Arne Slot Maintains He Is Safe and Retains Liverpool's Support Following PSV Eindhoven Humiliation
The Liverpool head coach acknowledged that it was natural for doubts to be raised about his position following another convincing defeat against PSV Eindhoven.
The Reds endured their 9th defeat in 12 matches, marking the club's poorest run after being relegated in the 1953-54 season.
They were dominated by the Dutch league title holders on a punishing night at their home ground.
“I'm confident, I am OK, I've received a lot of backing from above,” the coach commented.
“It would be nice to turn it around and get a victory naturally but if you are coaching a team and not doing well then it's expected that doubts arise.”
He noted, “I'm comfortable with my role. This isn't the first time I've found myself in a difficult position but it's crucial that we turned it around.”
Discussions with Club Management
Upon being questioned to provide details on his discussions with the team officials, the head coach said:
“We communicate frequently. They are supportive for the squad and to me and we have those conversations but they don't phone me constantly of the day to say they have faith in me.”
He added, “During our regular discussions I feel the belief. But I've not talked to them after this match yet so let’s see.”
Persistent Problems and Player Response
Slot lamented recurring weaknesses from his team in their European defeat, specifically wasted chances and conceding too easily.
Meanwhile, midfielder Curtis Jones was blunter in his evaluation of the team's situation.
“I don’t have the solutions. Frankly, I don’t. I’m saying that to everybody,” the midfielder said.
“It is not good enough. I don't need to wait to consider it. I’m past feeling anger inside. I've reached the stage currently where I simply lack the phrases.”
He added, “It’s hard because I play for the team I support. I’m a fan, and I’ve seen this club since I was young.”
“For many years, I've not seen a Reds side experiencing a period of this nature with performances so bad.”
Jones stated, “But we still have that badge on our shirts. And until it is gone, we’re always going to fight.”
“We’re going to try to help the side back to its rightful place, demonstrate to all again what Liverpool stands for and the reason it's called the best team in the planet.”
“But right now, things are bad and it needs to change.”