Premier League news: Arne Slot says Liverpool ‘know what to expect’ against cautious Leeds Utd
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has claimed that the Reds “know what to expect” as they prepare to face Daniel Farke’s cautious Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Will Thomas takes a look at what the two managers had to say ahead of the clash.
Slot claims players ‘know what to expect’
In their last two games, the Reds have battled Sunderland (1-1 draw) and West Ham (2-0 victory), both of whom approached things with a defence-first mentality.
The defending champions particularly struggled to create scoring opportunities against the Black Cats, with Régis Le Bris’ resolute defensive setup largely keeping Alexander Isak and company quiet.
During a press conference ahead of this weekend’s matchup, Slot gave his view on how to overcome teams playing a low block.
“It’s not only difficult for us, that playing style. It’s difficult for many teams, including us,” he explained.
“So what we expect [at Elland Road] is what we’ve seen in the second half against [Manchester] City when they [Leeds] were 2-0 down, coming back to 2-2.
“Eventually, [Phil] Foden made the difference with a moment of magic for City.
“Against City, they were really strong and played a very good game. They were really aggressive and had a lot of long balls as well from their goalkeeper.
“We know what to expect, but what to expect is probably what we’ve faced [in] all of the games with maybe the exception of two.”
After the Sunderland game, the Dutchman had offered a similar sentiment, saying: “They were pressing high, but also in multiple situations they were in a low block.
“The way to score is quite simple – you need a moment of magic from a player or you need a set-piece to score.”
Farke labels Liverpool ‘a top-class side’
Wednesday was a magnificent night for Leeds as Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed a 3-1 win over Chelsea at Elland Road to move the club out of the relegation zone.
With attention now turning to Liverpool, Farke has insisted that the Reds remain a top side and will be back to their best in no time at all.
“They [Liverpool] are still a top-class side. They are the reigning champions, fully deserved last season – they were excellent,” Farke told the media.
“Of course, a lot of fluctuation in the summer and even for them, over the course of 38 games, you will sometimes have a period where the results don’t go in your way.
“They are two points off the Champions League positions – and I have no doubt in my mind that, come the crunch period of the season, they will be back for the fight for the Champions League and also for the title.”
Both managers have come under increasing scrutiny of late thanks to poor performances and will thus be desperate for a chance to build up some form and relieve the pressure.
