Kenny Dalglish Remains Coy About Playing Time for Sebastian Coates and Craig Bellamy Against Stoke City

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Sep 8, 2011

Kenny Dalglish Remains Coy About Playing Time for Sebastian Coates and Craig Bellamy Against Stoke City Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has hinted that Sebastian Coates and Craig Bellamy could play in Saturday’s game at Stoke City. However, Dalglish would not reveal whether Coates or Bellamy would be included in the matchday squad or starting lineup. 

He told LFC TV that the pair were "chomping at the bit" to make their debuts for the club after signing at the end of the summer transfer window. 

Bellamy seems to be the more likely inclusion against Stoke City. He is rested and already familiar with the club, league and country. He also made a strong impression on his return to Melwood, with both Dalglish and captain Steve Gerrard praising Bellamy in recent days. 

"He's really enthusiastic at being back and made a lot of sacrifices to come back, financially and otherwise, because of what the club means to him," Dalglish said. "We're delighted to have people with that attitude here."

The Welshman may find it easier to break into the team, since Dalglish has not settled on a first-choice pairing in the attack.

Andy Carroll started the season up front, but has been substituted, then relegated to the bench in successive games. 

Fit-again marksman Luis Suarez is almost certain to start. Whether he leads the attack on his own or partners with another forward remains to be seen, but Dalglish has options and tactical flexibility on his side. 

The 20-year-old Uruguayan Coates may be further away from making his Liverpool debut. He’s young, unproven, and a recent transplant to Europe. His inclusion would be considered a gamble. 

"We're happy to have him [Coates] in," Dalglish said. "We just need to give him time to settle down, and we look forward to it."

The central defensive pairing of Daniel Agger and Jamie Carragher are fit and focused. Agger played 90 minutes in Denmark’s 2-0 Euro 2012 qualifying win over Norway on Tuesday. Carragher is as fresh and fiery as ever. 

What do you think? Should Dalglish throw young Coates into the deep end, or bring him along slowly? How long does it take for a Uruguayan to adapt to life in Liverpool and the EPL?

What about Bellamy? Is he a starter, impact sub or should he earn his playing time on the practice field (training ground).

Let us know. 

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