What is going wrong at Liverpool? The problems Arne Slot must fix to salvage title defence

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The Egyptian forward has so often been the man for the big occasion throughout his time at Anfield, and conjured up several late goals to guide his side to the title last season. The signings of Wirtz and Isak over the summer were, in part, preparing for life without Salah, but perhaps that time is coming quicker than many expected. ‘I think we’re at that stage now where Mo Salah shouldn’t be a guaranteed starter every week,’ Carragher told The Gary Neville Podcast. ‘I do think this is a real conundrum for the manager going forward. ‘He should always start at Anfield because Liverpool will be on top, around the edge of the box and more often than not he scores in those situation. ‘But I do think in the away games and helping your full-back, I don’t think Salah should be starting every game right now, certainly away from home, with the form he’s in.’ After three goals in his first five league games, Hugo Ekitike has not started a league game.

Andy Robertson is yet to start a league game so far this season (Picture: Getty) ‘Kerkez is very nervous. Don’t overreact Slot’s side face a intense run of fixtures (Picture: Getty) For all their troubles and inconsistencies, it is worth noting just how different this result could have been for Liverpool.

There was certainly some controversy about United’s opener, which could well have been ruled out on another day. That is, in part, down to the more open way that Slot is looking to set his side up this season, but it’s also no reason to tear down the walls and start over again just yet.