EPL state of affairs: Liverpool

The Reds find themselves on top of the Premier League after 11 rounds, which is something that even just 12 months ago, had looked virtually impossible.

It’s hard to believe the transformation and evolution of the playing group since Jurgen Klopp took over in October, 2015.

But for those who witnessed the German sprinkle his magic over Mainz 05 and Borussia Dortmund earlier in his career, Liverpool’s improvement might be no surprise at all.

Over the course of last season, Klopp helped restore the Liverpool squad’s confidence in themselves. He set new standards and raised the side’s expectations, with the influence eventually taking them to two cup finals.

In his first preseason at the club in July 2016, he took the Reds on what has become a standard international trip across two continents, building both fitness and comradery.

Crucially, during this time he made the astute signings of Sadio Mane from Southampton and Georginio Wijnaldum from Newcastle United. Both additions came almost as a surprise to the wider stakeholders, but they have nonetheless provided depth and improvement in much-needed areas.

Klopp didn’t exactly plug the gaps in the side’s holes, considering he resisted the urge to sign a left back and instead utilised what he had on hand. However, he made calculated decisions.

Though putting faith in the majority of the squad he had might have been considered a gamble by some, the add-ons have installed a healthy competition for places in the starting team.

The fact that striker Daniel Sturridge, who was not long ago considered Liverpool’s best player, cannot hold down a place in Klopp’s favoured XI, is a telling sign of how far the Reds have come.

How far Liverpool can go will be an exciting journey to watch unfold. While matching the breathtaking brilliance and deadliness of the Brendan Rodgers’ Luis Suarez-led side of 2013-14 will be tough, Klopp’s side is beginning to open up opposition teams and tear them apart.

Of course, no title is ever won in November. And whether the weight of long-held expectations of winning a maiden Premier League title will burden their chances, remains to be seen.

In recent weeks, Klopp has been pouring cold water on any title-winning talk, attempting to douse any false pretences that could develop among his players.

He knows, no title is secured until it’s all said and done. Liverpool fans should know this better than any.

Yet, it’s clear Klopp’s team is a legitimate chance at winning some silverware this season. If they can keep their momentum going, Liverpool could do anything.

As they say, you’ve got to lose one, to win one.

Last season, Liverpool lost two.

This season, I predict they will go close to winning. Very close.