Gerrard makes 13-14 goals prediction
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has predicted a goal rush at Anfield in the upcoming campaign after the Reds recorded a fifth consecutive pre-season victory in his testimonial match on Saturday.
Strikes in either half by Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson eased Brendan Rodgers' team to a straightforward 2-0 win over Olympiacos, further extending their successful streak.
With new goalkeeper Simon Mignolet between the posts Liverpool have yet to concede this summer, but the situation at the other end of the pitch is equally promising according to the skipper.
"We're in good shape; we're a lot fitter than we were at this stage last year," the 33-year-old told LFC TV immediately after taking a lap of honour in front of a sold-out home stadium.
"We've got some wonderful youngsters coming through and I think everyone is keeping their fingers crossed that we can keep important players at the club.
"If we do, I can assure everyone that we will compete. There might be one or two new faces to add to that as well. We'll have to wait and see.
"I'm really pleased with the boys so far - we haven't conceded a goal and we're creating bundles of chances. With the right people in the forward areas, we'll get lots of goals."
For the final 20 minutes of Saturday's clash with the Greek outfit, former Reds goal-getter Robbie Fowler joined the action to form a partnership alongside current talisman Luis Suarez.
'God' revealed post-match that the brief run-out is likely to be his last appearance as a professional footballer, but that did not stop Gerrard dreaming of a prolific Fowler-Suarez combination.
The midfielder added: "Can you imagine those two if they were both in their pomp?
"Luis is in the best years of his career now. If you roll back the Fowler years, he used to consistently get 30 a season. If we could have those two I'm sure we could challenge for the league."
The largest testimonial crowd since Roger Hunt's swansong in 1972 gathered at Anfield to honour the Liverpool No.8 yesterday - and Gerrard was overwhelmed by the support he received.
"It was emotional. I think they are there for everyone, of course," he said. "It's my day, but they have come to see the team, to see what shape the team is in for the new season.
"This club has always been about the team, rather than individuals. I've had a wonderful time here and I wouldn't swap it for the world.
"Of course it was an emotional lap of honour for me but it was the least I could do because the turn-out was fantastic.
"It has been more than I expected. The fans always produce and they have always been behind me since day one. I've got a huge thank-you for them today.
"Just a huge thank-you on behalf of myself and my family, and all the charities that this money is going to.
"I'm sure they would like to thank all the wonderful supporters we've got as well for being so generous and coming today. Thank-you."
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The captain has collected winning medals in the Champions League, UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup during his illustrious 15 years involved in the Anfield set-up.
But walking out with his three daughters, Lilly-Ella, Lexie and Lourdes, into a guard of honour before the friendly kicked off compares to any of those triumphs in his mind.
"It's probably one of the best feelings I've ever had," said Gerrard.
"They are the most important people to me so to walk out with them and to share that moment was special. I'll never ever forget that - it will go right up there alongside all the big trophies I've won."