Arne Slot Defends Lineup vs. Barnsley: “I could have played four or five U21s”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot robustly defended his team selection for the FA Cup third-round victory over Barnsley, emphasizing a balance between rotation and competitiveness despite criticisms of over-reliance on youth.[1]

Slot named a strong, rotated side at Anfield on January 12, 2026, including young talent like Rio Ngumoha starting upfront, alongside veterans Virgil van Dijk (captain), Andy Robertson, Joe Gomez, and Jeremie Frimpong. Giorgi Mamardashvili guarded goal, with midfield refreshed by Curtis Jones' return. Key subs included Alisson Becker, Ibrahima Konate, Milos Kerkez, and Florian Wirtz, who entered late.[3][4][5]

The match saw Liverpool progress, though specifics on the score remain unconfirmed in reports. Slot reflected on last season's humiliating FA Cup exit to Plymouth—then bottom of the Championship—vowing not to repeat "giant-killing" mistakes. "Last season, I decided some players needed a break... but it's clear we're no longer in the League Cup, and the FA Cup matters," he said, promising fans would see most of the side that drew 0-0 with leaders Arsenal recently.[2]

Addressing critics, Slot quipped, “I could have played four or five U21s”, highlighting his restraint amid a packed schedule chasing the Premier League, Champions League, and League Cup. Liverpool sit on a 10-match unbeaten run, but injuries mount: Conor Bradley (serious knee, out for season, World Cup fears), Alexander Isak (broken leg), though Hugo Kitoke returns from hamstring issues.[2][5]

Barnsley's lineup featured Max Mahoney in goal, captain Donovan Keillor-Dunn, and subs like David McGoldrick. Slot's approach underscores Liverpool's depth, blending experience with youth like Ngumoha, while learning from past upsets. Fans praised the "strong lineup" post-match.[3][4]

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