Michael Plant
@michaelplant.bsky.social
LFC reporter for @liverpool.com
Selling Luis Diaz is probably the right decision for #LFC, but does throw up a few important transfer questions.
Liverpool's stance on Luis Diaz makes sense - but it throws up pressing issue
The winger's departure to Bayern Munich felt like a decision Richard Hughes couldn't turn down, but it does pose issues that Liverpool will now need to address in the transfer market
www.liverpool.com
July 28, 2025 at 12:26 PM
Selling Luis Diaz is probably the right decision for #LFC, but does throw up a few important transfer questions.
Understand the decision to leave Jayden Danns out of Liverpool's pre-season tour squad was made as a precaution. Scans are currently showing no injury but #LFC feel the striker remaining at the AXA for the next two weeks is the best approach. He's expected to increase workload in that time.
Danns omission from Liverpool pre-season tour explained following injury issues
The teenage forward was one of three notable absentees from the Liverpool squad that flew to Hong Kong on Sunday ahead of two matches in Asia over coming weeks.
www.liverpool.com
July 21, 2025 at 12:25 PM
Understand the decision to leave Jayden Danns out of Liverpool's pre-season tour squad was made as a precaution. Scans are currently showing no injury but #LFC feel the striker remaining at the AXA for the next two weeks is the best approach. He's expected to increase workload in that time.
Busy day of #LFC news. Bayern’s €67.5m bid for Luis Diaz turned down (details below), check on Alexander Isak’s availability, Jordan Henderson’s PL return & Colin Stewart joins as GK coach.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Liverpool has good reason for holding firm on its $117M valuation of Luis Diaz
The Reds have no plans to sell the Colombian winger this summer, but if a bid is to test that resolve from the Premier League champions, it will need to significantly increased on Bayern Munich's open...
www.liverpool.com
July 15, 2025 at 5:21 PM
Busy day of #LFC news. Bayern’s €67.5m bid for Luis Diaz turned down (details below), check on Alexander Isak’s availability, Jordan Henderson’s PL return & Colin Stewart joins as GK coach.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
For @liverpoolecho.co.uk 🔵
Interview with Patrick Dippel about what Everton fans can expect from recent arrival Thierno Barry. Dippel signed the new #EFC striker for Basel two years ago and thinks he will bring ‘a lot of fun’ to the Premier League.
Interview with Patrick Dippel about what Everton fans can expect from recent arrival Thierno Barry. Dippel signed the new #EFC striker for Basel two years ago and thinks he will bring ‘a lot of fun’ to the Premier League.
I signed Thierno Barry two years ago - Everton will have a lot of fun with him
Exclusive interview with talent spotter Patrick Dippel, who signed Everton new boy Thierno Barry for FC Basel
www.liverpoolecho.co.uk
July 14, 2025 at 3:30 PM
For @liverpoolecho.co.uk 🔵
Interview with Patrick Dippel about what Everton fans can expect from recent arrival Thierno Barry. Dippel signed the new #EFC striker for Basel two years ago and thinks he will bring ‘a lot of fun’ to the Premier League.
Interview with Patrick Dippel about what Everton fans can expect from recent arrival Thierno Barry. Dippel signed the new #EFC striker for Basel two years ago and thinks he will bring ‘a lot of fun’ to the Premier League.
The Diogo Jota tributes continue to pour in at Anfield. Pictures don’t do justice to just how many mementos have been left; it would take about five minutes to walk from start to finish. Very poignant and moving. Stewards are reorganising the display as they’re running out of room.
July 8, 2025 at 11:33 AM
The Diogo Jota tributes continue to pour in at Anfield. Pictures don’t do justice to just how many mementos have been left; it would take about five minutes to walk from start to finish. Very poignant and moving. Stewards are reorganising the display as they’re running out of room.
Slowly, Liverpool is starting to return to some semblance of normality in the wake of an unimaginable loss. But players, staff and fans must be allowed to grieve Diogo Jota's death in their own time #LFC
Liverpool deals with unimaginable grief as slow return to normality begins
Arne Slot's squad is set to return to preseason training just days after the majority of the team attended Diogo Jota's funeral in Portugal. Somehow, Liverpool's group must try and cope with an unfath...
www.liverpool.com
July 8, 2025 at 7:59 AM
Slowly, Liverpool is starting to return to some semblance of normality in the wake of an unimaginable loss. But players, staff and fans must be allowed to grieve Diogo Jota's death in their own time #LFC
There has been a clear overreaction (in some quarters) to Liverpool’s recent downturn.
