Friday, December 23 – 1910
Contrary to expectations, Liverpool decided last evening to make a couple of changes in their team to oppose Aston Villa, and it is possible that still further alterations may be necessary. It will be remembered that Jim Harrop sustained a nasty kick against Sheffield United, and the injury may keep him out of the field to-morrow.
In the event of Harrop being unable to turn out Ernest Peake will fill the centre-half position. In addition the Livers are doubtful about Jack Parkinson. The centre-forward developed “a leg” during the week, and he is in the doctor’s hands, so that much depends on how the injured limb goes on to-day.
If “Parky” is unable to play, Sam Bowyer will play centre. It is unfortunate that the Liverpool club should be so handicapped, for the programme is strenuous enough with the side at full strength, but now that there is a possibility of two of their best players being off duty, the chances of the men making a good show against the Villa would seem to have been reduced to a minimum. It is to be hoped that after all Harrop and Parkinson will be able to play, but at present it does not look as if they will be fit. Peake and Bowyer are undoubtedly good men, but they lack the experience of their colleagues.
It is not surprising to learn that there has been a change at left half. James Bradley did not play up to form on Saturday, and it was decided to try Donald Mackinlay in the position. Mackinlay, it will be remembered, played against the Forest last back-end, this being his only appearance with the League team.
This season, however, he has developed into a really fine half-back, and he has been playing so well with the Reserves that the directors have every confidence in his ability to fill the vacancy with distinction. He came from Newton Villa. I saw him in the trial games, when he gave a very promising exhibition, and it soon became evident that left half was his proper position.
Another interesting change is seen at outside left, Herbert Leavey, who came from Plymouth Argyle, has been playing wonderfully good football with the Reserves, and the directors thought the time had arrived to give him a trial. The big programme necessitates that the club should not overwork the players, and probably Harold Uren will turn out against Sunderland or Everton. Leavey is a nice stamp of winger, and from what I have seen of him I am sure he will make a capital partner for Ronald Orr. He can play at either outside right or left.
The following is the list of players from which the Liverpool side will be chosen: – Sam Hardy; Ephraim Longworth and Alf West; Robert Robinson, Jim Harrop or Ernest Peake, and Donald Mackinlay; Arthur Goddard, James Stewart, Jack Parkinson or Sam Bowyer, Ronald Orr, and Herbert Leavey.
(Liverpool Evening Express, 23-12-1910)
"Play Up, Liverpool" 