In the aftermath of Liverpool’s Merseyside derby victory over Everton, Arne Slot has firmly dismissed claims that his side benefited from inadequate stoppage time and accused critics of overlooking the facts of the match. The Everton camp, including manager David Moyes and midfielder Jack Grealish, expressed frustration that only three minutes were added at the end of the second half, with suggestions that Liverpool had deliberately slowed the game when under pressure.
Slot defended his players and the referee’s decision, stating that the additional time was “completely correct.” He pointed out that the second half contained only one goal and three substitutions, occurring in the 61st, 67th, and 86th minutes. According to him, the calculation of three minutes was accurate, with no injuries and no intentional time-wasting. “We were actually in a five-v-two situation when the whistle blew, and I would have loved 34 more seconds to try and score again. That shows the mentality of this team – always hungry for goals.”
The Liverpool head coach also highlighted the contrast between his side’s approach and that of opponents in similar situations. He stressed that while Liverpool seek to play forward and maintain intensity, many other teams deliberately waste time when defending a lead.
Attention now turns to Liverpool’s Carabao Cup third-round clash against Southampton, where Slot confirmed he will field a heavily rotated lineup. Key players such as Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Mohamed Salah, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai will be rested. Instead, recent signings Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, and Giorgi Mamardashvili are expected to feature, alongside squad players needing match fitness, such as Wataru Endo. Slot explained that if Liverpool did not have a cup tie, the club would have arranged a friendly to give these players valuable playing time.
Beyond football matters, Liverpool will use the occasion to pay tribute to former women’s team manager Matt Beard, who recently passed away. Slot underlined Beard’s importance to the club, both in terms of his success – winning back-to-back league titles – and his personal impact on players, staff, and fans. “He returned to lead the women’s side even when they were in the division below, showing his dedication and love for Liverpool. His legacy is not only in the trophies but in the way he touched the lives of those around him.”
