Liverpool manager Arne Slot is banking on improving his side’s away form to bridge the gap with Premier League champions Manchester City. The Reds finished nine points adrift of City last season, largely due to their inconsistent performances on the road.
Liverpool won just nine of their 19 away games, four fewer than Arsenal and five shy of City. This disparity proved pivotal in the title race, with City ultimately claiming the crown.
Slot is determined to rectify this issue, having made a perfect start with three away wins from three outings this season. The Dutchman’s tactical acumen and ability to adapt to different environments have been key factors in Liverpool’s early success.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s game at Crystal Palace, Slot said: “If you are purely looking at it from a data point of view then it was a 10-point difference to City [on away points collected]. If you look at the home form of both teams then the £10m question is why is this?
“I think there are areas we have to improve and that is why it is so important to take control over every game, not only the home games but the away ones too. Just to be very dominant in away games that is why I wasn’t very happy with the first 20 minutes at Wolves.”
Liverpool are all too familiar with the fine margins in the Premier League title race. Slot aims to eradicate the sloppiness that plagued Jurgen Klopp’s final season, where the Reds squandered crucial points on the road.
The Reds have already secured maximum points at Ipswich, Manchester United, and Wolves. Maintaining this form at Selhurst Park will be crucial, especially given Liverpool’s past struggles at the venue.
In 2014, Liverpool infamously squandered a 3-0 lead at Palace, handing City the initiative in the title race. Slot will be keen to avoid similar slip-ups.
Liverpool’s away form revival will face a stern test against Crystal Palace, who have been resolute at home. The Eagles have conceded just two goals in their last three home games and will look to exploit Liverpool’s vulnerabilities.
However, Slot’s men are brimming with confidence, having netted 10 goals in their last three away outings. Mohamed Salah, in particular, has been instrumental, scoring four goals and providing two assists in those matches.
As the Premier League title race begins to take shape, Liverpool’s away form will be pivotal in their quest for glory. Can Slot’s Reds maintain their momentum and mount a serious challenge to City’s dominance?
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