Liverpool have not even had the chance to wrap up that first league title in 30 years yet but such is the capacity for football to throw things forward – even when at a standstill – that it feels natural for thoughts to turn to how Jurgen Klopp’s side might be able to improve. Not easy with a team that was on course to break the Premier League points record.

One upgrade that has been mooted is the acquisition of Timo Werner. The 24-year-old German is rated among the top prospects in Europe, boasting an impressive scoring record at RB Leipzig. Although primarily a centre-forward, Werner is capable of playing anywhere across the front line. So who would he replace in Klopp’s first-choice starting line-up?

It might seem extraordinary given his record for Liverpool but Mohamed Salah might be the supporters’ choice. Indeed, if another young talent such as Jadon Sancho could be persuaded to head to Anfield, there are those who might even consider selling their star man. It is a possibility that was raised by Jamie Carragher earlier in the season.

“I think Mo Salah is seen as world class by those on the outside but with Liverpool fans I think he is a little bit underappreciated,” said Carragher, speaking on Monday Night Football. “Certainly going from that first season to what he is doing now, there has been a bit of a dip. But he was never going to score another 47 goals in a season.

“I think Liverpool have got six world-class players. I think if you asked Liverpool fans whether they would take big money for the other five, they would all say no, no matter what the money. There is no way they would sell Alisson or Virgil van Dijk. But if you offered them £130m for Salah, they would think about it. That is why I say he is underappreciated.”