Fowler Says Liverpool Were Lacking Energy and Fight at Wembley | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Carabao Cup Final Defeat: A Performance to Forget

Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final loss to Newcastle was not just a defeat—it was a performance that left fans frustrated. After falling to PSG in the Champions League midweek, this was a chance for the Reds to bounce back. Instead, the team lacked energy, urgency, and quality, allowing Newcastle to secure their first major domestic trophy in 70 years.

Photo: IMAGO

While the entire squad underperformed, Reds legend Robbie Fowler, speaking to LFCTV, pointed out that only Virgil van Dijk could “hold his head up” after the game. However, even the captain wasn’t at his best, and the display raised serious questions about Liverpool’s squad depth and fitness levels at this stage of the season.

Van Dijk the Lone Standout in a Lacklustre Team

When a Liverpool side struggles, fans expect leaders to step up. At Wembley, Virgil van Dijk was the only player who showed any real defensive resilience, even though he wasn’t perfect.

Fowler summed up the performance, saying:

“I’m not sure any player other than probably Virgil van Dijk can hold their head up. It was a performance lacking in a little bit of everything, a little bit of grit, desire, that control of football in certain areas of the pitch.”

Van Dijk kept Alexander Isak quiet for most of the game, but when it mattered most, the Swedish forward found space to score the winning goal. By his own high standards, Van Dijk will likely be disappointed, but compared to his teammates, he was still Liverpool’s best performer.

Lack of Fight and Energy Cost Liverpool

One of the most concerning aspects of Liverpool’s performance was the lack of intensity and urgency. This team has built its identity on relentless pressing, high energy, and fighting for every ball—but against Newcastle, none of that was on display.

Players looked exhausted from the opening minutes, struggling to match Newcastle’s work rate. The Magpies wanted it more, and Liverpool never looked like a side desperate to win silverware.

Carragher and Fowler both highlighted the absence of players willing to take responsibility, and it was clear that Liverpool’s usual attacking threats failed to deliver. Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Cody Gakpo were anonymous, unable to create meaningful chances.

Newcastle, on the other hand, took their opportunity with confidence, pressing Liverpool into mistakes and ensuring their first domestic trophy in decades.

Chiesa and Elliott Deserve More Recognition

While Fowler’s praise was focused on Van Dijk, another player who made a big impact was Federico Chiesa. The Italian came off the bench and scored Liverpool’s only goal, providing a much-needed spark in an otherwise flat attack.

Chiesa has been underused by Arne Slot this season, but his performance at Wembley proved that he deserves more opportunities. His pace, technical ability, and finishing were a rare positive in an otherwise frustrating evening.

Similarly, Harvey Elliott showed glimpses of creativity, trying to push Liverpool forward when others struggled. While he wasn’t able to turn the game around, his effort and work rate stood out in a team that lacked energy.

What Next for Liverpool?

This defeat should serve as a wake-up call. Liverpool may still be in the title race, but the last week has exposed key weaknesses that need addressing.

Fowler’s words ring true—only a handful of players showed up at Wembley, and Liverpool cannot afford more performances like this. If they want to end the season with silverware, improvements are needed immediately.