History is repeating for Arne Slot this month. The perception, though, could hardly be more different for the Liverpool head coach and his revamped squad.

Twelve months ago, the Reds returned from the October international break to be faced with a tough run of matches many believed would prove whether or not they were the real deal after a start of the season in which Slot had won nine out of his first 10 games in charge.

That Liverpool went on to negotiate a tricky period with six wins and a draw cemented their position as Premier League leaders, a summit from which they were never usurped on the way to a record-equalling 20th championship.

Throw in a couple of impressive Champions League wins and continued progress in the League Cup - all with first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker sidelined - and...