So how has the season gone in your eyes? Was it better or worse than you expected last August?
It's been a major disappointment especially considering the way 08/09 went. I expected Liverpool to compete deep into the Premier League season, Champions League and FA Cup but none of the three happened. The team fell short of my minimum annual requirements which is finish at least 4th and make a decent run in the Champions League or FA Cup. The ownership situation obviously has a lot to do with the shortcomings but really a lot players let the fans down.
Who has been your best player over the season? Who has improved the most during 2009/10?
Pepe Reina is the clear choice. I think we would have finished near mid-table if not for his heroics. Lucas was undoubtedly the most improved. He unlike most players stepped his game up this season. N'Gog was a pleasant surprise, chipping in a few goals here and there. Insua looked promising early but it became clear that he wasn't ready to take on such an important role.
What was the best moment of the season for your side?
I'd say the win at Anfield over Man United. It was really one of the last times I felt really confident in my club but it seemed that our season was already doomed after Sunderland. The Benfica second leg performance in the Europa League was also a bright spot.
What was the game of the season?
Chelsea away in October. After that loss I knew the chances of winning the Premier League was over. Anelka scored that goal and I thought no chance of catching these guys... they're a class apart.
If you were manager what would you be doing this summer?
It will be tough this summer as there is so much uncertainty going on with the ownership. Whether we have the money or not I'd like to see us get rid of the dead weight and bring in some players who have real desire. We need some players with better spirit as much as ones who are more talented. The shopping list is long but a left back, striker and a quality winger are musts. Were going to have to get very creative to figure out a way to patch all of our leaks in the squad.
Where do you see the club going from here?
It's hard to say. Forget about the mega-rich Chelsea and City, right now I'd say that even a club like Spurs is better equipped for the future than my Reds. Over the years they've spent a lot of money and they're looking like they'll be bringing in some more quality players this summer. Fergie looks ready to splash the cash after a disappointing year for Man United. Liverpool aren't on an equal playing field compared to any of these clubs.
Hicks & Gillett have ruined the club financially and I'm not sure I necessarily believe Purslow or Broughton when they say that they club will be sold in a matter of months. Our two owners are so greedy that given the choice they'll gladly handcuff the new manager this summer when it comes to spending if it means that they'll be able to have more time to search for an even richer prospective replacement owner and make an even greater return on their investment.
The other side of this is that someone will save us but even if a mega-rich owner comes in I can't see the new manager being given the appropriate amount of money to rebuild the squad. I'd be very happy if we can keep hold of our best players and make one decent signing that isn't on a free transfer