Slot explains Ngumoha substitution after fan backlash

Anfield erupted in frustration when Arne Slot substituted Rio Ngumoha during Saturday's Premier League clash with Chelsea, but the Liverpool manager insists the teenager was struggling with a muscle problem. The 1-1 draw at the top of the 36th round leaves the hosts needing a win in one of their final two matches to secure Champions League qualification.

Ngumoha, 17, had been one of Liverpool's standout performers in an otherwise disappointing display. The home crowd also jeered the team at the final whistle after another failure to secure three points. The substitution came in the 67th minute, with Alexander Isak coming on, drawing audible criticism from the stands.

"There were quite a few fans unhappy with the change, which is completely understandable," Slot told TNT Sports. "Rio was having muscle issues, and when I asked him, he said he wasn't sure he could continue."

The Dutchman added: "I knew the reaction would be like this, because he is a very talented player. Often, not everyone knows all the details. I am the coach and it is my duty to make decisions. When you know the reasons, things make more sense."

Set-piece struggles continue

Liverpool came close to taking a 2-0 lead before Chelsea fought back. The Reds conceded from a set piece for the 18th time this season, placing them second in the league for goals conceded from dead-ball situations, behind Bournemouth (19).

"We started the match excellently and had a big chance from a set piece that could have extended our lead," Slot explained. "But, as happened last week against Manchester United, we conceded an easy goal from a set piece."

"In the second half, the situation was completely different. We came close to scoring several times, and as has happened many times this season, the ball hit the post and crossbar. We couldn't impose control because they relied on a large number of midfielders."

The jeers grew louder after the final whistle as Liverpool failed to find a winning goal. "Maybe that's because we didn't win, which is understandable," Slot concluded. "It's natural for people to feel disappointed when Liverpool doesn't win."