Liverpool had been riding a wave of clean sheets and three consecutive wins since the start of the Premier League season, but they were faced with too big a challenge in the game immediately after returning from the international break. It also highlighted a problem for manager Arne Slot to overcome.
Even in light of the fact that the players were fatigued from the international break, they put in a poor performance, with only a few showings at Anfield.
They lost most duels and were unable to break down Nottingham Forest, who had thoroughly analysed and counter-measured their opening three games, and conceded on the counter, resulting in a black star.
Reflecting on a game in which Liverpool’s inability to do anything was more noticeable than the goal difference, Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk revealed his disappointment, but said they must show they have recovered for their first Champions League game on Tuesday.
“Everyone is coming back from different places and playing a different way, but still I think even though we weren’t at our best we created chances and should have done better,”
“It’s a performance we are definitely not happy with and we expect a lot better from ourselves. Losing at home is definitely something that can’t happen, but we have to turn it around pretty quickly.”
“In my opinion we have a very good group that really understand that today was unacceptable, disappointing, and we all know that everyone can do better, and the only way to show that is on Tuesday.”
“That’s what we’ll focus on. We’ve been through losses and difficult moments together, and I think we have to stay calm and we will stay calm.”
“We need the whole squad. We all know that after the international break it will be a game every three days, so we need everyone in the best shape and best form.”