Berger claims new-look Reds are ready for trophy tilt again

Patrik Berger has been impressed with Liverpool's new-look midfield so far this season and believes the Reds are ready to start challenging for silverware again.

The Reds had only a Community Shield to show for their efforts in 2022-23 but have made a positive start to the current campaign following a major squad overhaul.

Jurgen Klopp's men sit fourth in the Premier League table ahead of hosting Merseyside rivals Everton on Saturday, just three points behind leaders Tottenham.

Berger told LiveScore on behalf of GambleBase.com: "I think they have started well. They are only three points from the top of the table. 

"Considering a lot of good players have left Liverpool in the summer, [they made] some signings that came in the last minute but they are all good players.

"I really believe that they can keep the majority of the squad fit for the whole season. They have a big chance to win something this year."

Szo far, Szo good

An engine room rebuild has seen long-term stalwarts Jordan Henderson and Fabinho replaced by Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.

And Berger, who excelled in midfield during a seven-year spell at Anfield between 1996 and 2003, is happy with the duo's effect on the Reds so far.

The former Czech Republic international, 49, said: "They're both really, really good players. 

"They are key players for their national team. Mac Allister is a world champion.

"When I was watching the World Cup and when Argentina won, I was really hoping Liverpool would sign him and it happened.

"So I like the way he plays. I like the way he moves, he dictates the tempo."

Berger added: "Szoboszlai can create chances, he can score from long distance, he's the kind of Liverpool midfield player you're looking for.

"For the opposition, it's very unpredictable. If you give him a little bit of a space 25 yards from the goal, he can hurt you.

"The expectation is high but I think so far they have shown that they are good enough to play for Liverpool.

"Liverpool is a football club where you don't really get two to three years to win something.

"You really have to make your mark straight away, which I think all of the signings have done."

Merseyside mania

Sean Dyche's Toffees pose the next test of Liverpool's credentials.

Berger scored two goals in six Merseyside derby appearances and knows how big an occasion the clash will be on Saturday lunchtime.

He said: "It's probably the biggest game of the season for the fans.

"It's two teams in one city and everyone is excited. I was always looking forward to it because it was an electric atmosphere.

"I have good memories because most of the time we ended up the winning team!"

On the challenge that awaits the Reds, Berger added: "They [Everton] were lucky that they survived and are still playing in the Premier League this season.

"They are out of the relegation zone now. They can breathe a little bit easier but I still think Liverpool have much more quality and are going to end up with the three points."