Giorgi Mamardashvili, currently on loan at Valencia from Liverpool, produced one of the weekend’s standout moments during a spirited performance at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Facing Real Madrid, the Georgian goalkeeper saved a 13th-minute penalty from Vinicius Junior, a Ballon d’Or runner-up, no less. It was a moment that epitomised both the goalkeeper’s shot-stopping prowess and his growing confidence in one of Europe’s most unforgiving arenas.

In fairness, Vinicius’ effort lacked placement, but Mamardashvili still had to get it right. Diving left, he managed to deflect the ball away with his knee — not textbook, but certainly effective.

Photo: IMAGO Valencia Form Upturn Coincides with Goalkeeper’s Resurgence

Valencia’s 2024/25 campaign has been turbulent, to put it mildly. Yet under the guidance of Carlos Corberán, they’ve steadied the ship. Now unbeaten in four games, their trip to Madrid wasn’t expected to yield much. Still, Mamardashvili’s early intervention ensured they avoided a punishing start.

The performance, though only one moment in an otherwise tense encounter, adds to the growing belief that the 23-year-old has the mentality to cope with top-level football.

Liverpool and Slot Keep Tabs on summer arrival

Though the Georgian remains contracted to Liverpool, his current focus is clearly on keeping Valencia in La Liga. But performances like these will not go unnoticed at Kirkby, where the club’s recruitment and coaching staff continue to evaluate his readiness.

It remains unclear how Arne Slot, who succeeded Jürgen Klopp in May 2024, plans to manage his goalkeeping options next season. Alisson Becker remains one of the best in the world, but competition is essential — and Mamardashvili looks increasingly capable of providing just that.

There’s still time for twists in both Valencia’s relegation fight and Liverpool’s title charge. But for now, Mamardashvili’s save against Real Madrid has given everyone at Anfield another reason to smile.

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Liverpool was beaten for just the second time this season as Fulham scored three quick-fire goals in the first half to set up a 3-2 victory — and that was after the Cottagers saw a penalty claim rejected in the first half.

Just a few minutes after the game kicked off, Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira hit the deck after Caoimhin Kelleher came out to challenge the Brazilian but made no contact with the ball. In the same passage of play, Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz collided with Virgil van Dijk in the box.

Both incidents were checked by VAR but the on-field decision remained unchanged, with the Premier League sharing an explanation on social media.

It said: "The referee’s call of no penalty to Fulham following a challenge by Kelleher on Pereira was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed a coming together and not a reckless action. The VAR also checked and cleared the incident between van Dijk and Muniz."

Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett was of the opinion that Fulham should have been awarded a penalty, as he felt that both incidents were fouls.

“I think the Fulham manager has every right to jump up and down in the technical area, when he sees two incidents – neither given, unbelievable!,” Hackett told Football Insider.

“Is there any wonder that the Fulham manager is jumping up and down? Liverpool’s Kelleher came out, with arms outstretched, nowhere near the ball, and in doing so, uses his body and brings down Pereira.

Liverpool was well beaten at Fulham (Image: 2025 Liverpool FC)

“It’s a penalty kick. In the same phase of play, Virgil van Dijk turns his body on his opponent in an act of unfair impeding – an offense – on Muniz, and we’ve got a double scenario here.

“The VAR didn’t interfere with either, didn’t recommend referee Chris Kavanagh going to the monitor – he should have done. Where is [Matt] Donohue, the VAR, looking?

“Because there’s two offenses that both required a penalty kick decision; goalkeeper and Van Dijk, both guilty of offenses inside the penalty area. [It’s] beyond belief.”

Ultimately, the decision had no bearing on the final result, as Fulham ran riot in the first half on the way to inflicting a first away Premier League defeat of the season on Liverpool.

Alexis Mac Allister gave Liverpool the lead after 14 minutes, but goals from Ryan Sessegnon, Alex Iwobi, and Muniz in a 15-minute period put the host team in control.

Luis Diaz emerged as a second-half substitute to halve the deficit but Liverpool could not find an equalizer, with Harvey Elliott coming closest as he crashed an effort off the crossbar.

