Liverpool Manager Remains Optimistic About Title Aspirations

Title Chase Still Valid, According to Arne Slot

Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, asserts that it’s premature to dismiss their chances of reclaiming the title. The reigning Premier League champions will face Nottingham Forest this Saturday, currently positioned eighth in the league standings after suffering five losses this season.

However, Slot emphasized that there is ample time left in the campaign to make a difference.

“The final assessment of a league table should come after 38 matches, with the next review point being after 19 matches,” he explained. “Let’s evaluate our situation then.”

Ongoing Challenges for Liverpool

“Form fluctuations aren’t solely about recent acquisitions; the principal challenge we’re dealing with is match fitness,” Slot continued.

He mentioned that they expected Alex Isak to participate more with Sweden, although he was held back due to a looming suspension, which made sense for his national team to limit his play in the second match.

“We currently have only five natural defenders available for the next seven games within a span of 22 days, and I doubt anyone will return before then. We were aware of the difficulties that come with integrating new players,” Slot added.

Preparedness Against Dyche’s Nottingham Forest

In preparation for facing Nottingham Forest, now guided by new manager Sean Dyche, Slot indicated that Liverpool would be ready for the challenge.

He stated, “Dyche’s playing style is more akin to Nuno than to Ange Postecoglou. The match will likely mirror our previous encounters.”

Slot acknowledged that injury issues, arising during international duty, would leave them short-handed.

“Andrew Robertson will be with us today, and Alisson has trained both last week and this week, so he may feature if all goes well today. However, we do have some difficulties post-international break. Conor Bradley and Florian Wirtz won’t be able to take part, which is far from ideal.”

Reflection on World Cup Disappointment

Regarding the disappointment of Dominik Szoboszlai following Hungary’s World Cup qualifying exit, Slot shared that he had a conversation with the captain after their heartbreaking loss to the Republic of Ireland.

“We discussed it, including with Milos Kerkez. It was a significant letdown to be so close to the playoffs and exit during extra time, especially considering that two substitutions occurred at that time,” he recounted.

“It’s particularly tough when you see how happy Andrew Robertson is after qualifying, something Hungary hasn’t achieved in a long time.”

Slot also expressed sentiment regarding the aftermath of Scotland’s thrilling victory over Denmark, during which Robertson paid tribute to Diogo Jota. “We are consistently evaluated, sometimes rightly, sometimes not. I caught the interview live, and I understand that this is a critical matter for us. At such moments, I often think about how hard this experience must be for his wife and children, who bear the brunt of this emotional toll.”

“We undoubtedly miss both the player and the person. In last season’s match against Forest, we were down 1-0 until he equalized within a minute, proving instrumental in our comeback in numerous matches.”

Prospects for January Transfers

When questioned about potential transfers in January, specifically regarding an attempt to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, Slot expressed surprise at the inquiry.

“I genuinely wasn’t anticipating discussions about new signings. There are numerous matches to be played before then, and given our current situation, it’s the least of my concerns.”

“In our squad at the moment, we have three center-backs available, and possibly Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo can fill in that role,” he said, highlighting other pressing positional issues.

He mentioned, “Joe Gomez has logged two 90-minute games out of a possible 2025, so it might be risky to overuse him with seven matches in 22 days on the horizon. He missed training yesterday, but we anticipate him participating today.”

“Certain players might need to play out of their usual positions,” he concluded.

Regarding rumors about a potential contract extension for Ibrahima Konate, Slot simply stated, “My response will align with your expectations. Must I elaborate?”