“It Could Make a Massive Difference” – Liverpool Have Made a Huge Change Behind the Scenes at the Club | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Backroom Overhaul: Revamping the Medical Department for Success

Liverpool has taken major steps to address the persistent injury issues that plagued the team in recent seasons. As David Lynch discussed on the Anfield Index podcast with host Dave Davis, the club has made significant changes to the backroom staff, specifically within the medical department, to enhance player fitness and availability. These adjustments reflect Liverpool’s commitment to keeping key players on the pitch as they pursue a successful 2024-2025 season under new manager Arne Slot.

Overhauling the Medical Department

Liverpool’s injury struggles were well-documented last season, and they contributed to the team’s inconsistent performance. Lynch emphasised how the club took a serious look at the medical side to reduce injury rates, noting that Jonathan Power, formerly the team doctor, has now been promoted to oversee the entire medical department. Lynch remarked, “Liverpool clearly think there’s a problem there…it just isn’t good enough to be having as many injuries.”

One key shift is Liverpool’s decision to split their physiotherapy approach. This model, which is increasingly popular among elite clubs, allows for targeted treatment based on whether players require immediate matchday support or long-term rehabilitation. According to Lynch, this move indicates that Liverpool is proactively seeking ways to mitigate the wear and tear that comes with a high-intensity playing style. As he put it, “They had a look at that and thought, ‘we have to have fewer injuries.’”

Photo: IMAGO

The Impact of Arne Slot’s System on Player Fitness

Arne Slot’s appointment marked a strategic shift in Liverpool’s style of play, introducing a high-press, intense system that demands peak physical fitness. Lynch noted that maintaining player health is critical if Liverpool is to perform consistently across the season, as Slot’s approach leaves little room for prolonged absences from key players. He explained, “As good as the pressing game is, it’s one that will test players physically.”

To support this demanding system, Liverpool has introduced measures beyond the medical team’s structure. Lynch highlighted how Ruben Pons, a new addition to the backroom staff, will play a pivotal role in fine-tuning players’ preparation routines. Slot’s pressing tactics and Liverpool’s revamped backroom staff show that the club is putting great emphasis on conditioning to avoid the injury pitfalls of previous seasons.

Measuring the Success of Liverpool’s Injury Prevention

While it’s too early to fully gauge the effectiveness of these changes, early signs are promising. Liverpool’s top players have remained largely available through the opening weeks, with only minor setbacks for the likes of Alisson and Harvey Elliott. Lynch remarked, “Statistically, it’s looking pretty bright so far in terms of availability,” which is a positive shift compared to last season’s lengthy injury list.

Lynch remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging that injuries are inevitable, especially for players like Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister, who are crucial to Liverpool’s midfield. However, Liverpool’s revamped approach aims to minimise the risk of recurrent issues. Lynch added, “You’re still going to get injuries, but Liverpool can’t continue to get injuries at the rate that they have in previous years.”

Looking Ahead: How the Backroom Changes Could Shape the Season

With Slot at the helm and the new backroom structure in place, Liverpool appears well-prepared to handle the physical demands of a high-pressing system. Lynch believes that these enhancements to the medical department can ultimately be worth “a few points in the Premier League table” by keeping Liverpool’s top talents fit for longer stretches.

As Liverpool eyes a title run this season, reducing injuries will be crucial. This commitment to backroom improvements signifies the club’s ambition to learn from past challenges, and these changes may provide the foundation for a more resilient Liverpool squad. As Lynch put it, “If they can continue in that way, it genuinely could make a massive difference.”

With a strengthened medical team, Liverpool is aiming to mitigate the impact of injuries, and if these changes pay off, the Reds could be well-positioned to make a serious push for success in the 2024-2025 season.