Liverpool manager Arne Slot has declared that the club has firmly put the controversy surrounding Mohamed Salah's recent explosive interview behind them. The saga, which erupted a fortnight ago, saw the Egyptian forward claim he had been made a scapegoat for the team's poor form.
Salah's Return and International Departure
The 33-year-old star was dropped for the Champions League clash against Inter Milan following his comments but, after clear-the-air talks with Slot, returned to the squad as a substitute in last week's Premier League victory over Brighton. Salah has now joined the Egypt national team for the Africa Cup of Nations, where he could remain for up to a month.
"As I said last week, actions speak louder than words and we moved on," Slot stated. "He was in the squad and he was the first substitution I made." The Dutch coach emphasised that the focus should now be on Salah's international commitments, allowing all parties to concentrate on their immediate challenges.
Focus Shifts to Tottenham and Squad Fitness
With Salah away, Liverpool's attention turns to their crucial Premier League trip to face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. The squad is grappling with several fitness concerns ahead of the match. Midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai will require a late test after suffering an ankle injury late in the Brighton game.
"If the player feels comfortable to play and he did all the things he had to do, then he will start," Slot said of the Hungarian. "Dom has been a starter for me in the one-and-a-half years I have been here now."
However, forward Cody Gakpo and defender Joe Gomez are both ruled out with muscular problems. There is better news regarding full-backs, with Jeremie Frimpong in contention after a two-month absence and Conor Bradley available again following suspension.
Building on an Improved Run of Form
The Merseyside club appear to have steadied the ship after a difficult period, going unbeaten in their last five games across all competitions. This comes after a horror run that saw them lose nine of their previous twelve matches.
Slot believes the improved results are fostering a more positive atmosphere within the squad. "I think winning always gives a good feeling and good spirit for a team that had so many changes during the summer," he reflected.
He also noted the tight nature of the Premier League table, where most teams are closely packed. "The main thing for us is to build on what we have been building on in the last five games," Slot concluded, hoping his team can maintain their momentum during a demanding period.
