Liverpool fans are allowed to be both encouraged by progress and league position while also being frustrated at the performances.
Everything on social media feels extreme and Liverpool fanbase is not exception. The loudest voices are the ones who are most angry or most defensive.
There is a sizable amount frustration at the level of performances this season. The Reds have rarely come close to finding the fluid attacking football they regularly showed last year.
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The three defeats of the season – Chelsea in the Carabao Cup; Napoli & Red Star in the Champions League – have led much angry discussion about selection and tactics. The draw against Arsenal on Saturday also brought a wave of vocal disappointment.
Many feel a need to correct that with some positive perspective. Liverpool are second in the league and only two points behind the current champions who are setting a record pace. Again. They are also second in their Champions League group with their future in their own hands.
This is progress. Not least there has been a marked improvement in defending, composure and goalkeeping due to new acquisitions – Alisson, Van Dijk – and the continued rise of young talent – Robertson, Trent, Gomez.
These two perspectives do not have to be at war with each other. It is entirely possible to encouraged about how the ways the team has improved and yet concerned about areas of regression.
You don’t have to label those express frustration as whiners with ‘agendas’. Nor do you have to describe the optimists and those content with the situation as ‘superfans’.
It does however take a handful of maturity and grace to allow others to express themselves. The worst thing about online sports fandom is being told what you should or shouldn’t think or feel; when to be happy and when to be angry.
We would all be better off allowing each other to enjoy the club – or not enjoy it – in any way they sit fit. It really isn’t that hard.