Everton boss Ronald Koeman believes that arch-rivals Liverpool have a genuine chance of winning their first ever Premier League title this season. Koeman’s comments will certainly not please the Everton fans but the former Southampton manager had every reason to label Liverpool as one of the strong contenders for the Premier league crown. The Reds have played some sumptuous football this season and are currently on top of the Premier League table.
"It's still too early to say who will be the favourites, but I have been impressed by Liverpool so far," Koeman told ESPN FC. "Maybe that is not what you might expect the Everton manager to say, but they have been playing some very good football and deserve to be at the top. They have goals in their team and this is what all successful sides need.Of course, they can be champions this season, they have a good chance, but they are not the only contenders."
Liverpool have scored 30 goals this season and have tasted defeat only once, in their second game of the season against Burnley at Turf Moor. The Reds managed to secure all three points from their visits to The Emirates and Stamford Bridge and also played out a 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane. Jurgen Klopp’s side now have a comparatively easy run of fixtures, at least on paper, and have a solid chance of cementing their place at the summit of the league by Christmas.
The entertaining and exuberant brand of football showcased by The Reds this season have earned many plaudits. Liverpool have been rejuvenated by the arrival of Jurgen Klopp a year ago and the Charismatic German led the side to two cup finals last season. Despite the fact that Liverpool lost both the finals, many believed it was just a sign of things to come and it certainly was.
With no European football being played at Anfield this season, The Reds have the luxury of having a whole week to prepare for their league games just like they had in the 2013/14 season when they narrowly missed out on the Premier League crown. Liverpool are currently a point ahead of second-placed Chelsea, and two points ahead of Manchester City and Arsenal.
Koeman also thinks that the present title race will be really intense and unpredictable. “My Everton team has played Manchester City and Chelsea in the last few weeks and both were very impressive. We managed to draw at City, but you could see the quality of these teams, the Dutchman said. “Then we all know what happened at Chelsea, as we lost 5-0 and they put in a very good performance. It was difficult for us, but you have to be impressed from their side, so maybe they can also have a chance."
The stage is set for arguably the biggest title race in the Premier League since it’s inception and Liverpool have made the right start, but have to keep on getting results consistently to have any hopes of winning England’s most coveted trophy come next May.
Premier League action resumes this week after the international break and Liverpool travel to the St. Mary’s stadium to take on Claude Puel’s side on Saturday.
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