The pressure of the Premier League run in is cranking up across the board, with Jamie Carragher issuing a stark warning to under fire Liverpool boss Arne Slot, while Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard battles the ghosts of past failures.
“No Leg to Stand On” Carragher’s Slot Reality Check
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has declared that Arne Slot would have “no leg to stand on” if he fails to deliver Champions League qualification this season. The blunt assessment comes after Liverpool’s defeat at Bournemouth saw them slip to sixth, two points adrift of the top four.
“I think some of the criticism he’s had from supporters is far too much, considering they won the league title last season,” Carragher said on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football. “But if he doesn’t qualify for the Champions League, he doesn’t have a leg to stand on.”
The Reds have a chance to secure progress in this year’s competition against Qarabag on Wednesday, but Carragher is now pessimistic about their domestic chances of returning to Europe’s top table next term.
Odegaard Vows to Use Pain as Fuel for Arsenal Charge
Meanwhile, Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard has insisted the club’s trio of consecutive second place finishes must serve as motivation, not a mental block, after their title bid hit a bump with a 3-2 loss at Manchester United.
“Obviously it is a factor, but it can be a good factor too,” Odegaard said. “It gives you more fuel and more hunger and determination to get it done. We have experienced that it is a long run. It is time to stick together more than ever.”
His words are aimed at calming a nervous fanbase fearing a historic fourth straight runners up finish, with the Gunners’ lead now cut to four points.
Howe Backs Midfield Stand Ins for Paris Mission
Elsewhere, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has expressed full faith in his squad players as an injury crisis threatens their Champions League fate. With Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton major doubts for Wednesday’s winner takes all trip to Paris Saint Germain, the likes of Jacob Ramsey and Joe Willock are on standby.
“They’re all big players for us and desperate to play,” Howe said. “I’ve got no doubt… they’re going to be really important. They’re going to get their opportunity to showcase what they can do.”
A win at the Parc des Princes would all but seal Newcastle’s place in the knockout stages.
Today’s Action
The focus shifts to League One tonight, where leaders Cardiff host Barnsley. Lincoln face Bradford in a top of the table clash, while League Two frontrunners Bromley are at home to Crewe.
