Lesson from the Blues
Liverpool must learn to grind out results like Chelsea, says Lallana
LONDON: Liverpool can learn a thing or two from Chelsea such as the English Premier League leaders’ ability to grind out results even when they are not playing at their best, midfielder Adam Lallana has said.
Liverpool’s bid for the title has collapsed in recent weeks as a five-game winless run in the league has seen them drop to fifth, 13 points behind Chelsea.
“You can see they (Chelsea) have a lot of experience and that they are used to winning. They know how to win games even when not at their best.
“You don’t have to always win by scoring five or six,” Lallana told British media.
“Maybe that’s an area we need to improve on.
“We maybe need to realise how good we are at times.”
In contrast, Chelsea appear to be running away with the league title as they hold a comfortable nine-point cushion over the chasing pack after 24 games.
“Milly (James Milner) is probably the only one in our group who has that type of experience because it only comes from winning silverware like he did at Manchester City,” Lallana added.
“Myself and the other players haven’t won titles or loads of Cups so we need to learn from him and listen to him because that type of experience is vital. We need to learn and get back to winning ways in the league as soon as possible.”
Reds legend John Barnes has urged Liverpool not to give up on their Premier League dreams and insists Chelsea can still be caught.
Barnes insists Chelsea can still be reeled in, and has called on his former club to keep plugging away despite being 13 points adrift in fifth.
Barnes said: “I don’t think Chelsea are out of sight but Liverpool need to improve – the title
race starts in March. Liverpool can still finish in the top four if everyone gets behind Juergen Klopp, who is a very good coach.”
Liverpool take on second-placed Tottenham this weekend still searching for their first league victory of 2017.
Juergen Klopp’s side have taken just three points from their last five matches after hitting on a slump in form at just the worst time.
Barnes added: “Unfortunately, we didn’t get anyone in January. Signings would have helped but it’s not all doom and gloom. We haven’t got a huge squad so with a 14-15 man squad they will be tired.
“Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City all have bigger squads. City can take out (Sergio) Aguero and bring in ( Gabriel) Jesus.” — Agencies