Liverpool legend John Barnes believes the club's decision to give more control to Jurgen Klopp has proved key to ending their title drought.
The Reds will lift the Premier League trophy following tonight's games against Chelsea (live on Off The Ball at 8.15pm), with their 19th English League crown coming 30-years after their 18th.
“Liverpool went through a period where they weren’t capable of winning the Premier League but the expectation was still there," Barnes said on Sky Sports ahead of the game at Anfield.
“Liverpool have not only trusted Klopp, they have given him the power to make decisions, particularly in the first couple of years. The fans trusted him, the hierarchy trusted him and as consequence of that you can see what has happened in the last couple of years.
“That should serve as a lesson to all clubs and fans; give managers time and the power to deliver success.”
Former Liverpool midfielder and manager Graeme Souness meanwhile feels his old club are worthy league winners:
“When I was a player at Liverpool, the priority among the staff was the league. They said that said more about the football club, more about the players as a collective, more about the players individually.
“It’s been 30 long years that they haven’t got their hands on the trophy, but if ever there was a team deserving of it, it’s this team. They have been absolutely incredible, not just this year but the previous year where they missed out by a point. They are worthy champions.”
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.