Dalglish thinks Liverpool can handle weight of title expectation
Published:Liverpool have been backed into 10/1 from 16/1 in the Premier League odds to win the title next season and Kenny Dalglish believes that his players can handle the weight of expectation of laying down a big challenge at the head of the table.
Under Dalglish’s stewardship from January onwards, Liverpool improved from 12th to sixth and only missed out on European qualification to Tottenham on the final day of the Premier League season.
However, this could be a blessing in disguise for Liverpool, as they will be able to focus all of their efforts on their league campaign rather than be distracted by the Europa League.
Meanwhile, many members of the squad were transformed upon Dalglish’s arrival, with Martin Skrtel and Maxi Rodriguez in particular finishing the season strongly.
Dalglish said: “You worry about their ability to play first, and I’m sure the players can handle anything else that comes with it.
“If you put those things in place, then we aren’t going to be too far away. If we improve on what we’ve done this season next season, then I don’t think anybody can be disappointed.”
A finish in the Champions League places next season would constitute an improvement and it is 10/11 that Liverpool finish in the top four.
Liverpool’s chances of showing improvement are also expected to be aided by a busy summer in the transfer market, with at least three or four new faces likely to arrive at Anfield.
A number of players are believed to be on Liverpool’s shortlist, with Birmingham defender Scott Dann thought to be one of the most probable.
Dann missed the last four months of the season with a hamstring injury and this is widely considered to be one of the chief reasons for Birmingham’s relegation, as it broke up his successful partnership with Roger Johnson.
A £30 stake on Liverpool winning the 2012 Premier League would return £300. New customers can sign up here for a free £30 bet.
