Sunday, September 20, 2009

Gerrard - Blips Inevitable


Steven Gerrard believes that Liverpool's title rivals will all endure difficult moments this season.

Rafa Benitez's Reds got off to a slow start this term, losing two of their opening three fixtures.

They have, however, bounced back in style and have won their last three in all competitions.

There is now a renewed air of optimism around Anfield that this could be the year their long wait for a top-flight title comes to an end.

Liverpool's cause will undoubtedly be helped by the fact that their strongest side contains no players set for African Cup of Nations duty in January, while a number of their Premier League counterparts will lose key men at a crucial stage of the season.

Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal will all see their numbers shorn in the New Year, with the tournament in Africa set to take place between January 10-31.

England international Gerrard feels that situation could play into Liverpool's hands, with the Reds having already got a domestic wobble out of the way.

"Everyone will have blips and some of the teams lose important players with the African Nations," he told the Reds' official website.

"It's a long season, there are a lot of games and a lot of football to be played yet.

"Chelsea, Tottenham and City have got off to good starts but there is a long way to go before you start predicting who will be up there at the end."

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