Liverpool face Brentford on Saturday with uncertainty over Alexander Isak’s availability after the striker picked up a groin injury during the team’s 5-1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt. Manager Arne Slot said that while the injury is not considered serious, Isak remains a question mark for the upcoming game.
The Reds are looking to end a three-game losing streak in the Premier League which has seen them drop to third in the table after defeats against Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Manchester United. Injuries complicate Sloto’s team selection, with Ryan Gravenberch also a doubt due to an ankle problem he had before the game in Frankfurt.
Slot confirmed Isak’s injury will be monitored ahead of the Brentford game. The team’s recent poor home form has increased the pressure to secure a positive result. With Jeremie Frimpong and Alisson Becker sidelined, Liverpool’s squad depth faces further tests. Frimpong is expected to be out for several games with a hamstring problem, so Slot will have limited options on the flanks.
The slot has seen a remarkable tactical evolution in the Premier League this season. He noted that opponents are playing more directly and using long balls, revealing that Liverpool had to defend 178 long balls in their first seven games – a big difference from last season.
“What I’m trying to tell (the players) is the major, major, major, major difference between this season and last season is the styles of play we’re facing,” Slot told reporters Friday. “We had to save 178 long balls in the (first) seven games and then in the United game we had to save 59 long balls. That’s different to the first half of last season.
The manager addressed the increased defensive burden and highlighted how Liverpool are adapting to the challenges. Breaking down organized teams with low blocks, Slot said, now depends on creative moments or set opportunities.
“The way to unlock it is the moment of magic that we had in the first half of (last) season, a lot with Mo (Salah), or the standard piece that we also had in Frankfurt,” he said. “Two set pieces (goals from corners) unlocked the game for us.”
Slot also clarified his previous comments regarding Manchester United’s tactics, saying they were meant as a compliment to manager Ruben Amorim. This reflects his respect for the tactical nuances implemented by rival clubs while focusing on Liverpool’s adjustments.
“When I tried to explain it in the media, it was actually more of a compliment to the other manager (Ruben Amorim) that he found the right answer to our style of play,” Slot said. “But I think if I’m right, people weren’t looking at it.
Liverpool managed to end a four-game losing streak with a win against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.
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Published on:
October 24, 2025
