Arne Slot excited by Milos Kerkez rise at Liverpool ahead of Bournemouth clash

Kerkez will return to the Vitality Stadium on Saturday after leaving Bournemouth for Liverpool in a move worth around forty million pounds. The Hungary international impressed last season with two goals and six assists for the Cherries, performances that earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year.

The 22-year-old made an immediate impact after arriving on Merseyside, quickly taking the left-back spot from vice-captain Andy Robertson. While Slot admitted the defender needed time to adjust, recent displays have shown clear progress.

Kerkez caught the eye in Liverpool's 3-0 Champions League win over Marseille and produced a disciplined defensive performance against Arsenal earlier this month, where he limited Bukayo Saka in a goalless draw.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Slot praised the defender's development. "If we talk about Milos and a lot of the signings we've made, you can see the progress they're making," Slot said. "That's in terms of adjusting to the team, but also physically. In my opinion, he's getting stronger and stronger."

Slot added: "It was a good moment to give him that game during the week and he did really well in Marseille. We sign young players with a lot of room for development, and they will keep improving."

Slot also highlighted Dominik Szoboszlai's influence this season. The midfielder, another Hungary international, opened the scoring against Marseille with a clever free-kick and has played in several roles.

"If you want to be a leader, it starts by leading by example," Slot said. "Without the ball he's incredible with his pressing and intensity. This season he's playing with more confidence and is more involved in chances and goals. He's having a very good season."