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Liverpool are having a lot more problems this season than they have before.Four losses in a row is not something that should be happening to the reigning Premier League champions, but for the Reds, that is the reality. Arne Slot has so many problems to solve that it is hard to pinpoint one exact area, but what is known is that he needs to sort things out quickly.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis.
Their opponents, however, seem to know exactly who and where to target, with Liverpool not managing to look convincing against any team so far this season.In fact, opposition analysts have noticed two big problem areas for the Reds, suggesting that this is what they need to focus on first.Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty ImagesLiverpool struggle with long balls and their midfield is too openOn the eye, there are so many issues that fans will probably be able to highlight, however solving them is another issue.So, that is why teams employ analysts as they can spot and solve problems, although they can also exploit other sides.This is what is happening to Liverpool as according to the Independent’s Miguel Delaney, opposition analysts have spotted two big issues. Firstly, they state that Liverpool are ‘vulnerable’ to long balls, with the height of the full-backs a big reason for this.
As seen this year too, many Premier League sides are focusing more on aerial threat from long throw ins and corners as well, something that does not play to the Reds’ advantage.READ MORE: Jamie Redknapp believes Liverpool have a player who could be the new Luka ModricThe second issue is that the midfield is far too open, with teams knowing they can play right through it.Man United did this to good effect at the weekend, which is why they got a lot more success than they have in previous matches at Anfield.Liverpool need to go back to basicsThese are two very big problems but they are also ones that can be solved fairly easily with a slight tactical shift.Aerially, Liverpool have powerful players who can win headers, they just need to ensure that they are winning the first ball like they used to in the past.In terms of the midfield, Slot perhaps should go back to a flatter three rather than playing a number 10, with this helping the balance overall.If other teams’ analysts can see it, then surely Liverpool’s backroom staff can too, meaning that if nothing changes, then there really is no excuse.