Slot sack position made clear as Liverpool manager questioned 'without doubt'

Alan Shearer believes Liverpool manager Arne Slot's job could be at risk if the Reds fail to qualify for the Champions League after their 2-1 loss to Wolves left them sixth in the Premier League

Alan Shearer reckons Liverpool boss Arne Slot faces the axe if they miss out on Champions League qualification. The ex-Newcastle United frontman insists securing a top-four finish this campaign is crucial for the Dutchman's survival.

The Reds squandered their chance to draw level on points with Manchester United and Aston Villa in midweek, slumping to a 2-1 defeat against Wolves. Following Chelsea's 4-1 thrashing of Aston Villa, Slot's men tumbled to sixth in the standings and now trail by three points in the battle for European football.

Liverpool might catch a break in the top-four scramble with England presently topping the coefficient table, which could mean fifth spot earns Champions League qualification. However, the lacklustre showing against Wolves marked yet another underwhelming performance during Liverpool's faltering Premier League title defence this term.

Slot has endured scrutiny throughout the campaign but the Reds' top brass have remained steadfast in backing the title-winning tactician. Shearer reckons it's absolutely vital for Liverpool to secure Champions League football if Slot is to keep his job.

He told Betfair: "I think the key for Arne Slot staying on at Liverpool next season is securing Champions League football. I think with Liverpool, with what they've spent, their biggest disappointment is not challenging for the league. That ship sailed for them three or four months ago.

"I guess if they don't make the top five, then you would, without doubt, question whether Arne Slot would be in the job. A club of that size, how much they've spent after winning the league and not finishing in the top five, yeah, I guess he would be under pressure with his job."

The battle for Champions League qualification appears to be contested between Manchester United, Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool, with Brentford harbouring slim hopes should they produce a sustained push. Villa are presently in freefall following a dismal sequence under Unai Emery, suffering three losses from their last six fixtures.

Chelsea have lacked consistency but showcased their capabilities in Wednesday's emphatic 4-1 triumph at Villa Park. The ex-Newcastle icon reckons Liverpool can scrape through to secure their top-four berth despite underwhelming performances.

Shearer added: "I do still think Liverpool will get Champions League football next season, on the probability of others being as bad as them, in terms of being up and down. Chelsea for example, they went to Aston Villa, got a great win, but then, two weeks before, they drew against Burnley and drew against Leeds.

"Aston Villa, they look as if they've coped it and although their performance wasn't that bad against Chelsea, I know the result was, but their performance was a little bit better. Man United are in their position despite being so poor for such long periods. I know Michael Carrick has come in and done a good job, but they were really poor against Newcastle the other night.

"So, I guess when you look at Liverpool, they're very much like the other three or four that I've mentioned. They could do it, but if they do, it won't be from them being brilliant all season."