A sequence of negative results in the Premier League left the team’s coach LiverpoolArne Slot, frustrated that his players are not living up to the club’s high standards, in what he described as the most difficult season of his career.
The defending champions have won just one of their last seven Premier League matches, falling short after conceding goals in the final minutes against and . In sixth place, Liverpool is 17 points behind leaders Arsenal.
“A draw feels like a defeat at this club. That’s definitely not easy for the players, because they know what Liverpool’s standards mean, and we’re not performing to Liverpool’s standards at the moment, and they feel that frustration,” Slot told reporters on Tuesday (10).
“In every game it seems like we are going to win, but that doesn’t happen… In terms of performance, the players feel they can compete with any other team, in any league in the world. But the reality is that we are not playing at the level required by Liverpool.”
Asked if this has been the toughest season he has ever faced, Slot agreed.
“That’s true, and by a huge margin. In every other season I’ve coached, there have only been positives. I don’t think I’ve ever lost two games in a row,” said , who led Liverpool to the Premier League title last season.
“This season is an exception for me and also for the players. They are not used to losing a lot of games or drawing often. I’m not used to it either.”
Slot also stated that he has been wondering to what extent his difficulties are the result of bad luck.
“The number of times we concede late goals, in stoppage time, is much higher than normal. Is it bad luck or is it our fault? I tried a lot of different things, made defensive substitutions, and the ball still went in,” said the Dutchman.
The coach highlighted that the visit to Sunderland, this Wednesday (11), will be another great challenge. The team is the only team in the Premier League that remains undefeated at home this season.
“They have already played at home against City and Arsenal, so that shows how good their season is and how strong they are as hosts,” said Slot.
“There is still a possibility that we can do something special this season as well.”
