Home SPORTS Arne Slot's Lineup Decision for Merseyside Derby

Arne Slot's Lineup Decision for Merseyside Derby

Read
Arne Slot
Arne Slot


Merseyside derby preview: Arne Slot's lineup decisions, including Isak and Ekitike's starting chances, could be crucial. Read more.


“If both of them are in the best form of their life, then you consider more to play them together...”


Liverpool manager Arne Slot has hinted that Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike could start together in the upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton. Slot emphasized that the decision would depend on the players' form, stating, “If both of them are in the best form of their life, then you consider more to play them together.” Liverpool's 4-3-3 formation often features a lone striker, but Slot noted that they've frequently ended games with two strikers, leaving the door open for an Isak-Ekitike partnership.


Slot sees both players as natural number nines, but Ekitike's versatility could allow him to play on the left side, potentially alongside Isak. This would alter the team's dynamics, possibly impacting Cody Gakpo's role. Slot added that the squad's depth is a strength, saying, “We have multiple options, but first, all have to stay fit to have these options.” With a packed schedule ahead, Slot aims to utilize both Isak and Ekitike effectively throughout the season.


The Merseyside derby is set to be another intense affair, with Everton looking to break their Premier League losing streak at Anfield. Slot acknowledged the rivalry's significance but emphasized the importance of focus on the game, stating, “The focus should be on the rivalry, but it should also be on what we need to do to win the game.” With several new players in the squad, Slot believes they'll adapt quickly to the derby's intensity, drawing from their experiences with rivalries at their previous clubs.


Arne Slot isn't revealing much about Liverpool's lineup for the upcoming match, saying, “I don't think I tell the media a lot the day before a game. We had recovery yesterday and we are going to train this afternoon.” This suggests that the team will have to wait until closer to the match to find out if Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike will start.


Given Isak's recent debut against Atletico Madrid, where he played 60 minutes, it's possible he might not start this weekend. Slot has mentioned that Isak won't play the full 90 minutes in his initial games, focusing on building his fitness. Ekitike, on the other hand, has been impressive in his first few games, scoring two goals and providing one assist, so he might have a good chance of starting.


Some predicted lineups have Ekitike starting alongside Isak, potentially playing on the left wing to accommodate both players. However, Slot might choose to prioritize one striker over the other or experiment with different formations to get the best out of his new signings.


Possible Lineup Scenarios:

  • Isak starts: With Ekitike on the bench, Isak could be the main striker, leveraging his goal-scoring ability to lead the attack.
  • Ekitike starts: Given his recent form, Ekitike might start, potentially playing out wide to allow Isak to come on later in the game.
  • Both start: Liverpool could line up with both Isak and Ekitike, with Ekitike playing on the left wing and Isak as the main striker.


Ultimately, the final decision will depend on Slot's strategy and the team's dynamics, which will become clearer after today's training session.


“First of all, we just have to see how they all feel. All I know is Alex probably felt his body more than ever before after the 60 minutes he played, so let's see how he recovered today, then we will see about the lineup later today and you will see tomorrow.”


Liverpool manager Arne Slot considers various factors when deciding the team's lineup, particularly regarding Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike playing together. “I consider many things and it depends always on how well they are doing.” Slot mentioned that if both players are performing exceptionally well, he would consider playing them together.


Slot envisions different formations where both Isak and Ekitike can contribute. In a 4-3-3 setup, Ekitike could play on the left side, utilizing his skills differently than Cody Gakpo or Mohamed Salah. Alternatively, Liverpool might switch to a 4-4-2 formation, allowing both players to start upfront. “If both of them are in the best form of their life then you consider more to play them together,” Slot said.


The team's depth and flexibility are significant advantages, according to Slot. “We have multiple options, but first, all have to stay fit to have these options.” With a packed schedule ahead, Slot aims to utilize both Isak and Ekitike effectively throughout the season, ensuring they both contribute to the team's success.


“If both of them are in the best form of their life, then you consider more to play them together, but it is quite clear that we have a certain structure of 4-3-3. But the amount of times the end phase where we have ended the game with two nines has happened a lot as well. 


“Hugo can play from the left, different from the way Cody (Gakpo) and Rio (Ngumoha) do this and that's the good thing about our squad. 


“We have multiple options, but first of all, they all have to stay fit to have these options. If all of them are not fit, then we may have to use them both in a 4-4-2, but that all depends on the form of them and how many players we have available.”




Arne Slot Praises Everton's Sportsmanship

Arne Slot expressed admiration for Everton's display of respect following the passing of Diogo Jota earlier this year. Despite the intense rivalry between the two teams, Slot noted that Everton showed class and sportsmanship in their gesture, highlighting the human side of the football world amidst the fierce competition.


“When we faced them last season, they had a very good spell and they kept on going with that. They have made some good signings. 


“One of them is of course a player on loan that was worth £100million in the past and he is doing so well for them, Jack Grealish 


“They are a good team and there is rivalry, but what I also liked and what I want to emphasise is what they did when Diogo (Jota) passed away, coming to Anfield. 


“They showed their respect, and in these moments of time, it is so nice to see in tragedies that the rivalry is still there but the respect to both is still there. 


“Every Anfield game is special but this derby is more special.”


Arne Slot Praises Mohamed Salah's Contributions

Arne Slot has high praise for Mohamed Salah, saying he remains one of the best wingers globally and consistently contributes to the team every week. Despite facing criticism, Salah's impact on the team is undeniable, with Slot highlighting his exceptional work rate, particularly in defensive situations. In a recent match against Ipswich, Salah scored and showcased his defensive skills by tackling back and helping win the ball, which impressed Slot. The Liverpool manager appreciates Salah's ability to perform well even when not at his best, often providing crucial goals and assists.


“For me when you are a great player you still contribute to the team even when you don't play. Not a lot of them can contribute to the team with goals and assists when they don't play (well), that is what stands out for Mo, especially as a winger. 


“It is so difficult to always be the player he was against Atletico but he still has goals and assists and that is why he is still so highly regarded and respected. A lot of players play well when the team is and not a lot can score or assist when they don't.


“But I prefer to see him how he was against Atletico. Newcastle, (he was) hardly ever in play with the ball, so it was tough, but Atletico was a joy to watch.”





Arne Slot on the Intensity of English Derbies

Arne Slot believes that rivalries in England aren't as intense as in other countries, noting that fans of opposing teams can often be civil with each other before and after games. This observation comes as he prepares for the Merseyside derby against Everton, a match that promises to be intense despite the cordial relations between fans. Slot has experienced the passion of Dutch derbies firsthand, having managed Feyenoord, and appreciates the unique atmosphere of high-stakes matches. He emphasizes the importance of focus and intensity for his team to succeed in such games.


“It differed to other derby days. What I like so much in England is that no matter how much the rivalry is there with Everton, Newcastle, Man Utd...the fans can be together, the 10 LFC shirts were standing with Newcastle fans I saw, which is impossible in Holland.


“I hope we can keep this here, the fans are so passionate but they respect each other as well. Ajax vs Feyenoord, away fans are not allowed anyway. It makes it much nicer if both fans are there.”


Match Details

The 247th Merseyside derby kicks off on Saturday at 12:30 WAT at Anfield, where Liverpool will look to maintain their unbeaten record against Everton under Premier League circumstances. Everton boss David Moyes has yet to taste victory in 20 attempts at Anfield in the Premier League, and Slot will aim to keep this record intact as Liverpool chases continued success.


Tags :

No comments:

Leave comment here

Subscribe to: Post Comments ( Atom )
Powered by Blogger.