What Liverpool’s Set-Piece Plan Will Be Now That Aaron Briggs Has Departed the Club

By Journalist - Published December 31, 2025

Liverpool FC faces a pivotal shift in its set-piece strategy following the departure of set-piece coach Aaron Briggs. Briggs, credited with enhancing the Reds' routines under Arne Slot, leaves amid growing concerns over defensive vulnerabilities exposed in recent matches.

Recent Set-Piece Struggles

The article highlights Liverpool's shaky set-piece defense in the 2025/2026 season opener against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. Despite a late victory securing the reigning champions' win, Newcastle scored both goals from unconventional set-pieces: a throw-in and an indirect free-kick—not the typical corners.[1] This raised alarms, prompting analysis of Liverpool's 4-3-3 defensive shape for throw-ins, where full-backs and center-backs (near and far) position variably based on opponents, supported by three midfielders.

Under Slot last season, throw-in defense emphasized structure, but weaknesses persist, allowing exploitation like Newcastle's comeback bid.[1] Critics, including fan analyses, question Briggs' efficacy, with calls to reassess his role despite prior contributions.[2]

Post-Briggs Outlook

With Briggs gone, Liverpool must adapt. The club eyes internal promotions or external hires specializing in defensive set-pieces, given recent improvements noted pre-departure—bolstering top-four ambitions.[3] Slot's "controlled chaos" philosophy, blending timed pressing and midfield runners, integrates set-pieces for safer attacks and late threats.[2]

Current Weaknesses	Proposed Fixes
Throw-in & indirect FK concessions[1]	Zonal marking tweaks, specialist coach
Variable defensive shapes	Slot's repeatable pressing integration[2]

Optimism surrounds Slot's evolution, spreading goals via set-pieces amid four straight wins. Yet, without Briggs, reinforcing defense is key to title defense. Fans urge swift action to avoid repeats of Newcastle's set-piece mastery.

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