Andy Townsend's Euro Files

Liverpool: Don't write them off

It's been a hugely disappointing start for Rafa's boys, but Liverpool are more than capable of winning their remaining three games and progressing.

They were poor against Porto and Marseille and only marginally better at Besiktas, but if they need to win their last game in France, they have enough quality to do so. And if they get through, don't bet against them going all the way.

It will be very interesting if the unthinkable were to happen and they were dumped out of the Champions League in the group stages. I think then we'd see the real Rafa Benitez.

It would provide a clearer indication of how he goes about his business.

Would he still rotate his starting XI if they only had to concentrate on domestic matters? An early exit would show if they really can launch a title assault.

I think Benitez — and most European coaches — have an obsession with success in Europe and prioritise the Champions League. It's as if it's in their genes.

It would be interesting to see how he would manage the team if the Premier League became his priority. Rafa has to change his thinking if Liverpool are to succeed in the league.

Arsenal: Wonderful to watch

Arsenal were given a favourable draw, but that's not their fault and they've made the most of it.

Greater challenges lie ahead, but Arsene Wenger will be delighted with the way his young team are performing. They play the same way whether they're playing Bolton or Sevilla — and it's an absolute joy to watch.

My one concern is — can they keep playing like this and maintain this level of performance? Let's see how they get on when under pressure against better teams.

Chelsea: Drogba - Simply the best

Didier Drogba is the best striker in England right now. He's on fire and has become a massive influence on the whole team — and can be the player who helps strengthen Avram Grant's position as manager.

John Terry and Frank Lampard used to be Chelsea's most important players, but there's no question that Drogba is the main man now.

No one in England leads the line with such authority and Chelsea always look threatening with him in the side.

I felt his recent remarks about the club were out of order and put his head on the block, but I take my hat off to him — he's scored in the two games since.

With the players at Grant's disposal, Chelsea should go far in the competition, but only if Drogba's attitude is right. Don't be surprised if Drogba's mindset changes and, if it does, Chelsea will be in trouble.

Man Utd: Formidable force

After a slow start to the season, Manchester United are beginning to look very dangerous.

They could have scored seven in Kiev — and that's without the likes of Scholes, Carrick, Neville, Saha, Evra and Hargreaves.

I wasn't convinced about them earlier in the season, but I am now. They look formidable, score goals from all over the pitch and are so fluid in attack. The players clearly trust each other and play with such confidence.

When they take the lead now you can only see one result — a United win. Very impressive.

Celtic and Rangers: Great starts

Walter Smith and Ally McCoist have obviously got Rangers believing in themselves and it was fantastic to see them hold Barcelona at Ibrox.

After such an incredible start manager Gordon Strachan will be disappointed with Celtic's defeat at Benfica. Yet it was a much-improved performance and they weren't far away from getting a result.

Compared to their away displays in previous campaigns, that was a huge improvement.