Liverpool FC: What Fans Can Take Away from a Convincing Four Matches

Liverpool have started brightly this year under manager Kenny Dalglish. Anfield has seen some special football at times, as Bolton were the latest side to be sent packing with nothing.

With four matches out the way, and August drawing to a close, it's time to take a look at what Liverpool can take from a convincing start to their campaign.

New Signings Respond to Pressure

Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam in particular have been subject to negative feedback following their respective moves. Both had been deemed 'not good enough' or 'a waste of money'. However, following much improved displays against Bolton, fans are finally on their side.

Jordan Henderson was almost a new player in midfield, putting in dangerous crosses, and scoring a well taken goal.

However, the most improved player award goes to Charlie Adam. He orchestrated the teams attacks using short but effective passes, or more challenging accurate ones. He too scored a goal that will do heaps to improve his confidence, and another assist has proved to fans he is worth the money.

Should these players keep their form up, they can be the players to really push Liverpool into title-challenging positions.

Liverpool Will Start Brightly at Anfield

Bolton were blown away by the intensity of a Liverpool side that hit the ground running. With the pace of Downing, Suarez and Henderson injected into the side, Liverpool can attack quickly and expose weak spots.

Both Sunderland and Bolton were second best for the first 45 minutes, though Liverpool must try to maintain the intensity for the full game if Anfield is to regain its fortress status.

Should Liverpool start quickly with regular consistency, I expect Liverpool to go unbeaten at home this season.

Kuyt Will Start Most Games at Home

Kuyt is a workhorse, a trait that is invaluable in home games. When possession is lost, Kuyt is near the defence getting tackles in. When Liverpool attack, Kuyt is always there either to receive a pass, or make space for another.

However, the main reason Kuyt will start the majority of home games is simple: he suits the Anfield way of play. Carroll's presence provokes a long ball style of play, whereas Kuyt is always up for a nice bit of link-up play.

Also, Kuyt's partnership with Suarez is better than Carroll's. Whether this is because Suarez and Kuyt both speak Dutch, or because they just have a better connection, I don't know. However, the striking pair's connection is key if Liverpool are to do well in the attacking third, and this may lead to Carroll coming on as an impact player more often than not.

Liverpool Are Favourites to Finish in the Champions League Spots

Following Arsenal's humiliation at Old Trafford, and White Hart Lane getting silenced by a rampant Manchester City side, Liverpool have made the best start out of the other top-four contenders. Seven from nine is a start I would have hoped for, and Tottenham's and Arsenal's misfortune is only an added bonus.

Should Liverpool keep their form up, and keep Suarez fit, third place isn't out the picture.

Liverpool Will Win a Lot of Penalties This Season

While that penalty wasn't the best, Liverpool should have been given a few more since then. Liverpool's new stlye of play involves the opposition defence getting split quite often, and that is when most penalties are given away.

Luis Suarez also lures players into challenges, and unfortunately is no stranger to simulation.

I just hope Gerrard or Kuyt takes them from now on.

Gerrard Is No Longer Guaranteed Anything

Gerrard is the best player Liverpool have had for over a decade, but the times has come where he is no longer guaranteed a place in the starting line-up.

I'm not saying he doesn't deserve one, of course he does, but there are other players that can take over from him now. Gerrard must continue to give his all if he is to remain a starter when fit.

When Fit Martin Kelly Is the First Choice Right Back

Only an injury to Kelly dented the celebrations of Bolton's dismissal, after he was forced off early on. Johnson is very injury prone, and also very weak defensively. Neither of those traits will do him any favours with Kenny Dalglish. Kelly, on the other hand, is very strong defensively, and when attacking.

Kelly also has the edge in age and, should he start playing now, he can be a starter for both England and Liverpool in the near future.

I wouldn't sell Johnson, because Flanagan isn't ready for the big-time yet, but soon he may well find himself being shown the door.

Thanks for reading.