Slot is correct to rotate & prioritise transfers at this stage, but perhaps his clear indifference to the final four matches could have been masked a little better. Some thoughts 👇🏼 #LFC
Slot is correct to rotate & prioritise transfers at this stage, but perhaps his clear indifference to the final four matches could have been masked a little better. Some thoughts 👇🏼 #LFC
'I understand Liverpool's drop-off - but Arne Slot isn't free from criticism'
The Reds have faltered over recent weeks, failing to win any of the three matches since being crowned Premier League champion; While some social media reaction has been an overreaction, Liverpool has ...
www.liverpool.com
May 21, 2025 at 1:27 PM
There has been a clear overreaction (in some quarters) to Liverpool’s recent downturn.
Slot is correct to rotate & prioritise transfers at this stage, but perhaps his clear indifference to the final four matches could have been masked a little better. Some thoughts 👇🏼 #LFC
Slot is correct to rotate & prioritise transfers at this stage, but perhaps his clear indifference to the final four matches could have been masked a little better. Some thoughts 👇🏼 #LFC
It would be an exaggeration to say Arne Slot implied Conor Bradley will be his first-choice right-back next season, but there were a few minor hints of his plans to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold. There do seem to be concerns about Bradley’s fitness levels, too #LFC
‘I heard Slot’s plans to replace Alexander-Arnold and message to current Red’
Trent Alexander-Arnold's decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, and who will replace him at right-back, dominated Arne Slot's weekly press conference.
www.liverpool.com
May 9, 2025 at 11:45 AM
It would be an exaggeration to say Arne Slot implied Conor Bradley will be his first-choice right-back next season, but there were a few minor hints of his plans to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold. There do seem to be concerns about Bradley’s fitness levels, too #LFC
No news on whether Trent Alexander-Arnold will play at the CWC this summer, but Arne Slot all but confirmed the #LFC defender is Madrid-bound
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Slot addresses if Liverpool will let Alexander-Arnold join Real Madrid early
The defender confirmed he is set to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract, but no news has emerged on which side Alexander-Anrold will join. But, as Slot admitted, everyone knows where the 26-yea...
www.liverpool.com
May 9, 2025 at 11:45 AM
No news on whether Trent Alexander-Arnold will play at the CWC this summer, but Arne Slot all but confirmed the #LFC defender is Madrid-bound
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
No news on whether Trent Alexander-Arnold will play at the CWC this summer, but Arne Slot all but confirmed the #LFC defender is Madrid-bound
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Slot addresses if Liverpool will let Alexander-Arnold join Real Madrid early
The defender confirmed he is set to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract, but no news has emerged on which side Alexander-Anrold will join. But, as Slot admitted, everyone knows where the 26-yea...
www.liverpool.com
May 9, 2025 at 9:12 AM
No news on whether Trent Alexander-Arnold will play at the CWC this summer, but Arne Slot all but confirmed the #LFC defender is Madrid-bound
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
There were a few hints today that Arne Slot's focus has already shifted to what comes next. Referencing transfers, attracting players, squad rotation, and judging the points tally with four games left rather than at the end are all signs that the here and now isn't the priority.
‘I heard Slot’s pre-Chelsea comments - Liverpool’s primary focus has changed’
Liverpool is clearly not going to be at full throttle over the next four games - as we move closer to the transfer market - and that's not necessarily a bad thing
www.liverpool.com
May 2, 2025 at 3:55 PM
There were a few hints today that Arne Slot's focus has already shifted to what comes next. Referencing transfers, attracting players, squad rotation, and judging the points tally with four games left rather than at the end are all signs that the here and now isn't the priority.
When Liverpool lost momentum in the final months of the Klopp era, a friend of mine insisted #LFC couldn't compete with the likes of City & Real for top prizes. That myth has been well & truly dispelled under Slot. After 5 years, Liverpool is on the verge of clinching one of the big trophies again.
Premier League title will dispel Liverpool fans' biggest fear and Man City myth
It has been a long five years, with plenty of lows along the way, since Liverpool's last title victory but the Reds have proved why they're back among the Premier League's elite
www.liverpool.com
April 27, 2025 at 12:09 PM
When Liverpool lost momentum in the final months of the Klopp era, a friend of mine insisted #LFC couldn't compete with the likes of City & Real for top prizes. That myth has been well & truly dispelled under Slot. After 5 years, Liverpool is on the verge of clinching one of the big trophies again.
The big transfer question of the summer for #LFC could be whether to sign a back-up right-back or regular starter to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold (assuming he leaves, of course). Conor Bradley's role in that will be key and Arne Slot's comments today could be interpreted either way.
