Premier League 18-19: 5 reasons why Liverpool’s season will be a success irrespective of what happens in May

#3 A far more resilient defence

Chelsea v Liverpool - Premier League

Despite the recent defensive wobbles, caused mainly due to injuries, there is no doubt that Liverpool’s defence is now much more miserly. With 26 games gone, Liverpool already have registered 14 clean sheets – which is already more than their full-season totals of 16-17, 15-16 and even the 13-14 during which Liverpool challenged for the title but produced only 10 clean sheets.

While Van Dijk’s influence over this improvement can’t be overstated, one shouldn’t forget Joe Gomez’s coming of age in the 1st half of the season. In the 11 Premier League games he started before his injury, Liverpool kept 7 clean sheets, conceding against Big 6 opposition only. After his injury, however, Liverpool have kept only 5 clean sheets in 12, conceding against bottom half clubs as well. It is easy to forget that he is just 21, with his best years ahead of him, which is a huge positive for Liverpool.