Last season, Liverpool suffered the ignominy of not playing for a European trophy. In fact, no silverware arrived at Anfield last season but the Red army stood by their team in the hope that 2013/14 would bring a renewed vigour.
With this season in its infancy, Liverpool has shown they have what it takes to return to the most illustrious club competition in the world – the UEFA Champions League.
The five-time champions last held the cup aloft in 2005, but have either failed to make an impact in recent years or haven’t even appeared.
Brendan Rodgers’ side appears to have finally reached the balance he has been looking for. Young Brazilian Philippe Coutinho has continued the form that earned him the nickname ‘The Magician’ from the Kop.
Former Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge has been Liverpool’s best player so far this season, having netted in five of seven games this season. One man challenging Sturridge as Liverpool’s best is goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.
The Belgian shot-stopper has been in terrific form of late with Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher describing him as “a beast”. Mignolet has been a key reason for Liverpool’s terrific start.
Luis Suarez has played two matches so far this year after returning from his ban for mistaking Ivanovic’s arm for a steak. His efforts on the ball against United brought praise from his manager.
Suarez well and truly announced his return when he scored two goals against Sunderland.
The evergreen Steven Gerrard has been playing near his best this season. Whilst on limited occasions he has appeared to be running on tired legs, he has been doing everything he can from the middle.
His two free kicks against Southampton drew terrific saves from goalkeeper Artur Boruc.
Liverpool look like they may make it to the top four at the end of the season as their early season form hints at a self-belief that was missing last season. They back each other and trust in their abilities.
Brendan Rodgers has said he wants to coach Liverpool in the Champions League and that type of ambition will definitely rub off on the players.
The promising aspect for Liverpool is that they are yet to play a game with their full roster available. Joe Allen continues to have trouble with his hamstring whilst Suarez has only just served his 10-match ban. Coutinho is also out for another five weeks.
One more heartening piece of news for Liverpool fans is the rumoured courting of Xabi Alonso. Brendan Rodgers has apparently been given permission to approach the former Red about a return to Anfield in the January transfer window.
Alonso is a champion player who formed a terrifying combination with Steven Gerrard when both players were at their peaks.
His passing accuracy and distance is an attractive proposition for Rodgers, who is trying to institute his passing style of football.
The EPL season is long and tough, but come next year, I would bet that Liverpool will be sitting comfortably in the top four.
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