Liverpool have parted ways with set piece coach Aaron Briggs following a dismal campaign from dead-ball situations that has seen the club concede 12 goals while scoring just three from corners, free-kicks and throw-ins in the Premier League.
The Reds, currently sitting fourth in the table with 32 points from 18 matches, took the mid-season decision to dismiss Briggs after their defensive frailties from set pieces became increasingly costly.
Manager Arne Slot has described the situation as “a big frustration,” with the Reds’ minus-eight set piece goal difference standing in stark contrast to their title-winning form last season, when they had not conceded a single set piece goal by the halfway point.
Captain Virgil van Dijk addressed the defensive shortcomings after Liverpool’s narrow 2-1 victory over Wolves on December 27, a match in which the bottom-placed side managed to score from a corner.
“We have defended so many set-pieces very well. But the fact is we’ve conceded too many goals like that and it hurts. We have to improve that,” the Dutch defender said.
Van Dijk emphasised that progress would require consistent work on the training ground and careful video study.
“It’s about repetition, training, analysing….. it’s something we have to improve. I’d say at least 75 per cent of the time – or even more – it’s not even about the first contact, it’s the second phase that is the killer,” he added.
Virgil van Dijk has bemoaned Liverpool’s set-piece record this season
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Slot spoke candidly about the significance of set pieces in modern football ahead of the Wolves fixture, acknowledging the growing importance of dead-ball situations.
“I know the importance of it, it gets more and more, and that’s why we are so annoyed by our current record,” the Liverpool manager stated.
He highlighted the remarkable disparity between his side and their rivals, noting that Chelsea boast a plus-eight set piece balance while Arsenal and Manchester United have each netted 10 goals from such situations.
Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWS
“It’s impossible to be top-four, top-five with our set-piece balance, let alone winning the league,” Slot admitted, though he pointed out Liverpool remain the league’s leading creators of open-play chances.
Liverpool face Leeds on Tuesday evening as they look to maintain their push for the title despite their set piece struggles.
The club confirmed Briggs’s departure in an official statement, expressing gratitude for his work during their championship triumph.
“Liverpool FC can confirm Aaron Briggs has departed his role as set-piece coach of the men’s first team,” the statement read.
Liverpool have struggled with set-pieces this season
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The club noted that Briggs initially arrived at Anfield in July 2024 as individual development coach before joining Slot’s backroom staff, where he played a part in securing the Premier League crown.
“He leaves with the appreciation and best wishes of everyone at the club,” Liverpool added.
Liverpool will be hoping to continue their charge towards the Champions League when they face Leeds.
However, Daniel Farke’s side have momentum in their sails and drew 1-1 with Sunderland last time out.
