“Thank goodness Slot didn’t start him, it would have been a huge disaster for Liverpool. They should have gotten rid of him when his contract was about to expire. The football has left him” – This is according to Gary Neville as he goes all in on a key Liverpool player that has been having a bad spell since the beginning of the season and also had a bad game against Frankfurt
Gary Neville Blasts Underperforming Liverpool Star After Frankfurt Clash — “The Football Has Left Him” ⚽🔥
Gary Neville Blasts Underperforming Liverpool Star After Frankfurt Clash — “The Football Has Left Him” ⚽🔥
The fallout from Liverpool’s frustrating Champions League performance against Eintracht Frankfurt continues to dominate headlines — and this time, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has weighed in with some sharp criticism of one of Liverpool’s senior players.
In a passionate segment on Monday Night Football, Neville didn’t hold back when discussing Liverpool’s recent dip in form, singling out one player in particular who he believes is no longer fit to wear the shirt.
> “Thank goodness Slot didn’t start him,” Neville said bluntly. “It would have been a huge disaster for Liverpool. They should have gotten rid of him when his contract was about to expire. The football has left him.”
Neville’s Harsh Verdict
Although Neville refrained from naming the player directly, fans quickly began speculating online, with many suggesting that he was referring to a once key figure in Liverpool’s midfield — a player who, despite his past brilliance, has struggled to adapt to Arne Slot’s high-pressing, quick-possession system.
Neville continued:
> “He’s been a brilliant servant for Liverpool in the past, no doubt about it. But football evolves, systems evolve, and some players just can’t keep up anymore. Slot is trying to build a dynamic, aggressive team, and you can’t afford passengers in a setup like that. He looks like he’s two steps behind every play.”
The Frankfurt Disaster
Liverpool’s 1–1 draw against Frankfurt was a night to forget for several players. While the Reds dominated possession, they failed to make their chances count — and defensive lapses nearly cost them all three points. The player in question was heavily criticized for his poor positioning, slow reaction time, and lack of composure under pressure.
A number of fans echoed Neville’s sentiments on social media, calling the player’s performance “uninspired,” “lazy,” and “a liability.” One supporter wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
> “Neville’s right. The man’s a legend, but his legs are gone. We can’t win big games with him anymore.”
Arne Slot’s Tactical Dilemma
Liverpool manager Arne Slot now faces a tough decision — balancing loyalty to experienced players with the need for fresh energy and tactical flexibility. Slot has already shown a willingness to make bold calls, leaving senior names on the bench in favor of younger, hungrier talents.
After the Frankfurt game, Slot was asked whether the player’s time at Liverpool might be coming to an end. His response was measured but telling:
> “Every player here has to earn their place. No one is guaranteed a start based on what they did in the past. We’re building a team for the future.”
Neville’s Closing Thoughts
Neville wrapped up his analysis with a clear message to the Liverpool hierarchy:
> “Sometimes, the hardest thing for a manager or club to do is to move on from a player who once defined an era. But you have to. If Liverpool want to compete with City and Arsenal again, sentimentality can’t come into it. This player doesn’t belong in the team anymore — simple as that.”
Conclusion
Gary Neville’s words may sting for Liverpool fans, but they capture a growing concern around Anfield — that one of their most trusted veterans may no longer have the spark that once made him indispensable.
As the Reds prepare for their next Premier League fixture, all eyes will be on Arne Slot’s team selection. Will he stick with experience, or will he usher in a new generation to keep Liverpool’s title hopes alive?
One thing’s for sure — the pressure is mounting, and Neville’s criticism has only turned up the heat inside Anfield. 🔥