The goalscoring exploits of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge have been a key ingredient of Liverpool’s Premier League title charge this season

You could be forgiven for thinking Liverpool have arranged a series of '70s theme parties in preparation for the Premier League climax.

If the sight of scarves and banners and revival of Kop chants from 40 years ago wasn't enough on Wednesday evening, sitting in the directors' box – a guest of the club – was former chief executive Peter Robinson, one of the architects of Liverpool's glory years.

Robinson, a rare visitor to Anfield in recent times, will surely approve of Rodgers' modern twist on a formula not easily replicated since the famed administrator's retirement in the late '90s.

"Anyone who watched Liverpool in '70s and '80s knows what it can be like here," Rodgers said earlier this week. He has been channelling that spirit since his first day in office.

As David Moyes is discovering at Manchester United, a regal past is a beast you can never completely tame. You can't escape nor replicate it. It's always behind you, monitoring every false move, ready to pounce at a hint of weakness to declare its own superiority.

There have been times during the last 24 years when Liverpool's sense of nostalgia was its prime asset and also its major defect, a source of inspiration to some and permanent migraine to others.

We should compare Rodgers' approach to that of one of his predecessors, Gerard Houllier, who upon leaving Liverpool in 2004 made a polite but nonetheless pointed parting observation.

"There are some here who want to go back to the '70s and '80s," he said. "Fine, not with me."

Houllier had a point. His irritation at one cursory remark too many from the 'legends lounge' serves only to prove that the Liverpool into which Houllier arrived in 1998 is vastly different to the one Rodgers is rebuilding.

Old boys networks are notoriously suspicious and intolerant of 'outsiders'. Having every defeat dissected by a former captain whose medals are still in pristine condition is intimidating and potentially destructive.

There were enough warnings for Rodgers to heed about the perils of being perceived as the smart, modern coach with a 'philosophy' who'd come to Liverpool – as one ex-player sarcastically put in 2012 – 'to reinvent the wheel'.

Instead of running from the club museum, Rodgers decided to make history his ally rather than foe.

ARTEFACTS

In his first week in charge, Rodgers was given a tour of the club's artefacts by curator Stephen Done, and spotted the iconic 'This is Anfield' sign that Bill Shankly placed in the players' tunnel.

"Why is it in here and not where it used to be?" Rodgers asked.

Done informed him there was a new one there now. Rodgers insisted the original to be put back. Next, Rodgers noticed on old photographs and videos how Liverpool's goal nets used to be red. He ordered their re-introduction.

A highly significant early meeting was with Liverpool's Former Players' Association. Many have influential media roles and Rodgers wanted them to hear his vision and get them on board.

He did likewise with fans' groups, websites and fanzines and made a personal visit to the influential 'Liverpool Echo'.

Perhaps Rodgers most surprising act was to sanction the return of his predecessor in the dug-out, Kenny Dalglish, welcoming him back as an ambassador a year after he'd taken his job, many supporters at the time still arguing that 'the King' should not have been dethroned.

There are no ghosts on the wall at Anfield under Rodgers, just kindred spirits. To his closest associates, the current Liverpool revival is no surprise.

Rodgers' first act as manager in July 2012 was to call a meeting of the entire Melwood staff, not just his players, but the coaches, assistants, groundsmen, media team, dining ladies, receptionists and everyone with a daily working connection to Liverpool's training ground.

He presented his vision to around 40 employees, speaking about embracing and respecting the traditions of old but offering a modern sheen.

"I want you all on the boat with me," he told them, pinpointing his first 100 days in charge as essential for setting his agenda.

His approach was likened by those who heard it to an inaugural speech by a Prime Minister or US president taking office, the incumbent determined to hit the ground running in putting an infrastructure in place even if, initially, results were not favourable.

Rodgers is now executing his plan to replenish the Anfield ideal. He has not yet been intimidated by the sight of the Champions League trophy residing in the foyer of Melwood, or subject to the bouts of paranoia and insecurity that damaged some predecessors.

"When you come to a club like this one the shirt weighs much heavier than any other shirt. The weight of expectation is phenomenal," Rodgers said on his unveiling as manager.

His players are currently carrying it well. If they maintain their winning streak, the '70s theme will continue when the flares are ignited in celebration all around Anfield. (© Daily Telegraph, London)

20-20 vision - how Reds pair are breaking records

Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge are only the third strike partnership to both hit 20 goals in the same Premier League season.

1993-94, Newcastle United

Andy Cole (34 GOALS) and Peter Beardsley (21)

The pair contributed 55 goals as Newcastle were the leading scorers in their first season back in the top flight, finishing third.

2009-10, Chelsea

Didier Drogba (29) and Frank Lampard (22)

Both enjoyed the most productive league seasons of their careers as they helped Carlo Ancelotti's side win the Double.

2013-14, Liverpool

Luis Suarez (28) and Daniel Sturridge (20)

Despite the Uruguayan being banned for the first five games, the pair have been the driving force behind the Reds' unexpected title challenge. The last Liverpool duo to reach 20 together in the top flight were Roger Hunt (31) and Ian St John (21) in the 1963-64 season.

Irish Independent