Liverpool have parted ways with their set-piece coach Aaron Briggs following a season plagued by defensive vulnerabilities from corners and free-kicks. The decision, reached mutually with the club, is effective immediately and comes as the champions' title defence has unravelled.
Defensive Record Proves Costly
The statistics behind the departure are stark. Liverpool have conceded 12 goals from set pieces in the Premier League this season, a figure matched only by Bournemouth as the worst in the division. This weakness has been a significant factor in the team's faltering campaign. Compounding the issue, their attacking output from dead-ball situations has been equally poor, with only bottom club Wolverhampton Wanderers scoring fewer than Liverpool's paltry three.
A Swift Backroom Change
Aaron Briggs, who previously worked with Manchester City and Wolfsburg, joined Liverpool in the summer of 2024. He arrived in the same week as John Heitinga, who has also now left Anfield. Initially brought in as an elite development coach to help bridge the gap between the academy and the first team—a role similar to that once held by now-Swansea boss Vitor Matos—Briggs later assumed set-piece responsibilities. This role became a full-time position this season after the club had originally advertised for the job on LinkedIn.
Despite the disappointing results in his specialist area, Briggs leaves with the gratitude of the club. He was credited with playing a crucial role in helping new manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff settle into life in England.
Context and Comparisons
The scale of Liverpool's set-piece problem is highlighted by comparisons with other teams. Their next opponents, Leeds United, have scored 12 goals from dead-ball situations this term. Meanwhile, Brentford, who are managed by former set-piece specialist Keith Andrews, have let in just two goals from similar scenarios, underscoring the potential impact of effective coaching in this domain.
The departure of Briggs marks a clear attempt by Arne Slot to address a critical flaw that has undermined Liverpool's season. The search for improvement in both defending and attacking set-plays will now be a priority as the club looks to rebuild for the future.
