Arne Slot says Liverpool will have to defend their Carabao Cup crown in the last four after beating Southampton 2-1.
Although many teams have changed, Slot's side won on a drizzly evening on the south coast thanks to first-half goals from Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott.
Cameron Thatcher inspired Southampton with a second-half performance under interim boss Simon Ruck after Russell Martin was sacked on Sunday.
But it is the current Premier League leaders who have improved, with Slot highlighting the importance of retaining the trophy after the game.
“We have to defend the title because the club won it last season,” Slot told Sky Sports.
“I wasn't involved, but the players, Jurgen (Klopp) and his staff, yes.
“We want to compete in every cup, so we are happy to reach the semi-finals. It's always tough competition, but this time for sure.”
“We have to defend the cup” 🏆
Arne Slot shares his thoughts on Liverpool's progress to the Carabao Cup semi-finals. pic.twitter.com/1GMEHTeL0X
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 18 2024
A 2-2 draw with Fulham saw the game climax to a spell brought on by a touchline ban after picking up a third yellow card of the season.
The Liverpool boss has been very impressed with his team's performance, but their standards have dipped at times.
“The first half was very good,” Slot said. “Great performance, we played really well.
“But it's not surprising enough to concede a goal.” Because I think we're a little dirty. I easily lost a ball or two.”
League action resumes on Sunday with Spurs taking on Manchester United in the Carabao Cup quarter-final final on Thursday evening.