Arne Slot Previews Liverpool’s Clash with Nottingham Forest: Key Takeaways
Ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday at Anfield (kick-off at 3 p.m. BST), manager Arne Slot addressed the media at the AXA Training Centre. With the team aiming to extend their unbeaten start to the 2024-25 season, Slot discussed various topics ranging from individual player performances to squad management post-international break. Below are some key highlights from the press conference.
On Caoimhin Kelleher’s Desire for First-Team Football
Slot began by expressing that it’s completely normal for any player, including Caoimhin Kelleher, to want regular first-team action. He joked, “I’d be more concerned if a player said they were happy sitting on the bench for the rest of their career.” While Kelleher has shown time and again his readiness to step up when needed, Slot was clear that Alisson remains the first-choice goalkeeper. However, he acknowledged that Kelleher played several games last season and continues to handle the situation well.
On Ryan Gravenberch’s Growth in Midfield
Slot commented on Gravenberch’s development in his midfield role, noting that although he’s played as a midfielder throughout his career, he’s now positioned slightly deeper on the pitch than before. Slot credited Gravenberch’s strong performances to his fitness and readiness, stating that like other players, his success is supported by the team’s overall structure.
On Trust in Gravenberch
Slot clarified that trust isn’t just about selecting a player for matches. “Trust is important, but it’s not the only factor,” he said. He emphasized the importance of preparation and structure, explaining that Gravenberch, like all players, must trust his teammates and the system for the team to succeed.
On the Potential Impact of the International Break on Momentum
Slot acknowledged that there’s always a question mark around whether an international break disrupts momentum, but he pointed to the individual performances of players with their national teams as a positive sign. He also mentioned that Nottingham Forest, unbeaten so far this season, would be a tough opponent, making it an exciting and challenging match.
On Defensive Priorities at Liverpool
Slot shared his perspective on defense, explaining that keeping a clean sheet is a team effort, not just the responsibility of the backline. “It’s 11 players who work to prevent goals,” he stressed, while acknowledging that despite the team’s efforts, Alisson has been called into action several times. He praised the collective defensive work, attributing it to the team’s commitment off the ball.
On Contract Discussions and Whether They’re a Distraction
When asked about contract talks, Slot gave a familiar response, refusing to discuss ongoing negotiations. He added that these discussions are not a distraction for him, as he’s fully focused on getting the best out of each individual and the team as a whole.
On Trent Alexander-Arnold’s International Break
Addressing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s recent participation in two full matches for England, Slot said that the player had shown he’s capable of playing 90 minutes, something he suspected before the break as well. While Slot mentioned noticing some fatigue in Alexander-Arnold during the Ipswich match, he praised the defender’s ability to manage a full workload. He also noted that having options like Conor Bradley for rotation was beneficial for managing the squad over a long season.
On Managing a Packed Schedule of Seven Games in Three Weeks
Slot highlighted the challenge of managing a congested fixture list, saying it’s something he considers carefully before every game. While in the past he’s been able to field nearly the same lineup in every match, the Premier League’s intensity might require a different approach. He emphasized that players need to demonstrate both quality and work-rate to keep their place in the team.
On Players Who Played Full Matches During the International Break
Slot pointed out that many Liverpool players, including Jarell Quansah, Kostas Tsimikas, and Cody Gakpo played full 90 minutes for their national teams. For some, this was a positive, helping to build fitness for the upcoming fixtures. While he acknowledged that managing these workloads will be crucial, Slot saw it as a testament to the quality of his squad.
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