‘Struggling big time’ – Panel discuss ‘uncomfortable’ reality of Jota tragedy on Liverpool
Video credit: TNT Sports
Don Hutchison believes the incredibly difficult circumstances surrounding Diogo Jota’s passing could be affecting Liverpool’s poor run of form.
Former Scotland international Hutchison, speaking on TNT Sports Goals Show Xtra, said he believes Arne Slot’s players will be struggling to continue as normal after a traumatic summer.
The Reds succumbed to their third consecutive defeat across all competitions following a heavy 4-1 loss against PSV in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, and Hutchison highlighted the difficulties of continuing to play whilst coping with grief.
“It’s a very uncomfortable conversation when we talk about Diogo Jota,” said Hutchison. “I just know from what I would be like, very emotional, I’d be struggling big time.
“And I don’t know how you explain it if you’re Arne Slot, because he’s trying to manage the football club, he’s trying to manage his players.
“At the same time, he’s still grieving a bit, he can look at his players and have the conversation and look into their eyes.
“Maybe it’s Mo Salah who’s struggling, they’re all probably struggling, and it’s just an uncomfortable conversation as a footballer.
Mohamed Salah
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“When you’re going through such a bad time, it’s so horrendous. Not just the football, but away from the pitch.
“I heard Andy Robertson talking after the Scotland game, a glorious night for Scotland going to the World Cup. The first person he mentioned was Jota, and he was in tears, he was in bits, saying: ‘I thought about him every single day.’
“It’s a very difficult conversation to have, I would imagine, for Arne Slot to his group of players, and how they try and respond.”
The panel agreed that any footballer would put on a brave face and agree to play if asked whether they were injured, but Hutchison explained these are unique circumstances.
He added: “If I got asked that question, and I was one of Liverpool’s players now, my response would be: ‘I’m really struggling, but I’m ready to fight on, I want you to play me, I’m going to try my best.’
“But then, it’s just so hard, how do you measure it? I’m feeling emotional talking about it.”
Slot’s side will now turn their attention to domestic matters when they play away at West Ham United on Sunday.
The Reds then have Premier League matches at home to Sunderland and away at Leeds United, before their next Champions League outing away at Inter.
Liverpool have dropped to 12th in the Premier League table after a run of six defeats in seven matches.
