Walk On: The Athletic FC's Liverpool show Six wins in 20: how deep is Liverpool’s slump?
Feb 9, 2026
Simon Hughes, tactical historian and analyst, and James Pearce, seasoned Liverpool correspondent, dissect the chaotic Anfield loss. They tackle VAR controversy, tactical bafflement, game management after taking the lead, midfield and set-piece failures, goalkeeper errors and the club’s worrying league position. They preview a daunting trip to Sunderland and debate squad confidence and transfer/contract dilemmas.
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Trust Eroded By Inconsistent Form
- Liverpool need a sustained run of wins to rebuild trust rather than sporadic good results.
- James Pearce says one-step-forward, two-steps-back form has eroded confidence across the squad.
Anfield Advantage Squandered By Passivity
- Liverpool's first-half passivity at Anfield surrendered the crowd advantage and invited pressure.
- Simon Hughes calls the tactical approach baffling and says it negated the home advantage.
Be Aggressive Early Against Big Teams
- Play with urgency and pressure against top teams rather than sitting deep and hoping to counter.
- Simon Hughes advises Liverpool to be aggressive early to seize control at Anfield.