By Sam French
Arne Slot discussed Alisson’s fitness, Liverpool’s standards and the challenge of facing Tottenham Hotspur.
Alisson fitness update, Federico Chiesa available.
The Liverpool manager confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson is carrying a minor issue and his availability will depend on how he responds in training.
He admitted he was “not 100% sure” whether the Brazilian would be able to train fully with the squad ahead of the game, but stressed that the problem is not considered serious. The club remain hopeful he could feature at the weekend or in Wednesday’s Champions League second leg against Galatasaray.
There was more positive news regarding Federico Chiesa, who is expected to train and should be available for selection. Alexander Isak, however, continues to work with the rehabilitation staff as he recovers from injury.
“A big difference from last season.”
Reflecting on the visit of Tottenham Hotspur, Arne Slot acknowledged that the context surrounding the fixture is very different compared to the same match last season. Liverpool secured the title around the time of that previous encounter, but the manager said the situation now presents a fresh challenge for his team.
“There is a big difference between where we are now and where we were then,” he explained. Despite recent defeats, he insisted his side still has “a point to prove,” particularly in front of their supporters at Anfield. Playing at home, he added, is “something we will always find special.”
Maintaining Liverpool’s high standards.
He also spoke about the expectations that come with managing Liverpool and the standards the club set internally. he said.
“The bar is always high at Liverpool. We are a top club and the bar should be set high by those around us, but we will also set the bar high ourselves.”
He reflected on last season’s success, when Liverpool achieved one of their major objectives by winning the league and came close to adding the League Cup as well.
“This year we cannot win the league again,” he noted, “but we are still competing in two cup competitions.”
Expectations remain high at Anfield.
When asked whether Tottenham Hotspur’s current struggles near the bottom of the table raise expectations for a Liverpool win, he insisted the pressure exists regardless of the opponent. He said.
“If Tottenham Hotspur were first in the league, everyone would still expect us to win.”
According to the Dutchman, the expectations stem from the club’s history rather than the opponent’s league position or form.
“Every game this club plays at home we are expected to win. It has nothing to do with form or where they are in the league. Expectations come from history… no matter who we face, they are sky high.”
Finishing struggles highlighted against Galatasaray.
The manager admitted that Liverpool were not at their best in the midweek meeting with Galatasaray, describing the performance as far from their strongest of the season. He pointed to two recurring issues: missed chances and conceding from the few opportunities created by opponents.
“We struggled to convert chances.”
he said, while also describing it as a “bad cocktail” when those missed opportunities are combined with conceding goals from limited opposition chances.
“If that is the case,” he added, “then games become difficult to win.”
Rio Ngumoha development and squad rotation.
He also discussed the development of young talent Rio Ngumoha, explaining that the club has managed his minutes carefully due to his age. However, the manager revealed the youngster could soon be handed a starting opportunity.
“He definitely is an option to start one of the upcoming three games.”
the manager explained, noting the heavy schedule means Liverpool must rely on more than just their usual starting XI.
“With this schedule you need more than 11 players.”
Ryan Gravenberch rewarded with new contract.
Finally, Arne Slot addressed Ryan Gravenberch’s new contract, emphasising both the player’s importance to the team and the progress he has made since arriving at the club.
“It’s obvious and clear that the club and I see the importance of him and how much he has developed.”
he stated. He added that Ryan Gravenberch remains a player with significant potential for further improvement.
“He signed very young and has the ability to grow.”
All attention now shifts to Anfield on Sunday afternoon, where Liverpool will be looking to rediscover their cutting edge and take an important step forward in their ambitions of securing Champions League football again for next season.
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