Jurgen Klopp is a relentless optimist but even the Liverpool manager may allow himself a shudder of doubt at the brutal 10 games coming his way.
Including Sunday's top-of-the-table Premier League showdown against fierce rivals Manchester United, there are just 34 days for those fixtures.
The Reds have slipped up in recent weeks, draws against West Brom and Newcastle was followed by a defeat by Southampton so they head into a mad month with nagging concerns.
It really is a make-or-break period for the champions and the United clash could set the tone this weekend.