Liverpool manager Arne Slot has defended his decision to substitute teenage winger Rio Ngumoha during the 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Anfield, acknowledging the crowd's frustration but explaining the youngster had suffered cramp.
Ngumoha, who had assisted Ryan Gravenberch's opening goal, was replaced by Alexander Isak in the 67th minute, drawing a chorus of boos from the home support. Slot said he understood the reaction but noted that Ngumoha was not fit enough to continue at full intensity.
The result leaves Liverpool with another disappointing outcome against a Chelsea side that had lost six consecutive league matches. Slot accepted the criticism but expressed confidence that a planned summer overhaul would transform the team next season.
Gravenberch, who scored his first league goal of the campaign, said the criticism during the first half was unfair, urging fans to maintain their support for the final two games.
