Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool fans know that in football, small details often make the biggest difference. One area that has long been overlooked is the throw-in. In most matches, it’s treated as a simple way to restart the game, and yet, it can completely change possession dynamics when used effectively. Teams in the Premier League face intense schedules, playing multiple matches a week with little time for detailed training. Marginal gains, like improving how the ball is returned from the sidelines, can be the difference between winning and losing crucial points. Top clubs across Europe have started to realize this. While throw-ins may seem minor, a clever or well-timed throw can spark counterattacks, maintain possession, or even lead to goals. For Liverpool, mastering these small edges has been essential, especially as the Reds compete at the highest levels in the Premier League and the Champions League. Coaches and analysts now spend hours studying what once seemed trivial. But what happens when a team loses an expert in this field? Liverpool fans may soon find out, as the door for a return is open.
Thomas Gronnemark, football’s first-ever throw-in specialist, who worked with Liverpool from 2018 to 2023. Gronnemark transformed the Reds’ throw-in game. “Liverpool are always welcome to call me. The only way I wouldn’t say yes to Liverpool is if I were already coaching another top Premier League team that’s actually a direct competitor,” he said in an interview with Zach Lowy. He added, “As long as I’m not full-time at another club, as long as my contract gives me the green light, I’d say yes. Of course, with my history with the club, my connection with the fans, and people who are writing to me every day on social media and thanking me for my time with the team, I’d say yes in most cases.”
Gronnemark explained the challenges of working in the Premier League compared to other leagues, saying, “Sometimes, it works really well, and sometimes, it doesn’t, and it’s not that easy to find out if it’s because of an injury or because the opponent has found you out. In the Premier League, the top teams are playing two games a week and don’t have that much training time, so to be on a bad run, that’s actually quite challenging.” Liverpool supporters will recognize the potential impact of Gronnemark’s return. His innovative throw-in tactics helped players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson turn a routine action into a powerful weapon. With the club struggling for consistency this season, a familiar face with proven expertise could be just what the Reds need to regain momentum.
Read more: Jeremie Frimpong says he is ready to do whatever is needed to support Liverpool
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.