Friday 4 December 2015 07:06, UK
Phil Thompson says Liverpool cannot be discounted in what is shaping up as one of the most competitive title races in recent history.
The Reds were at their breathtaking best in Wednesday's 6-1 League Cup quarter-final drubbing of Southampton, with Divock Origi scoring a hat-trick and Daniel Sturridge scoring twice in his first start under Jurgen Klopp.
Sky Sports pundit and former Liverpool skipper Thompson says the Reds have the quality to challenge for the title but warned that the side is not without their issues, despite an impressive start under the German.
"I think a lot of teams can challenge for this title. All the managers identify that," Thompson told Sky Sports News on Thursday.
"It's hard to say Liverpool are out-and-out genuine contenders, though. You have to be careful with this side. The home form does have to be a little bit better but they are a genuine top four challenger, they've already played seven of their most difficult away games.
"They are in a very good position."
The Reds have recorded victories against Chelsea, Manchester City and Southampton under Klopp, but Thompson says the real test will come at Anfield when teams will sit deep and look to hit them on the break.
"Chelsea, Manchester City and Southampton are all very good teams. They're going to have the ball and attack so you have a great chance to have that high press, 'gegenpress' and counter attack," he said.
"The negative is the home games when they have more possession. Klopp has to work tactically on how to break down defences.
"We dominated games, particularly against Swansea, where we only got one goal and then against Palace where we had plenty of possession but didn't create chances."
It's hard to say Liverpool are out-and-out genuine contenders. You have to be careful with this side.
That wasn't the case at St Mary's, where Saints didn't have an answer to the pace and movement of Origi and Sturridge up front.
Thompson says keeping Sturridge, who has made just five appearances this season, fit should be Klopp's top priority.
"What's important is how Jurgen Klopp handles Daniel Sturridge; how many games he plays, how many minutes, but more important than anything is his recovery afterwards, immediately afterwards and then the next day," he said.
"At the moment, he does need to be handled with kid gloves."
