Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool left Anfield with more frustration than satisfaction. The Reds extended their unbeaten run to 12 competitive matches, but another home draw damaged their push for a top-four finish.
These are the games that often decide Champions League qualification. Against teams fighting at the bottom, points are not optional. They are expected.
Burnley arrived on Merseyside deep in trouble. They sit inside the Premier League relegation zone and have now gone 13 league games without a win.
Yet Liverpool failed to put the game away. Chances came and went. Control was there, but the killer blow never followed.
At this stage of the season, dropped points at home feel heavier. Rivals around Liverpool are not slowing down.
The Premier League is unforgiving. Clubs like Burnley defend for their lives. Clubs like Liverpool are judged by results, not dominance.
This draw followed another similar outcome at Anfield. That pattern is what creates pressure. It is why questions are starting to grow again.
The frustration boiled over after the match, with Steven Gerrard speaking on TNT Sports. The former Liverpool captain did not hold back.
He said, “Even though they’re on a better run in terms of unbeaten games, the draws to the likes of Leeds and Burnley at home, you know and I know that’s not acceptable.”
“So there will be a lot of criticism that comes the manager’s way again.”
Gerrard also gave context to the situation. He acknowledged the progress made under Arne Slot. “I felt that this manager was capable of making things better, steadying the ship and he has moved the team from the middle of the table up back into the Champions League positions.”
But he stressed the standards at Liverpool. “And I think that will be a priority for him and the team, minimum top four this season.”
The warning was clear. “But that won’t take anything away from the criticism that will come his way.” Gerrard pointed to the key moment in the game.
“One-nil at home, you’re always going to be at risk of conceding a sloppy goal and then it leads to two points dropped.”
With the Champions League approaching, he added, “Arne will be in for a difficult week before the Champions League.”
Liverpool dominated large spells. They created chances. Florian Wirtz scored and missed others. Burnley punished the waste. At this level, that is all it takes.
“It’s not acceptable” ❌
Steven Gerrard’s reaction to Liverpool’s draw with Burnley.
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— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 17, 2026
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