Arne Slot ‘gets it right’ with Diogo Jota call in Liverpool v Wolves
Arne Slot made two changes to his Liverpool starting line-up for the tense 2-1 win against Wolves.
Trent Alexander-Arnold returned after coming on as a substitute in the 2-2 draw with Everton (12 February) as the Reds restored their seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League (16 February).
Perhaps more importantly for the Anfield faithful, Diogo Jota made his first Premier League start in four months.
The Portuguese forward last started in the 2-1 win over Chelsea (20 October) and he justified the Dutchman’s decision to restore him to the line-up.
Jota a constant danger in Liverpool win over Wolves
The Portugal international is arguably the best finisher at Anfield but has not been able to show that ability much in this campaign.
Constant injuries have left Arne Slot frustrated with the ex-Wolves man and led to speculation that he could be sold in the summer.
However, he reminded the Dutchman why he is the best option in the number nine position against his former club despite not scoring in the nervy victory.
In a 64-minute cameo, the 28-year-old recorded three shots, six touches in the opposition box and two passes into the final third on Sunday. [Fotmob]
The Reds attacker was constantly trying to link attacks as he only misplaced three of his 13 passes for a 77 per cent success rate.
He also thought he had won a penalty to give his side a chance to seal the victory but a VAR check overturned the referee’s original decision but it showed how much of a handful he can be.
Jota can fire Liverpool to the Premier League title
When he is able to get onto the pitch, Jota usually makes his presence known with strikes against Fulham and Nottingham Forest picking up crucial points in the title race.
The former Porto star has notched five goals and two assists in 15 appearances in the Premier League this season.
If the 46-cap international can remain fit for the rest of the campaign then he will be Slot’s best option for the number nine role as Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez have been rotten in his absence.
A brutal run of fixtures on the horizon in the next ten days, including trips to Aston Villa, Manchester City, and a home clash against Carabao Cup final opponents Newcastle, could decide the Reds’ title chances.
Having Jota fit and firing could be the difference between wrapping up the title or allowing Arsenal to put the pressure on.
The Anfield faithful will be delighted that he made it through 64 minutes unscathed and looks ready to go on Wednesday (19 February) against the Villans.