Talent so deep at Etihad but Barnes backs his old club
LIVERPOOL have what it takes to wrestle the Premier League title back off Manchester City.
Reds legend John Barnes is backing Jurgen Klopp’s men to bounce back after they could only manage a thirdplaced finish last term, a whopping 17 points behind Pep Guardiola’s side.
They’ve started this campaign well and have a point more than City after six games played.
But Klopp’s outfit wobbled against promoted Brentford last weekend and could only manage a 3-3 draw in west London.
Barnes, who made over 300 appearances for Liverpool, insists there’s no need for panic stations.
“Liverpool’s defensive display against Brentford is not a concern – not at all,” he said.
“It was only one game so we can’t get carried away.
“They haven’t conceded many goals this season and they don’t concede often so I’m not worried.
“City have more squad depth than
Liverpool and maybe even Manchester United.
“But you don’t necessarily need it – Liverpool won the title in 2020 without having that much depth.
“Liverpool have a big enough squad to challenge for the league, regardless of whether it’s more or less than the opposition.”
Sergio Aguero left
The Etihad to join Barcelona in the summer.
And, despite being heavily linked with Tottenham talisman Harry Kane, City failed to sign a replacement.
Barnes (above) believes City’s striker stresses will have buoyed other sides.
But the former winger, 57, reckons the key to title glory for Liverpool is not to drop points from winning positions.
“The fact that City lost a centre-forward and haven’t replaced him will give everyone else hope,” he added.
“But it’s not just about shutting City out – it’s a question of winning your other matches too.
“Rival teams can’t affect the way City play every week. All they can do is focus on their own fixtures.
“It’s a case of being consistent enough to challenge.”
■ John Barnes was speaking to Bonuscodebets