Man Utd icon admits Liverpool are title contenders after making dramatic U-turn

Teddy Sheringham reckons Liverpool are serious contenders for the Premier League crown, having initially questioned their chances. The Reds have kicked off their season with a bang under Arne Slot, securing three wins in as many matches.

Supporters have been left pleased by the club’s attacking prowess and solid defensive work, as they are yet to concede a goal this campaign. Sheringham says they are firmly in the title race – and has attributed this to Slot’s seamless transition into Merseyside life.

The former Manchester United striker has praised the Dutchman for stepping into Jurgen Klopp’s shoes in what he describes as a “really clever way”. Slot faced the daunting challenge of following in the footsteps of the revered Klopp, who departed after an illustrious nine-year tenure at Anfield.

However, with a positive vibe currently surrounding the club, Sheringham has admitted his admiration for Slot’s approach and his composure when addressing the Liverpool fans.

Speaking at the launch of Ladbrokes’ “Gaffer of all Accas”, Sheringham has given his opinion on this year’s title race. “I think there are three teams capable of winning the title this year. Man City, Arsenal and, while I was unsure about them, with the new manager coming in, I think Liverpool will be up there,” he said, before adding: “Arne Slot seems to have settled in very nicely. I loved his way of talking.”

Sheringham expressed admiration for how seamlessly Slot has stepped into Klopp’s former position at Liverpool. The German’s tenure was marked by immense success, including winning the Premier League and Champions League. But the former striker is convinced that the Anfield faithful will be ecstatic with Slot’s appointment and his respectful nod to Klopp.

“He mentioned Jurgen Klopp in a really clever way; he acknowledged that the fans loved Klopp, he said he loves him too, and he assured the supporters he wouldn’t be changing a lot,” he said. “I bet they couldn’t believe their luck when he said that. You know, he just dropped that line in beautifully, for me. I thought it was just fantastic, he’s handled the whole situation brilliantly.”

Slot’s transition into Liverpool manager has been made easier by the strong squad he has inherited, despite losing duo Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip. The team he currently has were the League Cup winners last season and were consistent enough to finish third in the Premier League.

Since arriving at Anfield, Slot has only added one player to the roster – Italian forward Federico Chiesa. However, Sheringham does believe that a little switch-up in the starting XI couldn’t hurt from time to time.

“There wasn’t a lot wrong at the club, to be honest,” Sheringham said. “Things can always be tweaked, especially if you’re heading into a new season having not won the league in the previous year.”

The extent of Slot’s success at Liverpool is yet to unfold, but Sheringham is confident that the new manager isn’t about to try to replicate Klopp’s style. He suggests that Slot’s respectful nod to Klopp’s methods and his own calm demeanour are exactly what is needed to usher in a prosperous new chapter at Anfield.

“There was purpose in Jurgen’s ways, Liverpool fans loved him, and Slot obviously isn’t stupid enough to come in and try and do things his way, and change things up. His approach, and his acknowledgement of Klopp, is the perfect way to keep his players, and the supporters, on side. They’re definitely in the title race.”