ESPN FC Trouble at Anfield
Nov 22, 2025
Don Hutchison, a former Premier League player and keen analyst, joins the discussion on Liverpool's shocking 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. He highlights the team's lack of intensity and defensive errors, which have become a recurring theme. The panel also critiques the poor form of key players like Salah and Van Dijk. Beyond Liverpool, they explore Newcastle's impressive win over Manchester City and Chelsea's rise in the standings, pondering whether they can maintain title contention amidst squad depth concerns.
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Defence Is The Root Problem
- Liverpool's primary problem is defensive fragility with the back four and midfield protection failing.
- Stevie Nicol says Arne Slott must drill basics relentlessly to fix recurring defensive lapses.
Form Fluctuation Masks Deeper Issues
- Liverpool's performances have swung between brief highs and worrying collapses, suggesting inconsistency not tactical genius.
- Craig Burley highlights that key players (Salah, Van Dijk, Gravenberch) are underperforming simultaneously.
Flood Midfield To Stabilise Defence
- Change the shape to protect the defence by flooding midfield and restricting opponents' space.
- Craig Burley advises prioritising a solid base over swashbuckling football until defensive stability returns.