Gary Neville has told Monday Night Football, which was broadcast by Sky Sports, that the only threat to Liverpool’s title challenge is injuries.
The Reds are currently suffering badly with a number of their key players sidelined.
Jurgen Klopp’s side have already seen Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk ruled out for the season, with Thiago, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fabinho also suffering from lengthy absences.
And Neville believes that Klopp is now looking to protect his side with his statements to the media.
The Liverpool boss has bemoaned kick off times, which have forced his time to play on Wednesday and then early on Saturday, while he has also appealed for the use of five substitutes.
But Neville thinks Klopp’s frustrations are solely to boost Liverpool’s title chances, rather than to protect the rest of the league or the players.
“Liverpool win this league at a canter if they don’t get injuries. They are by far the best team, and it pains me to say it, by far the best team,” Neville said.
“I still think they’ll win the league. They’re stronger, they’re quicker. they’re hungry. He’s got everything right there.
“The only risk to Liverpool winning the league is picking up more injuries.
“The biggest risk is those injuries. So Jurgen Klopp wants five subs, he wants the better kick off times, for Liverpool football club.
“Just as my manager for 20 years wanted the benefit and advantage for Manchester United.”
Liverpool have already shown more vulnerability this season than they did last year.
However, the Reds have still made a bright start to the campaign, and currently sit in second place in the Premier League table, with only goal difference keeping them off top.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
