Ex-Liverpool star Ryan Babel admits shock at 'outstanding' job done by Arne Slot as Reds close in on Premier League title

Babel has expressed his surprise at the success of Slot's reign at Anfield. Just a season after replacing Jurgen Klopp in the Reds dugout, Slot is on the verge of guiding the club to their 20th league title, with just one point required against Tottenham this weekend.

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The former Netherlands international expected Liverpool to struggle without the charismatic German in the dugout, and cited the example of Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson's departure. Instead, he believes Slot has found a way to improve on an already-impressive formula.

Babel said: “I think outstanding. I think most likely far above expectations, everyone's expectations. I think if you see what Jurgen Klopp has built and has performed over the years that he was there, I think everyone assumed that the next manager after Jurgen Klopp would suffer a lot.

"Usually what you see with teams that have been successful once they start bringing in new people, new management. Usually the management needs a few years. Other teams longer than usual. We see with Manchester United after the era of Ferguson. So you would assume that Liverpool would see a few dark years before they eventually would see some light again.

"Surprisingly, that didn't happen. And I think he took over very well. He polished it a little bit towards his vision. And from here, I think he has improved the style of playing even more.”

Liverpool play Spurs this weekend and simply avoiding defeat will see them crowned champions with four games to spare.