There are currently no indications that FSG are planning to part with Slot, but the voices of Liverpool supporters are rising in volume against him. Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Chelsea was played out in an atmosphere of toxicity rarely heard at Anfield.
Now former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is the name on the lips of the Kop. Alonso a hugely popular figure with them following a stellar Anfield career, having won the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen before a short spell in the dysfunction of Real Madrid.
Murphy believes Slot’s departure is now purely a case of when rather than if, given the increasing revolt in the stands.
Murphy revealed that he was interviewed by Rodgers for a role in that last reshaped coaching team before the manager was sacked, the job eventually going to former team-mate Gary McAllister.
He told BBC Sport: “Slot has won a title, which Brendan didn’t do, so on the surface it would make more sense to stick with him, and I do feel strongly it is unfair to say he only won the title with Klopp’s team. That’s just not right.
“The problem Slot has got, especially at one of the biggest clubs in the world, is that when the fanbase turns, you are really, really struggling to get them back unless you win every game, then not just win, but win in a style Liverpool fans expect and demand.
“This season you have seen Liverpool being dictated to by the way other teams play at Anfield. Fair enough, it’s different away from Anfield, but at home you expect Liverpool to be going after you, not giving you time to breathe. Too often it’s not been like that.”
It has led to a mutinous mood not seen since Roy Hodgson’s six months at Liverpool in 2010-11, then in the latter months with Rodgers in charge, although that was a climate of resignation rather than revolt.
Murphy added: “It’s a great point to make the comparison with Rodgers and Slot, because there needs to be someone who’s in the wings and available who can take the reins now.
“Is there a suitable candidate who can move them forward? The obvious name out there is Xabi Alonso, who is available. He has got popularity, which is key because it gives you a few months’ grace. It also means everybody starts the season in a good place with a lot of energy.”