Liverpool boss Arne Slot has claimed his side’s win over Sunderland was “very important” as the Reds continue their quest to qualify for the Champions League.
The visitors made the trip from Merseyside to the North East, and faced a Black Cats side who were unbeaten at home in the Premier League.
But that was no problem for the reigning champions, who left with all three points, courtesy of Virgil van Dijk’s deflected header.
It was a match in which Liverpool were on the front foot for the majority of the game, although Sunderland did have a handful of chances to take something from the game.
Speaking after the game, Slot said: “Very important. I think we dug deep, after only two days of rest. Then going to a difficult away game. We showed again how well we can play on the ball. We created so many opportunities today.
“The character we have shown throughout the whole game was very good and that is why we leave this place with a 1-0 win.
“Second half, we had so many good moments and so many moments where we had quality players in promising positions.
“The overall performance in terms of work rate was really good.”
Salah praise and Endo update
Mohamed Salah was the man to provide the all-important assist for Liverpool’s goal, his 92nd in the top flight, equalling the great Steven Gerrard’s record.
On the talisman’s impact since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, Slot added: “He has so many records for this club, but to have this one combined with such a great player. Both were unbelievable players for this club. Unfortunately for Steven, I expect Mo to go above him. I don’t expect, but I hope he goes above him.”
It wasn’t all great news for Liverpool, though. Midfielder Wataru Endo was stretchered off with an injury, something Slot is already anticipating will keep the player out for a long time.
He added: “We don’t expect a positive outcome. Like I said, we have to wait and see. We expect not to have him for quite a long time.
“That is not the first time with our right full-backs. We have accepted this every time. We have to find solutions to keep performing well.”
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