“If everyone in the group has the right attitude, then you need leaders.” Comolli said. “They can be technical, tactical, physical, intimidating or vocal. In the case of Steven Gerrard he is all of them except vocal, while Jamie Carragher is vocal.
“Stevie is a quiet leader, but the players say he carries the team.”
Comolli joined Liverpool last November as director of football strategy shortly after the Fenway Sports Group purchased the club. He assumed his current position in March 2011 and along with manager Kenny Dalglish, now oversees on-field matters at the club. The French executive plays a critical role in identifying, scouting and signing players to Liverpool contracts.
He spoke to People about the approach he takes when recruiting talent.
“When you first identify the targets, you look at the character, of course. They have to have the right approach for Liverpool,” he said.
“You have to be careful about giving long contracts to certain players. If they have difficult personalities they could be a bad influence if things go against you. A guy might have big talent, but might not want to work hard. I lose sleep about this on a regular basis.”
Comolli led the efforts to rejuvenate the squad, signing over £100 million ($158 million) worth of players since January.
Photo courtesy of LiverpoolFC.tv
