Damning Roy Hodgson comparison puts Slot among uncomfortable company

Liverpool’s recent form has been accompanied by a newly highlighted statistic that has added an awkward dimension to the discussion surrounding Arne Slot.
Although the Reds remain fourth in the Premier League and have stretched their unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions, the atmosphere at Anfield shifted once more after the 1–1 draw with Burnley.
Opta’s Football Data Editor Michael Reid pointed out that the underlying league numbers offer a less complimentary view of Slot’s tenure so far.
Writing on X, Reid noted: “Liverpool have five wins and 21 points from their last 17 Premier League matches – an average of 1.24 points per game.”
He then made the comparison that quickly raised eyebrows: “Roy Hodgson averaged 1.25 points per game as Liverpool manager.”
At face value, it is an uncomfortable parallel given how the Hodgson period is remembered, but the wider context tells a very different story.
Against Burnley, Liverpool controlled possession, fired off 32 shots, produced an expected goals tally of 2.95 and forced eight saves from Martin Dubravka, while Florian Wirtz once again provided a decisive moment of quality.
Dominik Szoboszlai striking the crossbar from the penalty spot also proved pivotal, with that single moment capable of completely changing the narrative of the match.
From a tactical standpoint, Slot could hardly have demanded more in terms of chance creation and territorial dominance.
Even so, frustration boiled over at full-time, with boos audible around Anfield — a rare occurrence even during testing spells.
Lewis Steele captured the growing discontent when he wrote on X that Liverpool are “17 points worse off than this time last season,” adding that “Arne Slot’s football has been difficult to watch for months.”
Criticism is inevitable at a club of this stature, and Steven Gerrard echoed that sentiment by insisting that home draws against teams like Burnley are “not acceptable.”
However, the former captain also acknowledged that Slot has stabilised the side and guided Liverpool back into the Champions League places after a turbulent autumn.
That balance is important.
Slot is Liverpool’s first-ever head coach rather than a traditional manager, arriving amid significant structural change following last season’s Premier League triumph.
The summer brought unprecedented upheaval, with major exits and record-breaking signings reshaping the squad in ways few Liverpool bosses have previously experienced.
If a supposed “poor season” under those conditions still leaves the Reds fourth in January, unbeaten in 12 matches and competing on three fronts, then perspective is essential.
Statistics can inform the debate, but they should not dictate the verdict.
At the very least, Slot deserves the full campaign to continue building a project that already shows clear signs of control, dominance and long-term vision.