Depending on how you look at it, the international break could be seen as either a boon or a bane for Liverpool.

Before their players jetted off to join their national teams, the Reds suffered another late setback in their last Premier League match. It seems as though reigning champions Liverpool are paying the price for their numerous last-minute victories in the season's first five matches.

Arne Slot's side were dealt a crushing blow by a 96th minute goal that handed Chelsea a win over the current Premier League champions at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Chelsea's 2-1 triumph over the Reds came hot on the heels of a 97th minute winner for Crystal Palace the previous week. In between these two games, Liverpool endured a difficult night in Istanbul, losing to Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Liverpool will have to wait until after the break to seek redemption on the pitch. However, the fortnight-long pause provides an opportunity for Slot's team to regroup and reassess, especially after falling behind Arsenal in the race...