Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has dismissed talk of a full-blown "crisis" at his former club but delivered a stark warning that their alarming slump could worsen unless manager Arne Slot urgently addresses the team's defensive frailties.
Anfield Collapse Against PSV
The Reds suffered their ninth defeat in just 12 matches across all competitions after a humiliating 4-1 loss at home to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on Wednesday. This devastating result came mere days after a shocking Premier League defeat to Nottingham Forest, plunging the club into its worst run of form in over 70 years.
The atmosphere inside Anfield turned increasingly desolate as the goals flew in, with many home supporters heading for the exits after the third PSV goal found the net. Liverpool have now conceded at least three goals in each of their last three consecutive defeats, a worrying defensive record that has occurred for only the third time in 33 years.
Gerrard's Bleeding Liverpool Assessment
Analysing the match for TNT Sports, the former captain chose his words carefully. "Crisis is a very strong word and disrespectful to the players and manager who have served this football club," Gerrard stated. "I wouldn't use that word but this team is on a terrible run, they just keep bleeding. They're wide open and unless the manager can find a solution it's going to continue."
He pinpointed the core issue plaguing Slot's side, highlighting their vulnerability to counter-attacks. "They’re conceding too many goals, they’re so vulnerable in transition," Gerrard explained, adding that the team now faces a period of deep introspection.
Slot Under Mounting Pressure
Despite leading Liverpool to the Premier League title just six months ago, Arne Slot is now facing intense scrutiny. In his post-match comments, the Dutchman admitted the situation is a "shock for everyone" and that speculation over his future is understandable.
"If any manager around the world loses football games, let alone as many as we have lost, it’s quite normal people have an opinion about that," Slot conceded. However, he insisted he still feels secure in his role, citing continued support from the club's hierarchy. "I have got a lot of support from above. I am okay with my position... I feel the trust."
The frustration was echoed by homegrown midfielder Curtis Jones, who confessed to Irish broadcaster RTE: "I don’t have the answers. Honestly, I don’t. I’m saying that to everybody. It’s just unacceptable." Jones, a lifelong Liverpool fan, admitted he is "past being angry" and hasn't seen the club endure such a difficult period in a "long, long time."
