Slot’s Midfield Preferences Leave Elliott Facing Uncertain Future | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Title Charge: Slot’s Tactical Vision and Elliott’s Uncertain Future

Liverpool’s title pursuit intensifies, and with Arne Slot at the helm, key decisions on squad rotation and player roles are taking centre stage. Dave Davis, on The Daily Red Podcast from Anfield Index, provided a revealing insight into Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Brentford, Slot’s handling of Darwin Núñez, and the uncertain status of Harvey Elliott.

Slot’s Honest Verdict on Harvey Elliott

Harvey Elliott’s role under Arne Slot has become a topic of debate. The 20-year-old has only played 44 minutes in the Premier League this season, a stark contrast to previous campaigns. Slot was direct when discussing Elliott’s situation, saying, “It would be weird if he came to say to me ‘I’m so happy with the playing time I have at the moment.’ No doubts about that at all.”

Davis highlighted Slot’s assessment of where Elliott stands in the midfield pecking order, stating, “Harvey is behind Szoboszlai, Jones, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister… maybe even sixth, because Endo’s been used more.” Slot confirmed that Elliott is “in competition with four or five very good midfielders,” making it clear that breaking into the starting XI will be difficult.

This isn’t just about form; it’s about preference. Davis argued, “Let’s be honest, Slot does not fancy Harvey Elliott. Even in his embargo comments, he basically said, ‘I’m sorry, I’ve got four or five very good midfielders.’”

There are murmurs of a potential summer exit for Elliott, with clubs like Dortmund and Brighton reportedly interested. Davis believes a departure is likely, saying, “I expect Harvey Elliott to be away in the summer. This isn’t a go at anyone—it’s just the nature of football.” If Liverpool receive an offer north of £40 million, it could be business they are willing to do.

Slot’s Defensive Stance on Núñez

Darwin Núñez remains one of the most debated figures in Liverpool’s squad. His ability is undeniable, but his finishing has often left fans frustrated. In the press conference, Slot was defiant in his defence of the Uruguayan, dismissing claims that Núñez lacks confidence: “That’s your perception and maybe the perception of other people as well, but it’s not my perception that he’s struggling in self-confidence.”

Davis, however, isn’t convinced by Slot’s public show of support: “Look, what else is he supposed to do? You can’t give Arne Slot truth serum and expect him to say, ‘Lads, he’s terrible!’” But the numbers tell a different story. Núñez’s goal tally remains below expectations, and Davis pointedly asked, “How much of a sample size do we want for Darwin Núñez to say he’s not really going to be a huge success at Liverpool?”

Saudi Arabian interest in Núñez has been widely reported, and journalist Lewis Steele confirmed its legitimacy. Davis commented, “It does seem like the interest is genuine. If he doesn’t go in January, he’s going to go in the summer for whatever price that may be.”

Despite the doubts, Davis hopes to be proven wrong: “I’m desperate for Darwin Núñez to smash my teeth in today, score goals, and shut me up.” But with Liverpool needing clinical finishing to maintain their title charge, patience is wearing thin.

Brentford Test: A Pivotal Game for Liverpool

Liverpool’s visit to Brentford is a defining moment in their title race. Sitting four points clear at the top with a game in hand, victory would pile the pressure on Arsenal and Manchester City. Brentford, however, pose a real threat. “They have the third-best home record in the Premier League,” Davis noted. “This is a difficult game, no two ways about it.”

Brentford’s attacking duo of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa have been key to their success, contributing 24 of the team’s 40 league goals. Davis didn’t hold back in assessing the challenge: “Shouldn’t wish ill on them, but a temporary case of leprosy wouldn’t hurt!”

Liverpool’s predicted lineup sees Núñez, Salah, and Gakpo leading the attack, while Mac Allister, Gravenberch, and Szoboszlai are expected to start in midfield. The biggest decision comes at left-back, with Davis stating, “If Andy Robertson starts, I’ll be concerned. Tsimikas is the best left-back at the club for me.”

A win here would be a statement of intent, he stated before the 2-0 win over Brentford. Davis summed up the mood: “Three points and no injuries—that’s the mantra today.” Liverpool can ill afford a slip-up in such a tight title race.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s season hinges on key decisions from Arne Slot. Whether it’s Elliott’s lack of minutes, Núñez’s inconsistency, or the crucial clash with Brentford, every moment matters. With a title at stake, Liverpool need to deliver.

As Davis put it best, “Let’s not pretend—this is massive.”