Arne Slot Press Conference: Tottenham Hotspur (A)
by Ewan Reid
Arne Slot spoke to the press ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur in what could prove to be a decisive match in Liverpool’s season.
Mohammed Salah Latest
Credit: The Mirror
The press conference opened with a question on Mo Salah, with Slot asked whether further discussions would be taking place while the forward is away at the Africa Cup of Nations. Slot confirmed that no talks would be taking place as they have “moved on” and that the fairest thing to do for all parties involved is to allow salah to fully focus on AFCON.
Injury Updates
Slot provided some updates regarding fitness concerns ahead of the match. With recent injury worries surrounding Joe Gomez, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo, Slot provided some optimism in some areas.
Credit: Liverpool Echo
Gakpo has since undergone a “promising” scan, therefore there is little need to worry about a long-term absence for the Dutchman. However, Slot confirmed that the forward will not be in the squad for Tottenham Hotspur or Wolves. Gomez is also set to miss out this weekend.
On the other hand, Slot seemed hopeful about the inclusion of Szoboszlai. Speaking on the Hungarian, Slot stated “let’s see where he is today, and where he is tomorrow.”
Fans will be pleased to hear that Frimpong is set to be included in the squad after his sustained absence. Conor Bradley will also return following his suspension.
Spurs Assessment
When discussing the challenge presented by Spurs, Slot dismissed any potential comparisons between last season’s meetings, noting the changes both clubs have undergone on the pitch and for Spurs also, the managerial change.
Going into the match unbeaten in five, Slot was asked whether he feels that his side are finally starting to build momentum.
“What I mainly feel is that I can see, and I hope that we can all see this in the results, is that we are progressing.”
Credit: Liverpool FC
Slot also noted that in an earlier interview, he mentioned that on several occasions this season, he has had to rely on players who were not fully match fit. Now, with fitness levels improving and new signings showing adapting to the Premier League, Slot feels that the team now has “a good base to start from.”
Top 4:
A victory against Spurs could push Liverpool into the top four. Questioned on how that could boost the spirits in the club, Slot eased expectations, stating:
“I think the main thing for us is to build on where we are from the last five games. With the exception of Brighton where we conceded a lot of chances, the other games we were solid defensively and that’s a good base.”
Hugo Ekitike
Credit: Evening Standard
With ten goals now for Hugo Ekitike, Slot was asked whether he feels that the Frenchman has exceeded expectations.
“His ability to score, his technique, his speed, all these things are just what he has.”
Slot noted aside from his goalscoring, Ekitike has improved a lot in terms of his defensive work-rate, citing how much it has benefited the team.
Curtis Jones:
Curtis Jones’ recent run of form was also addressed. The midfielder having started Liverpool’s last three matches. Slot praised the midfielder, suggesting his performances have earned him the opportunity to start again.
However, he stressed that for Jones, consistency remains key and those performances need to be replicated against “a challenging opponent like Spurs” if he is to cement his place in the starting XI going forward.
Credit: Liverpool FC