Three reasons to be cheerful for Liverpool

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Liverpool face Manchester United at Anfield on Monday evening on the back of some excellent form.

It has been an excellent start for Liverpool this season.

Sitting fourth in the table and playing attractive football, it appears that the demons of Brendan Rodgers’ tenure have been truly expelled.

And with Liverpool now favourites for the game against bitter rivals Manchester United on Monday night, here are three more reasons to be cheerful for Jurgen Klopp’s men.

Klopp’s influence

While much of the criticism of Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp last season was refuted with the claim that this was not his group of players, that excuse is no longer valid. But, after a full summer transfer window under his belt, it now appears as if the players have fully adopted his trademark gegenpressing style.

With more time will come more familiarity with the system, meaning that Klopp’s influence will only become more telling in the weeks, months and perhaps years to come.

Milner gamble paying off

As if it was not already apparent, Alberto Moreno’s performance against Arsenal on the opening weekend emphasised Liverpool’s need for a left-back. However, despite being linked with the likes of Jonas Hector of FC Cologne, the Reds have soldiered on with James Milner playing at full-back.

The industrious Milner has been a revelation in his new role and as well as lending a hand going forward, he has been defensively sound too. Moreover, the fact he has become Liverpool’s resident dispatcher of spot-kicks is only a bonus.

Record against the big boys

While the game against Burnley can be put down to a one-off, what has been consistent this season has been Liverpool’s record against the biggest teams. A draw away at Tottenham Hotspur is always a respectable result, while wins away at Arsenal and Chelsea stand out above all.

These performances, capped with a 4-1 home demolition of champions Leicester City, should give Reds fans plenty of optimism going into that huge fixture against the old enemies Manchester United on Monday evening.