Steven Gerrard criticises Liverpool’s unacceptable performance
Steven Gerrard has branded Liverpool’s performance “unacceptable” after his former side suffered their ninth defeat in 12 matches. PSV Eindhoven triumphed 4-1 at Anfield on Wednesday night, marking the club’s poorest sequence of results since a period spanning November 1953 to January 1954, reports BritPanorama.
Gerrard expressed his discontent, stating: “No, it’s not [acceptable], they’re conceding too many goals, they’re wide open, they’re vulnerable and unstable.” He observed a notable decline in the atmosphere at Anfield, where empty seats became increasingly visible as PSV secured their third goal, leading to mass departures among the home supporters.
With PSV scoring four goals at home in the Champions League, manager Arne Slot now faces intensifying scrutiny following this latest result. Gerrard reserved particular criticism for the defensive unit, asserting that the combination of Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez “could never constitute a proper Liverpool defence.” He added, “That’s not a Liverpool back four, never will be,” while commenting on the decision to substitute Ibrahima Konate after PSV’s third goal, which saw Gravenberch drop into defence.
Gerrard described Konate’s substitution as “huge” and noted it “sends a story” about the player’s current form, as Konate has now been replaced consecutively in matches. He highlighted the squad’s defensive frailty, particularly their vulnerability during transitions, saying, “They’re conceding too many goals, they’re wide open in transition, look very vulnerable and unstable as soon as the ball turns over.”
The gravity of Liverpool’s situation resonated throughout Anfield, where Gerrard observed, “Anfield tells a story; the seats are empty.” The former midfielder called for serious introspection among the players, asserting, “Liverpool’s problems become deeper, the pressure intensifies even more, and there needs to be soul-searching for sure.” He acknowledged PSV’s strong performance, stating they “totally deserved the victory” against a Liverpool side that appears to be lacking answers. The defeat solidifies that Liverpool has conceded at least three goals in three successive fixtures across all competitions, a statistic not seen since September 1992.
Slot reflected on the disappointing emotions following the loss, telling TNT Sports: “The emotions are very negative and disappointing.” He acknowledged the team’s positive response after falling behind but conceded, “I don’t think anyone thought we would lose 4-1.”
As Liverpool grapples with its current woes, the hard truths emerge: a legendary club facing existential questions, their Anfield fortress less impenetrable with every match that passes.
