With a full week on the training ground, Arne Slot has something he hasn’t always enjoyed this season — time.
Liverpool head to Nottingham Forest next, a side who have just appointed yet another new manager, and that unpredictability makes preparation both easier and harder. Easier because Slot can focus purely on Liverpool’s structure. Harder because Forest may change shape, intensity, or approach under new leadership.
The big question for fans now is simple: does Slot stick with the side that beat Brighton, or does he tweak things again?
Will Curtis Jones Stay at Right-Back?
Curtis Jones filling in at right-back against Brighton raised eyebrows — but it worked.
Jones offered:
Calmness in possession Tactical intelligence The ability to drift inside and overload midfield
Slot clearly values technical control from wide areas, and Jones gives him that. Against Forest, especially away from home, ball retention could be crucial.
But does Slot risk sticking with an unconventional solution?
Could Szoboszlai Drop Back?
Another option is pushing Dominik Szoboszlai deeper or even into a wider role to provide energy and structure. Szoboszlai has the engine and tactical discipline to adapt, and Slot may want more physical presence if Forest come out aggressively under their new manager.
However, moving Szoboszlai deeper sacrifices his attacking influence — and Liverpool need his forward thrust.
Robertson or Kerkez?
The left-back situation is equally interesting.
Milos Kerkez has been keeping Andy Robertson out of the side recently with a series of strong performances. His energy, forward runs, and attacking intent have added real dynamism down the left, and he’s looked increasingly comfortable in Slot’s system.
But this might be the kind of game where experience counts.
Robertson’s leadership, defensive awareness, and big-game temperament could prove valuable against a Forest side riding the emotion of a new managerial appointment. Slot may feel the experienced Scot offers more defensive security in what could be an unpredictable encounter.
Does he reward Kerkez’s form, or does he trust Robertson’s experience?
Stick or Twist?
Momentum matters.
Liverpool were impressive against Brighton, and managers often resist changing a winning formula. But Forest’s new-manager bounce factor adds uncertainty. Slot may decide that stability is key — or he may anticipate a tactical shift and adjust accordingly.
Personally, I think he keeps the core of the Brighton side intact, but Robertson could come back in for this one. Jones may retain his place if Slot wants technical security, though it wouldn’t be a surprise to see one or two subtle tweaks.
With a full week to prepare, this feels like a test not just of personnel — but of Slot’s tactical instincts.
And the trip to Forest could tell us a lot about how settled Liverpool really are under their new boss.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
Leave a comment