da fazobetai： [ad_pod ]
da pinnacle： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
The Champions League group stage draw has caused excitement for reigning champions Liverpool, and midfielder Fabinho is confident of his side’s chances of success once again this season.
What’s been said?
Liverpool claimed a sixth Champions League title last season whilst challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title until the very last day, but in the end they had to settle for just one piece of silverware.
It was a fine way for Fabinho to end a successful debut season, in what was just his second trophy win in an albeit relatively short career.
As the current holders, the Brazilian recognises the fact that the opposition will be more aware of their threat as well as their shortcomings this time around.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, Fabinho said: “The Champions League is a special competition and we’re the reigning champions, so there’s always going to be a lot of expectation about who we’re going to come up against. We’re relaxed about it.
“We’re fully aware that when we return from this international break there will be a more intense fixture schedule with midweek games, but that’s good – we like it.
“As we’re the reigning champions, all the other teams are going to focus much more on us, they’ll know more about our team.”
Liverpool have enjoyed a 100% record in their start to the season and there are already plenty of signs to suggest they will compete for the most coveted trophy in European football once again this season.
Competing on both fronts
The question of whether English teams suffer in league matches after playing in the Champions League mid-week has been widely discussed, and statistics indicate that over the last five seasons Liverpool have experienced this problem.
However, last season 12 of Liverpool’s Premier League games came directly after playing in Europe, yet the Reds dropped just four points in total – at home to Manchester City and away to Manchester United – which is no disgrace on Liverpool’s part.
That suggests Liverpool could be able to reach their high standards once again even if there is a lack of rotation like last season – when 11 players featured in 40 games or more.
The return of Oxlade-Chamberlain and Lallana will help with rotation, but there is a worrying lack of depth in the full-back areas and up-front, and an injury to one of the front-three could severely impact their chances of success this season.
However, Divock Origi has played a valuable role in European competition previously with goals against Barcelona and Tottenham in the latter stages, so Klopp should be able to maintain performances like he did last season.
If he does Liverpool will have a great chance of pulling off a magnificent Premier League and European double.
[ad_pod ]