Arne Slot Defends Former Liverpool Coach Amid Set-Piece Turnaround
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has publicly defended former set-piece specialist Aaron Briggs, despite the team's marked improvement in dead-ball situations following his December departure. The Reds have conceded just two goals from set pieces in 12 games since Briggs left, compared to 13 in 26 games prior, while scoring eight from such opportunities.
Slot Assumes Responsibility for Set-Piece Struggles
Speaking ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, Slot emphasized that blaming Briggs alone was "very unfair". "I'm responsible for everything," he stated, attributing earlier woes to "so, so, so unlucky" periods where chances were minimal but goals conceded were high. Slot noted that the current analyst, Lewis Mahoney, now handles primary set-piece duties with only minor tactical adjustments, suggesting the improvement reflects a "return to normal" rather than systemic overhaul.
Jurgen Klopp's Coutinho Prediction Comes True
Meanwhile, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been vindicated regarding his 2018 warning to Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian midfielder, who forced a move to Barcelona against Klopp's advice, has now requested to terminate his contract with boyhood club Vasco da Gama after being booed by fans. Klopp had famously cautioned Coutinho that leaving would reduce him to "just another player" elsewhere, whereas staying could have earned him legendary status at Anfield.
Coutinho's career has declined sharply since his £142 million transfer, featuring unsuccessful stints at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Aston Villa, Al-Duhail, and Vasco da Gama. His latest exit underscores Klopp's prescient advice, highlighting the perils of premature departures from top clubs.
Liverpool's Inconsistency and Champions League Push
Liverpool's form has been erratic this season, with only two Premier League defeats in 2026 but persistent struggles for consistency. As they prepare to face Nottingham Forest, Slot acknowledges that dropped points could jeopardize their Champions League qualification hopes. The team's recent set-piece resilience, however, offers a positive sign as they aim for a third consecutive victory.
