Alisson urges Liverpool to create their own history

Alisson has urged Liverpool to write their own history this season and step out of the shadows of Jurgen Klopp's Champions League and Premier League winning teams.

Liverpool have a six-point lead over Arsenal at the top of the Premier League with a game in hand as they chase their first league title since 2019/20.

Alisson played a key role in that title-winning team, having also shone as Liverpool lifted the Champions League trophy in his first season at Anfield in 2018/19.

This season, Alisson has made nine league appearances, with Caoimhin Kelleher making eight appearances when the Brazilian was sidelined with a muscle injury.

He returned to the starting line-up for a Champions League win at Girona in early December and has conceded eight times in the Premier League, excluding own goals and penalties.

That comes from a figure of 9.3 expected goals on target (xGoT). According to Opta's model, Alisson has prevented 1.3 goals this season.

On the eve of Liverpool's trip to West Ham, Alisson said Arne Slot's men cannot afford to reflect on the achievements of his predecessor Jurgen Klopp.

“That team was really special,” Alisson said. “We have achieved great things. It was the first Premier League title in a long, long time.

“The season before we also won the Champions League together. There is no comparison between either situation.

“What makes me happy is this group of players. We have the quality to do something special. The most important thing is that the dedication needed to win something is there.”

“We don't have to compare ourselves to the teams of the past. We have to create our own history this season, this group.”

Slot has implemented a more patient style since taking the reins, with Liverpool's passing accuracy increasing from 85.8% last season to 86.5% this season, while also averaging fewer fast breaks per Premier League match (2.1) than in 2023-2024 ( 1.1).

“I don't think it's very similar,” Alisson said when asked about Liverpool's change in style.

“A few players are still in the team, but we have a bit of a different style, more possession. It used to be very simple, a lot of transitions, a lot of intensity.”

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