Liverpool entered the Christmas break in fifth place with 29 points, trailing Chelsea on goal difference. Their strong performance in open play has somewhat compensated for persistent issues with free kicks, corners, and throw-ins.
This season, Liverpool has only scored three goals from set pieces, while conceding 11 from such situations in the premier league.
“I understand the importance of set pieces, and therefore, I am very frustrated with our current performance,” Slot told ESPN on 25/12. “It is truly annoying given this season’s situation, especially since last season we did not concede a single goal from set pieces in the first half – a foundation for winning the championship.”
 |
Manager Slot during Liverpool's 2-0 win over Brighton in premier league matchday 16 at Anfield on 13/12. *Photo: Reuters* |
According to Slot, Liverpool is the only team among the top clubs with a negative set-piece goal difference. In reality, Manchester City also has a -1 in this metric, according to Opta. “We have a -8 goal difference from set pieces but are still on the same points as the fourth-placed team,” Slot added. “With such a set-piece goal difference, it is impossible to be in the top 4 or top 5, let alone win the league.”
Chelsea boasts a +4 goal difference from set pieces, while Arsenal and Manchester United have both scored 10 goals from dead-ball situations this season. “Looking at the statistics of other teams, you can see it’s remarkable that we still have our current points total with such a poor set-piece differential,” Slot said. “That is because, in terms of chances created from open play, we are number one in the league.”
Injuries continue to be another headache for Slot. Alexander Isak is sidelined for several months following ankle surgery and a fracture in his lower left leg. The Liverpool manager hopes forward Cody Gakpo and full-back Conor Bradley can return in time for the away trip to Wolves on matchday 18, but he rates their chances at only 50%.
With Mohamed Salah participating in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), defender Joe Gomez out with a hamstring injury, Wataru Endo facing an ankle problem, and midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai suspended, Slot’s depleted squad will face a severe test during the end-of-year period.
“It is time for the eligible players to do what they have done many times before, which is to roll up their sleeves,” Slot stated. “The players who can still take the field need to give everything they have.”
Vy Anh
