Liverpool's State of Affairs

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

One word to describe Liverpool up until now...uninspiring. At least that is the word I would use to describe them based off of their recent Champion's League match against their first group stage opponent Debrecini VSC.

They looked to labor most of the first half, retarding their attack with uncreative and time consuming possession. It appeared their opponent feared insulting the Reds if they pressured them and played dangerous attacking football.

What they were supposed to do, when playing away in Europe.

But they didn't, because if they did, I believe Debreceni could have come away with a draw or even a win.

If Liverpool chooses to perform like this against either Lyon or Fiorentina they will struggle to advance past the group stage.

Looking at their performances against Tottenham and Aston Villa, both teams caught the Reds off guard and stole points away from them when they were considered the favorites to win the league. That was early on, but looking at all their performances as a whole; they look more like the Liverpool of 2007/2008 then the Liverpool of 2008/2009.

Amongst their six matches so far they have only lost two and won four in all competitions. A good record for some clubs but when you consider that they didn't lose more than two games all of last season it begins to put things into perspective for their title hopes.

They would literally have to win every single game from this point forward to win the title, and I say that because of the parody being introduced by the rise of teams such as Aston Villa and Manchester City. Teams who are expected to take points from the top four.

At this point, what does Liverpool do?

They will do what Liverpool has always done, concentrate on the positive and rely on the league to underestimate them.

Yossi Benayoun has been a revelation during these recent matches, notching a hat-trick against premier league new boys Burnley. The midfielder looking dangerous in his customary wide position has brought life to the side when they need it.

Another positive Rafa Benitez can look at, is Glen Johnson's almost seamless integration into his squad. The England right back has put together a string of positive and consistent performances. Johnson has appeared to develop a healthy relationship with Benayoun on the right side and their partnership looks dangerous and a handful for opposing defenses.

Off the pitch, both owners look to solidify their commitment to the club by selling their American sport franchises and securing more money to fight their hefty deficit in loans.

A new sponsorship deal for the club has been reported to be made that might inject more funds to be available during January's transfer window. The four-year sponsorship deal is said to be  the "largest ever commercial deal" in the history of the club.

All is not lost for Liverpool, certainly not, at least not yet. Perhaps with the introduction with Alberto Aquilani and Daniel Agger, when they are completely healthy, will further strengthen a squad who appear to be uninspired at the moment.

But no amount of bad play could ever curb the desire of Gerrard, Torres or Benitez.  Although the club is headed for a tough competition, they have been there before and know what to do.

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