Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged that his team had a fortunate outcome against PSG on Wednesday but emphasized that their overall success this season has been earned.
Despite PSG dominating the Champions League last-16 first leg with 27 shots, 71% possession, and several clear chances, Liverpool emerged victorious thanks to a crucial goal from Harvey Elliott and an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Alisson Becker.
“We weren’t just a little lucky—we were very, very, very lucky!” Slot admitted in his press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Southampton. However, he referenced Michael Jordan, saying, “The harder you work, the bigger luck you have.”
When asked about claims that Liverpool has been fortunate this season, Slot dismissed the notion, particularly regarding their relatively few injuries. “If you think injuries are just about luck or bad luck, then sure, we’ve been lucky. But we’ve also worked to prevent them,” he explained.
Slot also urged both his players and fans to approach the Southampton match as a cup final. A win would extend Liverpool’s lead at the top of the table to 16 points, with Arsenal facing Manchester United on Sunday.
While many view the game against the league’s bottom club as a mere formality, with greater focus on next week’s PSG second leg and the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle, Slot insisted that the Southampton clash is the most important.
“I have to convince my players that we have three finals to play, and I hope I can influence our fans too,” he said. “I hope they don’t arrive just five minutes before kick-off. I want the stadium full half an hour before, so these players get the reward for what they did in Paris.”
Looking ahead, Slot acknowledged the excitement surrounding the upcoming European fixtures but stressed the immediate priority. “I know the final is coming, and people are already talking about the Champions League atmosphere, but I truly hope our fans will be at their loudest tomorrow.”
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