Steven Gerrard insists Liverpool need to ‘hit the ground running’ if they are to compete for Premier League title

EPL,Steven Gerrard,Liverpool vs Fulham(Getty Images)

Related Links

Teams

Players

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has insisted that a strong start to the new season is vital if the Merseyside club are going to compete for the Premier League title.

The 2011-12 fixtures were announced on Friday, and Liverpool welcome Sunderland to Anfield in their opening game, a clash which could see new signing Jordan Henderson make his competitive debut against his former club.

A testing trip to the Emirates follows next for the Kenny Dalglish’s men, a fixture in which a last-gasp Dirk Kuyt penalty secured a 1-1 draw for the Reds last season.

Whilst Gerrard is fully aware of the potential to slip up in what are two difficult opening fixtures, the 31-year-old is confident his side can overcome any obstacles to make a positive start to the season.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Gerrard said: “It is a massive test early on. It’s nice to have a home game first, the fans will be right up for it.

“Hopefully we will have a few new signings in and we can start the season with three points which would give us the confidence to then go and get a good result at Arsenal. That is a difficult place to go and we haven’t won there for a while.

“It’s important to hit the ground running if you want to compete for the title. You can’t afford any slip-ups early on.

“It’s a tough first two games but I’m really looking forward to them and I think we can get two positive results.”

Our  provides the best breaking news online and our  football fan community is unmatched worldwide. Never miss a thing again!