Lallana: Liverpool blocking out the noise of title doubters

Adam Lallana claims Liverpool will “block the noise out” as questions are asked of their Premier League title credentials.

Having waited 29 years since their last top-flight triumph, the Reds are determined to get over the line in 2019.

They have, however, slipped from the summit after being held to 1-1 draws in their last two outings against Leicester and West Ham.

With defending champions Manchester City moving ominously to the front of the pack, it has been suggested that nerves are getting the better of those at Anfield.

Lallana remains adamant that is not the case, with the England international telling Liverpool’s official website of the unity on Merseyside: “We do things off the pitch together, we fight on the pitch for each other and that’s really what is special.

“We’ve lost together, we’ve lost a Champions League final together, and moments like that make you stronger. It’s a marathon, not a sprint and there are always going to be little hiccups, positive moments, bad moments, injuries, illnesses and suspensions. It’s about coming through it together.

“Media is a big part of the world – and, of course, they have got to have things to talk about – so part of me is not surprised that it [Liverpool’s form] is a talking point from the outside, but there are times during the season – and in lots of walks of life – when we’ve got to block the noise out and come together.

“That togetherness is what keeps you fighting, keeps you focused on what needs to be done and what the important points are. That’s what we’ll be doing going into the weekend’s game.”

Liverpool will be back in Premier League action on Saturday when they play host to Bournemouth.

They will be seeking a return to winning ways in that contest, with everyone connected with the Reds aware of the expectation they are operating under.

Lallana added: “They are two tough teams we’ve just drawn against; it’s as simple as that, really. Of course, we were expected to win both games – but we expect to win any game, whoever we’re playing against, whether we’re playing against a team who has won the Champions League or a team that are fighting against relegation.

“It will be no different this weekend. We have to make sure our mentality is right and go out there to try to win the game.”