Joe Gomez – Javier Manquillo
Manquillo, like Gomez, was a talented young player with bags of potential. However, he was simply overwhelmed by the whole situation – adapting to a new country, a new environment and a new way of life – problems that Gomez won’t have to deal with. The Spaniard barely featured after Christmas of last year and it’s ultimately not a surprise that we chose to end his loan deal early. He particularly struggled going forward and supporting attacks, so his lack of threat is arguably what cost him.
Gomez looks an absolute bargain. His ability to play anywhere across the defensive line could make him a highly valuable squad player this season, while the ability he’s shown in our pre-season matches suggest he could even rival Alberto Moreno for the left-back spot. He’s shown a level of concentration that has to be admired in someone so young – he stays on his feet, rather than diving into tackles, and he is calm and collected in possession.
Manquillo seemed like a strange signing last summer. Gomez, three years his junior, can really be considered one for the future. Unlikely Manquillo, he has plenty to offer straight away as well. Excellent deal all round.
Transfer Approval Rating – 8/10
James Milner – Steven Gerrard
How can you replace Steven Gerrard? The honest answer is… you can’t. Milner really is trying to do the impossible this season, by taking over the spot in our midfield that has for so long been reserved for our greatest ever player. There are differences in their games, of course, but the fact that we chose to sign Milner in the same summer that our iconic No. 8 moved on proves that he’s the man designated with the task of leading us into the new era.
The 29-year-old is, in many ways, a very underrated footballer. We never truly saw the best of him at Manchester City, where he was something of a utility man, and one hopes that he’ll benefit from featuring more regularly in his favoured position. His passing and ball retention is excellent, qualities which are vitally important for any Brendan Rodgers player – but particularly a central midfielder. He and Henderson must keep us ticking over throughout.
Bringing in Milner felt like the safest option – we know exactly what we’re going to get from him and he’s thoroughly proven at this level. To get him on a free transfer as well was a huge bonus. He’s not Gerrard, but he could be just what we need right now.
Transfer Approval Rating – 7/10
