RAFA BENITEZ has dismissed claims Liverpool's hopes of a title challenge depend on a result against Chelsea this weekend.
With one defeat in their first three league games, Benitez is well aware of the importance of a positive outcome at Stamford Bridge.
But the Anfield boss is adamant the race for the Premiership will be as open as ever this season, and he doesn't believe a defeat for either side on Sundaymeans they should be written off.
Benitez predicts the final points tally this year could be much lower than the 91 Chelsea accumulated in winning their second consecutive title.
"I'm surprised so many people are saying if we lose, the title will be impossible," said Benitez. "Last year we won one of the first six league games but finished the season with 82 points and came third. This time,Iwouldn't besurprised if a team with 75 points finished first.
"I think the Premiership is much stronger this year and a lot of clubs have improved. More teams will beat each other."
Liverpool will welcome the extra day's preparation before heading to London, having been forced to play in three consecutive early Saturday league fixtures so far.
Benitez will be pondering who to pair with Jamie Carragher, with Daniel Agger's claims enhanced by his man-of-the-match performance in Eindhoven.
Steven Gerrard will return to the starting line-up having been rested in midweek, but John Arne Riise is still injured.
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