When Jurgen Klopp succeeded former manager Brendan Rodgers at the Anfield, expectations were high by the Liverpool faithful, as they relayed on the effervescent German to bring back the glory days, and first step in this prospect was leading Liverpool back into top four. But with only two months left in this unusual season, it is highly probable that Klopp might fail in his primary target.
Reasons for a probable Liverpool finish outside Champions League spot
Here are five reasons to predict that Liverpool will not finish in top four of the Premier League.
#1 – Leaky defence
Liverpool have conceded 37 goals in the Premier League this season, which is the second-worst stat among the top 10 clubs in the League table – only Chelsea have conceded more (39). Simon Mignolet has only nine clean sheets to his credit, but the blame belongs to the shaky defence as well.
It is seen widely this season that Liverpool are scoring enough, but conceding more than enough. It is evident and shameful from the club’s visit to Carrow Road, which saw them conceding four goals, though they scored five.
#2 – Inconsistency
There is no other Premier League this season, as inconsistent as the Merseyside Reds. Even after enduring a difficult start to the new Premier League, they showed only moderate level of competitiveness during the mid-term of the season. They surprised the football world with victory in games, they were predicted to lose. But in contrast, they shocked fans by losing games which they should be winning comfortably.
It is quite unbelievable to witness the same team which thrashed Manchester City and Aston Villa on road, failed emphatically to save a two-goal lead to Sunderland at Anfield.
#3 – Lack of leaders in every sections
Liverpool lack decisive players in every sections. It is already decided fact that the central defensive partnership between Martin Skrtl and Dejan Lovren cannot keep the defence intact.
In midfield, Johan Henderson and James Milner have succeeded in bringing spirit into the squad, but neither of the duo are potential match winners, who could win games on regular basis.
Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino are the only players in the squad who are feared by the opponents.
#4 – First season curse
When Brendan Rodgers parted his association with Liverpool, the team was very low on morale and the tactics of the squad were too predictable. Even though fans hoped for an imminent miracle, it was a widely accepted truth that the change needs time, especially as the new manager Jurgen Klopp has not worked in England.
Pundits have cared for a ‘first season curse’, indicating the logical difficulties in bringing incredible achievements in the first season. Though it is not logical, the German’s introduction to England will need time to study the nature of English football, which means Liverpool will have to settle for a Europa position at the most.
#5 – Tough fixtures
Liverpool have to host Tottenham and Chelsea in the Premier League and a tricky trip to Southampton awaits them. They also have Europa expedition, which will be given high priority, as winning the competition seems the most possible way for Liverpool to secure a Champions League spot next season.
Tags: Aston Villa, Champions League, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Premier League, Sunderland, Tottenham