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Liverpool’s Premier League title march encountered a rare stumble at Craven Cottage, as they succumbed 3-2 to a vibrant Fulham side. In his post-match reaction podcast, respected Liverpool reporter David Lynch dissected the defeat with trademark clarity and poise, offering a series of sharp, honest reflections on where things went wrong and why fans shouldn’t panic. Here are five key takeaways from Lynch’s analysis.

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1. Liverpool Paid the Price for a Dismal First Half

Lynch wasted no time getting to the heart of the issue: “You cannot get away with having a first half as poor as Liverpool did and come away from a Premier League game with a victory.” Liverpool were 3-1 down at the break, undone by a combination of sloppiness and clinical Fulham finishing. “Three individual errors from Andy Robertson just in that goal alone,” Lynch noted, referencing Fulham’s second, scored by Alex Iwobi.

The stats were damning: “They gave up three shots from errors in just the first 33 minutes of this game.” For a side that had averaged just 0.6 errors leading to shots all season, the collapse was jarring.

2. Fulham Were Ruthless – and Deserved It

While quick to highlight Liverpool’s mistakes, Lynch was equally generous in praising Fulham’s efficiency: “First half Fulham end up with 0.55 expected goals and yet get three goals from that – that’s some really, really good finishing.” He singled out Ryan Sessegnon’s “fantastic finish” and Moisés’ composure for Fulham’s third, adding: “It was a combination of Liverpool making mistakes… but also those shots being well taken.”

Photo: IMAGO

Lynch framed this as evidence of the Premier League’s strength: “This game really typifies just how good this Premier League is… you make mistakes against a side like Fulham, they will fully punish you.”

3. It’s Not a Slump – Context Matters

The podcast aimed to challenge narratives suggesting Liverpool are in crisis after defeats to PSG, Newcastle and now Fulham. “I don’t think that this is a slump for Liverpool,” Lynch asserted. “They’ve all come around from different situations.”

On PSG, he said: “Liverpool were fantastic in that second leg… absolutely matched them.” Regarding Newcastle: “A bad matchup… huge and physical, and got quality to go with it.” Against Fulham? “Uncharacteristic errors… brilliant finishing from the opposition.”

Lynch was emphatic: “They’re totally different results for completely different reasons.”

4. Conor Bradley’s Return Could Be Crucial

One bright spot in the defeat was the return of young right-back Conor Bradley. “I thought he was really, really good when he came on,” said Lynch. “Creates two chances, one of those ends in an assist.” More significantly, his impact helped unlock Mo Salah: “Probably the most we’ve seen of Mo Salah in the last few games came when Bradley was on the pitch.”

Photo: IMAGO

Lynch believes Bradley offers a genuine solution to Liverpool’s recent progression issues without Trent Alexander-Arnold. “He’s not a passer like Trent… but he dribbles, he drives, he drags players out of position.”

5. Keepers and Composure – Allison a Big Miss

Kelleher’s performance came under scrutiny, not for glaring errors, but for what might have been. “Fulham scoring three from around 0.5 expected goals today – would Alisson have kept a couple of those out? I think so,” Lynch mused. He was quick to clarify: “It’s no reflection on Kelleher’s quality… but he isn’t just quite at that Alisson level.”

It’s a sentiment that underlined the fine margins in elite football – and how a world-class goalkeeper can mask wider issues.

Final Thoughts

Lynch closed the podcast urging calm. “Liverpool are going to win the title,” he said, echoing a belief that, despite setbacks, Arne Slot’s side remain on course. “They’ve only got one game a week now… that should make things a little easier.”

In an era where hot takes dominate football discourse, Lynch offered something far more valuable: perspective.

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Liverpool’s long-standing concerns around Ibrahima Konaté’s future have reached a new level of urgency. The 25-year-old defender, born in Paris and a self-confessed Paris Saint-Germain fan, is attracting serious attention from Luis Enrique’s side. With just over a year left on his contract, this summer represents a pivotal moment for both the player and the club.

“Konaté was born in Paris and is a PSG fan, so after he became a serious target for Luis Enrique’s side, it’s understandable that Liverpool could have concerns about him moving on,” reported Africa Foot.

Liverpool have been proactive behind the scenes, starting talks over a new deal with their No.5 last year. However, nothing has been finalised, and the longer the stalemate continues, the more likely an exit becomes—especially with Real Madrid also reportedly monitoring his situation.

