Brendan Rodgers Season Specials

Brendan Rodgers faces a defining season as he embarks on a new chapter in his career. The new Liverpool boss is the man charged with halting their recent rot and getting them back fighting it out at the top of the Premier League table. The 39-year-old will no doubt need time for his philosophy to pay dividends, with supporters hoping that the Rodgers revolution is more than just a catchy slogan.
 
There is no question that the pressure is already on the former Swansea boss. The fixture list certainly hasn't been kind to Rodgers, with Liverpool facing defending champions Man City, Arsenal and Man Utd in their first five matches. The results of these potentially defining games could set the tone for the rest of the season. A couple of early wins would fill the side with confidence and get the balling for a top for four finish. Meanwhile defeats against their rivals would really dampen the spirits, with the club playing catch-up for the rest of the season. A very poor start could see Rodgers ruthlessly sacked, with the Ulsterman available at 4/1 with SkyBet to not to be in charge come the New Year and 7/4 to be sent packing before the final game of the season.

It is no secret that the focus of the season is finishing in the top four, with SkyBet handing the Reds odds of 15/8 to secure a Champions League spot.  However, recent history doesn’t bode well, with the club failing to even place in the top five since the departure of Rafael Benitez. Liverpool endured a torrid 2011/12 Premier League season, finishing way down in 8th, a staggering 37 points behind champions Manchester City and 17 points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham. Goals were a major problem, with the Reds scoring less than Fulham, Norwich and relegated Blackburn Rovers.

Rodgers’ Swansea side were dubbed 'Swanselona' last season due to their attractive style of play. His football philosophy is what got him the Liverpool job and he will be hoping his ideals can rub off on his players. He has made a couple of astute signings in Fabio Borini and Joe Allen, who brings quality and flair to the side. Liverpool travel to West Brom on the opening game of the season, where they come up against former coach Steve Clarke, who left the Merseyside club to take charge of the Baggies. The Reds can be backed at evens to come away with the win, while West Brom are 5/2 to claim the three points.

Brendan Rodgers Liverpool Specials

• 16/1 - To win 2012/2013 LMA Manager of the year    
• 5/4 - To win a trophy in 2012/2013 season
• 1/7 - To be in charge on 1st Jan 2013    
• 4/1 - Not to be in charge on 1st Jan 2013
• 7/4 - Not to be in charge for last game on 2012/2013 season   
• 14/1 - Top 2 League Finish
• 15/8 - Top 4 League Finish   
• 2/5 - Top 6 League Finish
• 8/1 - Bottom Half League Finish

Odds courtesy of SkyBet.