“It’s Not Liverpool Standards”: Slot Defends Shock Lineup After Palace Defeat

Liverpool manager Arne Slot defended his decision to field a heavily-rotated side after a 3-0 League Cup loss to Crystal Palace on Wednesday. The defeat extended the Reds’ poor run. They have now lost six of their last seven matches across all competitions, including four straight in the Premier League.

Slot made his priorities clear before kick-off by making ten changes. Key players, including Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, were rested entirely. A youthful Liverpool side struggled against a confident Palace team. The visitors have now beaten Liverpool three times this season.

Ismaila Sarr scored twice in the first half, putting Liverpool on the back foot. Yeremy Pino added a third late in the game. Liverpool substitute Amara Nallo was sent off, completing a comprehensive Palace victory.

After the match, Slot defended his team selection. “It’s not Liverpool standards to lose six out of seven,” he said. “I couldn’t have brought them into a week like this. We have tonight, then two days to rest, the next match, only two days’ rest, then Real Madrid and finally Manchester City. With maybe 15 or 16 first-team players available, this was the choice I made.”

Liverpool now turn their attention to the Premier League. They aim to end their losing streak against Aston Villa on Saturday. A crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid follows at Anfield on Tuesday. Then they face Manchester City away on November 9.

Crystal Palace, FA Cup winners last season, continue their quest for silverware. They face a tough FA Cup quarter-final away at Arsenal. Their win over Liverpool shows growing confidence and momentum.

The result highlights Liverpool’s struggle with a congested fixture list. Slot’s rotation reflects the challenge of protecting key players while competing on multiple fronts. The Reds must regroup quickly to restore confidence and form before a crucial week in both the Premier League and Champions League.