Liverpool manager Arne Slot has insisted that Mohamed Salah 'deserves' the ongoing speculation surrounding his future, as the Egypt international continues to be linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. Salah has been an unused substitute in recent matches, fuelling rumours of a potential exit.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash with Leeds United, Slot acknowledged that the chatter is 'normal' given Salah's immense contributions to the club over the past six or seven years. 'He has been so influential for me and for the club,' Slot said. 'It's completely normal people talk about it when he isn't playing.'
Slot also addressed the challenge posed by Leeds, who recently held Chelsea to a draw. 'What we expect is what we have seen in the second half against City, when they were 2-0 down and came back to 2-2,' he noted. 'They play really aggressive, and it's difficult for many teams.'
On Federico Chiesa, who made a crucial goal-line clearance against Sunderland, Slot hinted at a possible start. 'Every player has a possibility to start, but we have many options in his position. He has had an impact a few times, and his mentality to keep running says a lot about him.'
