Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has addressed a difficult start to the season for Arne Slot's Premier League champions
Former Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish
Former Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/WireImage)
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Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has insisted his former club "won't go down easily" as their Premier League title defence reaches a crucial juncture this weekend. The Reds are at championship contenders Manchester City on Sunday where defeat could leave them 10 points behind runaway leaders Arsenal with less than a third of the top-flight season played.
Arne Slot's side avoided a fifth successive league reverse - and Liverpool's worst such run since 1953 - when they beat Aston Villa 2-0 at Anfield last Saturday, which they followed up with an impressive 1-0 Champions League win at home to Real Madrid three days later.
And while falling short of backing the Reds to retain the title, Dalglish is convinced they will fight tooth and nail to keep hold of their crown.
“Even last year I don't think I predicted they were going to win it," said the Scot. "I'm not going to predict it this year either.
“But they're going through a spell at the moment. They’re not winning as often as you like to win.
“But if you have so many new players bedding in, then that takes a wee bit of time.
"But they won't go down easily (without a fight). They'll be competing. They're very competitive.
“We've had their success last year. By the way, they've got the ability to be successful.
“But you don't get it just because you say it. You have to work for it. So I'm sure they'll be working extra hard to get themselves back on track for any success that they want to have."
Liverpool spent almost £450million on new players in the summer, including £125m on striker Alexander Isak and £116m on attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz.
And when asked by SportsBoom about the hefty price tag of the duo, Dalglish said: "Listen, they'll all be good enough. Give them time to settle down.
"When you started in your job, did you have a tough start at the beginning? Just give them time.”