Arne Slot Asserts He Is Safe and Retains The Club's Backing Following PSV Defeat
The Liverpool head coach acknowledged that it's natural for doubts to be raised about his position following a further heavy defeat against PSV Eindhoven.
The Reds suffered their ninth defeat in 12 games, marking the team's worst streak after being demoted in the 1953-54 season.
They were outplayed by the Dutch league champions on a punishing evening at Anfield.
“I'm confident, I am OK, I've received plenty of support from above,” the coach stated.
“It would be great to turn it around and get a victory obviously but if you are working as a coach and struggling then it's expected that people question you.”
He added, “I'm comfortable with my role. It is not the first time I've found myself in a tough spot but it's necessary that we improved our results.”
Discussions with Club Management
When asked to elaborate on his dialogues with the Liverpool hierarchy, Slot revealed:
“We talk a lot. They are helpful to the team and to me and we discuss these matters but they aren't calling me constantly each day to say they have faith in me.”
He added, “During our regular discussions I sense the trust. However I've not talked to them since this defeat so far so it remains to be seen.”
Persistent Problems and Player Response
Slot expressed regret over familiar weaknesses from his team in their European loss, specifically poor finishing and defensive lapses.
Meanwhile, midfielder Jones was more direct in his assessment of the team's situation.
“I don’t have the solutions. Truthfully, I do not. I'm telling that to everybody,” Jones remarked.
“It’s just unacceptable. I don't have to wait to think about it. I’m past feeling anger inside. I’m at the point now where I just don’t have the words.”
He continued, “It’s hard because I’m playing for the side I follow. I'm a supporter, and I've watched Liverpool for years.”
“For many years, I haven’t experienced a Liverpool team going through a spell of this nature with results like these.”
Jones concluded, “However we still have that badge on our shirts. And as long as it is removed, we will always compete.”
“We’re going to try to get this team back to where it needs to be, show everyone once more what Liverpool stands for and why people call it the best team in the planet.”
“However currently, things are bad and we have to turn it around.”