Mamadou Sakho - Making a claim to become future Liverpool Captain?

Characteristics that for me, make a strong captain include :-

– Courage
– Personality
– Leadership
– Confidence
– Determination
– Presence

For me Mamadou Sakho has the above qualities in abundance and is a potential long term successor to Steven Gerrard.

Many will find that a bold statement given that Mamadou has had an extremely mixed spell at the club. I do have a vast amount of admiration for Henderson, however I see something special in Mamadou. He’s a warrior, a born leader and someone who can inspire the next generation of LFC players to great things.

Source: liverpoolfc.com

His story, much like many great footballers, starts from humble origins. Born and raised in a notoriously rough suburb of Paris, Sakho’s future in football certainly wasn’t clear cut. By his own admission he could have left football, as his attitude at a young age was far from a man hoping to become a professional footballer. Luckily for France and Liverpool, the man opted to get his head down and focus his energies into his football and develop the undeniable talent he has.

I’ve always believed that someone’s football ability will take them a long way. But without the determination, commitment and winning mentality players can be fundamentally flawed. This is a reason why Sakho’s background will always prove testament to his determination. But what sets him apart is that commitment and drive to win, which will propel him to great achievements in his career.

It’s fair to say nearly everything I’ve seen on the pitch and what I’ve read or heard about his life off it; since he’s joined our wonderful club, has left a lasting impression. He’s a humble man, who genuinelyappears appreciative of his life, so much so that he contributes significantly to the local community. I’ve always appreciated footballers who realise they’re in a position to give something back. It’s a reflection that they are conscious of life off the field, which for me will only aid them on it.

Now I’ve spoken about Sakho the man, who I clearly think very highly of. Crucially however what matters to LFC is Sakho the player – and what a player he is!

Firstly let’s talk about his physical attributes. The man stands at 6 foot 2 inches, built like an ox, with unbelievable power and physical strength. He uses his strength so effectively too, really imposing himself on big strong centre forwards, never shying away from a physical battle. When he is in the heart of defence, I have faith that he can stop an attack. He times tackles to perfection and reads the game very well, using his whole body to slide, block and tackle intelligently and effectively.

I will always admire skilful players, individual brilliance and seeing wonderful goals scored. However on the pitch, I love nothing more than a juggernaut completely smashing an opposition player with a crunching tackle. This is something Mamadou likes to do early in a game, well anytime (often a little too eagerly). It’s to let the opposition know, I’m here and you better be prepared for an almighty battle today.

He’s a smart player too, always having a great level of awareness particularly when in possession. He may at times look a little awkward on the ball, but his vision and passing accuracy plus his positivity (always looking forward) is excellent. Agger may have been wonderful at starting attacks when driving out from the back, but Sakho’s bold, yet accurate passing can make a similar impact to effectively start moves and drive the team forward, as proven in recent weeks.

I always argue that mental strength and game intelligence can lift player from good, even great, to that next level. For me Mamadou has what it takes to reach that level, to become a world class centre half. His aggression, strength, composure, positive passing, leadership and personality are always stamped on a pitch. He’s been unfortunate with injuries, but seems to have found his role in the side and I genuinely hope he goes from strength to strength.

It seems Brendan is finally beginning to see his true ability, which I hope continues throughout the season. I will always stand by the statement that trying to buy a replacement for Sakho, other than a partner, could cost Rodgers his job. However now you have to hope he’s embraced him as the man to build a defence around. Whilst unlikely I also hope Sakho is given some responsibility to lead the team in future. I have faith that he’d lead the team with the same passion, drive and determination he brings to his game, and I for one believe he’d make a wonderful captain!