'With Milos I can never be 100%' - Arne Slot explains brutal first-half substitution of Kerkez after embarrassing dive against Burnley

Kerkez was booked for simulation in the 22nd minute after throwing himself to the ground in the Burnley box. The hosts then began targeting the Hungarian left-back's flank, forcing Slot into an early change to protect Liverpool from further risk. Robertson came on to steady the backline and impressed as Salah’s stoppage-time penalty secured the three points for the defending Premier League champions. Slot has now issued a rather concerning reason for Kerkez's substitution.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Slot said about Kerkez's first-half substitution: “It was because he got a yellow card. I think the fans here thought a chance for them to win the game is if we ended up with a second yellow.

“With Milos, I can never be 100% he doesn't make the next foul, then the fans are on top of the referee. I thought the only way we could lose it today was if we went down to 10 men.”

Kerkez arrived at Liverpool from Bournemouth as part of the Premier League champions' plans to replace the ageing Andy Robertson. While the Hungarian was expected to be an outright starter on Slot's side this season, Slot's admission about not being able to trust Kerkez may thrust the Scottish left-back back into contention for the starting spot.

Kerkez will still likely be the starting left-back against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, September 17, when Liverpool host the Liga side in the Champions League opener. However, whether he can remain disciplined through the course of the next few games may determine his fate for the rest of the season.