Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes his side will
mount a challenge for the Premier League
title, but not until next season.
After a disappointing start to the campaign, the Reds have
rediscovered some of the form which took them to within two points of the crown
last season.
The Anfield boss added several new faces to his squad after the sale of star striker Luis Suarez in the summer,
with the likes of Lazar Markovic and Emre Can beginning to justify the Northern
Irishman’s outlay.
But Rodgers conceded that the Merseysider’s were not in a
position to compete at the summit of England’s top league this season, with a
place in the top four a more realistic target for his new-look side.
"The reality for us this season was, could we finish in
the top four? With so many changes we weren't going to challenge for the
league," Rodgers said.
"We were looking to win a trophy and then come next
summer we will be ready to challenge for the title again.
"This year was about getting into the top four, trying
to minimise the impact of so many new signings, giving them time to develop and
target a trophy in the cup competitions.
"Emre Can, Mamadou Sakho, Philippe Coutinho, Raheem
Sterling, Alberto Moreno, Javier Manquillo, Adam Lallana - all players who still have a lot
to develop.
"The squad is looking exciting but needs that time to
evolve.
"If we can get success in a cup competition this year
it will provide greater motivation and stimulation for them to stay together
and perform.
"Along the way you have to bring in ready-made quality
to help their growth.
"Come the summer time that period of integration should
be complete and we can challenge for the title like we did last season."
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