‘I heard Slot’s Conor Bradley comments - he addressed biggest transfer unknown’
While Bradley has impressed as a back-up right-back, he could be cast in a different role next season. The Liverpool boss' mixed comments haven't made it clear whether he's ready to assume the role of...
www.liverpool.com
April 25, 2025 at 12:43 PM
The big transfer question of the summer for #LFC could be whether to sign a back-up right-back or regular starter to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold (assuming he leaves, of course). Conor Bradley's role in that will be key and Arne Slot's comments today could be interpreted either way.
Mikel Arteta referenced Arsenal’s lack of consistency last night after the draw against Palace. That combined with their habit of letting leads slip has been the difference with #LFC this season & why the title race will likely be wrapped up before May.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal criticism underlines key difference with Liverpool
Arsenal's 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace means the race for first place could be over this weekend. That's mainly down to Liverpool's qualities, but also the Gunners' deficiencies.
www.liverpool.com
April 24, 2025 at 11:53 AM
Mikel Arteta referenced Arsenal’s lack of consistency last night after the draw against Palace. That combined with their habit of letting leads slip has been the difference with #LFC this season & why the title race will likely be wrapped up before May.
It feels like several members of Arne Slot’s squad could be playing for their futures over the coming weeks. Of that group, Luis Diaz has really stamped his authority since the int break. Could he even force his way into next season’s plans? #LFC
9 Liverpool players are fighting for their future - but only one is impressing
There are plenty of Liverpool stars playing for their place in the team ahead of what looks set to be a busy summer - and one attacker is proving why he should stay on board
www.liverpool.com
April 17, 2025 at 9:54 AM
It feels like several members of Arne Slot’s squad could be playing for their futures over the coming weeks. Of that group, Luis Diaz has really stamped his authority since the int break. Could he even force his way into next season’s plans? #LFC
Just a few weeks' ago, there was a feeling of uncertainly over whether Liverpool would be in a place to compete for the title next season. That's gone now with news of Salah's contract and expected accountment of Van Dijk. Even Slot said he expects more trophies to follow. #LFC
‘I heard Slot’s comments on Salah contract - Liverpool’s biggest fear is gone’
The Liverpool manager spoke openly about the team's chances of winning silverware in the next few years. Suddenly, that has gone from possible to probable following this week's news.
www.liverpool.com
April 11, 2025 at 1:40 PM
Just a few weeks' ago, there was a feeling of uncertainly over whether Liverpool would be in a place to compete for the title next season. That's gone now with news of Salah's contract and expected accountment of Van Dijk. Even Slot said he expects more trophies to follow. #LFC
Virgil van Dijk yesterday confirmed he has made 'progress' on contract talks with Liverpool, but wouldn't be drawn into the nature of those discussions. Along with comments made last week, the signs look promising for #LFC
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com
April 7, 2025 at 11:03 AM
Virgil van Dijk yesterday confirmed he has made 'progress' on contract talks with Liverpool, but wouldn't be drawn into the nature of those discussions. Along with comments made last week, the signs look promising for #LFC
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
There has been an overreaction at times to recent #LFC displays, but no-one can deny there's an overall downward trend since the turn of the year. The stats back that up. None of the last six performances have been particularly impressive - it's a worrying pattern that needs to be addressed.
Arne Slot's impact on Liverpool has waned - but the solution is clear
An abject performance at Fulham raises more questions following recent losses against Newcastle and PSG, and the Liverpool boss needs to ensure the season ends positively
www.liverpool.com
April 7, 2025 at 7:38 AM
There has been an overreaction at times to recent #LFC displays, but no-one can deny there's an overall downward trend since the turn of the year. The stats back that up. None of the last six performances have been particularly impressive - it's a worrying pattern that needs to be addressed.
Trent Alexander-Arnold news throws up more questions than answers for #LFC and the club's next step. Sorting other contracts and signing a new right-back are clear priorities. Immediate reaction (online, at least) suggests it could be a difficult final few months as a Liverpool player for TAA.
'I'm not surprised by Alexander-Arnold but Liverpool made 'Grealish' error'
As one drawn-out media story looks close to being concluded, it throws up several other questions for Arne Slot and his team to deal with in the immediate and long-term.
www.liverpool.com
March 25, 2025 at 2:20 PM
Trent Alexander-Arnold news throws up more questions than answers for #LFC and the club's next step. Sorting other contracts and signing a new right-back are clear priorities. Immediate reaction (online, at least) suggests it could be a difficult final few months as a Liverpool player for TAA.
