“Slot is really in a tight spot right now but with the right players, he can turn things around. He has an underated player that can easily replace Gravenberch on his bench so it’s left to him. His side has been playing well but luck wasn’t just on their side” – This is according to Jamie Carragher as he claims that Slot can offset the loss of Gravenberch by turning to a Liverpool player who possesses “Wijnaldum-like” qualities.

There’s no way to dress it up — Liverpool are facing a challenging moment.

While it’s not quite the crisis that some corners of the media have made it out to be, Arne Slot and his side are certainly in troubled waters.

The beauty of football, however, lies in its relentless pace. Following a fourth consecutive defeat — this time to Manchester United at Anfield — Liverpool have a chance to rewrite the narrative. A strong performance against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League, followed by victory over Brentford in the Premier League, could quickly calm nerves.

Of course, it all depends on how Liverpool respond. The painful loss to Galatasaray in Istanbul still lingers, and Slot’s team selection will be under intense scrutiny. Questions will be asked: will he continue to back the out-of-form Mohamed Salah? And how will he address the glaring defensive weaknesses that have plagued his side?

Gravenberch injury adds to the tension

One of the biggest concerns is Ryan Gravenberch’s fitness. Before the Manchester United game, Slot confirmed the Dutch midfielder was fully fit after a minor issue during the international break. However, Gravenberch was forced off again with an ankle injury during the defeat, casting doubt over his availability for the next fixtures.

This setback comes at a difficult time, especially with Liverpool already struggling for balance in midfield. Alexis Mac Allister has yet to find consistency, with many analysts arguing that his style doesn’t fully address Liverpool’s current weaknesses in possession or physical control.

Gravenberch, by contrast, has been one of the few bright spots this season, continuing the form that made him instrumental in Slot’s title-winning campaign last year. His absence will be felt.

Who steps up?

Replacing Gravenberch won’t be simple. While Mac Allister could drop into the deeper midfield position, there’s a growing belief that Curtis Jones may be better suited to take on that role.

Jones, a product of Liverpool’s academy, has long been admired for his composure and intelligence on the ball. The 24-year-old made significant contributions during Liverpool’s title-winning run last season, scoring and assisting key goals while providing balance in midfield.

Former defender Jamie Carragher once compared Jones to Georginio Wijnaldum, calling him “Wijnaldum-esque” for his ability to retain possession and transition play smoothly. According to FBref, Jones ranks among the top midfielders in Europe for pass completion, through balls, progressive passes, and goal-creating actions — a reflection of his all-round influence.

Beyond the statistics, Jones brings energy and local pride. With Trent Alexander-Arnold now at Real Madrid, Jones is the last homegrown Scouser regularly involved in the first team. His leadership, work rate, and understanding of the club’s culture could provide the emotional lift Liverpool need.

Why Slot should trust Jones

Analysts have pointed out that Jones’ introduction against Manchester United improved Liverpool’s pressing intensity. Former assistant manager Pep Lijnders once described him as a “physical machine,” a quality that Liverpool’s midfield has sorely lacked this season.

By starting Jones in a deeper, linking role, Slot could restore balance and control — two elements missing from recent performances. This move would also allow Mac Allister to operate higher up the pitch, where his creativity is more effective.

Liverpool’s poor run cannot continue, and Slot must act decisively. A fifth straight defeat would be disastrous, not only for morale but also for their Champions League ambitions.

Curtis Jones has been underused so far this season, starting just once in the league. That may need to change quickly if Slot wants to steady the ship and revive Liverpool’s faltering campaign.