Liverpool’s top opponent? Themselves

Crystal Palace 2 Liverpool 4: Liverpool as champions? Dejan Lovren admitted the victory at Selhurst Park supported the case both for and against the title returning to Anfield for the first time since 1990.

Exposed too easily at the back, Jurgen Klopp’s side were at times irresistible going forward, showcasing qualities that have made them arguably the most entertaining of the contenders in this season’s Premier League title race. Little wonder Lovren admitted when it comes to their prospects this season, “our biggest opponent is us”.

Lovren summed up the two sides of this performance, committing the error that allowed James McArthur to cancel out Emre Can’s opening goal before immediately restoring the lead with a header. The Croatian’s reaction was impressive, as was that of Klopp’s side against obstinate opponents in a game that only assumed a measure of calm after Roberto Firmino gave the visitors a two-goal lead midway through the second half.