'Liverpool are stronger today than they were 12 months ago. Some players need five or six (games) to get up to speed. But right now, I think Liverpool could run away with it.'
Graeme Souness sent an ominous warning to the rest of the Premier League on Sunday evening, and a little over 24 hours later Liverpool reinforced that message.
After dismantling Chelsea eight days earlier, the defending champions held Arsenal at arm's length with a controlled display in an emphatic 3-1 victory at Anfield.
It is only a few weeks since serious doubts were raised over the ability of Jurgen Klopp's side to defend their crown, that they were in danger of going backwards after standing still in the transfer market.