Liverpool’s recent poor Premier League form as given Chelsea hope of overtaking them in the Premier League’s race for the top 4. The Blues have two matches left to play in the Premier League while Liverpool have just three points left to obtain.
Chelsea are just three points behind Liverpool in the table and the Blues have every chance of overtaking Liverpool in their final matches this term. The Blues’ 1-0 win over a depleted Liverpool on Sunday showed just how far Antonio Conte’s team has come since departing the Champions League. Meanwhile, the match was another reminder of Liverpool’ recent dip in form as their focus on the Champions League has increased.
In addition to the extra European matches, Liverpool have endured injury issues recently. Due to missing players on Sunday, Jurgen Klopp was forced to play Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield. Even with Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah in the team, Liverpool were unable to break down the Blues. Despite the Reds out playing Chelsea in statistics, Klopp’s side was never able to find a goal.
Liverpool are winless in four of their last five matches in the league. Their run of form has left the door open for both Tottenham and Chelsea to pass the Merseyside club and qualify for the Champions League. Liverpool are now playing a dangerous game in which their future isn’t necessarily in their own hands.
If the Reds defeat Brighton in their final match of the season the club will finish with 75 points. Tottenham can finish on 77 points, if Mauricio Pochettino’s team can defeat Leicester and Newcastle. Fortunately for Klopp, Spurs have also dipped recently.
Chelsea have everything to gain in their final matches against Huddersfield and Newcastle. The Blues can finish on 75 points. If Liverpool lose or draw against Brighton, the door is wide open for Conte’s men to run right through. If both teams were to finish on the same number of points, Liverpool’s superior goal difference would just take them into the Champions League next season. But it could be the third qualifying round the club must be happy with for a second season running.
Liverpool’s form in the league and focus on the Champions League should worry supporters. The team could miss the Champions League altogether next term. Liverpool’s finale against Bright won’t be easy.
“But I saw Brighton against Manchester United on Friday and they don’t look like an easy game,” Klopp said after Liverpool’s loss on Sunday. “They were really good that day. But it’s football. If you want guarantees, do something different. The boys have shown me they will try and try and try.”
Chelsea’s recent surge of four straight wins has got the club within striking distance of the top four once more. It could prove to be too little too late if the Blues are unable to win Wednesday night at Stamford Bridge.
