Arne Slot Maintains He Is Safe and Retains Liverpool's Backing After PSV Defeat
The Liverpool head coach admitted that it's expected for doubts to be asked about his future following another heavy loss versus the Dutch champions.
The Reds endured their ninth loss in twelve matches, marking the team's poorest run after being demoted in 1953-54.
They were dominated by the Eredivisie champions on a punishing evening at Anfield.
“I am feeling safe, I am OK, I have got plenty of backing from the top,” the coach stated.
“It would be great to turn it around and secure a win naturally but if you are in a managerial role and not doing well then it's expected that questions are asked.”
He added, “I'm comfortable with my role. This isn't the initial instance I've found myself in a tough spot but it's crucial that we changed our fortunes.”
Conversations with Liverpool Hierarchy
Upon being questioned to expand on his dialogues with the team officials, the head coach said:
“There's regular dialogue. They are helpful to the team and to me and we have those conversations but they don’t call me all the time each day to say they have faith in me.”
He further stated, “Through standard conversations we have I feel the belief. However I've not talked to them after this match yet so let’s see.”
Persistent Issues and Player Reaction
The manager highlighted familiar shortcomings from his Liverpool side in their European defeat, namely missed opportunities and conceding too easily.
Meanwhile, midfielder Curtis Jones was more direct in his view of the current crisis.
“I don’t have the answers. Frankly, I don’t. I'm telling that to everyone,” the midfielder said.
“It's simply not good enough. I don’t even have to wait to reflect. I’m past getting mad internally. I’m at the point now where I simply lack the words.”
He added, “It’s hard because I play for the team I support. I'm a supporter, and I’ve seen this club since I was young.”
“In a long, long time, I've not seen a Reds side enduring a phase such as this with performances like these.”
Jones concluded, “But we continue to wear that badge on our chest. And as long as that badge is taken away, we will always compete.”
“We’re going to try to bring this squad return to its rightful place, prove once more what this club is about and why it's known as the top club in the world.”
“But right now, we're in trouble and it needs to change.”