Arne Slot heaps praise on Sunderland ahead of crucial Anfield clash | OneFootball

Liverpool eye Sunderland test with Slot urging control and composure

Liverpool return to Anfield with momentum and expectation, yet Arne Slot made it clear in his pre Sunderland press conference that nothing about this midweek fixture should be taken lightly. The Premier League champions sit in strong early season form and Sunday’s win over West Ham has only sharpened the focus for a meeting with a newly promoted side that have already left their mark on the division. Sunderland come armed with energy, ambition and a clear blueprint under Regis Le Bris, who has guided them to 22 points from their first 13 matches.

Sunderland quality highlighted by recent results

Slot did not hesitate to underline the credibility of Wednesday’s visitors. “Yeah, a big compliment for their manager because they brought in a lot of new players and they started off so well.” He explained that Sunderland’s results speak for themselves, particularly after seeing Chelsea against Arsenal on Liverpool’s journey back from London. Both clubs played with intensity and cohesion, making it all the more noteworthy that Sunderland “beat Chelsea in their stadium and had a draw against Arsenal”.

Liverpool’s manager views those outcomes as a clear indicator of the challenge ahead. It is not simply about league position, it is about their ability to disrupt top sides through organisation, bravery and relentless work off the ball.

Photo: IMAGO

Mentality and intensity shaping Black Cats identity

Sunderland’s resilience was on full display during their comeback against AFC Bournemouth and Slot noted the layers to their threat. “They’ve shown great mentality, but not only great mentality, the style they play, the risk they take when they don’t have the ball, playing a high paced game and players are working so, so hard all 11 of them to get a result.”

Liverpool have been reminded that any opponent willing to hunt aggressively and commit every outfield player to the press can force uncomfortable moments. Slot compared aspects of their approach to PSV, stressing the importance of starting well and managing early phases of pressure. “Sunderland combines both, they are either pressing you really high or 11 players defend in and around with all they have and that’s why they are such a difficult team to play against.”

Squad depth proving vital for Liverpool

Sunday’s win at West Ham showcased again how dependable figures can steady Liverpool in tricky stretches, with Joe Gomez stepping in seamlessly. Slot praised the defender’s ability to reach a high level even after periods without regular minutes. “It’s a skillset he has that after a long time not playing you can play him again and he just performs as he did before.” He added that Dominik Szoboszlai played a significant part in helping Gomez through the contest, highlighting the value of partnerships in Slot’s system.

Liverpool have conceded early in several recent matches and Slot made it clear that setting the tone earlier will be crucial under the Anfield lights. The message is simple, start faster, dominate rhythm and avoid gifting teams a foothold. If Liverpool execute that plan, they will strengthen their Premier League charge, but Slot’s respect for Sunderland indicates that this will not be a straightforward evening.