“Liverpool Star Struggling – Slot Might Consider Bench Duty After Burnley Stalemate”

 

 

Liverpool’s underwhelming campaign hit another low point on Saturday as they played out a dull 1-1 draw with Burnley at Anfield, leaving fans frustrated and increasingly critical of one player in particular, who appeared “lost” against the Clarets.

The Reds remain fourth in the Premier League with 36 points, just one ahead of Manchester United after their 2-0 derby win, missing the opportunity to apply pressure on third-place Aston Villa. Burnley, who have struggled since their promotion last season under Scott Parker, responded through Marcus Edwards in the 65th minute, cancelling out Florian Wirtz’s first-half goal and ensuring the points were shared.

Few Liverpool players can be proud of their performance, with three points slipping away despite the £400 million spent on new signings over the summer. Hugo Ekitike was heavily involved but lacked impact, the backline failed to defend Edwards’ equaliser, and the midfield didn’t make full use of its talent.

Dominik Szoboszlai, in particular, came under fire. Arne Slot paired him with Ryan Gravenberch in a two-man pivot while Alexis Mac Allister remained on the bench, but fans questioned Szoboszlai’s effectiveness in central midfield. “Is Szoboszlai massively overrated? A good player but nothing more in my opinion,” one fan remarked.

Typically a dynamic presence and a versatile option in Liverpool’s engine room, Szoboszlai’s display against Burnley was underwhelming. He even missed a penalty in the 32nd minute—his first failure from 12 yards since 2021—after Mohamed Salah was unavailable due to AFCON duty. While he was involved, registering 123 touches (seven inside Burnley’s box), his contributions lacked real impact, and a period out of the spotlight might benefit him. Salah’s return and Mac Allister’s reinstatement could help relieve the pressure.

Social media reaction, particularly on X, highlighted fans’ frustrations. Comments ranged from “Szoboszlai looks lost” and “short on confidence” to critiques of his influence on the game’s tempo. Others expressed broader disappointment in Liverpool’s performance, citing Szoboszlai alongside Gakpo and Jones as particularly poor.

Having played 28 times across all competitions this season, the 25-year-old midfielder appears fatigued. A bench spell could rejuvenate him, allowing Liverpool to make the most of his talents when matches are on the line.