Arne Slot position made clear as Alan Shearer rates Liverpool's Champions League chances
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But the tepid performance against Wolves was another in a string of disappointing displays during Liverpool's failed Premier League title defence this term.READ MORE: Jeremy Jacquet responds to injury blow as Liverpool signing gives updateREAD MORE: Alexander Isak's transfer to Liverpool was a farce but I know he'll be twice as good after injurySlot has faced pressure throughout the season but the Reds hierarchy haven't budged from their support for the title-winning tactician.But Shearer believes it is imperative for Liverpool to qualify for the Champions League in order for Slot to retain his place in the hotseat.He told Betfair: "I think the key for Arne Slot staying on at Liverpool next season is securing Champions League football. I think with Liverpool, with what they've spent, their biggest disappointment is not challenging for the league.
That ship sailed for them three or four months ago."I guess if they don't make the top five, then you would, without doubt, question whether Arne Slot would be in the job.FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FC FACEBOOK PAGE! All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook page"A club of that size, how much they've spent after winning the league and not finishing in the top five, yeah, I guess he would be under pressure with his job."The race for Champions League football looks to be between Manchester United, Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool with Brentford facing an outside chance if they can mount a serious challenge.Villa are currently on a downward spiral after Unai Emery's side have endured a torrid run of results with three defeats in six.Chelsea have been inconsistent but displayed their qualities in the 4-1 win at Villa Park on Wednesday.
The former Magpies talisman believes Liverpool can drag themselves over the line without playing well.Shearer added: "I do still think Liverpool will get Champions League football next season, on the probability of others being as bad as them, in terms of being up and down."Chelsea for example, they went to Aston Villa, got a great win, but then, two weeks before, they drew against Burnley and drew against Leeds."Aston Villa, they look as if they've coped it and although their performance wasn't that bad against Chelsea, I know the result was, but their performance was a little bit better."Man United are in their position despite being so poor for such long periods. So, I guess when you look at Liverpool, they're very much like the other three or four that I've mentioned.