The Champions League Final in Athens between Liverpool and AC Milan was unsurprisingly dull compared to some of their displays during this past season. It was like the Premiership final between Chelsea and Manchester United, where we already knew that Manchester United had won the title so there was no demand on  expectations.

Liverpool have had to deal with a lot of criticism this year and we just have to accept that they are no longer the team they used to be. Since last year's World Cup, a lot of players (not only England’s) have just been in decline. It’s not the fault of the players. It's simply that they are playing too much football and it's taking a heavy toll on their bodies.

But we still look forward to watching Liverpool play because of those glimpses of class that they are capable of producing. Make no mistake, they are hard-working. Their footwork and technique are undeniably first class but there is still something missing. So why is it that watching a Liverpool game is dull?

They seem to be slower than most high-ranking teams. Granted, most English teams are on the slow side, but, Liverpool really are S-L-O-W. They will always be my favoured team because of the mere fact that I know that deep down, one day, they will shine again. And right now, I just don’t want to desert them in their time of need. But, there has been little enjoyment in watching them this season.

Clearly something has to change in order for them to regain their status as champions. So much for Harry Kewell coming back. And poor Steven Gerrard - where have the thunderbolt shots gone?  Gerrard has the reputation of coming up with an out-of-the-blue winner. He's probably a victim of overplay, but at least his neat footwork is there for all to see.

Well, enough of roughing up the Reds. What about the Italians? The rope-a-dope technique seemed to have worked with the Reds, but there were precious lasting moments. Yes, Filippo Inzaghi’s goal deflected from Andrea Pirlo’s shot was pretty amazing, as were Kaka and Inzaghi's right-on-cue tag-team efforts, but watching Italians play is equally dull. It's like watching a team with lots of dirty tricks up their sleeves. But then again, I am biased because I still cannot forgive the Italian team for having cost France a World Cup win.

Better luck next season, Liverpool!