Liverpool in action at Stamford Bridge earlier this this year
Liverpool’s clash(es) of the Titans
by Leanne Prescott, Liverpool Correspondent
Liverpool have been in rampant form this season, taking maximum points from their opening six games – the only team to have done so after Chelsea’s draw with West Ham at the weekend.
At the start of a testing run of fixtures, the Reds have come through unscathed, winning comfortably against Spurs before a last gasp Roberto Firmino winner gave the team liftoff in the Champions League, putting down a real marker in the process.
And yet, the next few weeks feel pivotal in terms of Liverpool’s title credentials. Can this side maintain their course for 38 games? Does Klopp have the necessary depth to challenge Manchester City? Or are City just too good? The next few weeks will give some indication of answers.
Starting with the midweek game against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, Jürgen Klopp will have to get his priorities in order. The competition offers a great chance for the boss to gain his first trophy since joining the club, but with Premier League and Champions League excursions following shortly after, a full strength team could cause some fitness issues in the long-run.
Xherdan Shaqiri, who was bright in his first start for Liverpool against Southampton, is expected to start alongside Daniel Sturridge while Mo Salah, Mané and Firmino are due a rest. However a win against Chelsea would continue the current momentum while giving Liverpool one up on their rivals. The game in itself isn’t vital for either side, but given the run of games to come it’ll be a good test of squad depth.
Next up, Chelsea again.
This one has a clash of the titans feel about it. Both teams have been really positive this season, with Liverpool looking settled and ready to take another step this year while Chelsea look rejuvenated under Sarri. Apart from a goalless draw against West Ham, the West London outfit look strong in defence while possessing the attacking quality to coast through their first five games. Both teams will be desperate to take all the spoils from this one and given Liverpool’s position at the top of the table, a win would solidify their impressive start.
A Champions League tie with Napoli ahead of a league clash with the current Champions will be a really tough ask. The travel time involved will take a lot out of Klopp’s side while Napoli’s energetic style of play will require Liverpool to be at their very best. Likewise, Manchester City presents the best possible opportunity to lay down a marker for the league. Many believe the two teams will be the ones to battle it out for the title this season so whoever comes out on top will take the early bragging rights.
Liverpool are in great shape so far this season but the next few weeks is where the team will really be tested. Apart from PSG and Spurs, the Reds have won games you would expect them to have won – that’s not to say you wouldn’t expect a win against the other two merely that only now are Liverpool being properly tested. The next few weeks will show just how strong their title chances are, relying on strength in depth to handle three different competitions in quick succession.
