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Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged on Wednesday that his side have lost their “fear factor” as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Sunderland at Anfield.
The Premier League champions have now gone three consecutive home games without a win, relying on a Nordi Mukiele own goal to salvage a point against the Black Cats. Sunderland appeared set for their first victory at Anfield since 1983 when Chemsdine Talbi’s deflected effort put the visitors ahead.
Liverpool’s attacking woes continued, with Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak struggling to make an impact, while Mohamed Salah, introduced at the start of the second half, was unable to break down Sunderland’s organised defence. In stoppage time, Wilson Isidor was denied a dramatic winner when Federico Chiesa cleared his shot off the line.
“Teams that play us now think they can get a result,” Slot admitted. “Even the games we have won this season haven’t been easy, and that has fuelled other teams’ confidence.” Liverpool’s struggles follow a strong start, winning five of their first league games but securing just two victories in their last nine.
