Javier Mascherano did not travel with the team to Turkey in Liverpool’s second leg fixture. He is evidently trying to sulk his way out to any club that will have him.
Leo Messi is the latest to advocate for a move to Barca. The Catalan club now face competition for Mascherano’s services from Inter which should drive up his price. Apparently Rafa has decided not to keep his promise which in the world of football is as commonplace as a Didier Drogba goal against Arsenal.
“Javier won’t play for the club again, I can assure you of that, and I think the Liverpool coach knows that now.
“Javier’s family are unhappy and the pressure of seeing that is making him depressed. Liverpool must act humanely and let him go.”
It’s not been a bright start to Liverpool’s season and with Masch absent from the midfield, the clean up duties were left to Steven Gerrard and Lucas who played out of position against Man City. There was a noticeable drop off in attacking intensity.
They were able to overcome Trabzonspor on a solitary David Ngog goal with the Turkish side looking threatening on numerous occasions. To top it all, Hodgson is without Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres – so this away game is going to be a real test.