Liverpool have sank to some lows this season by struggling to qualify for next season’s Champions League and the fact they are in the semi-finals of the Europa League – Europe’s Carling Cup – is a constant reminder of a miserable campaign.

But as much as it would hurt to see Manchester United eclipse their haul of 18 League titles, any suggestions the Merseysiders would roll over for Chelsea when they travel to Anfield on the penultimate game of the season are surely the work of conspiracy theorists. Surely.

 

What might happen however, especially if Liverpool are out of the Champions League running and have Europa League commitments, is the strong possibility of Rafael Benitez making some bizarre team selection and introducing a strange formation that his players aren’t used to, giving Chelsea the timely boost they’ll need.

The events leading up to the game may dictate some circumstances – but the hope from the Anfield club’s pint of view at least, is that the cash won’t be as meaningless as it could be.

They don’t exactly have a great relationship with Chelsea so that will be motivation enough. The Reds could still have a glimmer of hope for fourth, while the risk of relinquishing bragging rights to City rivals Everton, who are poised to overtake them in the table if there’s any slip ups – should ensure everybody is on their guard.

But more importantly than all those factors is their damaged pride. Liverpool will want to do all they can to atone for such a disappointing season – and finishing strongly would be a start on the long road to recovery.