Andy Robertson reveals the biggest issue Liverpool have had this season

Liverpool look for consistency as Andy Robertson eyes Newcastle United test

Liverpool head into Saturday night knowing that momentum in Europe counts for little unless it is carried into the Premier League. Fresh from a ruthless 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag, Arne Slot’s champions welcome Newcastle United to Anfield with a clear brief from their vice captain, Andy Robertson, find rhythm, find points, and start a run that matches the ambition of a title winning squad.

The mood around Liverpool has flickered between authority and frustration this season. A damaging league defeat at Bournemouth was followed by that midweek statement in Europe, and Robertson has put his finger on the missing piece. As he told Liverpoolfc.com, “We hope so. I think that’s what we’ve maybe lacked a little bit this season, consistency.”

Consistency drive under Arne Slot

Slot’s first campaign brought a Premier League crown in 2024/25, yet maintaining that standard is harder than setting it. Robertson expanded on why the Reds need to tighten their grip. “That’s what last season we were so good at. Every game we were spot on and we went on good runs and picked up the points where we had to. This season we’ve been a bit more up and down, so we need to try to find that consistency in the second part of the season if we want to achieve our goals at the end of the year.”

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s response to setbacks matters. “We need to start showing that. Obviously when you get beat in the league it’s important that you respond quickly. Last Saturday [at Bournemouth] was hugely disappointing.” The Champions League demolition did exactly that, giving Slot a platform to reset the domestic narrative.

Confidence from Qarabag rout

Robertson described a night that was both efficient and mature. “It was obviously a good result. We knew how important the game was in terms of finishing in the top eight… So, we knew it was really important.” Qarabag were punished, the clean sheet was cherished, and squad depth was tested in a makeshift back line.

Communication and experience were key. “I think it’s just you then have to talk a lot more on the pitch,” Robertson said, praising Ryan Gravenberch’s showing and Wataru Endo’s versatility. “Wata is so versatile and I thought he was excellent when he came on at right back… It was a makeshift back four, but obviously we made it work.” Amara Nallo’s late cameo completed a satisfying evening that lifted confidence across the group.

Newcastle United under Eddie Howe

Saturday brings a sterner examination. Newcastle United have grown into one of the league’s most demanding opponents under Eddie Howe, and Robertson is not underestimating them. “Newcastle are such a difficult team… They’re competing in the Champions League and competing and doing well in the Premier League.”

Recent meetings have been combustible, including that late drama at St James’ Park. “We’ve always found it difficult, but luckily for us more often than not we’ve found a way,” he said, recalling Rio Ngumoha’s stoppage time winner. The Magpies will arrive believing they can turn pressure into points, and Liverpool must be precise to keep control.

Anfield lights and home edge

Under the floodlights at Anfield, atmosphere becomes a tactical ally if Liverpool earn it. “It’s important that the lads give the fans something to shout about,” Robertson noted. “We know what gets the fans going… we have to perform to allow that to happen.”

For Liverpool, Andy Robertson and a squad hungry to reassert their league authority, this Newcastle United clash is about turning a European flourish into domestic certainty. Three points would not just heal a wobble, it would signal that Slot’s side are ready to string together the consistency their vice captain demands.