While Harry Redknapp's arrival at Spurs created most of the headlines over the weekend, across London, Liverpool's win at Chelsea was of far greater significance.
Manager Rafa Benitez is building his side on the Valencia model which won two Liga titles in three seasons.
At Valencia, Benitez had an experienced central defender in Roberto Ayala, "one of the best in Europe at his peak". Liverpool have Jamie Carragher, a different kind of player, but "in terms of effectiveness there is nothing between them".
Looking further up front, Steven Gerrard plays the Pablo Aimar role, making goals and scoring them. "It's the same shape, a title winning shape."
But the real key to Liverpool's title challenge will be the holding pair in central midfield. Xabi Alonso and Mascherano's main job is to soldify the area in front of the back four, so that the full-backs can supply width.
Patrick says: "They are the Albelda and Baraja, the founding cornerstones of this team. And that's why I believe, right now, if you ask me who's going to win the championship, I'd say Liverpool are going to follow in Valencia's footsteps."
Manager Rafa Benitez is building his side on the Valencia model which won two Liga titles in three seasons.
At Valencia, Benitez had an experienced central defender in Roberto Ayala, "one of the best in Europe at his peak". Liverpool have Jamie Carragher, a different kind of player, but "in terms of effectiveness there is nothing between them".
Looking further up front, Steven Gerrard plays the Pablo Aimar role, making goals and scoring them. "It's the same shape, a title winning shape."
But the real key to Liverpool's title challenge will be the holding pair in central midfield. Xabi Alonso and Mascherano's main job is to soldify the area in front of the back four, so that the full-backs can supply width.
Patrick says: "They are the Albelda and Baraja, the founding cornerstones of this team. And that's why I believe, right now, if you ask me who's going to win the championship, I'd say Liverpool are going to follow in Valencia's footsteps."
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