Joe Gomez has spoken honestly about the growing frustration among Liverpool supporters after the disappointing 1-1 draw against Chelsea, admitting the reaction from Anfield “hurts” the players following another difficult performance.
The atmosphere turned sour during the second half when Rio Ngumoha was substituted by Arne Slot, with boos heard around the stadium as Liverpool once again struggled to control a match they had started brightly.
Speaking via The Independent after the game, the England international admitted the dressing room fully understands supporter frustration.
“We feel it, it’s the last thing we want,” said Gomez.
The defender continued: “For us older boys who have experienced so many good times here it does hurt. If it didn’t then you shouldn’t still be here.”
Our longest serving player was a lot more philosophical about the motives for the booing, compared to Ryan Gravenberch’s response after the match.
The 28-year-old also revealed there have already been serious conversations internally following recent performances.
“There’s frustrations and there’s been plenty of voices and discussions and meetings from different people – staff, players.”
Gomez then made Liverpool’s immediate objective crystal clear.
“Black and white now, we need Champions League football, that’s the objective.”
That honesty will probably resonate with supporters because, despite Liverpool still sitting fourth, confidence around the team is visibly draining.
The academy graduate also defended Slot’s controversial decision to substitute Ngumoha, explaining the teenager was physically struggling late in the match.
“Rio he’s young and he played in the high-intense game… physically, he was tired.”
Gomez added: “But I get it: he’s flying, he looks good for us, he’s a big threat and if he comes off it’s like ‘Oh’ and the fans are entitled to that opinion.”
Slot himself made similar comments afterwards, insisting the youngster had muscle problems and could not continue.
The Liverpool defender also addressed criticism surrounding the slower, more possession-based style under the Dutch coach.
“I think we have to remember that tactically we made a step last year which was very effective,” Gomez explained.
However, he also admitted the approach can become frustrating when matches lose rhythm and intensity.
That probably sums up exactly where Liverpool supporters are right now.
Fans can accept tactical evolution, but after another passive display against a struggling Chelsea side, many are beginning to question whether this current direction is really working.
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