However, manager Rafa Benitez remains convinced he can end a three-season trophy drought at Anfield and deliver the prize the fans crave the most.
Next May will represent the 20th anniversary since the Merseyside club last won the league title, far too long for a team of Liverpool's traditions.
"We are strong enough to beat anyone but we need to be consistent," said Benitez as he prepared for his sixth season in charge at Anfield.
"We got 86 points last season, a record for the club in the Premier League, but we still need to improve. We have a lot of confidence."
Liverpool's title hopes may also rest on Benitez concentrating on his side instead of allowing himself to become distracted by United.
The Anfield club's 2008-09 season seemed to suffer after Benitez launched an outspoken attack on Alex Ferguson in January, saying United's manager was above punishment by soccer's governing bodies.
The fitness of England midfielder Steven Gerrard and Spain striker Fernando Torres is also key to Liverpool's ambitions.
If Gerrard and Torres stay fit, Liverpool's long wait for the title could soon be over.
