Writing in his column for Sky Sports, Paul Merson has been discussing Liverpool’s recent slump.
It’s no secret that the Reds have been in poor form this season. Their last two games have been losses to both Nottingham Forest and Leeds and their defeat to Leeds represented their first loss at Anfield in front of fans for over five years.
Merson has analysed the Reds’ demise, and he says that Jurgen Klopp’s side are losing their fear factor – just as Manchester United did after Sir Alex Ferguson left the club.
No fear factor
Merson gave his verdict on Liverpool’s bad form.
“Teams are not scared of Liverpool anymore. It’s slowly mirroring what happened with Old Trafford. As a player I used to dread going to Manchester United. You used to play well there and still get beat, nowadays if you play well there you win. If you play well at Liverpool now there’s a strong chance you will win,” Merson said.
“Liverpool are losing their fear factor, and this season is already worse than the season they defended the title. In 2020/21 they had just won the league for the first time in how many years. I could understand that season, I’ve been there, I’ve won the league and know what it’s like the following season when everyone wants to beat you, not to mention the injuries to key players they sustained.
“But it’s completely different now, Liverpool know that. They have that experience under their belts and there is no excuse for their performances this season.”
Reversible
Unlike Manchester United where the rot was allowed to well and truly set in, there is enough time for Liverpool to turn this around.
Yes, teams aren’t scared of Liverpool right now, a few good results and standout performances from key players will change that.
It’s already happened once before, let’s not forget the 2020/21 season saw teams such as Fulham and Burnley come to Anfield and win, but just months later the Reds were again the most feared team in England.
This is a problem for Liverpool right now, but it may not be a long-term issue like it is at Old Trafford.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
