Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed he will speak with midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai following a costly and controversial error during the Reds' FA Cup victory over Barnsley.
From Hero to Zero at Anfield
The Hungarian international experienced a night of extreme highs and lows during the 4-1 third-round win at Anfield on Monday evening. Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a spectacular long-range strike, his sixth goal of the season, before Jeremie Frimpong doubled the advantage.
However, the game turned just before half-time when Szoboszlai attempted an inexplicable backheel pass just yards from his own goal. The mistake was pounced upon by Barnsley's Adam Phillips, who scored to bring the League One side back into the contest.
Slot's Reaction and Hourihane's 'Disrespectful' Claim
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Slot was clear that the midfielder's decision was unacceptable. "I don't think you should do that in a Premier League game, League Cup game, friendly game or a training session," Slot stated. "It's a weird choice and I also have my opinion about it but I prefer to keep that to myself and speak about it with Dom."
Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane was more forthright, directly questioning the respect shown to his team. "I was a little bit disappointed with our goal," Hourihane said. "I don't think a player does that against Chelsea, against Arsenal or in a Champions League game... Yeah, potentially [it was disrespectful]. He doesn't do that against Arsenal, Chelsea or a Champions League game."
Apology and Late Liverpool Rally
Szoboszlai issued an immediate apology to his teammates at full-time, acknowledging his error made the game harder than necessary. "Sorry for the team again, I made it hard for us with an easy mistake I would say but football happens. We move on and take the next round," the midfielder said.
Liverpool eventually secured their place in the FA Cup fourth round with late goals from Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, setting up a tie with Premier League rivals Brighton. Despite the comfortable scoreline, the post-match discussion was dominated by Szoboszlai's momentary lapse in judgement and the impending conversation with his manager.
