Slot weighs up Salah recall as Sunderland test looms
Slot’s handling of Mohamed Salah’s frustration at being left out of Liverpool’s starting line-up has become a central storyline ahead of a crucial run of fixtures — not least the visit of Sunderland. The Liverpool manager has acknowledged the forward’s displeasure but emphasised the professionalism that continues to define one of the club’s most consistent performers.
Salah, omitted from the XI in the previous outing, was visibly irritated as he remained an unused substitute. Slot did not shy away from the reality of the situation, making it clear that the reaction was perfectly natural for a player of such elite standing. Yet he also highlighted the disciplined response that followed, both on the touchline and in the subsequent training sessions.
Slot’s stance on Salah frustration
According to Slot, Salah’s reaction was rooted in competitive instinct rather than disruption. The manager praised the Egypt international for staying engaged with teammates and maintaining standards in training, describing him as someone who sets the benchmark for fitness, focus and resilience.
Liverpool’s technical staff have been encouraged by the work Salah has put in since that decision, and there is a growing expectation that he may return to the starting XI sooner rather than later. The forward’s track record of managing high-intensity schedules makes him one of the most reliable players in the squad, and Slot knows the value of having him fully attuned ahead of a decisive December stretch.
Selection puzzle influenced by form
Complicating Slot’s selection picture is the recent upturn in Florian Wirtz’s performances. The German appeared revitalised in a more balanced system, strengthened by Dominik Szoboszlai shifting into a different midfield role. That combination has provided tactical clarity, creating an unexpected dilemma as Liverpool attempt to navigate a packed calendar.
But with four games before Salah’s departure to the Africa Cup of Nations — against Sunderland, Leeds United, Inter Milan and Brighton — Slot is likely to lean on experience. The club have long known that the winger will be unavailable from 15 December, and that reality has sharpened the need to maximise his involvement beforehand.
Sunderland challenge shaping decisions
Sunderland’s visit arrives at a time when Liverpool require stability and sharp execution. Slot’s team have shown flashes of rhythm, but maintaining continuity in the final third has been more challenging. The manager is keen to avoid unnecessary disruption, making Salah’s potential return a strong possibility as Liverpool seek to push through a demanding sequence.
Sunderland, meanwhile, have been attempting to rediscover consistency under Régis Le Bris, and their structured approach could present Liverpool with stubborn problems. Slot’s decision on Salah is therefore more than a headline — it’s a tactical lever that could help Liverpool control the early phases of the match.
Fitness boosts aiding Liverpool preparations
Alongside the attacking discussion, Liverpool have been lifted by the progress of Conor Bradley. The young full-back returned to team training this week, although Slot cautioned against expecting an immediate full-throttle comeback. The staff are managing his workload carefully, but there is optimism he could be involved against Leeds United.
There is also growing confidence around Jeremie Frimpong’s recovery schedule, with the club anticipating he will rejoin full sessions next week. For a side that has seen its defensive options stretched at times, these developments are timely.
Liverpool’s focus now turns to fine-tuning ahead of the Sunderland match — with Salah’s response, Slot’s tactical considerations and the squad’s improving fitness levels all influencing what promises to be a revealing selection.
