Gary Neville has unequivocally dismissed Roy Keane's theory that Liverpool's top management pressured manager Arne Slot to consistently select Mohamed Salah in the starting lineup. This debate emerged following Salah's emotional announcement that he will depart Anfield at the end of the season, concluding a nine-year tenure during which he became Liverpool's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.
Controversy Over Salah's Form and Selection
The current campaign has proven challenging for Salah, marked by a noticeable dip in his goal-scoring prowess and a significant public disagreement with Slot prior to the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite these issues, since returning from the tournament in Morocco, Salah has featured prominently in Slot's team, appearing in 14 out of a possible 15 matches, with his only absence due to injury in a recent loss to Brighton.
Carragher and Keane's Perspectives
Jamie Carragher expressed bewilderment at Salah's regular inclusions, suggesting that his on-field performances have not justified a starting position. On the Stick to Football podcast, Carragher remarked, "Even Liverpool fans who love Salah have looked at games and gone 'he shouldn't be playing'." In response, Roy Keane proposed an alternative explanation, stating, "Maybe Slot has been under pressure from those above. I think that's the issue."
Neville's Firm Rebuttal
Gary Neville swiftly interjected to counter both Carragher and Keane's suggestions. He asserted, "I'm not sure on that, no no. Look, to be fair, I don't know Liverpool Football Club. I have no knowledge of their background team. I honestly believe if Liverpool's hierarchy are telling their manager who to pick... I don't think they would cross that line." Carragher later conceded, "I agree with you, but my point is, Slot was strong enough to not pick the highest-paid player, but ever since, he's just been in the team every single game."
Liverpool's Upcoming Fixtures and Player Availability
Looking ahead, Liverpool faces a critical period with an FA Cup quarter-final clash away at Manchester City, followed by a Champions League fixture at the Parc Des Princes. Slot is reportedly eager to have Salah available for these matches, especially given his standout performance at the same stadium just over a year ago. Additionally, goalkeeper Alisson may remain sidelined for the upcoming games, while forward Alexander Isak is accelerating his rehabilitation, though Slot has maintained a cautious approach regarding his return.
Slot commented earlier this month, "Alex is not available for tomorrow [vs Brighton], but the fact that you see him on the pitch tells you that he gets closer and closer to joining us again. He will not be available for Saturday as well. As long as you don't train with the team yet, you are not ready to play." The team's schedule also includes league fixtures against Fulham and a Merseyside Derby away at Everton later in the month, adding to the pressure on squad selection and performance.
