Can Liverpool Still Show Class After a Triumphant Season?

In a surprising twist following their recent triumph, Liverpool FC has come under fire for what some are calling a decline in standards since securing the Premier League title. Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has led the charge, chastising the Reds for their lacklustre performances and urging them to demonstrate a bit of class in a time when they seemingly have little to play for.

Liverpool clinched their 20th league title, matching Manchester United's record, on April 29 after a dominant 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. This achievement, however, appears to have dulled their competitive edge, as they have picked up only one point from their subsequent three matches against Chelsea, Arsenal, and Brighton. Keane expressed his frustration on the Stick to Football podcast, stating, “Liverpool have switched off – they’re irritating me.”

Keane’s critical viewpoint suggests that the use of fringe players since their title victory sends a disheartening signal about the team’s motivation. In his view, complacency is settling in, as demonstrated by Mohamed Salah’s attention-seeking ‘selfie’ celebration following a goal even while the game was still in play. “Come on – show a bit of class,” Keane remarked, highlighting the need for Liverpool's squad to maintain professionalism despite their title success.

Support for Keane’s sentiments was echoed by former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who noted that every successful team relies heavily on a few pivotal players. He remarked, “If the goalie [Alisson] was missing, you’d feel it. Van Dijk, Mac Allister, Salah – they are all crucial. The rest are good players, but they can’t cope alone.” This sentiment touches on another critical point – Liverpool’s tactical adjustments since the arrival of manager Arne Slot have indeed brought success, but the heavy reliance on key players has been laid bare in recent matches.

Moreover, Liverpool’s commitment to post-title celebrations has also raised eyebrows, with reports of the players enjoying lavish sojourns in Ibiza and Dubai, seemingly prioritising leisure over competitive intensity. In one incident, left-back Kostas Tsimikas was filmed collecting a Chinese takeaway just a day before facing Brighton, illustrating a sense of disregard towards the remaining fixtures.

However, despite Keane’s condemnation, many Liverpool fans remain unfazed, reveling in the satisfaction that their primary objective has been fulfilled. The club is set to receive the Premier League trophy on the final day of the season, and for many supporters, the individual performances in subsequent matches have become an afterthought amidst the triumph of having secured the title.

Ultimately, the question remains: can Liverpool find their competitive spirit when it seems to have waned since their title-winning celebrations began? As they prepare to lift the trophy, does it signal a closing chapter or merely a pause in their pursuit of excellence? Football enthusiasts will undoubtedly watch closely as this saga evolves.

What are your thoughts on Liverpool's recent performances? Are they justified in their celebrations, or should they show more commitment in the remaining games? Share your views below!

• Liverpool
• Premier League
• Roy Keane