I heard that story several months ago, from the brother of someone who works at the club in the youth set up. Didn't believe it at the time, but interesting that its come out now.
According to that he can't even get a game for Notts County as Roy Carroll is their first choice. Doesn't exactly suggest great quality, even for a Jones replacement
Succession planning? 2yrs of Lambert, during which Origi is on loan for the first year, then with us for the second year training and playing the odd game, ready to play a big role in year 3? Of course, football is rarely that simple!
I get that. My thinking was lucas as gerrard understudy, then use Can in the rotation with henderson, allen and others for the other 2 midfield places whilst he learns his trade. It takes someone exceptional (eg mascherano) to succeed in that deepest midfielder position at Can's age. Having never seen him play i've no idea if thats him, hence hedging bets by retaining lucas
And it has also benefitted the clubs as well, if you look at the strength of bayern and dortmund. Interesting as one of the arguments often cited against reform is that the english clubs won't want it - yet they might benefit