"It was a performance lacking everything" – Liverpool Legend Robbie Fowler Slams Reds' EFL Cup Final Display
Fowler criticizes Liverpool's poor performance in their EFL Cup final loss to Newcastle, praising only Virgil van Dijk for his efforts.
Liverpool’s dream of lifting the EFL Cup came crashing down after a 2-1 defeat against Newcastle United at Wembley. The result was tough to take, but for club
legend Robbie Fowler, it was the team’s performance that was even more disappointing.
Speaking after the game, Fowler didn’t hold back in his assessment. He claimed that only Virgil van Dijk could be proud of his performance, while the rest of the team lacked the fight, control, and determination needed to win a final.
Liverpool entered the final as the favorites to win, but from the start, they struggled to match Newcastle’s intensity. The Magpies took the lead just before halftime through Dan Burn, and Alexander Isak doubled their advantage early in the second half. Federico Chiesa managed to pull one back in extra time, but it wasn’t enough.
Fowler, speaking on LFCTV (via Rousing the Kop), made his feelings clear:
“The result is disappointing, but I think it’s the performance which has probably ruined this a little bit. I’m not sure any player other than probably Virgil van Dijk can hold their head up.”
The stats back up Van Dijk’s effort. The Liverpool captain made nine clearances, two interceptions, and completed 54 out of 65 passes. However, even he couldn’t prevent Newcastle from taking control of the game.
The EFL Cup final loss adds to Liverpool’s frustrating cup performances this months.
- FA Cup Exit: Knocked out by Plymouth Argyle in the Fourth Round.
- Champions League Heartbreak: Lost to PSG on penalties in the Round of 16.
- EFL Cup Final Defeat: Beaten by Newcastle at Wembley.
Despite these setbacks, Liverpool still have one major prize to fight for – the Premier League title. They are 12 points clear at the top and will look to bounce back when they face Everton at Anfield in the Merseyside Derby on April 2.
With the international break coming up, Arne Slot’s men have time to prepare very well. However, they must quickly regain their form if they hope to finish the season successfully.