Shambolic is the only way to describe Liverpool’s season so far. Admittedly, they have won a trophy and adding the F.A. Cup in May is a distinct possibility. Silverware is never a bad thing, but a 7th place finish in the Premier League would be. For a club with its resources and history, it is an embarrassment. With the money Kenny Dalglish has invested in the transfer market, Liverpool should be doing better. While there is a litany of excuses to placate the fans, from off-field distractions to this being a “transitional” season, there really is only one genuine problem with the club. Namely, the majority of players purchased within the last two years are simply not good enough for a club with winning ambitions.

Players including but not limited to Andy Carroll, Stewart Downing and Charlie Adam are not capable of pushing Liverpool to the summit of the Premier League. They are Premiership quality players, but they do not have the requisite skills to challenge perennially for the big trophies. Despite this considerable problem, and the clear struggles the manager is having with his squad and the media, Liverpool will be back on track in no time.

If you consider the fact Liverpool has dominated the majority of their matches, there is reason for optimism. The most recent fixtures notwithstanding, Liverpool has generally outplayed and out chanced their opposition, only to be punished for their flagrancy in front of goal. If a quality striker or two can be brought in to supplement Luis Suarez’s play-making, this problem should be solved.

On the defensive side of things, Liverpool has conceded the fewest goals in the league outside of the Manchester clubs. Their backline should not undergo significant change this summer, so more of the same can be expected in the next campaign.

With regard to youth, Liverpool appears to have one of the deeper pools of talented prospects. Jay Spearing, John Flanagan, Martin Kelly, and Jonjo Shelvey are all very promising. Some of these players are already making a positive impact with the first team, and they only represent a few of the elite youngsters in the club’s ranks.

As such, it would be very surprising if Liverpool struggled again next season. Amidst the gloom of a pair of reversals against lowly QPR (lost 2-3) and Wigan (lost 1-2) it might be difficult to see, but the future looks bright. If Liverpool can end this season with some positive results in the league and another trophy, the uneasiness amongst the Kop may disperse. However, even if Liverpool maintains current form, the club is only a quality player or two away from competing with the top 4 once again.