Spoke to Yossi Benayoun at the weekend. He clearly still has a real sense of connection with #LFC & joked he wouldn't change team at HT in legends match v Chelsea. He also hasn't forgotten his disagreements with Rafa Benitez that resulted in 2010 exit.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
‘I wanted to stay at Liverpool but Benitez forced me out - It still feels raw’
Yossi Benayoun spoke to Liverpool.com after Liverpool Legends faced Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday. He was reflecting on his time with the Reds and the reasons behind his departure.
www.liverpool.com
March 25, 2025 at 12:12 PM
Spoke to Yossi Benayoun at the weekend. He clearly still has a real sense of connection with #LFC & joked he wouldn't change team at HT in legends match v Chelsea. He also hasn't forgotten his disagreements with Rafa Benitez that resulted in 2010 exit.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Peter Crouch spoke of his son’s excitement at seeing him play for #LFC ahead of today’s friendly. So, safe to assume he enjoyed the two-goal contribution off the bench. Steven Gerrard also rolled back the years from midfield at Anfield.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Gerrard stars, Crouch brings back the robot - talking points vs Chelsea
Liverpool and Chelsea legends meet at Anfield, 20 years on from the infamous 'ghost goal' for a friendly game to raise funds for charity. It was Peter Crouch who stood out for the Reds.
www.liverpool.com
March 22, 2025 at 5:22 PM
Peter Crouch spoke of his son’s excitement at seeing him play for #LFC ahead of today’s friendly. So, safe to assume he enjoyed the two-goal contribution off the bench. Steven Gerrard also rolled back the years from midfield at Anfield.
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
It might just be a charity match, but Natasha Dowie’s inclusion in today’s #LFC legends squad marks another step forward for the women’s game. She spoke yday about not being able to play football at school but today lines up with Steven Gerrard in front of the biggest crowd of her life.
‘I’m making Liverpool history and I want to inspire next generation of women’
Saturday's legends game at Anfield against Chelsea will mark another positive step forward in the progression and development on women's soccer. It may just be a charity game, but for Natasha Dowie, i...
www.liverpool.com
March 22, 2025 at 10:27 AM
It might just be a charity match, but Natasha Dowie’s inclusion in today’s #LFC legends squad marks another step forward for the women’s game. She spoke yday about not being able to play football at school but today lines up with Steven Gerrard in front of the biggest crowd of her life.
Arne Slot chose not to bite back when asked about PSG’s comments since last week. It’s not in his nature to stoke tensions, but Slot clearly doesn’t agree with certain views on the first leg & expects a different match tonight. Some thoughts on yesterday’s busy day of press conferences. 👇🏼 #LFC
'I heard Slot's subtle warning to PSG, Liverpool will be different under lights'
Our reporter's first-hand account of the events at Kirkby and Anfield on Monday ahead of the Champions League second leg, as Liverpool trained and four press conferences threw up plenty of intriguing ...
www.liverpool.com
March 11, 2025 at 10:11 AM
Arne Slot chose not to bite back when asked about PSG’s comments since last week. It’s not in his nature to stoke tensions, but Slot clearly doesn’t agree with certain views on the first leg & expects a different match tonight. Some thoughts on yesterday’s busy day of press conferences. 👇🏼 #LFC
Worth noting Slot and the FA have a slightly different version of events for the 'we blame you if we don't win the league' bit. Could have been 3-match ban for Slot had he not admitted guilt and apologised. Same for Hulshoff. All a bit unsavoury. #LFC
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
Arne Slot told referee 'if we don't win the league, I'll blame you'
The full reasons for Slot's red card against Everton have been revealed in a detailed FA document, along with an explanation of why Sipke Hulshoff was dismissed and both Liverpool and Everton were fined.
www.liverpool.com
March 4, 2025 at 3:09 PM
Worth noting Slot and the FA have a slightly different version of events for the 'we blame you if we don't win the league' bit. Could have been 3-match ban for Slot had he not admitted guilt and apologised. Same for Hulshoff. All a bit unsavoury. #LFC
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc...
James McConnell has returned to the #LFC U21s over the last two games and was the standout player yesterday v Middlesbrough. That might be expected, but Arne Slot will be pleased to see him dominate at his own age group.
'I saw Liverpool star's response to recent setback - Slot will be impressed'
James McConnell could have been playing in the EFL had things gone differently in January - instead the midfielder is still at Liverpool and impressing at Under-21 level... for now
www.liverpool.com
March 3, 2025 at 12:15 PM
James McConnell has returned to the #LFC U21s over the last two games and was the standout player yesterday v Middlesbrough. That might be expected, but Arne Slot will be pleased to see him dominate at his own age group.