Brendan Rodgers knows the current Liverpool squad best and he’s more bullish than anyone about it’s potential.
Rodgers raised eyebrows Thursday by claiming that Liverpool will challenge for next season’s Premier League title, the Telegraph reports. Liverpool struggled mightily in the early stage of this season, but the Reds’ results and performances have improved in the last two months. Rodgers added perspective to the ongoing journey, calling 2014-15 a transitional year, as new, young signings adapt to life at Anfield.
“The reality was, with so many changes, we were not going to win the league this season,” Rodgers said at his press conference ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round game against Bolton. “I believe we will be ready to challenge for the title next year.
“This year was about targeting the top four and the cups. I think this squad has Premier League-winning capabilities. We have young players who can grow together. A win in the cup would provide greater stimulus. You need ready-made quality as well, but this was the year for players to adapt and settle. Come the summer, the period of integration will be complete and then we can compete like we did last year for the title.”
Liverpool currently sits eighth in the Premier League standings with 35 points after 22 games. The worst part of Liverpool’s season appears to be in the past, as the Reds have lost just once in their last 15 games.
If Rodgers is correct, Liverpool already has taken its first steps into a bright, new era. Of course, Liverpool must meet its manager’s prediction, or the peanut gallery will ridicule both his proclamations and the faith he has in his current crop of Reds.
Photo via LiverpoolFC.com
