Graeme Souness has backed Liverpool to retain their Premier League crown this season but his support comes with a warning for the current champions.
The legendary Reds figure does not expect such a dominant title march in the same way as last season.
Jurgen Klopp's side begin their title defence against Leeds United on Saturday and, after a relatively quiet summer in the transfer market, all eyes will be on whether the same set of players can match the performances they put in last season.
Sky Sports pundit Souness believes the Reds are favourites but he thinks the title race will be closer this season.
That is due to other clubs in the top four strengthening, although Souness is reserving judgement on the credentials of Manchester United and Chelsea.
He has pointed to issues over David de Gea's form at Old Trafford and question marks over how Chelsea's numerous new signings settle into English football as reasons why they may not be able to sustain a title challenge, even if they do close the gap on the Reds this season.
"As it stands, Liverpool are the favourites for the title, but I don’t see them running away with it again," Souness wrote in his column for the Sunday Times.
"I expect a bigger challenge, though, from United and Chelsea this time.
"United will be better with Donny van de Beek, but the goalkeeping situation may be an issue.
"Chelsea have signed well, but let’s see how quickly Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech and Kai Havertz settle in.
"Beyond that, I don’t see a title challenger. People are making noises about Arsenal, but I don’t see them being strong enough.
"If you’re asking me now, that’s my top four for next May: Liverpool, City, United and Chelsea."
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