Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has issued a heartfelt plea to the club's supporters, expressing frustration over fans departing Anfield early during matches and emphasising that the struggling team requires unwavering backing now more than ever.
Anfield Boos and Late Collapse
Supporters at Anfield unleashed their loudest boos of the season on Sunday as Arne Slot's side squandered a victory over a depleted and ridiculed Tottenham Hotspur, conceding yet another late goal. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Szoboszlai scoring in the first half before Richarlison's 90th-minute equaliser sparked disappointment among the home crowd.
Szoboszlai's Emotional Appeal
In a candid post-match interview, the Hungarian international addressed the negativity from fans, stating it is not aiding the team's efforts. 'We want to make them happy, it's not that we do it on purpose,' said Szoboszlai. 'We want to make ourselves happy, make all the Liverpool supporters happy, but we need them.'
He acknowledged the current season's challenges, contrasting it with last year's more enjoyable performances. 'Last year it was for sure enjoyable to watch all the games but this year maybe it's not that enjoyable, for sure, I can imagine. But still support us also when we are in difficult times.'
Understanding Frustration but Calling for Unity
When asked if he comprehends why fans are angry or disappointed, Szoboszlai responded: 'Of course. But as I said they can be angry but stick with us because we are a family, we need you guys. We would like to make them happy so just stay together.'
He highlighted a recent players' meeting where the squad discussed the urgency of improving to secure Champions League qualification for next season. 'We had already a couple of weeks ago a talk between each other saying, "Guys we don't have such a lot of time to do this right so we have to wake up and start to go in a way that we want to play Champions League next season".'
Criticism of Early Departures
Szoboszlai specifically criticised the trend of fans leaving early, noting its detrimental impact on the team. 'I don't think it helps us also that after 80 minutes people start to go home, it doesn't help us at all. Stick with us.'
He observed that even after conceding goals, supporters continue to exit the stadium, a stark contrast to celebrations when Liverpool scores. 'Everyone is noticing that and when we concede a goal still people are leaving the stadium – you don't leave when we score. I understand the frustration but we need them, we need everybody, and that's the most important.'
While respecting individual choices, he underscored the collective need for support. 'I don't say they have no right to leave the stadium, they can leave if they want. We need them and they should know this. We are one less without them.'
Champions League Ambitions
Szoboszlai reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring Liverpool qualifies for the Champions League, a competition he deems essential for the club. 'If you talk about Liverpool then the Champions League is normal,' he said. 'You have to be there. When I first came we played in the Europa League, so it happens sometimes that we don't achieve that.'
He outlined the team's objectives, stating: 'But our aim is to get in the top four or go as far as we can in the Champions League. I am going to do everything that is possible to finish in the top four but alone I'm not enough so we need everybody.'
Despite the draw, Liverpool's result saw them leapfrog Chelsea into fifth place, a position that could secure entry into Europe's premier competition, highlighting the ongoing battle for qualification.
