Liverpool head coach Arne Slot had the privilege of resting two key players during Sunday’s dominant 4-0 victory over West Ham, making tactical substitutions well before the final whistle.
By the 57th minute, with the Reds comfortably ahead, Slot substituted Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo to prevent either from picking up a yellow card that would have ruled them out of next weekend’s showdown against Manchester United.
Earlier, Joe Gomez had been forced off with an injury, replaced by Jarell Quansah, leaving Slot with two more substitutions, which he used in the 74th minute to bring on Harvey Elliott and Kostas Tsimikas.
Some fans, however, may have been disappointed that Slot didn’t use the comfortable lead as an opportunity to introduce youngsters Jayden Danns and James McConnell, who were available on the bench but are yet to feature in the Premier League this season.
Why didn’t the young duo get a chance?
With key players like Dominik Szoboszlai suspended, Federico Chiesa focusing on additional training, and injuries sidelining Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konaté, there was room for Danns and McConnell on the bench.
Given the game was effectively decided early, there was a strong case for giving the young pair some minutes. However, Slot refrained, likely for a valid reason.
Potential January loans for Danns and McConnell
According to *The Athletic*, Liverpool may look to loan out Danns and McConnell in January to secure regular senior football, which is deemed crucial for their development.
Both were expected to leave on temporary deals over the summer, but injuries disrupted those plans, limiting them to under-21 matches and a single first-team appearance in the Carabao Cup against Southampton.
Slot might have been cautious about using them against West Ham to avoid risking injuries that could jeopardize potential loan moves in January.
With Championship clubs potentially interested, the duo could follow in the footsteps of players like Ben Doak and Lewis Koumas, who have thrived on loan spells this season.
Depth considerations at Liverpool
Liverpool’s decision-making regarding Danns and McConnell may also be influenced by squad depth. Both youngsters were unexpectedly called upon earlier this year during an injury crisis and contributed to Liverpool’s Carabao Cup success in February.
If loans are secured, it would allow them to gain valuable experience while maintaining squad balance.
Whether Danns and McConnell are loaned out remains to be seen, but Slot’s decision not to field them on Sunday could be an indicator of Liverpool’s plans for the January transfer window.
