‘It’s not acceptable’ – Steven Gerrard criticises Liverpool after Burnley draw

Steven Gerrard has strongly criticised Liverpool's recent home draws against lower-table Premier League sides, labelling them "not acceptable" following a frustrating 1-1 draw against 19th-placed Burnley at Anfield.[2][1]

The result extended Liverpool's unbeaten run across all competitions to 12 matches but marked their fourth consecutive winless game in the Premier League. All three promoted teams—Leeds and Burnley among them—have now left Anfield with points this season. Wins for Manchester United and Chelsea have narrowed the gap to Liverpool for the fourth Champions League spot.[2]

Speaking on TNT Sports post-match, the former Liverpool captain acknowledged manager Arne Slot's progress since November's struggles, when the team was far from a crisis. However, Gerrard insisted Slot must face criticism for these dropped points. He stated: "Even though they’re on a better run in terms of unbeaten games, the draws to the likes of Leeds and Burnley at home, you know and I know that’s not acceptable, so there will be a lot of criticism that comes the manager’s way again."[2]

Gerrard balanced his remarks by giving Slot credit for steadying the ship, responding to earlier concerns about a potential crisis. Despite this, fan frustration boiled over, with boos at full-time and reports that Slot's style has become "hard to watch." Draws now comprise 50% of Liverpool's unbeaten streak, hindering their push away from top-four challengers.[2]

While Gerrard vented frustration, he still appears to back Slot as the right man for the job amid Liverpool's inconsistent form.[3]

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