Slot credit for Accrington Stanley before hailing Liverpool’s ‘difference in quality’
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot believes his side’s “difference in quality” is what earned them a place in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
The Reds demolished League Two’s Accrington Stanley, winning 4-0.
Federico Chiesa scored his first goal for Liverpool, while Trent Alexander-Arnold also got on the scoresheet despite being linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Speaking after the game, Slott said: “All credit to them, I think they showed their style of play, which is a huge compliment.
“They played the same style as always. In the end, of course, the difference in quality makes a big difference for us, but kudos to them for how they performed today.
“Trent didn’t play his best game against Manchester United, but in the rest of the season he was so good for us – I loved his performance today.
🗣️ “There were a few moments where the fans could see why we think he’s a talent.” ✨
Arne Slot on Ngumoha, Alexander-Arnold, Chiesa and Danns #ITVFootball | #FACup | #LFC | @gabrielclarke05 pic.twitter.com/zTi1nhvsDx
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) January 11, 2025
“Our fans always gave him great support. He didn’t play well once, but the fans responded to that. If Trent just plays what we expect him to do, then he gets the support.”
Of Chiesa, he added: “It’s definitely a good first step, but as much as I liked the way Accrington Stanley played, we have to take into account that we’re talking about League Two level.
“It’s good to have him back on the field. He was a threat, but let’s not get carried away.”
16-year-old Rio Ngumoha started for Liverpool, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to start an FA Cup match.
He showed flashes of quality and left Sloto impressed with his performance at Anfield.
He said: “He did well. There were a few moments where fans could see why we think he’s a talent. He is good in one-on-one situations.
“He showed a little more in the first half than in the second half. It’s nice to debut and win. This is a special day for him.”