Liverpool’s Depth Gives Edge in Premier League Title Race, Claims Chris Sutton

Chris Sutton, a former Premier League champion, has emphasised the significant advantage Liverpool currently hold over Manchester City and Arsenal in their quest for the 2024/25 Premier League title. Sutton’s praise comes as Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, has quickly put his stamp on the squad, leading them to nine wins from their first ten games. This strong start has sparked optimism on Merseyside that Slot can replicate Jurgen Klopp’s 2020 title-winning campaign.

Slot’s Liverpool have showcased defensive resilience, conceding just two goals in their first 830 minutes of league football. However, Liverpool face a challenge with the loss of goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who is expected to miss a minimum of seven games due to a hamstring injury sustained against Crystal Palace. This setback will push backup keeper Caiomhin Kelleher into the spotlight, adding another layer of complexity to Liverpool’s title ambitions.

Depth and Rotation Bolster Liverpool’s Chances

Sutton has highlighted the depth of Liverpool’s squad as a significant advantage over their title rivals. Slot’s approach to squad rotation has allowed players like Wataru Endo, Luis Diaz, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Andrew Robertson to be rested against Crystal Palace, yet Liverpool still emerged victorious. In Sutton’s words:

“I looked at the Liverpool bench at the weekend, and I know they made changes as well and rotated a little bit, and when I see Man City’s squad and a lot being made about Rodri’s injury, and they’re going to miss him of course, and you look at Arsenal and Arteta gives young players opportunities. But you look at Liverpool’s squad and think ‘Blimey’, that’s strong, that’s a deep squad that they’ve got.”

This squad depth is proving invaluable, particularly when compared to City and Arsenal, who have had injury concerns with key players. Liverpool’s ability to maintain quality on the pitch while rotating players will be essential as they continue their gruelling fixture list.

Slot’s Focus on Long-Term Success

Despite the early success, Slot remains focused on the bigger picture and is not getting carried away by Liverpool’s current position. Acknowledging the tough schedule ahead, Slot is cautious about projecting title ambitions, especially with tricky fixtures looming against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Champions League opponents RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen.

Slot is determined to establish a legacy that endures beyond a quick start. Speaking after the win over Palace, he stated:

“It definitely is [very satisfying]. And it’s actually also quite special if you know how many great managers Liverpool had. But I also said last week I think that I hope they don’t only remember me in one, two, three, four, five years only for this. We are hoping to do more special things than this.”

Slot has inherited a strong squad and a solid foundation from Klopp, and he is well aware of the importance of building on this legacy to achieve lasting success.

Ibrahima Konate Emerging as a Defensive Force

While Liverpool’s defence has been solid overall, one player who has caught Sutton’s attention is Ibrahima Konate. Reports suggest Konate is close to securing a new contract at Anfield, a move that would further strengthen Liverpool’s defensive future. Sutton believes Konate has the potential to emulate Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s talismanic centre-back, who is now entering the later stages of his career.

Sutton’s praise for Konate is evident as he noted:

“I like the way he has taken his opportunities. I have always thought that he has brilliant physical attributes that Van Dijk has. He has come into the fore, and you can see the relationship and understanding getting stronger week in and week out.”

As Liverpool continue their title push, Konate’s growth and partnership with van Dijk will be crucial to maintaining their defensive solidity. With Alisson Becker sidelined, Konate and the rest of Liverpool’s backline will need to step up and provide Kelleher with solid protection as he steps into the starting role.

Slot’s Squad Primed for Title Challenge

Liverpool’s strong start to the season, coupled with the squad depth Arne Slot has at his disposal, has them well-placed to mount a serious title challenge. Sutton’s observations underscore Liverpool’s unique advantage in the form of a deep and versatile roster, capable of weathering injuries and rotation demands better than their competitors.

Slot’s focus on sustainable success, combined with key performances from players like Konate, highlights a promising future for Liverpool. As they navigate a challenging set of upcoming fixtures, fans can be optimistic that Liverpool’s depth, tactical flexibility, and managerial guidance will keep them firmly in the hunt for Premier League glory.