Liverpool’s Top-8 Dilemma: Urgent Need for Change
Liverpool’s pursuit of the Premier League title has hit a stumbling block when it comes to facing the top eight teams in the league. With just 11 points from a possible 27 against these teams, Jurgen Klopp’s side must make some changes if they want to lift the trophy.
The remaining 10 games in Liverpool’s schedule are crucial, with five matches to be played at Anfield and five on the road. Unfortunately, these fixtures include games against five members of the top eight, and history has not been kind to Liverpool in these encounters.
Out of the nine games played against top-eight teams as of March 29, Liverpool managed to secure victory only twice. They settled for five draws and suffered two defeats. The loss column includes the controversial trip to Tottenham, which will always have an asterisk next to it. Overall, Liverpool’s record against the top eight stands at 11 points from a possible 27.
Among the current top eight teams, Liverpool has managed to defeat Aston Villa and West Ham, both at home. They also secured draws against Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Brighton. However, these draws have proven costly, as Liverpool’s inability to turn them into wins has resulted in dropped points.
In their meetings with top teams, Liverpool has scored more goals (13) than they have conceded (11). However, it is their failure to convert draws into wins that has been their downfall. At the top of the table, where margins are razor-thin, Liverpool knows all too well how small errors can cost them dearly.
With upcoming fixtures against Brighton, Manchester United, West Ham, Tottenham, and Aston Villa, Liverpool must improve their performance against the top eight teams if they want to outshine their rivals Arsenal and Manchester City and secure the title by May 19.
Jurgen Klopp and his men have a golden opportunity to rectify their top-eight record and prove their title credentials. The team must find a way to convert draws into wins and capitalize on their scoring prowess. With their fate in their own hands, Liverpool must rise to the challenge and show the world why they are worthy contenders for the Premier League title.