Mark Lawrenson believes that Liverpool will beat bottom of the table Watford when the two sides meet at Anfield on Saturday.
The clash marks the beginning of a hectic festive fixture schedule for the Reds, who will fly out the start their FIFA Club World Cup campaign after the match.
But Lawrenson is of the opinion that it could be a good thing for Jurgen Klopp’s men.
Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “There are some positives from their trip to Qatar for the World Club Cup, though.
“In many respects, it is like a mid-season break for them, like the one Manchester United had when they took part in this competition in 1999-2000.
“And Liverpool’s first game, whoever it is against, is not going to be too challenging.
“So, while much has been made of how they are probably going to play two games out there, I would look at the fact they are all together as a squad, and will be spending most of their time doing warm-weather training. From that point of view, it is a win-win situation.
“Before they fly off, the most important thing for Liverpool is that they sign off with a victory on Saturday.”
Lawrenson predicts a 3-0 win for the Reds.
OPINION
It’s certainly going to be interesting to see how the Reds cope with such a congested schedule. Ordinarily, with a first league title on the line for three decades, you would want your club to be as streamlined and focussed as possible as they go into the crucial festive period, but instead, Liverpool are sending half their squad halfway around the world to heap yet more matches on them. That being said, imagine the confidence boost if they can win it. Coming back to England as world champions would surely make the Reds feel nothing short of unstoppable, and as long as they can bookend their adventure with Premier League wins, then all should be well. Watford look like easy pickings, but never underestimate the effects of a new manager, especially one as ferocious as Nigel Pearson. It would still take a lot for Jurgen Klopp’s men to capitulate here though.
