Alan Shearer has warned that Liverpool head coach Arne Slot could face the sack if the club fails to secure Champions League qualification. The former Newcastle striker believes a top-five finish is essential for the Dutchman to keep his job.
Liverpool slumped to sixth in the Premier League after a 2-1 defeat to Wolves on Wednesday, missing the chance to draw level with Manchester United and Aston Villa. The Reds now trail the top four by three points, although England's strong coefficient could allow a fifth-placed finish to secure a Champions League spot.
Shearer told Betfair: "I think the key for Arne Slot staying on at Liverpool next season is securing Champions League football. If they don't make the top five, you would, without doubt, question whether he would be in the job."
The former England international acknowledged Liverpool have underperformed all season, but he still expects them to edge out rivals such as Chelsea, Aston Villa and Manchester United. "I do still think Liverpool will get Champions League football, on the probability of others being as bad as them," he added.
The battle for Europe remains tight, with Villa and Chelsea also struggling for consistency. Brentford, meanwhile, harbour outside hopes of a late surge.
