“Arne Slot Lauds ‘Outstanding’ Liverpool Star for 96% Pass Accuracy and Flawless 100% Aerial Duel Success Against Fulham”
“Arne Slot Marvels at ‘Outstanding’ Liverpool Star After 96% Pass Completion and Perfect 100% Aerial Duel Success Against Fulham”
Arne Slot has lauded Ryan Gravenberch’s performance in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Fulham.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Andy Robertson’s red card in the 17th minute, the Reds fought back twice to earn a point against the Cottagers.
Despite being a man down, Liverpool managed to register 16 shots with a 2.26 xG, outperforming Fulham’s 12 shots and 1.08 xG. This was largely due to their control of 61% possession, with Ryan Gravenberch playing a pivotal role.
The Netherlands international delivered an exceptional performance at the heart of Liverpool’s midfield, completing 96% of his passes and touching the ball 80 times. He also won all three of his aerial duels and seven of 12 total duels. In addition, Gravenberch contributed with nine final-third passes, eight recoveries, two interceptions, and two tackles.
His all-around display helped Liverpool assert control, even when facing a numerically superior opponent.
Slot wasted no time in praising his fellow Dutchman.
“Impressed, like everyone who was in the stadium or saw the game,” Slot remarked about Gravenberch (via Liverpool’s official website). “Ryan was outstanding again today. Without the ball, he was mainly in our last line, often having to deal with a striker or fast wingers. With the ball, he seamlessly integrated into midfield.”
Slot continued, “It was an outstanding performance from him, but if we only highlight him, I don’t think I’m giving enough credit to the others who played alongside him. I couldn’t have asked for more.”
He added, “[We] dominated the game, had more possession with 10 men, created more chances – everything you’d want. Unfortunately for us, the only chance they had with 10 men ended up in a goal – that’s just the way football is sometimes.”
“Arne Slot Expresses Frustration Over Bernd Leno’s Antics”
From Andy Robertson’s red card to Andreas Pereira receiving only a yellow for a strong challenge on Gravenberch, there were several moments on Saturday that left Slot frustrated.
One particular point of irritation was Fulham’s time-wasting tactics, led by goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Slot was even seen counting the seconds Leno held onto the ball after collecting it inside his own box in the second half, reaching 10 seconds before the camera moved away.
🎥 | Arne Slot counting how long Leno had the ball in his hands for was something!
😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/znIJXVE94z
— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) December 14, 2024
Of course, goalkeepers holding onto the ball is a common part of the game, no matter how frustrating it may be.
Slot would likely criticize Alisson or Caoimhin Kelleher if they resorted to such tactics themselves.