Steve McManaman and Steven Gerrard have agreed that it is “too early” to consider sacking Liverpool manager Arne Slott. There has been increased interest in the Dutch head coach following the Reds’ ninth defeat in 12 games, most recently a 4-1 win over PSV at Anfield. Former Liverpool captain Gerrard echoed his former Anfield colleague’s views on Slott’s position. But he suggested “serious questions” would be asked of the Premier League-winning manager.
The Reds missed out on an automatic place in the Champions League last 16 after suffering a setback in the Eredivisie competition. In European competition, Liverpool must survive difficult away fixtures at Inter Milan and Marseille before welcoming Qarabag to Anfield in their final group game.
There have been growing calls for Slott to be sacked from his position following nine defeats in his last 12 games at Anfield. Nevertheless, McManaman and Gerrard were quick to support him.
“I think no. I think it’s too early. It’s a good progression of games considering what he’s accomplished this year and where he is right now,” McManaman said.
“I completely understand that question, but given this series of games, it is too early to ask such a question when Liverpool are still competing in the Champions League. They will be eliminated from the Champions League and languish at the bottom of the league.
“I think they play Arsenal in the second week of January and the question should be asked then. Hopefully they’re moving up the table. We’ve got to give him time to fill up with all the injuries. They’re players we expect to come in and lift the team.”
“If anything, they are discrediting the team and seem bigoted. It’s too early to ask that question when the manager has achieved so much in such a short period of time. I understand the world we live in, but that question will be thrown around.”
Gerrard added: “That’s the world we live in, that’s modern football. I’ve been in that position myself.
“If we don’t get a result, we understand that there will be serious questions about this territory, particularly at the top end, and there will be an investigation by the stewards.
“Makka, I and you both agree, because we’ve been through it and we’ve suffered. I’ve been on both sides. It will come someday.”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was responsible for scoring the opening goal, but the visitors were forced into another poor start following a handball by the Dutchman in the box.
Dominik Szoboszlai hit back and the Reds equalized, but Kodi Gakpo, Hugo Ekitike and Van Dijk threatened before half-time. Alexis Mac Allister, Van Dijk and Gakpo had chances for Liverpool to take the lead.
However, they were unable to capitalize and PSV punished Liverpool for a series of mistakes, with two goals from Guus Till and Kuhaib Drihues making things even worse for Slott.
