Steven Gerrard labels Liverpool ‘toothless’ in defeat to Paris St-Germain
Steven Gerrard has branded Liverpool “toothless” after they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
Arne Slot’s side failed to register a single shot on target during a difficult evening at the Parc des Princes.
Goals from Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia secured a comfortable advantage for the reigning European champions.
The result leaves the Premier League title holders with a monumental task ahead of next week’s return leg on Merseyside.
Tactical reshuffle backfires for visitors
Liverpool arrived in the French capital desperate for a positive response following a bruising 4-0 loss to Manchester City last weekend.
Their Dutch manager attempted to solidify his team by switching to a back three featuring Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong as wing-backs.
While the conservative approach packed the penalty area with defenders, it completely stifled the visitors’ usual attacking fluidity.
Former Anfield captain Gerrard felt his old club were ultimately lucky to escape with only a two-goal deficit.
‘Total domination’ by the hosts
“It was total domination tonight, Liverpool’s tactics and gameplan worked for large periods of the game but they didn’t have anything up top.”
Steven Gerrard, TNT Sports
The former England midfielder noted that the French giants missed several golden opportunities to put the quarter-final completely out of reach.
“They were quite toothless and didn’t create anything.”
Despite the comprehensive outclassing, Gerrard believes the famous Anfield atmosphere offers a glimmer of hope.
“Liverpool getting out of here at 2-0 is okay, it’s not fantastic but if any place can make a tie of this next week, it’s Anfield.”
Pundits united in criticism
Fellow television analyst Steve McManaman was equally scathing regarding the lack of offensive ambition shown by the English club.
The former international winger highlighted that opposition captain Marquinhos enjoyed an incredibly comfortable evening at the back.
“I thought Liverpool were very lightweight up top. Not being ruthless enough, not taking shots on.”
McManaman suggested the damage could have been far worse had the Parisian hosts been more clinical with their finishing.
The Reds must now radically transform their approach if they are to salvage their European campaign next week.
