Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a comprehensive update on his squad ahead of this weekend's Premier League encounter with Leeds United, covering injuries, loan situations, and the club's ambitions.
Injury News and Defensive Improvements
Providing a positive bulletin on the fitness front, Slot confirmed that defender Joe Gomez trained after taking a recovery day following a knock against West Ham. His availability for the Leeds game will be assessed. Full-back Conor Bradley has also been training this week and is expected to be in the squad.
The Dutch coach pointed to a clear defensive step forward, with the team taking four points from their last two games. This marks an improvement after two consecutive home defeats where they conceded seven goals. Slot noted they were close to securing clean sheets in both recent matches and successfully avoided conceding from a set-piece situation.
Elliott's Struggles and Salah's Stature
Addressing the situation of young midfielder Harvey Elliott, currently on loan at Aston Villa, Slot admitted he has had minimal recent contact with the player. He acknowledged Elliott is facing difficulties but stated questions over his playing time should be directed to Villa.
On the evergreen Mohamed Salah, Slot was unequivocal. He reaffirmed that the Egyptian superstar remains an exceptional player and is an option to start or come off the bench in every fixture. The manager said he fully understands the media and fan attention when Salah is not selected, given his immense influence over the past six or seven years.
Chiesa's Mentality and the Top-Four Fight
Slot reserved praise for forward Federico Chiesa, highlighting the Italian's strong mentality despite facing stiff competition for a starting role. "He continues to work hard and run down opponents even in seemingly impossible one-on-one situations," Slot remarked, emphasising Chiesa's impact from the bench.
Looking at the league table, Slot stated that the primary objective is a return to the top four, a position the club is currently unhappy to be outside of. He argued the tightness of the race reflects the Premier League's growing quality, enhanced each year by significant financial investment.
Ahead of facing Leeds, Slot anticipates a physical, pressing opponent who will provide a stern test, underlining that every away game in the division is demanding due to the world-class athletes involved.
