Liverpool Secure Win but Concerns Linger for Slot
Liverpool left it late once again to claim three points, but questions remain about their defensive resilience. For the second successive weekend, Arne Slot’s side required a stoppage-time winner, this time courtesy of 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha.
The result keeps Liverpool’s perfect start intact, yet the manner of victory was far from convincing. A two-goal lead squandered, compounded by Newcastle playing the entire second half with ten men, will trouble Slot. As the reigning Premier League champions, Liverpool are expected to close out such games with authority, not desperation.
Jamie Carragher Criticises Milos Kerkez
Attention inevitably turned to individual performances, and Jamie Carragher was quick to single out summer signing Milos Kerkez for criticism. The Hungarian, brought in to provide competition for Andy Robertson, endured another difficult afternoon.
“Kerkez has made a really poor start to his Liverpool career,” Carragher said live on Sky Sports. “He found it really difficult against Bournemouth in the first game, he was a little bit nervous. He was up against Elanga today – not easy – but this isn’t enough.”
The former Liverpool defender highlighted Kerkez’s role in Newcastle’s opening goal: “You’ve just got to go and head the ball. He’s almost trying to stop the player. That is really, really poor. He’s not the biggest but you’ve got to jump, you’ve got to challenge in that situation.”
Kerkez, 21, turned his back and failed to contest a header against Bruno Guimaraes, an error that set the tone for Liverpool’s struggles. For a player expected to strengthen a historically reliable position, the start has been far from ideal.
Big Call Looms for Arne Slot
Slot now faces a crucial decision ahead of a heavyweight clash with Arsenal. Patience with new signings is essential, yet Liverpool’s status demands excellence, particularly when titles are on the line.
Robertson, despite an indifferent campaign last season, offers experience and proven defensive awareness. With Bukayo Saka sidelined and Noni Madueke likely to operate on the right for Arsenal, defensive solidity becomes paramount. Slot must weigh Kerkez’s long-term potential against the need for immediate security.
Arsenal Test Could Define Early Season
The meeting with Arsenal feels like more than a routine fixture. It is a statement opportunity, a chance for Slot to show that Liverpool’s nerve remains intact after back-to-back late escapes. Victory would maintain momentum into the international break, but vulnerability on the left could be exploited if the wrong call is made.
Kerkez may grow into a strong asset, but for now, Robertson’s presence might be the safer route. Liverpool cannot afford defensive uncertainty when chasing perfection at the top of the table.
