Liverpool have been given a tougher start to the new Premier League campaign once again as fans fume over a difficult start on the road to the campaign.
Even though teams have to play each other twice in a campaign, there is importance in the order in which they are played. It would surely affect the momentum of the teams and the overall league position.
For example, if the Reds hadn’t played at the Etihad during the closing stages of the 22/23 season, they might have finished in the top 4. Or, if they hadn’t played Man Utd at Old Trafford so early in their season, they might have won instead of losing.
Moreover, if that would have been the case, then the fixtures could literally be in the same sequence every season. Only swapping the promoted teams for those who have been relegated.
The Merseysiders have requested to play away from home in their opening game. This is to buy more time to apply the finishing touches to the £80m Anfield Road stand redevelopment.
This explains the trip to Stamford Bridge where the Reds would face Chelsea. This could be a tough opening fixture as was the hard-fought victory over Arsenal in Klopp’s first season in-charge.
That match was a statement which saw the German put his mark in the Premier League and secure UCL football.
Concern over Liverpool fixtures in the Premier League
Liverpool have drawn Chelsea in their first fixture which could potentially decide their course of the season. The fixtures on the calendar can make a difference to a team’s fortunes, particularly early on.
That became an obvious concern last season with Liverpool’s pre-World Cup programme on the road. This saw them play two of the three promoted clubs, four of their main top-four rivals and neighbours Everton.
While the trip to Chelsea was eventually postponed, in the other six away games Liverpool took just five points. Although there were other factors in a rather lacklustre campaign.
But their run of just two league defeats in their last 18 games cannot be overlooked. Also, one of them was against Manchester City. This was partly due to a more favourable fixture list compared to the first half of the term.
This is why there will be some trepidation at Liverpool once again being given a tough start to their away schedule this season.
In the first seven away games, the Reds must travel to four of their main six challengers for a top-four place. They have a trip to Newcastle later in August, and Tottenham Hotspur in September. Finally, the big one, Manchester City in late November.
There’s also a game at promoted Luton Town and matches at Wolves and Brighton. Unfortunately, Klopp’s side were thrashed 3-0 on visits to both last term.
It is clear that Liverpool haven’t been handed the easiest beginning. However, those first few months still offer an opportunity to make a sizeable statement. Also, their failure to qualify for the Champions League this season was very much a temporary aberration.
I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.
