Is Slot struggling under the weight of Klopp's legacy?

Roy Hodgson's troubled spell in charge of Liverpool is - rightly or wrongly - often held up by fans as an example of dark times at Anfield.

Such is the lasting memory of his tenure, fans have at times this season used the spell to offer context to others on social media. When supporters have criticised Arne Slot on social platforms, some have been quick to tell them they would have struggled to survive the Hodgson era if they are indeed troubled by the form of a side and manager who claimed the Premier League title last season.

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Saturday's draw with Burnley brought Hodgson's name into the discussion once again as a stat quickly circulated. The numbers point out that Hodgson averaged 1.25 points per game from the 20 league fixtures he managed.

Under Slot, Liverpool's past 17 games - dating back to defeat at Crystal Palace in September - has seen an average return of 1.24 points per game.

Such a stat seemingly boils the blood of those who are most frustrated by Slot's side this season. There exists a cohort of fans visible on social media who point to not only the points return but a style of play they also don't feel comfortable with.

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When analysing both the style of play and points return, one wonders if Slot is slowly succumbing to the expectations left behind by his predecessor. Not only did Jurgen Klopp's front-footed style of play often thrill the Anfield crowd - encouraging their engagement at key moments - but the German's points record is nothing short of staggering.

Across 491 matches in charge, Klopp's win percentage stood at 62.12%. The figure surpasses the records of club icons such as Bob Paisley (57.57%) and Bill Shankly (52.11%). Even the first managerial spell at Liverpool for Sir Kenny Dalglish only saw a win rate of 60.91%, though the Scot returned more points than Klopp on average by virtue of losing less often.

Slot ultimately has inherited somewhat of an uphill battle in terms of delivering what Klopp did over the long term - a cocktail of an intense and enjoyable style of play, and the kind of points return and consistency that barely any other manager in Liverpool history can boast.

Those left frustrated may use Hodgson-era data as a stick to beat their current manager with. One wonders, however, if it is a longing for Klopp's excitement that is subconsciously fuelling frustrations.