‘ The Chihuahua among the Horses ’
Brendan Rodgers’ free scoring Liverpool were just about written off from the title race two weeks ago after the draw against West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns. However after annihilating Arsenal at Anfield and earning a hard-fought victory at Craven Cottage has put the Red’s right back into the mix. Here is a SWOT analysis of the Merseysiders chances at winning their first title in over two decades :-
Strengths –
Second only to the extravagant Manchester City, Liverpool have scored 66 goals this campaign. They certainly know how to put the ball in the back of the net without much effort as we witnessed them run rule over Arsenal in the opening 20 minutes.
With Steven Gerrard more or less playing as the anchor man to good effect, the Reds have a strong base to build their attacks from. Liverpool have a very British feel to their side and their league position states that this British-crux is functioning perfectly. The ever-improving Raheem Sterling is in the form of his blossoming career and Daniel Sturridge just can’t stop scoring. Jordan Henderson seems to be making a strong case for Liverpool’s ‘Player of the season’ with consistent, lung-busting performances every week.
Phillippe Coutinho seems to be revelling in the central attacking position Rodgers has asked him to play in. Splitting defence apart seems to be his favourite pastime these days.
You cannot talk about Liverpool without mentioning Luis Suarez. With the Golden Boot virtually in his bag, the Uruguayan seems to be playing at a completely different level from the rest.
Weaknesses –
Defensively Liverpool lack the consistency they show in front of goal. Individual errors have cost Rodgers’ side in the past and injuries to first choice players doesn’t help their case either. A stable and consistent back four is the backbone of every title winning team. Should Liverpool try and make a late charge to stealing away the title, they need to sort out their defence at least for the remaining 12 games.
Opportunities –
Without the distractions of Europe and the Capital One Cup along with a comparatively less difficult run in towards the climax of the season, Liverpool should stand a very strong chance of making a difference in the title-race. With Chelsea slipping up against West Brom, Arsenal having lost their mojo and Manchester City looking to sort out their own issues; it’s the perfect time for Brendan Rodgers’ ‘chihuahuas’ to take advantage and close the gap between them and the top of the table.
Threats –
No activity in the January transfer window has left the Reds with a very thin squad. Already dealing with injuries that have left Rodgers’ playing with a makeshift back four, any serious injury to his front 2 or midfielders may put their title-charge in jeopardy. Besides having a thin squad and an injury-stricken defence, the Reds away form has been less than desired. 5 wins in 13 away fixtures isn’t a stat of a title-winning team.
While the horse-race to the finish seems to be a very tricky and intense one, Brendan Rodgers’ Chihuahuas from Merseyside might just make a huge difference this term.
