In a move that could signal his intentions for the January transfer market, Liverpool manager Arne Slot demonstrated a strategic approach during Sunday’s match against West Ham, where he had the luxury of replacing two key players with plenty of time at his disposal. In the 57th minute, with the Reds comfortably leading 4-0, Slot took the precaution of replacing Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo, ensuring they did not pick up yellow cards exposing them to suspension for the crucial clash coming up against Manchester United.
Earlier in the match, defender Joe Gomez had to leave the field due to injury and was replaced by Jarell Quansah. Slot still had two substitutions at his disposal, which he used 16 minutes before the end, bringing on Harvey Elliott and Kostas Tsimikas.
Some Liverpool fans may have felt a slight disappointment that Slot did not give a chance to a few promising youngsters available on the bench who are yet to play in the Premier League this season. With Dominik Szoboszlai serving a suspension and Federico Chiesa not included in the squad to prioritize training, Jayden Danns and James McConnell could have been ideal candidates for a late appearance.
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However, despite being in control of the match, Slot opted not to bring them in, leading to speculation about his reasoning. Reports from The Athletic recently suggested regular football would be beneficial to Danns and McConnell’s development, hinting at a potential January loan move if the right opportunities present themselves.
Initially, the summer was planned for a loan move for the duo, until injuries thwarted those plans. Since then they have mainly featured in the under-21 team, having just one appearance in the recent Carabao Cup win over Southampton to boast this season.
It is plausible that Slot was cautious to risk injury to either player against West Ham, given that such a setback would jeopardize the prospect of a loan move next month, ultimately hampering their chances of acquiring valuable experience in the senior ranks for the 2025 campaign.
While Championship clubs may soon call upon the services of Danns and McConnell, the successful loan spells of players like Ben Doak and Lewis Koumas to Middlesbrough and Stoke respectively highlight the importance of finding the right fit to aid the growth and development of young talents.
The depth available in Liverpool’s squad is also likely to be a factor in the decision-making process. Both players were thrust into action earlier this year due to an injury crisis and played key roles leading to Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final triumph in February.
Is a loan in January possible for them? Slot’s choice not to introduce them on Sunday certainly raises questions and makes this prospect very realistic.
