Liverpool's inability to pick up points against group rivals Lyon and Fiorentina means that they have failed to qualify from the group stages in this year's Champions League and will instead have to concentrate on qualifying for next years competition.
The dominant force at the end of the seventies and early eighties in European football, Liverpool still have an affinity with the Champions League, having won their fifth title in 2005. Although struggling to win a domestic title, the Champions League seems to bring the best out of them as they once again reached the final three seasons ago, losing out to AC Milan in Athens. Manager Rafa Benitez obviously holds a lot of respect for the Champions League and often rests his better players at the expense of Premier League points.
Liverpool's form is very much dependant on two players, captain Steven Gerrard and striker Fernando Torres. When these two play Liverpool are a tough opposition for anyone, as Real Madrid and Barcelona will testify in recent seasons. The loss of Xabi Alonso will be a big one and summer signing Alberto Aquilani has big boots to fill. Liverpool finished second in the 2008/09 Premier League, their best finish since 2002, they haven't won the title for nearly twenty years.
Steven GerrardCheck out the other British Clubs with a chance in this season's Champions League.
Champions League OddsCompare bookmakers odds for the Champions League 2009 / 2010
Top Goalscorer BettingBetting odds on who will be the top goalscorer in the Champions League
Champions League FormView the latest form before you place any of your online football bets
Bookmark This Page