Liverpool facing big issue as Arne Slot knows what's on the horizon

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.

Reds fans will recall the 2020-21 season when, following Jurgen Klopp's side's title triumph the previous campaign, they lost Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, and Joel Matip to season-ending injuries. Saturday's match saw Konate, in the first half especially, have a bit of a nightmare, being at fault for handing Crystal Palace two golden opportunities and causing unease within Liverpool's defence.

Ibrahima Konate struggled on Saturday (Image: Getty Images) But there's a broader context to consider when looking at Liverpool's season. If consistency - both in team selection and player performance - was key to the flying start of Arne Slot's tenure last season, this season it's the lack of such consistency that's hindering the team's performances from reaching full potential.

Remember, that was only the fifth loss in 44 Premier League matches under the Dutchman's guidance, two of which occurred after last season's title victory. Add to this Alexander Isak's fitness catch-up and integration into a restructured attack, now devoid of Luis Diaz's pace and direct running, and it's clear that it's impossible for so many new elements to immediately fall into place.