Liverpool’s defeat at Brighton has raised fresh questions. The result itself hurt fans; however, it was the pattern behind it that stood out again.
The same issue keeps appearing, and now it is becoming difficult to ignore. The team looked sharp at times.
But then, as the game went on, the intensity dropped. Meanwhile, Brighton grew stronger and took control. So once again, Liverpool paid the price.
This is not the first time it has happened. In fact, strong midweek performances in Europe have often been followed by flat displays in the Premier League.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has now spoken about it on TNT Sports. He believes the problem is not just form. Instead, it comes down to depth. He said (quotes via the Mirror):
“We have seen it quite a few times this season now where they put a lot of effort, perform really well on the Champions League stage.
“And all the emotion and all the energy and the intensity you have to put in those games to win or get a result, it’s having a big effect on them at the weekend.
“They haven’t got the options in the squad or on the bench to really make numerous changes to bring that energy or quality into the team to perform at the same level they do in midweek.
“He had to play a lot of the same players today, he made a couple of changes that were forced on him.
“But the manager wants to keep the change, rather than make changes for energy and it backfired today.”
Arne Slot had limited choices. Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak missed the Brighton game, while Hugo Ekitike went off early.
Liverpool now sit fifth. They have already lost ten games this season. Because of that, the fight for Champions League football has become even tighter.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
