Liverpool news: Cracks appearing in Liverpool’s title charge?
Out of the FA Cup, an Arne Slot red card, and under pressure from the chasing Gunners - Liverpool are starting to look a little too shaky.
Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo analyses their recent form and what it means for the Premier League title race.
Cause of concern?
For months, Arne Slot has cut a composed figure on the touchline.
The Dutchman, taking over from the legendary Jurgen Klopp, has navigated his first Premier League season with an assured calm, steering Liverpool to the top of the table.
But after a fiery Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park, the cracks are beginning to show. With just 14 games left, is Slot starting to feel the pressure?
A nightmare week for Liverpool
Coming into the match on the back of a demoralising FA Cup elimination at the hands of Plymouth Argyle, Slot had warned Liverpool to expect one of their toughest tests at Goodison Park.
But few expected the challenge to be this gruelling. The loss to a then-bottom-of-the-Championship Plymouth was nothing short of an embarrassment for a club of Liverpool’s stature.
Despite fielding a strong side, the Reds looked disjointed and wasteful, falling to a 1-0 defeat that sent shockwaves through the fanbase.
It was a humbling moment for Slot, who had to quickly pick his team up for a high-stakes derby.
READ MORE: A grand farewell: The final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park delivers unforgettable drama
Frustration boils over at Goodison
Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Everton was a thrilling contest, but it was also a frustrating one for the Reds.
They had the game in their hands after Mohamed Salah’s late goal, only for James Tarkowski to rip up the script with a dramatic 98th-minute equaliser.
Tempers flared at the final whistle, with Slot himself seeing red alongside Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure.
Slot, who has been the epitome of control this season, let his emotions spill over in a way we haven’t seen before.
Now facing a touchline ban and out of the FA Cup, the question lingers - has the pressure of the title race started to unsettle him?
Arsenal lurking
It’s been a dominant season for Liverpool so far. They’ve led the charge with a high-intensity, attacking style that has put them in pole position.
But just when they seemed to be pulling away, the title race has taken a turn.
Arsenal, seven points back suddenly have a glimmer of hope.
The Gunners have been relentless in their chase, and with Mikel Arteta’s side hitting top form, they could sense an opportunity to close the gap.
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Can Liverpool regain their composure?
Slot’s job now is to regroup and ensure that Liverpool don’t lose their momentum. There’s no time to dwell on the frustrations of Goodison Park.
The Premier League run-in is unforgiving, and with Arsenal lurking as well, any slip-up could prove costly.
Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether this was just a blip or the start of a real wobble.
For now, the league leaders still hold the advantage. But if Arsenal smell blood, they will pounce.
Slot’s challenge is to prove that his team - and his temperament - are strong enough to go the distance. The heat is well and truly on.
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