We now call him the great destroyer after such a performance today, earlie today I was having second thoughts adding him to the starting XI against West Ham but im glad I included him and if he continues like this he could be our new captain next season🔥” Arne Slot Reacts to player impeccable performance today against West Ham.

“The Great Destroyer”: Arne Slot Hails Performance in 5-2 West Ham Rout

ANFIELD — In the wake of a chaotic and goal-heavy 5-2 victory over West Ham United today, February 28, 2026, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was in a buoyant, yet candid mood. While the headlines will largely focus on Liverpool’s record-breaking set-piece efficiency, Slot used his post-match comments to single out one particular individual whose presence transformed the Reds’ midfield.

The performance, which solidified Liverpool’s push into the Premier League top five, was described by Slot as “a tactical masterclass” from a player he now calls “The Great Destroyer.”

From Doubt to Dominance

In an uncharacteristically open admission, Slot revealed that he had spent the morning grappling with his team selection. With key playmaker Florian Wirtz sidelined due to a back injury, the balance of the midfield was a source of anxiety for the coaching staff.

> “I will be honest: earlier today I was having second thoughts about adding him to the starting XI against West Ham,” Slot admitted during the post-match press conference. “West Ham are physical, they are fighting for survival, and I wasn’t sure if it was the right moment for him. But I am so glad I included him.”

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That decision paid dividends as the player—rumored to be Ryan Gravenberch, who has enjoyed a resurgence under Slot—controlled the tempo of the game and acted as a relentless vacuum in the center of the park, winning back possession and feeding the front three of Ekitike, Gakpo, and Salah.

A Future Captain in the Making?

Liverpool’s current captain, Virgil van Dijk, was once again on the scoresheet today, heading home his fifth of the season. However, Slot’s eyes are already wandering toward the next generation of leadership at Anfield.

The “impeccable” display from the mystery midfielder has clearly moved the needle for the Dutch manager regarding the club’s long-term hierarchy.

“We now call him the ‘Great Destroyer’ after such a performance today,” Slot said with a grin. “He broke everything down before it could even reach our backline. If he continues like this, he could be our new captain next season. He showed the kind of vocal and physical leadership that this club is built on.” 🔥

Match Summary: Liverpool 5-2 West Ham

The game itself was a whirlwind of action that saw Liverpool set a new Premier League record for consecutive goals scored from set-pieces.

| Goal Scorer | Minute | Type |

|—|—|—|

| Hugo Ekitike | 5′ | Open Play (following corner) |

| Virgil van Dijk | 24′ | Header (Corner) |

| Alexis Mac Allister | 43′ | Volley (Corner) |

| Cody Gakpo | 70′ | Curled Strike |

| Axel Disasi (OG) | 82′ | Deflection |

Despite a spirited second-half fightback from the Hammers with goals from Soucek and Castellanos, the Reds’ dominance in the air and clinical finishing ensured the three points stayed on Merseyside.

What’s Next for the Reds?

With Jeremie Frimpong returning to action and the “Great Destroyer” seemingly cementing his place in the “untouchable” category of Slot’s roster, Liverpool looks poised for a massive end-of-season run. The victory moves them level on points with Manchester United, setting up a tantalizing race for the Champions League spots.

 

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