Forget Set Pieces: John Aldridge Shares Another Problem That Will Cost Liverpool If They Don’t Change Now

Liverpool legend John Aldridge has issued a stark warning to the Reds, pinpointing a critical issue beyond set-piece vulnerabilities that threatens to undermine their title charge. Despite recent victories, Aldridge insists the team’s poor game management in the closing stages could prove costly if not addressed immediately.[1][2]

In his latest commentary, Aldridge reflected on Liverpool’s hard-fought win over Wolves, where the team led 2-0 at halftime thanks to quickfire goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz—his first for the club, assisted by Hugo Ekitike. Yet, the second half turned tense as Wolves pulled one back from a corner, exposing defensive frailties. “Another hard watch today folks,” Aldridge tweeted. “I thought after going in at 2-0 halftime we’d cruise the second half... but we lacked game management.” He added that while they “deserved the result,” Liverpool “made it so hard for ourselves by bad decisions on and possibly off the pitch.”[1]

This echoes his criticism after the Spurs victory, where Liverpool dominated for 85 minutes with goals from Alexander Isak but nearly squandered a two-goal lead against a nine-man Tottenham side featuring a late Richarlison surge. “We’ll take the result all day but that’s not good enough for me,” Aldridge stated, emphasizing the need for better control to secure a top-four spot.[2]

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool have become more solid and compact, conceding fewer chances overall, but fluency has suffered. Aldridge’s recurring theme—failing to “kill games” despite red cards to opponents (four this season)—highlights a deeper problem. Set pieces remain a weakness, but late-game composure is the real Achilles’ heel. “Take the three points and walk away. We have to do better,” he urged, warning that without change, dropped points will haunt them.[1][2]

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