Photo: IMAGO Sikou Niakate Enters the Frame

With uncertainty surrounding not only Konaté but also Virgil van Dijk—whose contract also expires in 2025—Liverpool have understandably accelerated their search for defensive reinforcements. The name now added to their shortlist is Sikou Niakate, the 25-year-old Mali international currently playing for Braga.

“Liverpool have joined the race for a French-born defender who could replace Ibrahima Konate this summer, according to a report,” Africa Foot confirmed.

Niakate has previously been linked to Manchester United, Manchester City, West Ham, Bologna and Galatasaray. Those approaches ultimately went nowhere, but Liverpool’s interest could now prove more concrete. The defender’s €30 million (£25.5m) release clause makes him a financially viable option—especially when compared to more expensive alternatives.

Photo: IMAGO Market Dynamics and Liverpool’s Strategy

Liverpool’s centre-back scouting list also reportedly includes Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Jorrel Hato (Ajax), and Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth). These players offer a blend of potential, Premier League experience, and—in Guehi’s case—England international credentials. But they won’t come cheap.

Africa Foot noted that “all of those might be more familiar names, which also means they could come with higher price tags.”

Niakate, while perhaps lesser-known to Premier League audiences, is left-footed, versatile, and comfortable in a high-line system—a key trait for Arne Slot’s expected tactical setup. At just 25, he sits in that ideal window of experience and development potential.

Photo: IMAGO Realistic Contenders or Fallback Options?

As it stands, no bid has been tabled for Niakate, and Liverpool’s interest has yet to be confirmed by their usual in-the-know sources. But the pattern is clear: Liverpool are laying the groundwork for life after Konaté—and possibly Van Dijk.

“Liverpool want to keep their no.5 and started talks with a contract offer last year, but with nothing signed yet, they want clarity on his future before the summer transfer window opens,” Africa Foot’s report outlined.

Photo: IMAGO

Should PSG or Real Madrid firm up their interest, the Reds will need to act quickly. Niakate may not be the headline-grabbing signing fans hoped for, but his affordable release clause and prior interest from elite clubs suggest he’s a credible target.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s point of view, this whole situation feels like déjà vu. A promising player, nearing contract expiry, with top clubs sniffing around—and once again, Liverpool haven’t closed the deal in time. Whether it’s Gini Wijnaldum, Emre Can or now potentially Konaté, the club’s risk-averse stance on wages versus market value creates tension every summer.

If Konaté goes, and Van Dijk follows in a year’s time, we’re talking about replacing two key pillars of our defence with limited experience in top-level European football. Niakate might have potential, but he’s far from the finished article. Fans might rightfully ask: where’s the ambition?

Why aren’t we pushing harder for proven Premier League defenders like Guehi? If budget constraints are a factor again, questions will be asked of FSG’s willingness to back Arne Slot properly in his first window. Planning for the future is crucial, but Liverpool need to act with the decisiveness that made them serial contenders under Klopp—not gamble on the hope of unlocking value.

Let’s hope this isn’t another case of bargain-bin strategy costing us down the line. Because at the top level, hesitation kills momentum—and once Konaté is gone, there’s no guarantee we’ll find someone capable of stepping in immediately.

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Marco Silva has shared the tactical approach that helped Fulham keep Liverpool's attacking threat quiet, targeting the right hand side of Arne Slot's tema.

In a dramatic encounter at Craven Cottage, Fulham handed the Reds a painful 3-2 defeat. The game had its highs and lows for the Reds, who initially took the lead through Alexis Mac Allister's strike, but a series of defensive errors allowed Fulham to take control.

Ryan Sessegnon capitalized on a misjudgment in Liverpool's defense to level the score, followed by a sloppy sequence from Andy Robertson that allowed Alex Iwobi to put Fulham ahead. Rodrigo Muniz's stunning strike just before the break gave the hosts a commanding 3-1 lead. Though Liverpool fought back in the second half with Luis Diaz's goal, Fulham held strong for the win.

Arne Slot's prediction that Mohamed Salah would play with a smile on his face at Craven Cottage couldn’t have been more off the mark. The Egyptian winger’s frustrations continued as he struggled to make an impact, with his goalless streak now stretching to four matches across all competitions.

