Liverpool have been linked with a move for Clint Dempsey, but critics have suggested the move is being pushed because of the club’s American owners.
Liverpool have already wrapped up the signing of Italian striker Fabio Borini, but with Andy Carroll seemingly on his way out, he is unlikely to be the only addition to Liverpool’s attack.
A player strongly linked with a move to Anfield is Fulham’s Clint Dempsey. He has just one year left on his contract and is keen on a move to a ‘big club’.
But the naysayers have questioned Liverpool targeting the player, suggesting it it purely because of his American nationality.
Liverpool have American owners, and are making a big push in the States, with a documentary being filmed by Fox Sports on the club, in addition to their forthcoming pre-season tour of America.
But we would say this, So what if the move is being fuelled by his nationality?
In Dempsey Liverpool would sign a player of proven ability, who would need no adjustment to the Premier League or English football.
He scored 17 league goals for Fulham last season, a higher total than any Liverpool player, and also hit a hat-trick in the FA Cup.
At 29 he would be motivated to achieve something of note during his seasons with the club, as it would present his only realistic shot of silverware.
He has earned his dues, and there should be no suggestion that he is being bought for marketing reasons. Is anybody seriously suggesting Liverpool would be buying a sub-standard player?
Dempsey is versatile, can play wide similar to the role utilised by Dirk Kuyt, as part of a strikeforce, and even lead the line up front on his own.
As for all the associated interest from America which could come Liverpool’s way if Dempsey signs, it is hardly likely to affect Dempsey on the field, and would only be a bonus for the club.
But Dempsey and ‘soccer’ are both not worshipped in America the same way they do with NFL and NBA stars, and signing for Liverpool would not change that. Any interest which does come Liverpool’s way will surely only be from existing fanbases, and not present reason to sign the player alone. Financial tie-ups would be moderate rather than excessive.
The player would be signed for his ability, nothing more, and he would be a clever addition for Brendan Rodgers to make. The manager may be keen on signing young hungry and talented players, but marrying that with experienced ones with a point to prove should be almost evenly balanced.
But even if the move was dictated by his nationality? Does it matter? Liverpool would get a player of top Premier League quality into the bargain who would instantly add more of a goal threat to a team which scored just 47 league goals last season.
If Carroll is sold, and replaced with Clint Dempsey, people will debate whether it is an improvement, but the American’s goals record indicates it is. His intelligence would allow him to fit into Rodgers’ system.
For a price of around £10 million, he is a player Liverpool should not miss out on, and his worth should be judged on the football field, on which he is proven.
Should Liverpool go for Dempsey?
image: © NathanF
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