Grizz Khan on Liverpool’s Rotation Strategy Before European Clash with Lille | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Rotation Dilemma Ahead of Lille Game: Insights from Grizz Khan and Dave Davis

Liverpool’s approach to squad rotation under Arne Slot has been a major talking point in recent weeks, particularly with the upcoming Lille game in Europe. On the latest episode of The Daily Red podcast on  Anfield Index , Grizz Khan and Dave Davis delved into the key discussions surrounding Liverpool’s squad depth, rotation policy, and the implications for their European campaign.

Nunez’s Moment and the Bigger Picture

The conversation opened with an analysis of Darwin Nunez’s resurgence. Grizz Khan was forthright in his assessment:

“Criticism has been warranted. I’m not going to suddenly say it’s been unfair. He’s been a success; everything’s been smooth—no problems whatsoever. But we can separate issues. We don’t have to change our opinion after every incident.”

He acknowledged Nunez’s struggles but stressed that the forward must now kick on.

“He’s our record signing… and he was supposed to score more goals. That’s only three in the Premier League now. Of course, he’s not played as much, but that’s because the manager doesn’t trust him as much as the other forwards at his disposal.”

This ties directly into the ongoing debate around Liverpool’s rotation policy—whether Nunez should start consistently, particularly with the Lille game looming.

The Importance of Rotation in the Lille Game

Dave Davis posed a key question: “Do you think it’s worth giving him a bit of a run in the team now? Will we see him start regularly?”

Grizz was clear in his view:

“He’ll start against Lille and then Ipswich, which will depend on his performance and Jota’s injury situation. But I don’t see any logic in playing first-teamers in Lille. No reason. No logic. I expect the FA Cup team, similar to Accrington Stanley. Probably even worse!”

Liverpool’s schedule remains relentless, and as Grizz noted, Lille provides an opportunity to rest key names.

“Give them all a feet-up, K! I’d pick a total different back four—Endo and Quansah at centre-back, Morton, Elliott, Curtis Jones in midfield, then Doak, Nunez, and Kade Gordon upfront. Honestly, I have no other explanation or logic to pick any of the first XI who’ve had a very difficult week.”

It’s a view that many fans will likely share, given the intensity of Liverpool’s domestic fixtures.

The Trent Alexander-Arnold Influence

A major theme in the discussion was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance and his role in Liverpool’s structure. Grizz was effusive in his praise for the right-back:

“People haven’t checked out my post-match reaction—go check it out! I couldn’t stop talking about his last 20 minutes. He showed me everything that he didn’t against Manchester United—attitude, desire, mentality, and no shortage of skill.”

Trent’s role in the system makes the rotation discussion even more relevant. With Liverpool’s pressing demands, keeping key players fresh is essential.

“We know about his quality, but his desire was unreal. His pass to Nunez was class, and I don’t care what anyone says—it wasn’t just smashed across in hope. Silly people if they think that!”

Given Trent’s form and importance, resting him in the Lille game could be vital ahead of the domestic schedule.

Looking Ahead to Liverpool’s Title Push

The discussion wrapped up with a broader look at the title race. Grizz highlighted Arsenal’s struggles and Liverpool’s key fixtures ahead.

“We have Ipswich at home, and that won’t be easy. It’s not just the name; it’s how they’re playing—a low-block scenario, very dangerous on the counter. Then we go to Bournemouth, which, right now, is the hardest fixture in the league in my opinion. If we win there… I won’t finish that sentence because I’ll start drooling.”

With Lille in midweek, the question of rotation remains crucial. As Grizz put it bluntly:

“Why does it mean anything to you? It means sweet F all in terms of Champions League progression. The first XI deserve a break!”

Liverpool’s ability to balance squad depth while competing on all fronts will be a defining factor in their season. Arne Slot’s choices in rotation will be scrutinised, and the Lille game presents a perfect test case.