It’s now been seven games since Salah last scored from open play, a worrying dry spell for Liverpool’s talisman. Despite his reputation as one of the most clinical finishers in the Premier League, Salah has failed to find the back of the net in open play, and it was clear that Fulham exposed some of the weaknesses in his game during this defeat.

Silva explained how his side targeted the Egyptian's weaknesses, with Curtis Jones also struggling at right back. "Andreas (Pereira) and Rodrigo (Muniz) did well in the first pressure and I think it was key to make them uncomfortable in the game. The way that Salah will come to press Calvin (Bassey) most of the time we were able to beat them on the left-hand side."

Mohamed Salah has hit a goal drought in recent weeks (Image: 2025 Harry Murphy - Danehouse)

Silva seemed to almost downplay Fulham's impressive win over Liverpool, despite his side claiming a significant scalp in the Premier League. While he was quick to acknowledge the achievement, Silva suggested that he fully expects Liverpool to be crowned champions this season.

He added: "It was a great, great performance from us - a big one [result]. It's not just because it is Liverpool, but because we needed to bounce back after the last two games. Our first half was very, very good. We played at a very high level. We showed great organisation and commitment.

"We were clearly the best team on the pitch in the first half. In the second half, there was a good reaction from Liverpool, which we expected, and our energy went down a little bit which was to be expected because it was so high in the first half.

"Overall though, we deserved the three points. I can’t rate this higher than some of the other big results we’ve had. Maybe it looks a bit bigger because Liverpool hasn’t lost an away game, and we know what will happen with them this season.”

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Liverpool boss Arne Slot said people would "make stories" out of the reasons for his side's 3-2 defeat at Fulham but played down the defensive mistakes in their first Premier League loss since September.

Three Fulham goals in 14 first-half minutes proved to be a hill too hard to climb for Slot's men, who saw a 26-game unbeaten league run ended in west London owing largely to their own defensive mistakes.

They had briefly led at Craven Cottage before errors from Curtis Jones, Andrew Robertson and Virgil van Dijk respectively played their part in Fulham's rapid-fire turnaround before the break.

That put Liverpool two goals down for the first time since their Merseyside derby defeat to Everton in April last year, and, despite Luis Diaz's smart finish 18 minutes from the end, they could not force an equaliser.

Slot pointed to Liverpool's defensive consistency - conceding only 27 goals in 30 games prior to this defeat - when asked whether pressure or complacency was affecting his side, and denied the result and performance was any more than a bad day at the office.

"There's always a lot of attention around Liverpool," he told Sky Sports. "That doesn't start now, that's been there the whole season.

"Of course, people want to make stories but for me it's all about playing Fulham. They're a good team, and if you then make three errors it's going to be very difficult to win the game against them.

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Premier League highlights of the match between Fulham and Liverpool

"In general, we are not making many of these errors, let alone three in one game. Today, we also had (Ibrahima) Konate losing the ball too.

"The second half was so much better than the first, but it's hard to win a game of football at this level if you concede three goals like this.

"You could feel that we were creating a lot of chances, we've had a few but unfortunately we lacked time in the end to score the third goal. That has to do with us conceding three goals, because to score three in an away game is very hard especially against a good team like Fulham."

Slot aims shot at Man City: We've worked harder for this position

Slot compared Liverpool to the Man City side who won four consecutive Premier League titles by suggesting his team had needed to work harder to get into the position they find themselves in, with an 11-point lead at the top of the table with seven games remaining.

"There's no reason for us to be complacent," he said. "We're not first because we win every game by a margin of three or four goals.

"I think everyone that has seen our games, it takes us so much effort, so much hard work to win games of football, combined with quality, of course.

"But the team that won the league the last four seasons [Man City] were already 3-0 up at half-time almost every single game they played.

"And that's not the way it is for us. So we are fully aware of the fact that we have to compete for seven more games.

"We saw it on Wednesday against Everton. It was a close call. Today was a close call. Many times we've been on the right side. Today we were on the wrong side, mainly because of the errors we made."

'There will always be moments when Van Dijk will suffer'

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Virgil van Dijk was outwitted by Rodrigo Muniz in the build-up to Fulham's third

Van Dijk had another difficult afternoon at Craven Cottage after struggling against Beto on Wednesday night when the Everton forward came close with a number of chances in Everton's 1-0 defeat at Anfield.

