Liverpool manager Arne Slot played down the angry Anfield reaction to his substitution of teenager Rio Ngumoha in the 1-1 Premier League draw against Chelsea on Saturday, saying the 17-year-old had injury problems and needed to be replaced.
Ngumoha was one of Liverpool’s brightest talents on an otherwise frustrating afternoon on Merseyside, with fans also booing at the final whistle as Liverpool once again failed to win.
Ngumoha was replaced by Alexander Isak after 67 minutes, prompting an angry reaction from fans.
“There were many who disagreed with the change, which is completely understandable,” Slot told TNT Sports. “He was having problems with his muscles and when I asked him he said he wasn’t sure if he could continue.
«I knew this would be the reaction because he is such a good player. Often in football people don’t know everything. I am the manager and I have to make decisions. Knowing why means it makes more sense to people.»
Liverpool might have been 2-0 up before Chelsea grew into the match, as the home side conceded for the 18th time this season, second only to Bournemouth (19).
HIGHLIGHTS – Liverpool vs Chelsea
“We started very well and had a great chance from a set piece that was close to 2-0,” said Slot. «Unfortunately, just like last week (at Manchester United), we conceded from a set moment. It was such a sloppy goal.»
«The second half I saw a completely different intensity. We came close a few times. Like so many times this season, we hit the post and the crossbar. We were not able to control their players. They played with a lot of midfielders today.» There were more boos when Liverpool failed to find a winner.
«That probably has something to do with us not winning. It’s completely logical that people are disappointed when Liverpool don’t win,» Slot said.
Published on May 9, 2026
