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Robbie Fowler has confessed that he wasn't "getting carried away" with Liverpool's victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid, suggesting the Reds are still in a challenging phase following their defeat at Manchester City.
Liverpool had been on a shocking losing streak, dropping four consecutive Premier League matches and exiting the Carabao Cup. However, a victory against Villa followed by a triumph over Los Blancos at Anfield seemed to lift spirits.
There was chatter about the Reds turning things around, but Fowler remained sceptical, arguing they only performed well for one half during their win over Villa. Their seventh loss in 10 games came when they visited the Etihad, where Pep Guardiola's team won 3-0.
City was relentless, making Liverpool appear second-rate for extended periods. This victory means both City and Arsenal have pulled ahead at the top, with Arne Slot's team trailing by eight points, leading Fowler to rule them out of the title race.
Speaking to Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt on 'The Good, The Bad and The Football,' Fowler said: "I got asked before the game, 'Are Liverpool out of a little bit of a rut?' - and I thought don't be getting carried away.
"Okay, they beat Aston Villa, but for 45 minutes Liverpool weren't great, and then they beat Madrid. So it's only 45 minutes in a league game where they've played relatively okay. I think they're out of the title (race)."
Liverpool had started its title defence strongly, securing five consecutive victories.
The Reds appeared unstoppable, but their form has since collapsed dramatically, with some critics now questioning whether the extensive squad overhaul during the summer, spending more than $500 million, was excessive.
Fowler has voiced concerns about the defenders brought in, with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez operating on either flank.
Frimpong arrived from Bayer Leverkusen but is not a direct replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who departed for Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Kerkez is finding it difficult to adapt after establishing his reputation at Bournemouth.
He said: "Frimpong is the biggest example; he was brought in as a Trent replacement, but he's a wing-back.
"And Kerkez, he was everyone's favorite left back last year.
"When you're playing for Liverpool or Man United, it's different playing for Bournemouth or Brentford, because there's more pressure."
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