Sethi: “Liverpool’s efficiency under Slot has made them a more controlled force” | OneFootball

Liverpool v Newcastle United: A Tactical Battle in Focus – Rival Recon Analysis

Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Newcastle United at Anfield has been dissected in great detail by Hari Sethi and Dave Black on Rival Recon for Anfield Index. The episode offers valuable insight into Arne Slot’s high-flying Reds and Newcastle’s season so far.

With the Carabao Cup Final looming, this fixture serves as a test for both teams. As Dave Black puts it: “You can either have a dry run of how you’re going to play against Liverpool in the final or keep your cards close to your chest.”

Momentum and Mixed Fortunes for Newcastle

Newcastle have endured a season of highs and lows. Black highlights their inconsistency: “It’s a good season on paper – we’re fifth and in a final – but it’s been a really strange up-and-down kind of season.”

They started the campaign strongly, with key players such as Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, and Sandro Tonali forming an imposing midfield unit. However, form has dipped in recent weeks, particularly in a 4-1 home loss to Bournemouth and a 4-0 defeat at Manchester City.

Despite these setbacks, Newcastle have secured big results. As Black recalls: “Since Christmas, something seemed to click – we beat Villa, Arsenal over two legs, Man United, and Tottenham away.”

The defensive side of their game has been a concern. Nick Pope’s injury has left a gap, with Martin Dúbravka stepping in. Black acknowledges that the goalkeeping situation remains unsettled: “We’ve got a real battle now for the jersey – Pope got the weekend, but was pretty poor again to be honest.”

Liverpool’s Efficiency Under Arne Slot

While Liverpool’s season has been shaped by their new, more controlled approach, Black notes that the intensity hasn’t diminished: “Slot somehow made them a more efficient version of what was already there. The rock-and-roll football hasn’t gone away – it’s just a lot more controlled.”

Liverpool have been ruthless in key moments. Their 2-0 win at Manchester City was a prime example of this tactical shift. As Sethi observed: “Liverpool approached it almost like a first leg of a European away tie – picking moments, being ruthless, and staying in control.”

Photo: IMAGO

The game management has also contributed to Liverpool’s impressive injury record this season, allowing Arne Slot to maintain a settled side: “They haven’t really had that many injuries all season.”

One of Liverpool’s standout performers has been Dominik Szoboszlai, whose high-intensity pressing and creativity have been vital. Sethi refers to him as Liverpool’s Duracell Bunny, noting: “His high-intensity sprints off the ball are just extraordinary.”

Key Tactical Battles at Anfield

One of the most intriguing head-to-heads will be Virgil van Dijk against Alexander Isak. Black is keen to see how the Dutchman deals with the Swede’s pace: “I don’t think Van Dijk is used to getting into a foot race – I’ll be interested to see how much speed he still has in those legs.”

Newcastle’s best chance lies in isolating Isak and Anthony Gordon against Liverpool’s backline. Black identifies this as a key Newcastle tactic: “If you turn the ball over, Gordon’s got acres to run into.”

Liverpool’s right side will be another area to watch, with Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to push forward. Newcastle may look to exploit this by leaving Gordon high on the left, forcing Liverpool’s midfield into extra defensive duties.

What’s at Stake?

For Liverpool, a win would maintain their stronghold at the top of the Premier League. For Newcastle, the game is a dress rehearsal for the Carabao Cup Final.

The significance isn’t lost on Black, who highlights the weight of expectation: “Newcastle haven’t won anything for so long – the city will go mad if we don’t lift that trophy.”

Regardless of the outcome at Anfield, the stage is set for two crucial encounters between these sides.