Arne Slot has blamed the increasing fixture demands after Liverpool’s unbeaten run ended with a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth on Saturday.
The Reds suffered a dismal form between October and November, but had embarked on a 13-game unbeaten run across all competitions.
However, their winless run in the league was extended to five matches after they had recorded draws in their last four Premier League outings.
Speaking after the match, Slot was frustrated with the result and blamed the short recovery time between both matches for their defeat to the Cherries.
“Frustrating, of course. Conceding a goal is always frustrating, but especially if there is no time left to come back into the game,” he said in his post-match press conference.
“I think it is safe to say they could’ve scored the 3-2 a little bit earlier. A few players of ours ran out of energy, and I cannot criticise them for that.
“Two days ago we had to play an away game in Europe. We are the only team that played Champions League that has two days in between.
“After an away game, another away game against one of the most intense teams.”
Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk was at fault for Bournemouth’s opener after failing to deal with a long ball, allowing Alex Scott to assist Evanilson who scored past Alisson Becker.
Alex Jimenez doubled the lead minutes later, before Van Dijk halved the deficit on the stroke of halftime.
Dominik Szoboszlai continued his fine form by bringing the Reds back on level terms, but the hosts would have the final say of the game.
Amine Adli scrambled home a winner in stoppage-time to seal a dramatic win for the Cherries and end Liverpool’s unbeaten run.
“What should not have happened is you have to win it at the end, that is more difficult.
“For the rest of the game, it was completely different. We dominated the game.”
Liverpool return to action during the week in their final UCL league-phase match when they face Qarabag, hoping for a win to secure a top-eight spot.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
