Liverpool manager Arne Slot has warned his players they can no longer afford late mistakes as they prepare to host Newcastle United in a crucial Premier League fixture this weekend.
The Reds suffered a damaging setback last Saturday when they conceded in stoppage time to lose 3–2 away at Bournemouth, a result that dropped them to sixth place in the table on 36 points and intensified the pressure in the race for a top-four finish.
Although Liverpool responded in emphatic fashion with a 6–0 Champions League victory over Qarabag on Wednesday, Slot insists consistency remains a major concern as the season enters a decisive phase.
“We know that one win is never enough at this club,” Slot said ahead of the Newcastle game. “The next challenge comes very quickly, and this one will be much tougher than what we faced in midweek.”
Slot highlighted the importance of every remaining league match, admitting Liverpool’s current position leaves little room for further slip-ups.
“Every game is important, but where we are now makes each one even more crucial. We want to achieve a top-four finish, and we’ve already made too many mistakes this season.”
Liverpool are currently on a five-match winless run in the Premier League, having drawn four and lost one, and now trail league leaders Arsenal by 14 points.
The Dutch coach also confirmed that right-back Jeremie Frimpong will be sidelined for several weeks after picking up an injury against Qarabag. However, there was positive news as centre-back Ibrahima Konaté is set to return to the squad following a brief absence due to a family bereavement.
Slot also welcomed Mohamed Salah’s return after the Africa Cup of Nations, with the Egyptian ending a nine-game goal drought by scoring in midweek.
“It was good for Mo to be back on the scoresheet,” Slot said. “Our job as a team is to put him — and others — in the best possible positions. When we do that, their quality speaks for itself.”
Liverpool will be aiming to respond strongly against Newcastle as they look to revive their Premier League campaign and keep their top-four hopes alive.