The normally reliable Dutchman was largely culpable for Fulham's third goal, misjudging a high ball and allowing Rodrigo Muniz to have a clear run on goal before firing home.

"I mainly give credit to other players as well," said Slot when asked about his captain's form. "Van Dijk is not the first player to find it difficult to defend against Beto. And the one that played here today, you have to give credit to him also.

"I still see a lot of things that Virgil does really well, but if you play 50-60 games a season, there will be moments, even for him, where you could have done better."

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Fulham punished a shambolic first-half performance from Liverpool to win 3-2 at Craven Cottage as Arne Slot's leaders suffered only their second Premier League defeat of the season.

Liverpool had the chance to move 14 points clear after Arsenal's draw with Everton but conceded three times in a calamitous 14-minute spell after Alexis Mac Allister had struck a long-range opener as the Cottagers ended their 26-game unbeaten run.

The turnaround began when Ryan Sessegnon lashed home Fulham's leveller after a cross bounced into his path off the thigh of makeshift Liverpool right-back Curtis Jones.

It was an ugly goal to concede for Liverpool and another followed as Andrew Robertson's woeful pass gifted Fulham possession and allowed Alex Iwobi to beat Caoimhin Kelleher via a deflection.

Player ratings: Iwobi stars

Fulham: Leno (8), Castagne (7), Andersen (8), Bassey (7), Robinson (7), Berge (7), Lukic (6), Sessegnon (8), Pereira (6), Iwobi (8), Muniz (8).

Subs: Smith Rowe (6), Reed (6), Jimenez (6), Tete (6), Traoare (6).

Liverpool: Kelleher (5), Jones (5), Konate (4), Van Dijk (5), Robertson (4), Gravenberch (6), Szoboszlai (6), Mac Allister (7), Salah (5), Jota (6), Gakpo (5).

Subs: Elliott (6), Diaz (7), Nunez (6), Bradley (7), Chiesa (6).

Player of the Match: Alex Iwobi

Liverpool were still reeling when Rodrigo Muniz added Fulham's third goal with a cool finish past Kelleher after a brilliant piece of skill saw him flick a high ball past Virgil van Dijk on the edge of the box.

It was the first time since their 7-2 loss to Aston Villa in October 2020 that Liverpool had conceded three times in the first half of a Premier League game and they could not find a way back, despite Luis Diaz reducing the deficit from fellow substitute Conor Bradley's pass in an improved second-half showing.

When can Liverpool win the league now?

Despite Liverpool losing at Craven Cottage, Arsenal's draw at Everton on Saturday means not much has changed in the title race.

Liverpool's lead at the top has only been reduced by a point, meaning the earliest they can win the Premier League title is still April 20.

However, even if Arsenal lose both of their next two games against Brentford and Ipswich, it would now need Liverpool not only to beat West Ham next weekend but now also win at Leicester in the 4.30pm kick-off on April 20 before they are crowned champions.

If Arsenal win all their remaining games, the earliest Liverpool can wrap up the title has been pushed back to May 4 when they visit Chelsea, kick-off 4.30pm.

All of those games in the title race are live on Sky Sports.

Liverpool had other chances, with an out-of-sorts Mohamed Salah blasting over from Diaz's cross and substitute Harvey Elliott curling a shot against the bar, but Fulham were good value for the victory following back-to-back losses to Arsenal and Crystal Palace.

They move up to eighth, the win boosting their hopes of European qualification, while Liverpool remain 11 points ahead of Arsenal having missed the opportunity to take another step towards the Premier League title.

WATCH: All the goals

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Alexis Mac Allister scored a superb, long-range opener

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Ryan Sessegnon struck Fulham's equaliser

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Alex Iwobi punished Andrew Robertson's error for Fulham's second

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Unbelievable goal! Rodrigo Muniz made it three

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Luis Diaz pulled a goal back for Liverpool Slot: Errors to blame for defeat

Liverpool boss Arne Slot to Sky Sports:

"There's always a lot of attention around Liverpool. That doesn't start now. That's been there the whole season.

"Of course, people want to make stories but for me it's all about playing Fulham. They're a good team, and if you then make three errors it's going to be very difficult to win the game against them.

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Arne Slot believes Liverpool had themselves to blame for the defeat

"In general, we are not making many of these errors, let alone three in one game. Today, we also had (Ibrahima) Konate losing the ball too.

