midfielders in England and his performances in the FA Youth Cup, NextGen and U-19 FIFA World Cup have been fantastic.

Even in his cameo against Wigan he looked tricky, full of ideas and, most importantly, positive in his play.

With Stewart Downing still without a Premier League assist, there's a case to be made for him sticking out the rest of the season to try and recapture his form, but I'd opt to replace him with Sterling.

Suso

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Suso needs no introduction to Liverpool fans and his qualities are quite apparent.

In the day and age where we rave about the Barcelona-esque playing style clubs have been adopting, Suso would help transform Liverpool's game in the middle of the park.

He's tidy, quick and gifted with the ball at his feet. His natural position is behind the striker but he's been utilising a right-sided role for Liverpool's reserves this season.

Kenny Dalglish has failed to find consistency on the right-wing this season and has used Dirk Kuyt, Maxi Rodriguez and Jordan Henderson in an effort to find the best fit.

Could Suso in fact be the best fit?

Conclusions

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Liverpool would have nothing to lose by thrusting these players into the limelight and giving them the opportunity to realise their potential.

In Andy Carroll's case, it's rekindling a flame. With Jonjo Shelvey, Raheem Sterling and Suso, it's more about launching their careers before it's too late.

There are others, too, that could use first-team football and probably improve the current playing standards. Conor Coady is another name that springs to mind whilst Sebastien Coates hasn't fully adapted to English football yet.

 

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