Liverpool fans are hoping for the arrival of a former player on Andoni Iraola’s backroom team next season, with Thiago Alcantara and James Milner the standout candidates.
There have been some rumblings that the Reds could appoint a recently active player to provide Iraola with someone who already knows and understands the culture of the club.
Having left his role as an assistant coach at Barcelona in May, Thiago has more experience, but Milner, newly retired from a brilliant playing career, could be the character needed to bring back some professionalism to the dressing room following the exits of Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
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There may be other candidates for Liverpool as well, but Rousing The Kop asked supporters on TalkingPoints and on social media to pick between these two trophy-winning former Reds, with Milner coming out as the clear winner.
Liverpool fans want Milner on Iraola’s coaching staff
On Saturday, it was confirmed that Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper will join Liverpool, following Iraola from Bournemouth, meaning two key roles in the Basque’s backroom team are now filled.
Nevertheless, there is still room for more to come, and when given a choice between Thiago or Milner, 60% of RTK readers voted for the former vice-captain on TalkingPoints.
“Got to be Milner, get that fitness up asap,” said one fan. “Milner is the ultimate pro and an incredible example for any young player!” added another.
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Meanwhile, supporters on RTK‘s Facebook page were equally enthusiastic for the Premier League’s record appearance holder to return.
“Milner is more important from a succession point of view, he brings & drives the hunger, effort, energy, professional high standard winning culture,” said one fan. “Milner qualities with high IQ are very very rare.”
“James Milner will show everyone how to be professional at all times,” another agreed. “Especially good for younger players so they don’t go and do something daft.”
Many fans want both players to return
While Milner edged it on the TalkingPoints votes, and largely in the comments, there was plenty of support for Thiago as well.
“Thiago will be a special coach in the future. Saw him in a RedBull video recently on YouTube and his style of communication is TOP That goes with his tactical understanding as well,” one fan commented. “He’s destined for big things in management.”
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But while there were some who opted for the Spaniard over Milner, plenty actually thought it would be ideal to see both former players come back and help Iraola in different ways.
“Both… One for physical training and endurance, and the other one for technical and skill sets,” one supporter commented.
“Both, let Milner train the young players, while Thiago assist Iraola with technical skills sharpening the big boys,” another shared.
“Millie for fitness training and Thiago for all round skills and finishing. Both for their mindset,” someone else added.
It remains to be seen whether Iraola agrees with supporters that either Thiago or Milner would be
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