Liverpool manager Arne Slot insisted he feels "complete support" from the club's hierarchy and fans, despite his team's dismal run of three consecutive defeats across all competitions. The Dutch coach told reporters on Friday that sporting director Richard Hughes and chief executive Michael Edwards stand behind him, even as pressure mounts following exits from the FA Cup and a 2-0 deficit in their Champions League quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain.
With Liverpool clinging to fifth place in the Premier League—the final Champions League qualification spot—and Chelsea just one point behind, Saturday's home match against Fulham carries heightened significance. Slot acknowledged the team's struggles, referencing the 4-0 loss to Manchester City, but pointed to fan loyalty as a source of encouragement, noting that supporters continued singing "We love Liverpool" after the heavy defeat.
Meanwhile, a section of fans is planning protests at Anfield against the club's American owners over proposed ticket price hikes, echoing a 2016 demonstration when approximately 10,000 supporters walked out during a Premier League game, forcing a reversal. Slot expressed hope that Anfield's famed atmosphere would remain intact, stating, "I hope even in protest that they can be as helpful as they have always been for us."
Slot also paid tribute to defender Andy Robertson, whose departure after nine years was confirmed by the club on Thursday. The Scotland captain, out of contract this summer, has seen reduced playing time since the arrival of left-back Milos Kerkez. Slot praised Robertson as "a great person" and suggested the 32-year-old's decision was influenced by limited first-team opportunities, marking the end of an era for the veteran full-back.
Source: www.aljazeera.com