Jamie Carragher did not hold back on his criticism following Liverpool’s terrible performance against Sunderland.
The Reds managed to get a point against the Black Cats, which might be a decent result based on both sides’ run of form, but it is more than decent when factoring in how poorly Arne Slot’s side played.
After a win against West Ham on Sunday, they followed up with a lacklustre performance that has only left the Dutchman’s job in more doubt, with big changes needed against Leeds.
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Who was your Man of the Match against Sunderland?
Florian Wirtz pictured during Liverpool's Premier League match against Sunderland at Anfield.
Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP via Getty Images
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There was so much wrong with their performance against Sunderland, though, that this will be a tough ask, especially as it is hard to find one main issue to focus on.
Liverpool’s performance left Carragher extremely worried too, with many fans in agreement, with his criticism being something that has never been a problem in the past, hence the concern.
Jamie Carragher is worried for Liverpool’s lack of threat in attack
Liverpool have always been synonymous with free-flowing, attacking football, with this still the case under Slot in his first season.
But now, that appears to have gone out of the window as they look short of ideas and creativity, a big worry given the amount they invested towards the top end of the pitch.
Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz during Liverpool vs Sunderland
Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP via Getty Images
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This is what Carragher noticed most about their performance against Sunderland, with the Reds very lucky to come away with a point.
“But Liverpool, it’s not even the draw [that’s the issue], it’s the performance,” he said on Sky Sports.
“Really, really worrying. It feels like a real step back that tonight, in terms of what you saw at West Ham from the weekend.
“They didn’t look like scoring a goal really at any stage through the game, can’t remember any real big chances.
“And again, just lacking energy, zip, pace, power. Really worrying.”
Arne Slot is yet to find a balance
What is the answer to the left side of Liverpool’s attack?
Cody Gakpo challenges Nordi Mukiele during Liverpool's Premier League match against Sunderland at Anfield.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Cody Gakpo vs Sunderland:
0 chances created
0.04 xG
0/1 shots on target
26 touches
0/1 successful dribbles
Dispossesed twice
1/4 ground duels won
Disasterclass
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Liverpool looked dangerous going forward at the start of the season, but did not always take their chances.
However, this meant they were exposed at the back and let in far too many goals, which is something Slot has clearly been trying to change.
One way he has done this is by using Joe Gomez at right-back, which has certainly made Liverpool more compact, but they have lost a bit of threat going forward.
Carragher noticed this imbalance against Sunderland, as well, with it just suggesting that Slot is yet to find out his best XI.
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