Arne Slot disputes Danny Murphy’s assertion that the international break was responsible for Liverpool’s loss to Nottingham Forest.
The Dutchman experienced loss for the first time since assuming the role of Reds manager on Saturday. The Reds had a dismal afternoon as Callum Hudson-Odoi’s goal ensured Forest’s triumph at Anfield.
It marked the conclusion of Slot’s impeccable beginning with the club in an unremarkable manner. Former Liverpool player Murphy expressed his views on the loss, indicating that a demanding international break for the club’s players may have played a role.
During his appearance on Match of the Day, he remarked: “Perhaps a slight [reality check].” The final third exhibited a deficiency in ruthlessness and precision. Some players may be travelling extensively due to international obligations.
“If he [Slot] was uncertain previously, he will now comprehend the competitiveness of this Premier League.” However, there is no need for alarm; Liverpool has several advantages, and the beginning has been favourable.
However, Slot has declined to provide justifications for his team. Although he acknowledges that the international break may have fatigued his players, he does not attribute the defeat to this factor.
In his post-match remarks, the Dutchman stated: “It’s always challenging, but I do not believe [the break] influenced it.” The players returned with vigour, and I observed a squad today that was determined to persevere to the conclusion. That was unrelated to energy. We predominantly maintained control of the ball, necessitating the creation of opportunities from it.
Thus far, we have scored several goals from transitional periods following ball recovery; nevertheless, the other team (Forest) frequently bypassed our press with numerous long passes. We predominantly retained possession in our defensive line.
“Today’s performance was inadequate due to numerous individual displays in ball possession failing to meet the standards I expect from these players.”
He stated, “Our sole influence was on ball possession, as they utilised numerous long balls; thus, regaining possession necessitates surpassing 11 players.”
We maintained significant ball possession but only generated three or four big opportunities. That is insufficient. Given our extensive possession and dominance in their half, we must improve significantly, as we frequently relinquished the ball in straightforward circumstances. The primary narrative from the game is that ball possession was insufficient.
Slot will anticipate that Liverpool may recover in the forthcoming week as their demanding schedule intensifies. The Reds start their Champions League campaign against AC Milan on Tuesday, followed by a home match against Bournemouth next weekend.
