Arne Slot told to make crucial change to Liverpool’s XI vs Man United | OneFootball

Danny Murphy Calls For Bold Arne Slot Selection Ahead Of Liverpool vs Man United

Liverpool’s return to action against Manchester United on 19 October already carries huge weight, but former Reds midfielder Danny Murphy believes Arne Slot must make a decisive change to regain momentum.

The Premier League champions have suffered three consecutive defeats, prompting scrutiny over team selections. Slot has rotated frequently across the front line, yet one attacking dilemma now has a clear voice behind it.

Chiesa Over Gakpo In Left-Sided Role

Murphy wants Federico Chiesa to replace Cody Gakpo on the left wing against United. Speaking to AceOdds via the Liverpool Echo, he declared:

“Based on the games I’ve watched and not the online discourse of Liverpool fans, I would like to see Chiesa given a chance on the left side. I actually agree with Liverpool supporters online in that sense.

“Whenever he’s come on, he’s looked like a goal threat and full of confidence. I think he’s stuck with Cody Gakpo because of his performances last season and he knows that he can rely on Gakpo without the ball, but I think Gakpo has been underwhelming.

“He looks a bit short of confidence and he’s been giving the ball away. I know he scored against Chelsea but his performance was nowhere near to the levels needed and that he’s shown last season.”

Photo: IMAGO

Murphy did not stop there, adding: “Chiesa hasn’t been give that chance yet and I’d be amazed if he isn’t in the coming weeks. The levels he’s shown in his all around game form the goals, to the physicality and determination is something he deserves recognition for.”

Statistical Argument Favouring Chiesa

Both Chiesa and Gakpo have registered two goals and two assists this season. However, the contrast in efficiency is striking. Gakpo has taken 766 minutes to reach that tally, while Chiesa has needed just 153, according to Transfermarkt. Every appearance from the Italian has brought urgency, aggression and directness that visibly lifts Liverpool’s tempo.

Slot’s Selection Dilemma

There are minor fitness concerns. Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso confirmed Chiesa was left out of international duty due to not feeling entirely “100%” after a Champions League niggle. Even so, staying at Kirkby could leave him fresher than Gakpo, who is set to feature twice for Netherlands before returning to Merseyside.

The Manchester United clash is a must-win fixture, yet Slot has shown a willingness to reward impact rather than reputation. Chiesa delivering a full Premier League debut in such a fixture would be a bold move, but bold decisions defined Liverpool’s path to lifting the league title last season.

Murphy’s call carries weight. Slot must now decide whether to trust consistency or unleash unpredictability.