Gary Neville claims Liverpool players 'needed' Arne Slot change after Jurgen Klopp era

Gary Neville believes that some Liverpool players including Virgil van Dijk "needed" a more composed style to be introduced after the more intense and fast-paced soccer that Jurgen Klopp used to play at Anfield .

Up to this point, the only fault that can be found with Arne Slot was his side's 1-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest . Aside from that, Liverpool has won the other nine matches that he has taken charge of with only two goals having been conceded to date in the seven Premier League fixtures that have elapsed.

The soccer has been noticeably more calm and relaxed, with Liverpool content with controlling the play and keeping the ball for longer rather than playing dangerous killer passes. The high pressing remains a theme, but there has been a transition to a more calculated and patient approach.

"Slot is a completely different character," Neville said while appearing on NBC this weekend. "He is so laid back and calming in his interviews. Klopp was so heightened and fiery on the touchline. Slot is the complete opposite — and maybe what these players needed at this stage in their careers.

"The game is a little bit slower. A couple of players are getting on in years — the likes of Van Dijk — and that probably suits them. He has done a great job. I thought with Klopp leaving, Liverpool would have a big issue and they haven't."

Slot has been keen to point out that his side is yet to face its biggest tests with Chelsea and Arsenal next up in the top flight. Champions League clashes with RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen are now fast approaching too. But on the evidence that has emerged so far, Liverpool has managed the transition from Klopp to Slot well.

"There is stability off the pitch and stability in the dressing room," Neville continued. "It has been a dream start. Liverpool have been smart in and around him, bringing Michael Edwards back into the fold when Klopp left."

Liverpool.com says: Considering Neville put Liverpool outside of the top four spots this season before a ball was kicked and was at one point claiming that the Reds wouldn't make the top six, he has very much changed his tune. Slot's start has been excellent and he won't be able to stem the title talk much longer if Liverpool is still top when the November international break arrives.