Martin Kelly Discusses Liverpool’s Momentum Under New Manager Arne Slot

Former Liverpool defender Martin Kelly has stated that while the team is benefiting from the momentum of their new manager, it remains “too early” to consider them genuine contenders for the title. Under their new manager, Arne Slot, Liverpool currently holds a five-point lead at the summit of the Premier League, having secured victories in nine of their initial 11 matches. During an interview on BBC World Service’s Sportsworld programme, Kelly remarked: “I’m looking at each squad in the top six and eight at the minute. Even [Manchester] City are going through their little spell at the minute, playing right-backs at left-back, ageing players in central midfield [and having] Erling Haaland off form.” He continued, observing Liverpool: “You look at Liverpool and in each position at the minute when Arne’s making substitutions, they’re coming on making real impacts. They’re riding the wave of the new manager and getting results.” Kelly also mentioned the supporters: “[Then] there are the Liverpool fans, who any neutral will tell you can go a long, long way. In terms of title contenders, it’s far too early. I think they’ve had an amazing start, but the next little block of games, especially Real [Madrid] in the Champions League, will be tough.” Kelly, who played 62 matches for Liverpool, additionally commented on the anticipated effect of Jurgen Klopp’s departure from the club: “I think a lot of football fans would have thought when Sir Alex [Ferguson] left [Manchester] United, anyone who followed his footsteps would find it really difficult. I think there was sort of that vibe with the Liverpool fans when Klopp went.” He further elaborated on Slot’s management style: “Arne lets games play out and from what I have seen, he’s in no rush to make any changes. Liverpool don’t waste much energy in the first half and then whatever he says at half-time with his coaching staff, they seem to come out and turn the screw.”