What does the table tell us about Liverpool’s season?
It shows the transition from one era to another at Anfield has been a lot smoother than anyone anticipated. Yes, being top after seven matches (before yesterday’s matches) doesn’t mean much, but there has been a lot to admire about the opening months of Arne Slot’s reign.
Six wins out of seven is impressive, with the only blip coming at home against Nottingham Forest straight after the September international break when Liverpool delivered a sluggish display.
They have been playing with a lot more control under Slot and that’s reflected in the fact they have conceded just two league goals — the best defensive record in the division.
What doesn’t it tell us?
The underlying numbers are excellent. Coming into this weekend, Liverpool were also top when it comes to their non-penalty xG difference per game of 1.27. Those six victories have been thoroughly deserved with them packing a punch at one end and being miserly at the other.
However, for context, all the teams they have beaten so far currently sit in the bottom half of the table. We will learn a lot more about what’s realistic for Slot’s side in the coming weeks as the calibre of opposition improves.
Today’s visit of Chelsea is followed by a trip to Arsenal next weekend. There are also league games against Brighton and Aston Villa on the horizon.
GO FURTHER
What the Premier League table does (and does not) tell us about each club
