Liverpool FC: The Pain Killer For Dalglish's Selection Migrain
If there is one thing to celebrate about Liverpool's season thus far, it has been the new additions to their once tender squad.
Such has been the impact of the signings like Suarez, Carroll and Meleires, as well as the return to form of Maxi Rodriguez, Lucas and Dirk Kuyt that we no longer have to consider playing the likes of Ngog or Babel.
Now if Kenny Dalglish could just figure out the starting lineup.
Who should start for the Reds when Carroll returns to peak fitness? Should it be Skrtel, Agger or Kyrgiakos in the centre of defence? Who should partner Steven Gerrard and Raul Meireles in midfield?
Let's consider his options.
1) GK: Pepe Reina
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If there's an obvious choice to make in this lineup, it would most certainly be picking Pepe Reina as the goalkeeper.
Reina has been a shining light in every campaign during his career on the Mersyside and is rightly considered as one of the favorites to succeed Steven Gerrard as captain of the Reds once the Englishman retires.
But whether Reina stays at Anfield remains to be seen.
2) RWB: Glen Johnson
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Glen Johnson has been quite a revelation under Dalglish.
He has impressed at left-back and in the midfield against Stoke City most recently.
A move for Johnson to Right Wing Back will give the Englishman more freedom to roam forward, as well as limiting his defensive responsibilities. The position also allows for Johnson to occasionally track back and help his fellow defenders in tricky situations.
3) RCB: Martin Kelly
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Perhaps the most exciting young Liverpool prospect is in fact defender, Martin Kelly.
Kelly has impressed on all fronts this season, particularly against Chelsea earlier in the campaign - where he was called up at short notice due to an injury to Glen Johnson and was most probably the man of the match behind Fernando Torres.
Kelly has managed to cement a place in the Liverpool Starting XI under Dalglish and has shown he is both powerful at the back and a real attacking threat.
But is he better than Skrtel?
Of course. There's no disputing that.
4) CB: Jamie Carragher
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The ultimate one-club player with one of the biggest hearts in football, Jamie Carragher is Mr. Liverpool. He has made over 500 appearances for the Reds in a decade - defending with passion, pride and commitment.
Whatever way you see it, there is no way you can dispute his place in the Starting XI when he recovers from his long-term injury.
5) LCB: Daniel Agger
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Daniel Agger takes the last place in the back three, partnering with Jamie Carragher and Martin Kelly.
The Denmark international is an integral part of the first team, with his ability on the ball allowing Liverpool to build from the back. Once again, his passion, pride and commitment is second to none and there is no doubting that Agger deserves to be a huge part of Dalglish's plans.
6) LWB: Fabio Aurelio
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If you were to write up a list of the most injury-prone players at Liverpool, Fabio Aurelio would have to be close to the summit.
Aurelio has struggled to maintain his fitness, having fallen victim to a number of injuries in the past two years. The Brazilian was released in the summer, but was immediately resigned by Roy Hodgson when he took over the reigns from Rafael Benitez.
Aurelio has shown that he has the flair to tear apart defenses with his bursting runs from the back and sensational free kicks. Now is the time for him to shine and show his true quality, which inspired the Reds to sign him.
7) RCM: Raul Meireles
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Raul Meireles has been another revelation under Dalglish - having found the quality and touch that brought him to Anfield.
The Portuguese international added to his fluctuating goal tally against Stoke after another bright performance.
Perhaps its time to start labelling him as the next Xabi Alonso.
8) CM: Steven Gerrard
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Once in a generation a player comes along to whom nothing seems impossible.
Luckily, that man wears the No.8 shirt at Anfield.
The inspirational captain is arguably the most complete footballer in the world. With power, pace, touch and a never-say-die attitude, Stevie G has it all and has undoubtedly earned his place in Dalglish's starting XI.
9) LCM: Lucas
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Lucas' recent return to favor with Liverpool fans has been a turning point in the Brazilian's career, and he deservingly earns a spot in my ideal starting XI.
His neat touch and short, tidy passing in recent games is a great testament to Dalglish and his coaching staff who have put a smile on everyone's faces.
10) RF: Luis Suarez
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What a start!
Luis Suarez has joined the exclusive group of Liverpool players who have scored on their debut, with a superb second-half showing against Stoke a few days ago.
The Uruguayan is looking to kick-start his career at Anfield and a partnership with Andy Carroll may just be what he needs to become a Liverpool legend.
11) LF: Andy Carroll
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Liverpool have bought a world-class striker with passion, commitment and drive in Andy Carroll - a rarity and a prized possession in modern football. His potential striking partnership with Luis Suarez has fans licking their lips in anticipation of a goal feast.
However, Carroll is an injury concern for Daglish and may be out for up to a month or two. But until then, Daglish will be content with an in-form Dirk Kuyt partnering Suarez in attack.
