FPL Notes from Anfield: Liverpool’s struggles deepen
Liverpool slipped to another disappointing result on Saturday as Nottingham Forest took three points with goals from Murillo, Savona and Gibbs-White. The loss adds to a growing concern for Fantasy Premier League managers tracking Reds assets, especially with a reshuffle in Szoboszlai’s position catching the eye. Our scout notes from Anfield examine what went wrong, what to expect next, and how to approach FPL options for the coming fixtures.
Szoboszlai at right: tactical shift or reaction to form?
Dominik Szoboszlai lined up on the right in a shape that suggested Jurgen Klopp is exploring ways to maximise his creativity. Historically deployed through the middle or on the left, Szoboszlai’s shift to the flank is a reaction to the team’s current balance and the absence of a natural fit in the forward line. For FPL managers, this change could affect his involvement in advanced positions, crosses, and shots from distance — all potential scoring routes. Early signs indicate he remains a primary creative outlet, but his goal-scoring upside could be tempered if he’s pulling wider and delivering from wide areas rather than central cut-ins.
What else stood out at Anfield
The defeat was sparked by Forest’s efficient counters and clinical finishing. The goals from Murillo, Savona and Gibbs-White exposed defensive gaps in Liverpool’s setup, especially in transition and set-piece discipline. For FPL players, that often translates to fewer clean sheets and a need to re-evaluate Liverpool’s defensive assets. Midfield and forward picks may still offer points, but owners should temper expectations in the short term until Klopp stabilises the system and personnel.
Who benefited in the FPL landscape?
With the Reds underperforming, attention turns to other teams and players whose fixtures are more forgiving in the upcoming Gameweeks. Notable under-the-radar options and potential rotation considerations include players from teams facing struggling defenses, as well as any Reds assets who might benefit from a tactical adjustment. The key is to look for players with consistent minutes, a high involvement rate, and proven shooting or assist metrics when a team is chasing results.
Strategic takeaways for Gameweek decisions
– Reassess Liverpool attacking options: If Szoboszlai’s position continues to drift right, monitor his involvement in the final third. A drop in central goal threats could cap his points ceiling, making him a riskier captain choice in the near term.
– Evaluate midfield balance: A shift in roles for Szoboszlai could free other midfielders or forwards to exploit pockets of space. Look for players who are likely to benefit from defenders committing forward or from improved crossing opportunities.
– Monitor fixtures and form: Liverpool’s fixtures will dictate how aggressive you want to be with Reds assets. If the schedule improves and Klopp stabilises the team, a rebound is plausible, but it should be measured against other premium options available in the market.
Bottom line for FPL managers
The Anfield setback emphasizes the importance of dynamic squad management. Szoboszlai’s position shift adds a layer of complexity for managers who own him, and its impact on points will depend on how Liverpool adapt over the next few matches. For those scouting alternatives, diversify options and weigh fixtures as heavily as form. Keep an eye on injury news, press conference hints, and any tactical tweaks that could unlock scoring opportunities across midfield and forward lines.
