Gary Megson: Liverpool can go Premier League distance

"They seem settled and they are flying. They've had top-class players for the last 40 to 50 years and they've got great expectations.

"They're expected to be in the Champions League and picking up Premier League titles and they are well capable of building on their great start.

"It seems incredible that it's been 18 years since they won the league. Yes, they've won plenty of cups during that time but, ultimately, you are judged on Premier League titles."

Megson has nothing but respect for Britain's most successful club and is an admirer of the desire and discipline Benitez has instilled into his side.

He added: "They've got some world-class players, backed up by real class players, but the thing that they've all got is a really high work ethic.

"They are organised, they're a problem from set-pieces and all those things that the smaller clubs are supposed to be good at, Liverpool do it as well as everyone else and, in most cases, better."

Captain Kevin Nolan returns from suspension and Bolton could revert to a 4-5-1 formation with Johan Elmander the man to miss out.

Liverpool's 4-2 surrender to Tottenham in the Carling Cup on Wednesday raised serious question marks about the depth of their squad, but Benitez is certain to bring back his established names in a full-strength line-up against Bolton.

Skipper Steven Gerrard will return along with the likes of Jose Reina, Jamie Carragher, Dirk Kuyt and Robbie Keane.

Megson acknowledged Gerrard is the driving force in Liverpool's side, saying: "Gerrard is a brilliant player but they have other players who we also need to stop.

"Steve is world class; he's quick, strong, good in the air and has a great strike on him.

"He works his socks off as well but we've got to try and play against Liverpool and not just Steven Gerrard."

Megson welcomes back captain Kevin Nolan from suspension and could revert to a 4-5-1 formation with Johan Elmander the man to miss out.