Will the Reds survive without Mascherano?

After months of speculation, it appears as though Argentina skipper, Javier Mascherano, is finally on his way out of Anfield with Inter Milan seemingly his most likely destination. I can't say anyone's really surprised by this turn of events, least of all Roy Hodgson. When your player doesn't answer your text messages, it's time to move on (talk about professionalism though!).

The big question now is what Hodgson plans to do with the cash raised from selling Mascherano. At present valuations, it appears as though Liverpool won't part with anything less than GBP25 million for Mascherano which would certainly boost Hogdson's summer kitty. But will Hodgson use that cash for a direct replacement (the name Rafael Van Der Vaart comes to mind)or will he move Steven Gerrard back into central midfield to partner Alberto Aquilani or the dreadful Lucas Leiva. New signing Joe Cole can then be moved up to his preferred position behind the striker.

All these permutations are certainly going through Hogdson's mind at the moment. But in reference to the biggest question of all (will the Reds survive without Mascherano?), I think the answer is pretty straightforward yes.

No one doubt's Mascherano's commitment and contributions to Liverpool the past few years. But in view of Liverpool's performances last season, where Mascherano was tasked with filling in for Xabi Alonso's absence, it became quite plain to see that Mascherno's abilities are rather limited. Sure, he's great at tackling and frustrating opponents. But he is most effective alongside another midfielder capable of taking over all the distribution responsibilities.

Even in the recent World Cup, especially when he was up against Bastion Schweinsteiger, Mascherano's limited abilities were on full display. And it's for these reasons that Hodgson shouldn't feel too bad about losing one of his biggest star names. Don't get me wrong, Mascherano's exit will be felt but if Hodgson plays his cards right, the Reds should be alright.