Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot has recently opened up about the team’s performance, acknowledging that it’s unrealistic to expect “fantastic football” from his players every match.
This admission came after a string of challenging results, including a draw with Everton and a narrow win over Wolves.
Slot Defends Team’s Effort Amidst Criticism
Slot’s comments came as Liverpool looks to bounce back from a dip in form.
Despite leading the Premier League, their last few games have been far from convincing, with an early FA Cup exit and less-than-perfect league performances.
Slot was quick to point out that no team can deliver their best performance every week, explaining that even the top teams experience ups and downs.
“If you’re a special team, you play 20 to 25 very good games, a few mediocre, and a few very bad,” Slot explained, emphasizing that it’s about securing results, especially when the team isn’t playing at its best.
He also reminded the media that even the best teams, including past Liverpool sides and Manchester City, haven’t managed to perform at a consistently high level every match.
Liverpool’s Fatigue Shows in Recent Games
One of the factors Slot cited for Liverpool’s recent struggles was player fatigue.
He pointed to their tough Merseyside derby against Everton and suggested that the energy exerted in that match likely contributed to their subdued performance against Wolves.
Although Slot admitted that Liverpool hadn’t hit the same level as their earlier wins this season, he expressed his calmness, confident that the team’s effort and work rate remain intact.
“After conceding the 2-2 at Goodison, I was a little tense,” Slot confessed, “but I saw the same work rate against Wolves and even more at Everton, despite the result.”
Injury Updates Ahead of Villa Clash
Looking ahead to their next match against Aston Villa, Slot confirmed that Curtis Jones will be available after serving his suspension.
However, Cody Gakpo and Joe Gomez will remain sidelined.
Gomez’s injury, a hamstring issue, may even require surgery, meaning he could be out for a while.
Aston Villa is a formidable opponent, especially at home, having been unbeaten there since August.
Their recent acquisition of Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United has added extra firepower to their attack.
Slot expressed his belief that Rashford, who has struggled at Old Trafford, will make an impact at Villa Park.
Slot’s Thoughts on Rashford and Other United Players
Slot praised Rashford’s abilities, noting that if he plays to his potential, he could be one of the best attacking players in England.
Having faced Rashford in a pre-season match in the U.S., Slot was impressed by his speed, height, and comfort on the ball.
He also suggested that some players, like Rashford and Antony (who is now performing well at Betis), often thrive when they move to new clubs or work under different managers.
Looking Ahead: Anfield Advantage
After facing tough away games against Villa and Manchester City, Liverpool will play seven of their remaining 11 matches at Anfield.
Slot will be hoping that their home advantage will help them regain momentum and push for the title as the season progresses.
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