Arne Slot Shares Jeremie Frimpong Plan After Liverpool Suffers 'Enormous Blow'

Liverpool FC head coach Arne Slot has outlined his plans for Jeremie Frimpong, emphasizing the right-back's crucial role in breaking down low-block defenses, following recent team setbacks from injuries.[1][2]

In the aftermath of Liverpool's league victory over Wolves, Slot praised Frimpong's impact after the Dutch defender provided a key assist for Ryan Gravenberch's opener. Signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £30m, Frimpong—wearing No. 30—demonstrated his elite pace, which Slot described as "so important and crucial in modern-day football." The goal came from "pure individual ability—quick, bam, bam, and a cut-back cross," highlighting how Frimpong unlocks rigid, deep-lying defenses that frustrate Liverpool.[1][2]

Frimpong's recent form includes back-to-back assists: one as a substitute against Tottenham for Hugo Ekitike's winner, and another on his first start in two months versus Wolves. Slot noted, "If he is fit, he can definitely help us," linking the 24-year-old's availability to broader squad challenges. Injuries have hampered several summer signings, including Frimpong, preventing fans from seeing their full potential despite significant spending—which Slot defended by pointing to recouped funds from sales.[1][2]

The coach grouped Frimpong with other pacey additions like Hugo Ekitike and Alex (likely Alexander Isak), stating, "That’s the pace I always wanted to bring in in the summer." However, an 'enormous blow' struck with Isak's injury during a 5-1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, where both Isak and Ekitike threatened defenses with runs in behind before Isak's half-time exit. Slot expressed hope for Isak's recovery while balancing minutes for the forward.[3]

Slot's strategy revolves around Frimpong's speed to counter low blocks, as set-pieces aren't Liverpool's strength. With Frimpong fit, combined with emerging contributions from Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, the Reds are adapting recruitment to prioritize dynamism amid injury woes.[1][2]

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