Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson has defended his Reds teammates after Arne Slot admitted he was less than pleased with their performance against Girona in the Champions League
17:45, 12 Dec 2024
Arne Slot wasn't happy with his side's display in Girona
Arne Slot wasn't happy with his side's display in Girona(Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
Alisson has come to Liverpool's defence after manager Arne Slot blasted their performance, insisting "we're not machines."
Despite a less than stellar display against Girona, which still saw the team maintain their perfect Champions League record, securing near certain progression to the last 16, Slot was "far from pleased" with the Reds.
The coach wasn't impressed with Liverpool's intensity and press despite them clinching the 19th victory in 22 matches this season. Making his return following a nine-week absence due to a hamstring injury, Alisson made crucial saves to keep a clean sheet for Liverpool.
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He acknowledged that it's normal for even top teams to have off days, arguing that grinding out wins despite those saves is what marks a successful side.
With Liverpool positioned at the summit of both the Champions League and Premier League, he pointed out that you can't always expect machine-like precision from players.
“Yes, it’s part of a winning team,” said Alisson. “For sure, you’ve seen so many teams during the season winning trophies and they don’t deliver the best performances ever, but if you want to look for consistency, you have to play better game after game.
"Of course, we’re not machines and we’re going to have not-so-good days, but the good thing in football is you have another chance in three days. We just have to prepare ourselves, don’t be upset and be happy for the points, but also have the acknowledgement that you have to improve.
Alisson Becker during the match between Girona FC and Liverpool FC
(Image: Liverpool FC)
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“It’s not something we have to make new, just look to the good things we did in the games, like for example against Manchester City and Real Madrid, and keep on doing that, keep on going with that.”
Alisson remained optimistic, highlighting the return of injured players Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa, as well as himself, as a boost for the team. Alexis MacAllister, who was suspended for the Girona match, will also bolster the Reds when he returns from his domestic ban after Saturday's game against Fulham.
Now having players coming back from injuries is good as well," he told Liverpoolfc.com. "Myself, other players, Diogo, Chiesa. Macca was also out, but everybody is ready to make the difference."
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Alisson is eager about facing Fulham at Anfield, marking his first home appearance since he kept a clean sheet in the 2-0 Champions League victory over Bologna on his 32nd birthday on October 2. "I'm looking forward again," he said.
"Anfield is always special and against a tough opponent, Fulham, they're playing really well this season. We know that will be difficult, as it was against Girona or even more. I'm excited to be there on Saturday to play this game."