Liverpool Set For Title Challenge

Chelsea are virtually guaranteed to retain their title, if the bookies are to be believed. The longest odds any bookmaker are prepared to offer are 8/11. This time last year this website in fact recommended the Blues to win the Premership, albeit at the rather more attractive odds of 2/1. Also thrown into the mix were Liverpool as an each-way bet. For the new season, we are again going to stick with the newly crowned European champions, but not the Premiership holders. Of course Chelsea should win the league, but at such prohibitive odds there is little point in bothering with them. While Jose Mourihno has easily the best squad in terms of depth and quality, there are a couple of factors that put me off wishing to back them. Their victory in the Community Shield is usually a forerunner for failure to win the title. The last eight winners of the pre-season showpiece failed to finish first. Another factor and one with more merit is Premiership champions don't have it as easy when defending their title. Everyother team will now be desperate to knock over the London club. Furthermore, the size of the squad may lead to discontent whatever the skills of the manager. This is a World Cup year and a number of players are going to be concerned about their selection for Germany if they aren't playing sufficient matches. One squad high on confidence going into the new season are Liverpool after their quite astonishing victory last May in Istanbul. Since then Rafael Benitez has bought experienced Premiership campaigners, as well better quality players. Where the Reds failed last term was on their travels, losing eleven times. If the away form can be rectfied, then the Merseysiders are not only going to comfortably qualify for the Champions League, but seriously challenge the frontrunners. As well as the additions to the squad such as Zenden, Crouch, Reina and Sissoko, there are a couple of players already at the club that ought to show major improvements. Cisse should enjoy a far more prosperous season after suffering that cruel leg break at Ewood Park. Meanwhile Fernando Morientes should make a greater impact this season. The Spanish striker also struggled with form and fitness last campaign. There is also one other factor that cannot be ignored when it comes to Liverpool's chances of winning the Premiership. Rafael Benitez won La Liga twice in three seasons with Valencia, and that despite fewer resources than Real Madrid and Barcelona. A best price 20/1 on Liverpool is worth an each-way investment.