Tribute to Matt Beard and a moment of respect
Arne Slot begins by offering condolences after the passing of Matt Beard, noting the profound loss felt across football and beyond. He describes Beard as a special person and an influential manager in the women’s game over many years. Slot highlights Beard’s achievements at Liverpool Women, including consecutive league titles during his first spell and promotion after returning to the club. He emphasizes the affection shown since the news emerged and says the tributes reflect the character of the man. Liverpool will honor Beard before kick off and Slot extends sympathy to his wife Debbie and to Harry, Ellie and Scott, as well as to all who knew him.
Derby win, heavy schedule, and squad changes
Slot turns to the match itself after a victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby, which he says keeps a promising start on track while leaving room to improve. He explains that a demanding sequence of Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday fixtures affected energy levels by the end of the week. He stresses this is not an excuse, especially after a win, but context for the workload the players faced. He praises the group for meeting the challenge with a strong collective mentality. Because of the schedule he confirms there will be several changes for the Southampton tie. The exact number is undecided at the time of writing, yet he is clear that the starting team will be fully prepared.
Respect for Southampton and aims in the cup
Slot welcomes Will Still, his staff, the players, and the Southampton supporters to Anfield. He expects a difficult contest against opponents Liverpool met three times last season, and says that expectation stands even though the clubs are now in different divisions. Reflecting on last season’s competition he recalls many good moments apart from the final. The target is to produce the same standard again and to make the most of beginning this campaign at Anfield in front of the supporters.
