Ian Callaghan confident that Liverpool still have a shot at the title

Despite the inexplicable 3-3 draw at Monday’s game against Crystal Palace, Ian Callaghan who holds the title for all time record appearances is confident that the Reds are still in with a chance at the title. He insists that the pressure is firmly on City with Liverpool currently sitting a point clear at the top of the table and the doing the calculations shows that the Redmen could still lift the trophy.

“We know football can kick you in the face and we know how things can change around quickly, so this title race is by no means over whatsoever,” Said Callaghan, speaking to Liverpoolfc.com.

“We have got to be positive and we have still got one game to go. It wasn’t a great result last night – obviously the Chelsea game wasn’t either – but having said that, City have got to play on Wednesday night and then Sunday.

“Mathematically, we can still do it. They need four points out of the two games and we need to win our last game against Newcastle United.

“The pressure is on Manchester City. I went to their match at Everton on Saturday and it was a nervy affair. We can still hope and we have to stay positive. City could easily slip up.

“Aston Villa played very well at Anfield when we came back to get a 2-2 draw. On any given day each team can beat each other, they really can, as there are some really good players playing in the Premier League and anything can happen.”

The final game of the season, Manchester City against West Ham United is due to be played on Sunday at the Etihad. Callaghan is hanging his hopes on Andy Carroll, the former Liverpool player, doing his old team a favour.

“Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing both scored last weekend against Tottenham so there is no reason why one of them can’t do something this Sunday, and maybe Downing can cross one for Carroll to head home!

“Andy is still trying to earn a place in the England squad for the World Cup and City will not relish coming up against him.

“People might say that West Ham will have nothing to play for on Sunday but let me tell you that they are professional footballers and they have pride.

“Sam Allardyce will demand his team end the season well so I think they have got a chance and you never know.”

Speaking of his old team for which he made a record 857 appearances, Callaghan had plenty of praise for the current Liverpool Manager and the way he has helped contribute to their performance.

“A couple of months ago we were talking about the need to get fourth spot and qualify for the Champions League and here we are now still with a great chance of winning it.

“From my own point of view, I do hospitality in the lounges on a matchday at Anfield and it has been a fantastic season to watch Liverpool play. The football they have played this year has been absolutely tremendous.

“It has been so exciting and it has been a great season. We are back where we belong in the Champions League and I really do believe the future is bright under Brendan.

“It will be fantastic to have Champions League football back at Anfield as there is no better place to be on a European night because the atmosphere is just unbelievable.”





