Season preview: Liverpool’s Lucas to save the day

BFTGT: What would have to happen this season for you to class this as a successful one?

Rob Marrs: A top five finish, a Cup, playing some decent football and being on the back pages rather than the front. I’d say top four but we’ve fallen back over the last couple of years and all our competitors have strengthened (Arsenal with Cazorla, Chelsea with Hazard, Spurs with their new manager).

BFTGT: How do you feel about your club’s business in the transfer window this summer?

RM: Mixed. I’m happy with Borini and, to a lesser extent, Allen. Allen’s decent but the amount of money is a lot. I’m less happy that Aquilani has gone without ever getting an extended run and equally unhappy Maxi has left. If we keep Agger and Skrtel I’ll be very happy.

BFTGT: Who do you think will be your most important player this season?

RM: Lucas Leiva. We missed him so much after he was injured last year – the midfield lost solidity and the centre-backs were less well protected. If he comes back fully fit, we’ll be a lot better off.

BFTGT: How do you rate your manager’s ability to take your club forward?

RM: I like his philosophy and I like his manner. I just want him to be given time to mould an ethos, philosophy and style. Even if he has a bad season next year we need to stick with someone – I hate the fact that we’ve become one of those clubs that sack a manager every season.

BFTGT: Who do you think will win the league this season?

RM: Last year I said Manchester United had the manager but not the players and Manchester City had the players but not the manager and put my money on the red side of Manchester. This year I think City might edge it – the first title is always the hardest after all. If Manchester United manage to prize Robin van Persie away from Arsenal I reserve the right to change my mind!