Jurgen Klopp’s Red army overcame everyone who stood their way to end Liverpool’s 30-year wait for the Premier League title last season.
Manchester City are favorites to dethrone Liverpool from their perch this season. Pep Guardiola’s side has been reinforced while the Reds remain spread thin across all areas of the pitch.
Rio Ferdinand understandably has questions about Klopp to manage a successful title defense. The defender won three back to back Premier League titles with Manchester United and has been in that situation.
Ferdinand pointed out that Liverpool were lucky not to be bogged down by injuries in the last two years, but believes it will take a toll on them. How they react to it, will reflect on their ability to retain the Premier League title.
“No one can say Liverpool had a freak season because they finished so far ahead of their rivals, but they did have one big factor on their side that they cannot guarantee going forward,” Ferdinand told TEAMtalk.
“The key for them has been having their key players fit for the best part of two seasons. It has been massive and what we have yet to find out is how they will cope if they are to lose a few big names for an extended period.”
“Virgil van Dijk has played nearly every game for two seasons and it’s hard to keep that going. Mo Salah has been fit for all the big games and so has Sadio Mane.”
“If they lose one of two of their players with big injuries, then we will see something else from them.”
“What have they got in reserve to come in for these proven stars and maintain this level of consistency? That’s what we are waiting to see.”
Liverpool begin their title defense against Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United. The Whites are back in English top-flight a 16-year-old hiatus.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Manchester City
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
