Since arriving at the helm last year, Jurgen Klopp has completely transformed the mood at Anfield and the Reds are starting to believe that the former Borussia Dortmund boss is the right man to take Liverpool back to the summit of English football.
It has been over twenty-five years since Liverpool last lifted the English title but Klopp has the tenacity, the aggression and the purpose to guide the Reds to a maiden success in the Premier League era.
As of October 20th, Klopp’s men are fourth in the table but victories away at both Arsenal and Chelsea suggest that the Reds are now equipped for a title challenge. It won’t be easy but the Reds will push the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur close this season.
While the title would be a dream come true for all Liverpool fans, a top four finish has to be the number one priority for Klopp’s side this season. Simply put, the Reds NEED to be competing in the Champions League in order to attract the best players.
Liverpool’s love story with the European Cup needs no introduction and former Dortmund boss Klopp knows just how much that particular competition means to Reds supporters. After winning the Premier League title last season, Leicester City are one of the division’s representatives in this year’s competition – and they are doing incredible things on the European stage.
The Foxes, priced at 40/1 to win the competition in Champions League odds on Paddy Power’s website, are now just one victory away from securing their place in the last 16; a phenomenal achievement. To put their success into perspective, Liverpool thrashed Claudio Ranieri’s men 4-1 at Anfield back in September – just imagine how well the Reds could have done in Europe.
Jurgen Klopp has Liverpool playing his way and re-energised after first year, says @GlennPrice94. https://t.co/8u5gcV32Mw pic.twitter.com/UoNHBbk29O
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 8, 2016
In attack, Liverpool boast one of the strongest units in the top flight. The Reds have scored 18 goals in eight Premier League appearances; a tally bettered only by City and Arsenal. With the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane upfront, Liverpool have one of the scariest looking forward lines in European football.
The Reds ran Arsenal and Chelsea ragged in front of their own supporters earlier in the campaign and they will continue to exploit defences if they keep everybody fighting fit and raring to go – especially their potent offensive unit.
Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson and Adam Lallana are also key components of Klopp’s side; and the Reds will need both men to stay injury-free if they are to cruise into the Champions League places.
According to WhoScored, the England duo rank second and third respectively in terms of passing accuracy – a major reason why Klopp has placed his faith in his energetic midfielders. With those two in midfield alongside the disruptive Emre Can, Liverpool will prosper from excellent ball retention.
Klopp’s men are on the road to greatness but they aren’t there yet. Liverpool must stay focused; they cannot afford to get ahead of themselves as they pursue a first Premier League triumph. For now, a top four finish will more than suffice – and the title can follow in the not-so-distant future.