Emile Heskey makes his feelings clear on Arne Slot keeping his job at Liverpool
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Emile Heskey Makes Feelings Clear on Arne Slot Keeping His Job at Liverpool
Former Liverpool striker Emile Heskey has urged the club to stand by manager Arne Slot amid a challenging season, warning against a knee-jerk sacking despite mounting pressure[1][2][3]. Heskey, who won five major trophies with the Reds, acknowledges Liverpool's struggles, including a recent 2-1 home defeat to Manchester City that has left them battling for a top-five Premier League finish to qualify for next season's Champions League[3].
"The reality is that Liverpool should be challenging for the title," Heskey stated, pointing to new signings like Florian Wirtz, Ekitike, and Alexander Isak who have yet to make an immediate impact. "It’s difficult to make a difference straight away... it has been a very tough watch seeing them underperform."[1] He praised Slot's earlier in-game management—"making changes at half-time, pulling players off, taking risks"—and insists consistency is key: "We can’t all of a sudden jump on someone’s back when they have a dip. I think they should stick with Slot."[1]
However, Heskey emphasized the relentless pressure at Anfield: "He needs to know he’s under pressure... you’ve got to win trophies." He recalled the club's high expectations, where losing two games in a row was unacceptable, contrasting it with his time at Leicester[1]. Slot must find the right formation and balance in attack, with Heskey highlighting Wirtz as a potential focal point and believing Mohamed Salah can still deliver in what may be his final season, despite recent criticisms and an outburst after a 3-3 draw with Leeds[3].
Despite optimism for a "glorious conclusion" via cup success or an open Champions League, Heskey warned: "Slot knows he has to win trophies... you’re ten games away from being sacked" at any big club, with Xabi Alonso's availability adding tension[1][3]. Liverpool's history of title challenges demands they "stand up and be counted" now[1].
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