There is a conversation in the movie Annie Hall where Woody Allen jokes: This guy goes to a psychiatrist and says, “Doc, my brother's crazy, he thinks he's a chicken,” and the doctor says, “well why don't you turn him in?” And the guy says, “I would, but I need the eggs”.
I have watched many Liverpool games both this and last season and there is no doubt that Steven Gerrard has grown into a truly world class player. It is also true, though, that Gerrard greatly imbalances the Liverpool side. Moved this season onto the right flank due to the absence of a true right winger, Gerrard has played as best he can often making key contributions and gaining points single handedly. However, he often shows a lack of discipline in repeatedly drifting to the centre leaving gaping holes for the opposition to exploit. The midfield is, admittedly, where Gerrard plays best and where he can make the most of his abilities but he must recognise that by repeatedly doing this he not only neglects his duties he crowds out the other midfield maestro Xabi Alonso.
Rafael Benitez must of course have recognised this and the thought of reluctantly selling him to raise funds to improve the rest of the team has probably crossed his mind. However, there is currently little likelihood in Liverpool being able to perform consistently without Gerrard in their ranks. But Benitez is in the process of building a title contending team, which may eventually involve Gerrard playing a less significant role. In the meantime, though, Benitez’s hands are tied as he needs the eggs.
