Liverpool is set to enter its first full season under the guidance of German manager, Jurgen Klopp.
Having made two cup finals last season, which both ended in heartbreaking fashion, the Reds will be looking to improve their Premier League form dramatically after an inconsistent campaign saw them finish eighth in the most unbelievable season of all time.
It’s been a busy window for Klopp thus far. No doubt, there were many weaknesses within the squad that the German inherited from Brendan Rodgers last October that needed to be addressed.
Offseason recruitment
In goal, Liverpool has added Loris Karius, who was set to begin the season until he suffered an injury to his hand, and Alex Manninger, who’s been brought in as cover.
In defence, Ragnar Klavan and, in particular, Joel Matip have been brought in to help reduce the number in the goals conceded column from previous seasons.
In attack, Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum have been added to supply something Liverpool lack severely, pace and goals. And finally, Marko Grujic looks to be an addition to Liverpool’s central midfield. There is potential for him to make a mark this season, otherwise, he will definitely be a player for the future.
Strengths
What was noticeable when Klopp came in and particularly towards the end of last season was the character and togetherness of the team. The attitude and character of the manager should always reflect the team and that was very much the case for Liverpool once Klopp took charge.
They went from a team that lacked confidence, to a team that all of a sudden had self-belief. It was incredible how many times the Reds came back from behind in the dying moments of games last season. Look no further than Dejan Lovren’s header against Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League.
The will to fight until the very last whistle will leave Liverpool in good stead and will be considered their biggest strength by rival teams.
Weaknesses
On a more negative note, last season Liverpool simply were not consistent enough. There were reasons for this inconsistency but, for the time being, it will remain their biggest challenge to overcome.
The word inconsistent seems to be associated far too often with the footballers of Liverpool and that needs to change this season if they are to seriously challenge for a top four finish, let alone the Premier League trophy.
There’s no doubt there is some serious talent within the squad from back to front, but they need to bring that to games and need to lay a marker early in the season to show they are the real deal. It’s Klopp’s job to get more consistent performances from his players and he will know that.
Key player – Daniel Sturridge
Many will believe Philippe Coutinho will be the key player for Liverpool this season, but it’s time Daniel Sturridge gets himself on the park and scoring on a consistent basis.
He’s a class forward and there’s no taking that away from him, but Liverpool need 20 plus goals from him this season. You need a forward who wins you games and does it regularly. Sturridge can be that player for Liverpool, but can he stay fit?
At this moment in time, he does have a hip injury, although it is only minor according to reports. The Reds need him this season to have any chance of finishing within the top four or looking beyond.
Prediction – Fourth
Liverpool has a talented squad and no European football this season. Those two mixed together potentially could see the men in red have a decent amount of success if they simply become more consistent and strengthen in one or two more areas. It’s a wide open season and a top four finish looks very much on the cards for Liverpool.
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