Liverpool manager Arne Slot has stood by his squad choices and tactical approach despite the club’s recent slump in results.
The Reds suffered a 3–0 home defeat to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday — their sixth loss in seven matches across all competitions. The result has left Liverpool trailing Premier League leaders Arsenal by seven points.
According to Sky Sports, Slot faced criticism from supporters for fielding a weakened side against Palace, with key players such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Hugo Ekitike left out of the matchday squad.
Speaking at his Friday press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash with an in-form Aston Villa, Slot defended his rotation policy, citing an ongoing injury crisis as a major factor.
Belief in strategy
“I’m happy with the quality of the team, and I’m convinced by the strategy and policy we have,” Slot said. “The issue is that not everyone had a proper pre-season. When three or four players are injured, the squad depth drops quickly.”
The Dutchman added that while he prefers working with a compact squad, maintaining player fitness has proven far more difficult this season.
“I’ve always believed 21 or 22 players are enough,” he continued. “But you need to keep them fit, as we did last year. This season, that’s been a struggle — and for obvious reasons, in my opinion.”
