Hendrick on Robinson “He’s 27 years old. He’s not good enough to play for us.” | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Grit Against Fulham: Arne Slot’s Bravery and Robertson’s Controversial Moment

Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield this past weekend was a rollercoaster of emotion. Despite a result that many would see as points dropped, Dave Hendrick of The Daily Red Podcast highlights the bravery, the key performances, and controversial moments that defined the match. Hendrick’s analysis sheds light on Liverpool’s resilience under Arne Slot and raises questions about Fulham’s Anthony Robinson, as well as Andy Robertson’s costly red card.

Arne Slot’s Tactical Boldness

Dave Hendrick emphasised that Liverpool’s performance, particularly in the second half, was a testament to Slot’s bravery. “When Andy Robertson gets sent off, normally a forward would be taken off,” Hendrick observed. Instead, Liverpool stuck to their guns, refusing to resort to damage limitation. “We kept our front three, and Sabozlai and Jones were absolutely titanic.”

Slot’s decision not to sacrifice attacking intent exemplified his belief in his players. Even down to 10 men, Liverpool outperformed Fulham for long stretches, and Hendrick praised the manager’s tactical boldness for keeping Liverpool competitive.

Robertson’s Red Card: Was It Justified?

Andy Robertson was at the centre of Liverpool’s first-half struggles. Hendrick did not mince words: “It starts with dreadful defending from Robertson. A lack of awareness.” The red card incident that followed was controversial. While Hendrick admits Robertson’s touch was “horrendous” and the challenge was poor, he questions whether a goal-scoring opportunity was truly denied.

Liverpool v Real Madrid Champions League 27/11/2024. Liverpool defender Andrew Robertson 26 during the Champions League match between Liverpool and Real Madrid at Anfield, Liverpool, England on 27 November 2024. Editorial use only , Copyright: xIanxStephenx PSI-20885-0104

“What goal-scoring opportunity did he actually prevent? Harry Wilson’s touch sends the ball away from goal, not towards it. Van Dijk was there to clear up,” Hendrick explained. Hendrick believes Liverpool might appeal the decision and “if we do appeal, I think we’ll win.”

Anthony Robinson: Fulham’s Mixed Bag at Anfield

Fulham’s Anthony Robinson has often been linked to Liverpool, and the left-back was under the spotlight again. Hendrick dismissed any talk of Robinson as a future Liverpool signing, stating emphatically: “He was garbage for an hour. Salah absolutely destroyed him.”

Robinson’s two assists do not tell the full story. One was due to Robertson’s error, while the other came from a defensive lapse by Liverpool. Hendrick was clear that Robinson, though “decent,” is not of Liverpool’s calibre: “He’s 27 years old. He’s not good enough to play for us.”

Key Performances in Liverpool’s Midfield

Hendrick reserved special praise for Liverpool’s midfield trio: Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones. “They were outworking and outplaying Fulham’s midfield,” Hendrick noted, pointing out how the trio kept Liverpool competitive despite being a man down.

The performance was also a testament to Virgil van Dijk, who Hendrick described as “unplayable” for much of the match.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s draw with Fulham may have been disappointing, but as Hendrick summarised, the positives were clear: Arne Slot’s tactical bravery, the tireless work from Liverpool’s midfielders, and moments of quality that could have turned the result. As for Robertson, the red card remains contentious, while the continued links to Anthony Robinson are, in Hendrick’s view, misguided.

Liverpool remain top of the league, and Hendrick’s reminder is clear: “Despite all the bed-wetting on social media, Liverpool are still in control of their destiny.”