Slot: We haven’t found answer to long balls deep defences
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has admitted his team is still struggling to cope with long balls and compact defensive setups after their 3-2 defeat to Brentford on Saturday.
The result extended their losing streak to four consecutive Premier League games, leaving the Reds sixth on the table with a lot of work to do to retain their title.
“We’ve not found the answer yet”
Speaking after the game, Slot conceded that opponents have identified a clear pattern to frustrate Liverpool and exploit their weaknesses. He acknowledged that his side has yet to find a tactical response to such approaches.
Arne Slot laments Liverpool’s defensive crisis – Getty image
“Teams have a certain playing style against us; it’s a very good strategy to play,” Slot said.
“We have not found an answer yet. Going 1-0 down after five minutes doesn’t help. We can still score goals, but we concede too many. You defend as 11 players, not just the back line.”
Brentford made full use of their direct style, launching 62 long passes, their highest tally this season. Their opening goal came from a long throw by Michael Kayode, flicked on for Dango Ouattara to finish.
“We trained for It, but it still happened”
Slot revealed that Liverpool’s final training session before the match focused on defending long throws and transitions, but the early goal showed how those efforts failed to translate on matchday.
Despite training on long throws, Liverpool conceded early through Kayode’s long throw in the game – Getty image
“Our last training was entirely about long throws,” he explained. “It’s disappointing that we still conceded from exactly that situation.”
He also highlighted how Brentford’s counterattacks punished Liverpool further, with Kevin Schade’s breakaway strike doubling the hosts’ lead before half-time.
“They’re known for set-pieces and fantastic counter-attacks,” Slot said. “That’s why it can’t be used as an excuse, we knew what was coming.”
The Dutchman went on to admit that Liverpool’s summer rebuild, which brought in six new signings worth over £400 million, has affected the team’s rhythm.
“When you change a lot in the summer, these things happen,” he added. “But I didn’t expect four losses in a row.”
