Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly acknowledged that star forward Mohamed Salah was left displeased after being dropped to the bench for Sunday's crucial 2-0 Premier League victory over West Ham United.
Star Omitted Amidst Poor Run of Form
The decision to name Salah as a substitute marked a significant shift, as the 33-year-old Egyptian had been an ever-present fixture in the Liverpool starting lineup this season. The move was part of Slot's attempt to halt a worrying slide that had seen the reigning champions lose nine of their previous twelve matches across all competitions.
Salah remained an unused substitute for the full ninety minutes at the London Stadium, watching from the sidelines as Alexander Isak's first Premier League goal for the club and a late Cody Gakpo strike secured a much-needed three points, easing the mounting pressure on the Dutch coach.
Slot Praises 'Top Professional' Despite Disappointment
In his post-match comments, Slot did not shy away from confirming Salah's disappointment but was quick to laud the attacker's professional response. He emphasised Salah's continued importance to the team's future plans.
"It was a normal reaction for a player who is good enough to play for us," Slot stated. "I say that lightly, as he has been an exceptional player for this club and he will be in the future. He was not happy not to start, but he was not the only one."
"His behaviour was as you would expect from a top professional," Slot continued. "He supported his teammates and behaved very well. You cannot be a player who has to play every three days at a high level, but he is very disciplined and knows what he has to do to stay fit. Whether he plays well, doesn't play well, plays or doesn't play, he will always be the best professional."
Salah's Upcoming Schedule Before AFCON Departure
The talismanic forward could yet return to the starting eleven when Liverpool host Sunderland in the Premier League on Wednesday night. Salah is set to be available for the Reds' next four fixtures before his scheduled international departure.
Slot confirmed that the player will leave to join the Egypt national team camp on 15th December ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, which runs until 18th January. "It's the 15th of December," Slot said. "But in these situations, the player and the national team are always involved, and there is always talk about what is best for all three parties."
This timeline means Salah is in line to feature against Sunderland, Leeds United, Inter Milan, and Brighton & Hove Albion, with the final match of that sequence falling on 13th December.
