“He said that it was enough”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed the reason behind his decision to withdraw Rio Ngumoha midway through the second half of the 1-1 draw against Chelsea.

The 17-year-old excelled on the left flank for the Reds and grabbed the assist for Ryan Gravenberch’s early goal at Anfield. Ngumoha was a bright spark whenever the hosts moved the ball forward and constantly threatened Chelsea.

When the decision to replace Ngumoha with Alexander Isak was confirmed, the Liverpool fans responded with boos. Understandably, the Anfield faithful did not approve the call from Slot.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Slot opened up on how he was forced to replace Ngumoha because the player couldn’t continue due to cramps. The Dutch tactician claimed that the player himself wanted a change since he could not continue.

Slot revealed:

“Rio had cramp just before that when he went to the floor. I then had contact with him and he said that it was enough so that’s why I took him off.”

Slot also admitted that he fully understands the frustration from the fans. But reiterated that he was left with no chance but to replace Ngumoha.

“It makes complete sense that if you take a player off who is playing well and has assisted (a goal) that people don’t expect you to take him off. It wasn’t my intention to do so.”

Liverpool failed to make their early lead count as Enzo Fernandez restored parity for Chelsea in the 35th minute. Cole Palmer had a goal disallowed for offside in the second half, while the Reds also struck the woodwork twice.

Ngumoha not ready to make difference for Liverpool while playing at 50 or 60 per cent fitness, claims Slot

While explaining his decision to not continue with Ngumoha, Arne Slot pointed to how the winger is not yet ready to make a difference for the team when operating at 50 per cent.

Slot also added that he understands some fans think differently than him. And he stressed on the fact that the negative reaction from the fans who do not know the truth about the cramps is fully justified.

Slot concluded:

“He is a good player but I don’t think he is at a level yet to play at 50 or 60 per cent and make the difference. Maybe the fans have a different opinion and think he would have been able to play at this level at 50 or 60 per cent, but not being fit enough to sprint.

“If you didn’t know that then you would think: ‘Why is he taking him off?’ I understand the reaction. I knew the moment his number went up that would be the reaction but that is not the reason not to do it and keep a player in the team who tells me he cannot continue.”

Liverpool continue to remain fourth in the Premier League table after the draw against Chelsea. However, a win for Aston Villa against Burnley tomorrow will push them down to fifth.