Tony Evans: Slot Needs a Forward and the Clock Is Ticking for Liverpool | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Striker Situation Remains Unresolved

This is an abridged version; the full article is available on our ‘It Was Always… Liverpool’ Substack page:

Arne Slot has made no secret of the lack of depth up front after the departures of Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez, and the tragic death of Diogo Jota in July. Despite this, Liverpool have yet to move for another forward, even as reports swirl around Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.

Newcastle’s recent statement about Isak’s availability drew comparisons with Liverpool’s firm 2017 message on Philippe Coutinho. Then, the club simply stated he would not be sold. In contrast, Newcastle left the door ajar, saying that the “conditions of a sale” had not “transpired” and were not “foreseen.” It sounded more like a maybe than a no, especially with Liverpool set to visit St James’ Park soon.

Defenders Under Pressure

Liverpool’s defence has struggled to settle early this season. Injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and the ongoing unavailability of Conor Bradley have added to the issues. Anthony Gordon remains Newcastle’s key threat, though his finishing lacks consistency.

Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté have not hit top form yet, which is understandable given the changes around them. Two new full-backs and a reshaped midfield have disrupted the rhythm. Slot is managing transition on the fly and the return of cohesion is only a matter of time.

Creative Solutions at Right-Back

With Endo struggling in a brief outing at right-back and Gomez’s fitness uncertain, there may be a wildcard option. Dominik Szoboszlai could slot in, given his engine, positional sense and tackling ability. He has even drawn faint comparisons to Steven Gerrard, who once filled in brilliantly at right-back in Istanbul. It is not ideal, but it might be enough until Bradley returns.

Backlash Over Chiesa Song Criticism

Away from tactics and selections, the fallout from criticism of the Chiesa chant has been intense. The writer, who has spent years defending Liverpool fans, faced an avalanche of abuse, even death threats. The core issue is not the intention of the chant but its potential to be misinterpreted, especially given Liverpool’s painful history in European football. The abuse reflects a darker shift in online discourse, filled with right-wing slurs and hostility towards sensitivity.

Despite all of it, there is still hope. Monday’s match is a chance to reset, and for all the tension, football continues to lift spirits.