Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has told current Liverpool manager Arne Slot to cease mentioning "low blocks" as a reason for the team's inconsistencies this season. Gerrard's comments came after Liverpool's dominant 3-0 victory over Marseille in the Champions League at the Stade Vélodrome on Wednesday evening.

The win against Marseille significantly boosted Liverpool's chances of automatically qualifying for the last 16 of the Champions League, lifting them to fourth in the table. Dominik Szoboszlai's clever free-kick, which he rolled under the Marseille wall, opened the scoring just before halftime. An own goal from Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli and a late strike from substitute Cody Gakpo sealed the victory for the Reds. Mohamed Salah also made his return to the starting lineup, following his controversial comments in December and his recent participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Despite the positive result and performance, Slot referenced the challenges posed by teams that defend with a low block after the game, something Gerrard appears to be growing tired of. Speaking on TNT Sports, Gerrard said, "His tactics were spot on tonight. He deserves a lot of praise and credit. He needs to stop mentioning low blocks. Low blocks have been happening against Liverpool since I was playing. That's just the way it is".

Slot's Liverpool has faced criticism this season after failing to replicate the form that saw them crowned Premier League champions last year. The team currently sits fourth in the Premier League, some distance behind league leaders Arsenal. Despite the criticism, Gerrard has defended Slot, suggesting that "certain individuals" within the team have let the manager down this season. He also pointed to injuries, a transitional period with new signings, and underperforming players as reasons for the team's inconsistent form.

Gerrard acknowledged the pressure Slot is under, stating, "I'm really pleased for him. It can't be easy when you're under that pressure". He also highlighted Slot's tactical acumen, adding, "His tactics were spot on tonight. He deserves a lot of praise and credit".

Slot's tactical approach at Liverpool involves a flexible 4-2-4 formation during the build-up phase. This formation allows the team to dynamically move players and exploit space, focusing on technical finesse and calculated possession. When out of possession, Liverpool transitions into a high-intensity pressing system, aiming to win the ball back quickly and create attacking opportunities.

Gerrard's subtle jab about "low blocks" suggests a desire for Slot to find solutions and move beyond using defensive tactics as an explanation for dropped points. Despite this, Gerrard has confidence that Slot can turn things around. "He came into the club and inherited a fantastic squad and he done an incredible job last year, made Liverpool champions," Gerrard said.