Preview: Liverpool Set for ‘Really Tough’ Crystal Palace Test | OneFootball

Liverpool eye crucial momentum boost in title defence

Liverpool have made a flawless start to their Premier League title defence under Arne Slot. Five wins from five, top of the table and already five points clear, it is the kind of beginning that fuels belief in a team capable of retaining their crown. Yet football rarely allows time to breathe. This weekend’s trip to Selhurst Park brings with it a different kind of challenge, and one that could carry significant psychological weight in the race with Arsenal and Manchester City.

Grizz Khan, speaking to Gags Tandon for Anfield Index, captured the sense of importance surrounding this fixture. His measured words still cut through with conviction, acknowledging the stakes in a season where every small advantage matters.

Early statement opportunity

As Khan put it: “I don’t want to over hype it more than I should for a gameweek six match, but with Arsenal away to Newcastle and Liverpool away to Crystal Palace, if we better their result this week then I’ll be excited.”

He is right to highlight the context. Arsenal face a notoriously awkward trip to St James’ Park, and Liverpool must take care of their own business in South London. The margins at the top are fine, but these early weeks can shape the tone of a season. “Whether it’s they lose and we draw, or they draw and we win – we need to better their result. Psychologically, whether it’s a six point lead or an eight point lead, it would be huge after six games.”

Slot’s men have so far looked composed, balanced and ruthless. Yet as Khan pointed out, Crystal Palace are far from an easy assignment.

Crystal Palace threat under Glasner

The Community Shield back in August offered a reminder of Palace’s resilience, holding Liverpool to a 2-2 draw before winning on penalties at Wembley. That was no fluke. Under Oliver Glasner, they have become one of the most difficult sides in the league to beat.

“We know that it’s literally the first hurdle because they’re the in-form team,” Khan explained. “Let’s not get carried away, it’ll be a tough game. It’s away to a side that haven’t lost in 17 games stretching back to last season.”

Glasner’s work has been impressive. Palace combine tactical structure with individual quality. As Khan observed: “Oliver Glasner is a bloody good coach and he has done a fantastic job.”

Midfield duel could be decisive

For Liverpool, dominance in midfield has been a defining factor of their perfect start. At Selhurst Park, that area of the pitch could prove pivotal. Palace boast options that give them both energy and guile.

“We know about their midfield. Adam Wharton, what a player. Sometimes it’s Daichi Kamada and sometimes it’s Will Hughes. It will be tough.”

This is where Slot’s side must find control. Wharton in particular has been outstanding since his arrival, and Palace’s capacity to rotate in quality options ensures they can compete with the very best.

Liverpool’s test of champions

Liverpool have already demonstrated their quality under Slot, but the journey of a title defence is measured by how a side navigates fixtures that carry both pressure and threat. A victory at Palace would not just extend a perfect start, it would strengthen belief inside the squad and in the stands.

Grizz Khan’s reflections underline that it is about more than three points. It is about momentum, about small shifts in psychology and about showing that Liverpool are not simply defending a crown, but determined to build a dynasty under Slot.