“We all needed it” – Liverpool star sends message to fans after Inter win | OneFootball

Robertson reflects on crucial victory at Inter Milan as Szoboszlai delivers late drama

Liverpool’s return to Champions League action in Italy brought a performance defined by resilience, clarity of purpose and a moment of late composure from Dominik Szoboszlai. A hard-earned 1-0 win over Inter Milan at San Siro did more than settle a tense group-stage contest; it gave Arne Slot’s side a much-needed foothold in a season demanding renewed momentum.

Andy Robertson, speaking after a night where Liverpool rediscovered their competitive edge, made no attempt to dress up the significance of the result. The left-back acknowledged both the performance level required and the wider context surrounding the squad going into such a high-pressure fixture.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot celebrates Inter Milan v Liverpool, UEFA Champions League

Momentum building after vital European response

Liverpool travelled to a stadium where few visiting teams escape unpunished, yet produced a display that was measured, controlled and underpinned by defensive discipline. Robertson was characteristically forthright about what the team needed to show.

“Huge result. We knew we had to come to a really tough place, a team that’s in a good moment. We had to show fight, we had to show determination, we had to dig in at times and obviously we get the penalty at the end,” he explained. “The clean sheet was crucial for us tonight and we go and score the goal. So, a perfect night for us and a big three points.”

It was Szoboszlai’s 88th-minute penalty that ensured Liverpool’s efforts were rewarded. But the platform was built far earlier, as a disciplined defence and an improved midfield structure kept Inter Milan at arm’s length for large spells.

Controversial interventions and decisive late call

The match was not without its flashpoints. Ibrahima Konaté saw a first-half goal ruled out following a lengthy VAR review, provoking frustration on the pitch and among supporters. Robertson did not hide his irritation at the process.

“The handball, I think it took maybe seven or eight minutes to get to the conclusion. If you do that, I think you have to stick with the on-field decision,” he said. “It can’t be taking that long and everyone hanging around and things like that. So, I think if it takes that long for the ref and for the VAR to make a decision, then I think you’ve got to stick to what the decision is.”

Conversely, Liverpool benefited from another late decision: the soft but ultimately given penalty that allowed Szoboszlai to secure victory. Robertson admitted the call was debatable but understood how it was deemed correct.

“The penalty, it looked soft, it did look soft, but anywhere else on the pitch it gets given. Thankfully we got that.”

Squad unity and Slot’s need for a defining performance

With scrutiny building on recent results and performances, Robertson emphasised that the entire club required a display of substance in Europe.

“We all needed it. The club as a whole needed it. We know we’re in not-the-best moment, we know the results haven’t been good enough, we know the performances haven’t been good enough,” he said. “So, it’s important this club is in the Champions League. When you are, you have to compete in it because the supporters expect us to go far in it.”

Robertson also addressed the wider conversation sparked by Mohamed Salah’s recent comments, responding with notable loyalty.

“Look, a tough situation obviously. We’re talking about, for me, one of the greatest players to ever play for this club. He’s been unbelievable for us eight-and-a-half years,” he said.

“Look, whatever’s happening happens obviously internally now. We’re all together and that’s the main thing in the changing room, and I think you’ve seen that today.”

Asked whether the situation can be resolved, he added: “That’ll obviously be up to other people. It’s not up to me. But I love playing with Mo Salah and I hope to continue to play with him.”

European position strengthened with top-eight push

The victory moves Liverpool into a stronger position within the league-phase standings, something Robertson was keen to highlight as a priority.

“We know how important being in that top eight is and avoiding a play-off in terms of an extra two games and things like that. That was the aim at the start of the season and it doesn’t change now.”

For Slot, the win represents a platform. For Liverpool, it could be the night that rekindles rhythm. Robertson made clear that momentum is now the expectation.