Liverpool manager Arne Slot believes his inconsistent side can still do ‘special things’ if everyone is fit and firing, but his comments will be put to the test against the ruthless league-leaders Arsenal when the two face off in the English Premier League (EPL) on Thursday.
The Reds head to the Emirates having steadied their ship marginally over the last month — they are unbeaten in their last nine games, however four of them have been draws. They sit in fourth place, but still trail the Gunners by 14 points. While retaining their crown seems highly unlikely, Slot remains convinced that the team is still capable of beating the best in the business. “We aren’t where we want to be, but I feel we have a very talented squad. If everyone’s available, then we can [still] do special things,” said Slot.
Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo (centre) celebrates scoring vs Fulham on Sunday. Pic/Getty Images
The Dutch coach also said toppling the table-toppers could do wonders for their confidence and could even spur them to clinch silverware in other competitions.
“It would mean a lot because if you win games like these, it tells you that you can compete in the latter stages of the FA Cup and the Champions League. We’ve shown that we can do this already because we have already beaten Arsenal at home,” said Slot, while referencing their 1-0 win over the Gunners at the end of August.
However, this time around, Slot’s side will be short of firepower with Mohamed Salah playing for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike remain sidelined with injuries.
26No. of times Liverpool have beaten Arsenal in the EPL; no other opponent has defeated the Gunners more often
20No. of consecutive EPL games in which Arsenal have conceded against Liverpool
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
