Liverpool manager Arne Slot has conceded that star forward Mohamed Salah was left unhappy after being dropped to the bench for the Reds' Premier League victory at West Ham United on Sunday.
Professional Reaction to Bench Role
Salah, who had played every single minute of Liverpool's league campaign prior to the trip to the London Stadium, was an unused substitute as his teammates secured a 2-0 win. Goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo in the second half sealed the three points for Slot's side, who have faced recent criticism during a rocky patch in their title defence.
When questioned at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's midweek match against Sunderland, Slot acknowledged it was a "fair assumption" to believe the Egyptian international was disappointed. "Of course, a player isn't happy he isn't playing, he wasn't the only one I can tell you," the Dutch coach stated.
However, Slot was quick to praise the 33-year-old's professional conduct. "The way he behaved was as you would expect from the professional he is," Slot explained. "He was very supportive for his team-mates and handled himself really well."
Backing for a 'Superhuman' Talent
Despite Salah's recent dip in form, which has seen him go four games without a goal in all competitions, the Liverpool manager expressed full confidence in his player's ability to return to his prolific best. Salah, who finished as the club's top scorer in their title-winning campaign last season, has netted four times in 12 league appearances this term.
"Fortunately the time I have been here he has been a superhuman being, but all players around the world there are times at a club where you are human," Slot added philosophically. "He's scored so many goals for us and I'm sure he will in the future."
For the West Ham clash, Slot opted to start Florian Wirtz in attack alongside Gakpo and Isak, with substitutes Hugo Ekitike, Curtis Jones, and Andy Robertson all introduced before Salah.
Preparing for Salah's Africa Cup of Nations Departure
The situation brings into focus Liverpool's imminent plans, as they prepare to be without their talisman for several weeks during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Egypt, whose first group game is on December 22, will call upon Salah for the tournament in the coming weeks.
Slot confirmed that communication channels between the player, the club, and the national team are open regarding his release. "The way we have worked is that there's a communication between all three - the player, the club and country," he said, noting that FIFA regulations stipulate December 15 as the final date for player release.
Egypt will be hoping for a improved campaign after a disappointing round of 16 exit to DR Congo in the previous edition of the continental championship.