"The second half was so much better than the first, but it's hard to win a game of football at this level if you concede three goals like this.

"You could feel that we were creating a lot of chances, we've had a few but unfortunately we lacked time in the end to score the third goal."

Analysis: Van Dijk vulnerability exposed by Fulham

Slot came to the defence of Van Dijk in his press conference, saying any defender can have difficult moments against strikers as physical as Everton's Beto and Fulham's Muniz. But this was another display to show vulnerability in the 33-year-old.

Van Dijk, normally imperious, struggled to cope with Beto's running in the 1-0 win over Everton in midweek and Muniz got the better of him too easily for the goal that proved decisive at Craven Cottage. The striker's touch was brilliant. Van Dijk's positioning was not.

He was not the only Liverpool defender who struggled in the game. In fact, they all did. Ibrahima Konate was mercifully substituted by Slot midway through the second half but the Liverpool boss would have been justified in taking off any one of them.

Jones could only direct Timothy Castagne's cross into the path of Sessegnon for the opening goal and Robertson was culpable for the second, his slack pass across his own goal allowing Iwobi to score. Robertson rushed across to try and rectify his error but only ended up deflecting Iwobi's shot beyond Kelleher.

Van Dijk's error, getting the wrong side of Muniz and allowing him to pluck a high ball out of the sky, capped a calamitous 14-minute spell, which leaves Liverpool with work to do to get over the line. Their title is not in jeopardy but a third defeat in four games in all competitions, and more defensive shakiness from usually dependable players, is cause for concern.

Silva: First half close to perfection

Fulham boss Marco Silva to Sky Sports:

"Our first half was brilliant. I said before that perfection doesn't exist even if you try to get it, but you have to be close to perfection and our first half was there.

"It's not easy to start and concede a goal in the first 10 minutes. The reaction from the team was top level, to have 10 shots first half and score three goals.

"But the main thing for us was the way we pressed them from the first minute of the game. Very good, high tempo, always high energy.

"I think it was the key to us to make them uncomfortable in the game and we had some good moments on the ball as well.

"Overall I think we deserved the three points because throughout the game we were the best team on the pitch."

Story of the match in stats... What's coming up in the Premier League?

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Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

A loss Thursday would be a devasting blow in an already frustrating 2024/25.

As is the case for any (sobs) 14th-place team, Tottenham Hotspur's season hinges on competitions outside the Premier League. A bye into the Europa League Round of 16 keeps that avenue open, and the FA Cup remains a possibility as well, but the most immediate and realistic path to silverware is the League Cup. Yes, the road is brutal, with a trip to Anfield before a final against Newcastle, but only 180 minutes separate Spurs from ending their long-standing trophy drought.

That makes Thursday the biggest match of the season so far. Tottenham impressed in the semifinal's first leg, grinding out a 1-0 win despite ceding possession, absorbing pressure, and deploying a makeshift backline. Now, the battle shifts to Liverpool, where the country's best team will be confident in its ability to overcome a one-goal deficit. Spurs enter as clear underdogs but must find a way to advance.

Semifinals (2nd Leg): Liverpool (0) vs. Tottenham Hotspur (1)

Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 3:00 pm ET, 8:00 pm UK
Location: Anfield Stadium, Liverpool
TV: Paramount+ (USA), Sky Sports Main Event (UK)

Since the first leg, Liverpool has gone 5-1-1, with the lone defeat coming in a meaningless Champions League contest with a rotated lineup. With a Premier League title in sight and a strong European campaign underway, one might assume this competition sits lower on the priority list. Unfortunately for Spurs, there are no significant matches on Liverpool's immediate horizon, meaning Arne Slot is likely to field a strong XI at Anfield.

Both teams were relatively cautious in North London, though for different reasons. Tottenham's approach was shaped by a defense missing three of its four preferred starters, alongside a newly introduced Antonin Kinsky. Ange Postecoglou now has the opportunity of choosing from options like Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel, though plenty of important names like Micky van de Ven remain injured.

For Liverpool, the decision to play pragmatically was likely strategic — returning home with just a one-goal deficit seemed an acceptable trade-off. Having made that decision, Slot's side will now bring intensity reminiscent of December's league fixture. Players like Luis Diaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dominik Szoboszlai were all absent from the first leg's starting lineup, but may be called upon Thursday with the objective more clear.

