LFC FAN VIEW

Head of our trip to Anfield we caught up with Liverpool fan Dave Stone. Seville based Dave is also a well-known Street Poet, check him out at thewritingsonthewall.art

Much like Sunderland, Liverpool also had a very busy summer transfer window. How have those signings performed?

I think we all know that our new signings are taking time to integrate and settle in to being a Red. The hype has been intense and it can’t be easy trying to keep all the pundits and the noise out of your head.

What has been the root cause for the stark contrast in performances from this season compared to last?

I have to say that I think the tragic and sudden loss of Jota has had a profound impact on the squad. You have a dressing room where for many they have lost a brother and for the new signings it must be really tricky as of course they will have empathy but can’t by the very nature of the situation feel the same way as the players who shared so much time and so many experiences with him.

There is a lot of pressure on the Liverpool boss, Arne Slot, at the moment, do you think he can turn it around?

I do. I think it would be shortsighted to level the blame for our recent results solely on Slot. We are three points off the top four. Whilst our run of form has been a shock there is a need for collective responsibility not just a witch hunt against the manager.

What is the main aim for this season now?

I think given we are only a third of the way through the season we can still challenge. It’s a marathon and if those above us in the table currently slip a couple of times then the picture looks very different.

Looking from the outside most would pinpoint the big money moves of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak as ones to watch, is that fair or should we be looking at someone else?

Ekitike is the one to watch for me. He carries himself incredibly well and has elements of his game that remind me of a young Thierry Henry.

Which Sunderland players worry you the most?

To be honest it’s the team’s togetherness and tenacity that will worry me the most when we kick off on Wednesday rather than individuals.

What have you made of Sunderland's start to the season?

It’s been electric hasn’t it! I have a soft spot for Sunderland I’ve got many mates there and I love the music scene. I’m loving seeing the run of form they are on but will be hoping we twat yous obviously.

What's your score prediction? Who will get the goals? 

I don’t do predictions I’m not Mystic Meg. I think it will be a closer game than anyone would have imagined at the start of the season. If we click we should put yous away no bother but that’s a big if at present.

Finally, where do you think both sides will finish this year?

If I was a betting man which I’m not I’d say both teams will get into Europe. CL for us and top 6 for you.