48 days later: The main questions as Liverpool begin title defence

Questions, questions. Is Liverpool’s hunger sated? How will Bielsaball do? How can West Brom and Fulham realistically survive? Will fatigue play a part given last season only finished 47 days ago

The Premier League Trophy is dressed in Liverpool Red Ribbons ready for the presentation ceremony ahead of the Premier League match against Chelsea on July 22, 2020. Picture: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

1. Can Liverpool thrive without the carrot?

We have repeatedly seen the difficulty in teams defending the Premier League title. Manchester City are the only club to do it in the last 11 seasons, and they signed Riyad Mahrez to freshen up the squad ahead of 2018/19.