A few moments of greatness

Tottenham will not see much of the ball at Anfield. Liverpool will dominate possession, generate the bulk of the chances, and apply relentless pressure in Spurs' defensive third. That is a daunting prospect for cobbled-together squad; the number one priority is minimizing mistakes, especially with a lead to protect.

That said, Spurs must be willing to attack when opportunities arise and will not need much possession to be dangerous. Both Dominic Solanke's narrowly disallowed goal and Lucas Bergvall's successful strike in the first leg came via direct play over the top. Exploiting Liverpool's high press with quick, vertical attacks could be Tottenham's best path to maintaining the advantage.

If Spurs can capitalize on a pressing opponent and snatch an insurance goal, the tie will come down to their ability to weather the inevitable storm. Recent form does not inspire much confidence in their defensive resilience, but Tottenham has produced surprising performances against top teams this season. Postecoglou will need another one to keep his second-season trophy promise alive.

Liverpool fans will have seen the social media stories circling that both Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk signing a new contract, something Arne Slot was asked to comment on.

Speaking (via 90min.com), our head coach said: "We have some contractual situations that you don't probably don't know about.

"But Trent, Mo and Virgil haven't extended yet. So we are aware of the fact that we have to be sharp and ready for things that can happen.

"My life is mainly short term but we have so many quality people at this club that look at the longer term as well.

"You always have to be prepared for all the new things coming up.

"The players that don't play a big part at the moment; will they be able to do this another year? Will they fight for their place or will they [want to] go somewhere else?

"So we have to be prepared for the next window and what we can do."

The Dutchman doesn't really like to provide a direct answer on these topics, as it's not something he's directly involved in and prefers to allow time to pass.

However, confirmation that contracts have not been signed is a clear indication of the current situation and does debunk Robbie Fowler's theory.

Salah, Van Dijk and Trent have not yet signed a new contract Pictures via @MoSalah on X

John Barnes has stated that if he were in charge of the new deals, he would select our captain as the most important of the trio.

Many fans have their own opinions as to who they would or wouldn't allow to leave the club but it does feel that the overwhelming majority want all three to commit their future to staying on Merseyside.

You would assume the club can afford to do this but whether the financial model allows it is another question.

It's the same situation we've been in all campaign but we can take from this that no deals have yet been signed and it doesn't feel like we're close to them being done either.

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One year on: EOTK's tribute to Alex South – the former LFC defender who played with Liddell & Paisley

The post Arne Slot directly responds to rumours of Salah and Van Dijk’s new contracts being signed appeared first on The Empire of The Kop.

Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all out of contract in the summer, with Liverpool at risk of losing all three of their stars for nothing

Liverpool are set to face Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tonight.

The Reds lost the away first leg 1-0 controversially courtesy of Lucas Bergvall's late goal but he really should’ve been sent off earlier.

Newcastle United have reached the final by beating Arsenal in the other semi-final so the winner of this tie will take on the Magpies at Wembley on 16th March.

As per team news, Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota have returned to full fitness after recovering from their injury problems but Trent Alexander-Arnold has sustained an issue since featuring against the Cherries. So, he has been ruled out.

Predicted Liverpool lineup vs Tottenham

Caoimhin Kelleher has been playing in the cup competitions but Alisson Becker started in the previous leg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Brazilian may continue in goal for the hosts tonight.

Jarell Quansah has started all the Carabao Cup matches thus far this season but considering the importance of the fixture tonight, Ibrahima Konate is expected to be called upon to feature alongside Virgil van Dijk in the CB position.

Conor Bradley would replace injured Alexander-Arnold and Kostas Tsimikas might get the nod to start in the left-back position ahead of Andy Robertson.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are likely to continue in the engine room with Dominik Szoboszlai in the CAM role. Therefore, Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones could be among the substitutes.

Cody Gakpo has also played all the League Cup games and should continue in his preferred left-wing position, while Mohamed Salah would be on the opposite side.

Luis Diaz may start again in the CF role, therefore, Darwin Nunez and Jota could feature off the bench if needed. Here is how Liverpool could line up vs Tottenham:

The post 4-2-3-1: How Liverpool could line up against Tottenham – Carabao Cup appeared first on Paisley Gates.

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