Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard has pushed back against suggestions that his former club is in a full-blown crisis, though he issued a stark warning to under-pressure manager Arne Slot that the situation could rapidly deteriorate without an improvement in results.
A Woeful Run of Form
The Reds are enduring a miserable second season under Slot, with their problems highlighted by a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Dutch side PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League at Anfield on Wednesday evening. This loss marks their ninth defeat in just twelve games across all competitions, a staggering collapse for a team that won the Premier League only a few months ago.
Despite this rotten form, which has seen their hopes of silverware fade dramatically, Gerrard believes labelling the situation a 'crisis' is premature. "Each defeat, especially the manner of defeat, you become closer to the crisis," Gerrard stated. "I don't like using the word crisis because a crisis to me is a club that needs years to get back to the top."
Gerrard's Verdict on the Situation
Gerrard was quick to point out the quality still present within the squad, arguing that this is largely the same group of players who delivered the league title. "I don't think Liverpool are at that point at all," he continued. "They've still got magnificent players. This is still the majority of a squad that won the league a few months ago. So I think crisis is too strong. But you can't deny that this team is struggling massively."
This assessment stands in direct contrast to the view of fellow pundit Roy Keane, who recently declared that Liverpool had already reached crisis point following a defeat to Manchester City. Keane was scathing in his criticism, suggesting the team was "defensively all over the place" and that key players looked like a "nervous wreck." He also ruled them out of the title race, emphasising the sheer number of losses.
The Stakes for the Coming Fixtures
The pressure is now intensifying on Arne Slot as Liverpool prepare for a crucial Premier League fixture against struggling West Ham this weekend. Another defeat could have serious consequences, potentially leaving the reigning champions just three points clear of the relegation zone as they head into a demanding festive schedule packed with domestic and European matches.
The club's hierarchy has reportedly held talks with Slot, and the outcome of the next few games could be pivotal for the Dutch manager's future at Anfield. For Gerrard, the message is clear: while it's not yet a crisis, the team is on the brink, and only a swift turnaround in form can prevent a difficult season from becoming a catastrophic one.
