Liverpool boss Arne Slot has opened up about Mohamed Salah's reaction to being left on the bench during their crucial 2-0 win against West Ham. The Dutch manager admitted that the Egyptian star wasn't happy about watching from the sidelines, but praised his professional attitude throughout the situation.
"As with all players around the world, there are also phases in your time at the club that you are human," Slot explained. The manager described Salah as a "superhuman being" during his time at Anfield, despite not being at his best in recent weeks.
Salah's form has dipped dramatically this season. The 33-year-old forward has netted just four Premier League goals – a stark contrast to last season's impressive tally of 29 that earned him the Golden Boot. This scoring drought coincided with Liverpool's terrible run of nine defeats in 12 games across all competitions.
Professional Despite Being Dropped
Slot wasn't surprised by Salah's reaction to being benched. "That's a normal reaction from a player that's good enough to play for us," he said. "And I say it mildly, because he's been so outstanding for this club for so many years, and will be for us in the future."
The manager highlighted that Salah wasn't the only player disappointed about not starting. But he emphasized how the Egyptian star remained supportive of his teammates despite the setback.
"Mo is so disciplined, knows what to do to stay fit, and no matter if he plays well, doesn't play well, if he plays or if he doesn't play, he will always be that top professional," Slot noted. This mentality has been key to Salah's consistency over the years.
AFCON Call-Up Looming
Adding another layer to Liverpool's situation is Salah's upcoming international duty. Slot confirmed that the forward is scheduled to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations on December 15th.
"As always in these situations, there's a player involved, there's the nation involved – Egypt in this situation – and the club. And there are always talks about what is best for all three of us," Slot explained.
Salah's potential absence comes at a crucial period for Liverpool. The Reds currently sit eighth in the table and face high-flying Sunderland on Wednesday. Bettors might consider how Liverpool's attacking output could be affected if Salah continues to struggle or departs for AFCON.
Many oddsmakers have already adjusted Liverpool's title odds following their recent form slump. The question now is whether Slot's decision to drop his star player will spark a turnaround or further complicate matters at Anfield.
For fantasy football managers and bettors alike, monitoring Salah's playing time and form over the coming weeks will be essential. If the Egyptian rediscovers his scoring touch, he could once again become a valuable asset despite his advanced age and recent struggles.
