Arne Slot need not worry about Liverpool admission as FA Cup presents growing opportunity
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Arne Slot Need Not Worry About Liverpool Admission as FA Cup Presents Growing Opportunity
Liverpool FC manager Arne Slot has downplayed recent concerns over the team's finishing despite a dominant 3-0 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Emirates FA Cup fourth round at Anfield. Slot's side advanced convincingly to the fifth round, showcasing the quality and resilience he demands, even as he admitted pre-match anxieties over team selection[1][5].
In his matchday programme notes, Slot reflected on the midweek 1-0 win at Sunderland, praising the Reds' handling of heavy conditions but lamenting their inability to score more goals—a recurring issue this season[1]. "We could and definitely should have scored more goals," he wrote, emphasizing that sharper finishing would ease their path amid a testing campaign[1]. Against Brighton, however, Liverpool delivered: they dominated possession, created chances relentlessly, and kept a clean sheet, with standout performances from Curtis Jones at right-back and goal contributions from key players[2][4].
Post-match, Slot was buoyant in his press conference, hailing Dominik Szoboszlai as one of the world's best midfielders for his defensive tenacity, assist, and goal threat, while noting Mohamed Salah's finest display of 2026[2][4]. He defended deploying Jones effectively at right-back and discussed Wataru Endo's long-term injury absence, expressing hope for a pre-season return[4]. Slot also addressed a disallowed goal by youngster Ngumoha and praised the lack of VAR in the FA Cup for its flow[4].
Despite admitting sleepless nights mulling over his XI with a deep squad, Slot named four changes that paid off handsomely[3][5]. He views the FA Cup as a "real opportunity" this season, urging his team to treat every match like a final amid their title charge[2]. Brighton, who knocked out Manchester United prior, posed a stern test under Fabian Hurzeler, but Liverpool's character shone through[1].
Slot need not worry: this performance signals growing momentum, with the competition offering a vital shot at silverware and rotation for stars like the injured Endo[1][4]. Liverpool's blend of youth and experience positions them strongly for a deep run.
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