Following the international break and the FA Cup quarter-final weekend, the Premier League makes a full return with all twenty clubs set to compete over the next four days. A host of managers are conducting press conferences today, and Daily Mail Sport is here to keep you updated on all the latest developments.
Under-Pressure Slot 'Feels Supported' by Liverpool Hierarchy and Fans
Arne Slot has firmly stated that he feels supported by both the ownership and the fans at Liverpool, despite enduring a bruising week where his team suffered losses to Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. This difficult period has led some observers to question Slot's future, especially as Liverpool now requires a minor miracle to overturn a two-goal deficit against the European champions in the second leg of their PSG tie to keep their silverware hopes alive this season.
However, Slot, whose side must now refocus on securing a top-five finish in the Premier League after a disappointing title defence, continues to feel the backing from key figures at Anfield. In his remarks, he emphasised the unwavering support he has received.
Slot's Reassurance on Support
'I am repeating myself a lot, but I have said many times that I feel a great deal of support not only from the owners but from Richard and Michael as well, and as unusual as it might sound, I also feel the support of the fans,' Slot explained. He recounted a poignant moment after the 4-0 loss at Manchester City, noting, 'We were going out in Paris when the players went out for the warm-up, and the fans immediately started singing "We love you Liverpool".'
Slot added, 'And after it's fair to say we were outplayed over ninety minutes, we went to the away end, and they were still singing for us and clapping for us. That support, I have felt, we have felt constantly. I've said many times as well that the club understands which period of time we are in, and in the meantime, I have their complete support.'
Fan Protests and Upcoming Match
This declaration comes at a sensitive time when fans are protesting against ticket price hikes. The supporters' group Spirit of Shankly has urged spectators to refrain from spending money at Anfield this weekend during Liverpool's match against Fulham on Saturday. Marco Silva's Fulham side are the only team that Slot has not beaten in the Premier League among those who have been in the division throughout his full tenure.
The Liverpool boss further highlighted the critical role of the fans, stating, 'Anfield has shown in history and also in my time here how important these fans are for us. A recent example was the Galatasaray match when we had a tough game away from home with their fans being really loud, and then Anfield demonstrated what being loud truly is. They helped us through that game, and I can come up with so many examples I've been part of, but also from the history of this club.'
Slot expressed hope regarding the ongoing protests, saying, 'Even though there are protests, I hope the fans can be as helpful as they have always been for us this season and last season.'
Team News and Player Updates
In terms of team news, Slot does not expect goalkeeper Alisson to return from a hamstring problem in the near future. However, there is positive news regarding Alexander Isak, who is ready for more minutes after making a short cameo appearance in Paris on Wednesday.
