The Reds better enjoy being at the top while it lasts. But it will not be that easy. Jamie Redknapp thinks dropping from the Champions League into the Europa League could damage Liverpool’s title aspirations.
Liverpool‘s 4-0 victory on the road at Bournemouth over the weekend saw them claim top spot from Manchester City after Pep Guardiola’s men lost 2-0 at Chelsea.
However, Redknapp thinks that falling into the Europa League could damage the Reds’ season with the change in schedule.
“Tuesday night is Liverpool’s biggest game of the season,” Redknapp said. “Their result against Napoli will have a huge say on whether they can win the Premier League.
“Qualify for the Champions League knockout stage and they go into Sunday’s Anfield showdown with bitter rivals Manchester United with incredible momentum.
“Failing to make it through would not only be a significant blow to their confidence but could also mean they are playing Europa League football.
“Playing on Thursday then Sunday is gruelling and it means you are more likely to have to play catch-up in the Premier League. It would threaten to derail their title push.”
Redknapp added: “Despite making their best start to a top-flight season, Liverpool are still only a point clear at the top.
“Manchester City may have lost to Chelsea but that result makes them no less formidable.
“I cannot see them making many more slip-ups, especially when Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne return to fitness.
“Since their last league championship in 1990, Liverpool have never looked better equipped to win the title.”