Re: Liverpool Thread
Would have preferred Downing myself, but Riera is a very good player. He's tall, strong, and very powerful. Isn't lightning quick, but he has got speed, and a few tricks up his sleeve. His shooting leaves a lot to be desired though. On his day, he's devastating. Absolutely destroyed Barcelona last season, and tore Ramos a new one against Real. Was a monster early on in the season for Espanyol.
I'd believe what Ballague says about the players. His transfer reports may not be accurate, but he's almost always spot on with players. He was spot on about both Nando's, and this is what he says of Riera (and he'd know him well, as he plays for his club, Espanyol).
"There have been many English observers who have questioned Riera's abilities following his previous stint in the Premiership at Manchester City. He was not given the opportunity to play in his natural, attacking, position at City, however, and spent his time there being used as a wing back: his natural position is a winger in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
If he does end up playing in a 4-4-2, as he could at Everton, then his coach will need to be constantly on top of him to remind him of his defensive responsibilities and that he will need to track back.
Albert Riera is a quality player but, as someone who can struggle with consistency, he will constantly need an arm around his shoulders and be made to feel important if any manager wants to get the best out of him. He started last term in fabulous form, but without receiving that kind of attention, his form can dip dramatically, as it did over the second half of the season.
Nevertheless, when he is on form, Albert Riera can be one of the best left wingers in Europe. He has a powerful shot, is a strong header of the ball and he is capable of taking on and beating defenders: in spite of not being the quickest around.
In my opinion, he'll make a good signing for either Liverpool or Everton."
We got him really cheap. I bet if we had more money, we'd have gone for Downing.