"I think some of the criticism and the disrespect he's had from supporters is far too much, considering they won the league title last season, but if he doesn't qualify for the Champions League, he doesn't have a leg to stand on. Liverpool as a club and support can accept they are not going to win the league or challenge this year. We accept it: not good enough, but we accept it."
"Once you start fearing Champions League qualification for next season that's when you have a completely different proposition when you are talking about the manager's job. Not making the Champions League as champions, spending £450 million ($615.95m) and having the highest wage bill in the Premier League -- which is the biggest determining factor normally about where you finish in the league -- I think you have serious questions to ask."
Liverpool lost at Bournemouth and dropped to sixth, two points below fourth place in the Premier League. A Champions League knockout-place match against Qarabag remains, but domestic qualification is uncertain. Significant spending of £450 million and the highest Premier League wage bill contrast with current league form. Recent runs by Manchester United and Chelsea increase the risk of finishing outside Champions League positions. Supporter criticism and perceived disrespect toward the head coach exists despite winning last season's title. Failure to qualify for next season's Champions League would create serious questions about the manager's position.
Read at ESPN.com
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