Star forward Diogo Jota shared his frustration about the injury-ridden last season as Liverpool beat Arsenal in the friendly
Liverpool star Diogo Jota revealed the injury frustration of last season as the Reds defeated Arsenal in the pre-season friendly match. Jota led the Liverpool lineup as the only available forward option for new head coach Arne Slot at this moment.
The Reds beat Arsenal 2-1 in the friendly game, displaying a new tactical approach that received praise on social media. Jota played only the first half of the game as he just joined the pre-season tour in the United States.
The 27-year-old suffered from several injuries last season that happened at a crucial time, hurting both the player and Liverpool. Liverpool’s attacking lineup significantly dropped form at the latter end of the season with Jota missing most of the action.
Speaking to the media (via Liverpool Echo), Jota revealed the frustration he faced with untimely injuries throughout the last season. He said:
“Last season especially was really frustrating because I had three injuries in three good moments. I worked hard to get into those good moments with my form. But each time my momentum was stopped due to injuries. The last one especially was bad. I feared that I was going to miss the Euros. That would have been the second time in a row in terms of major tournaments after missing the World Cup. Mentally, it was tough. But what gives me hope is that in the minutes when I’ve been on the pitch I’ve always performed. If I can stay fit then I know my numbers will be good and I can help the team.”
Jota has received praise for his clinical finishing as many believe that he is the best scorer at the club. However, injuries have riddled the Portuguese international’s Liverpool career, hampering his consistency despite several goal-scoring contributions.
Darwin Nunez is the primary Liverpool striker and he faced a lot of criticism for being wasteful despite decent contributions. It is important for Liverpool to have Jota more available as the club plays numerous games within a season.
Slot uses a calmer strategy than former manager Jurgen Klopp’s high-intensity style on and off the ball. It is a hope for the Liverpool fans and staff that the different tactics would increase Jota’s longevity, keeping injuries at bay.
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If the 27-year-old remains unreliable for long-term availability, Liverpool must consider other solutions. Nevertheless, Jota is a key player for the senior team, well-respected by his peers and the fanbase.
