Liverpool: Slot says including Salah was an ‘easy decision’ as forward makes impressive return

Arne Slot says it was “an easy decision” to include Mohamed Salah in the matchday squad amid growing speculation the Egyptian, who produced an impressive display after coming on as an early substitute against Brighton, could soon be on his way out of Liverpool.

Salah, who was omitted from the squad for the midweek trip to Inter Milan following his outburst at Leeds last weekend, was introduced after 27 minutes at Anfield against the Seagulls, replacing the injured Joe Gomez, and it was his corner that led to Hugo Ekitike’s second goal in a 2-0 win.

Ekitiké has earlier opened the scoring after just 46 seconds – the fastest goal in the Premier League this season – before doubling the hosts’ advantage courtesy of Salah’s delivery on the hour mark.

Salah appeared emotional as he applauded the Kop after the final whistle, with several outlets suggesting the 33-year-old, who will soon represent his country at Afcon, could have been saying his goodbyes to the Reds fans.

When asked about Salah’s inclusion and performance, Slot admitted the decision was a no-brainer.

“I think he [Salah] was a threat,” said the Liverpool boss.

“The first ball he touched, he almost made an assist for [Alexis] Mac Allister. He was constantly involved in the fact we had Mo. Pleasing to see but not a surprise.

“It was an easy decision to put him in the squad. I have said many times before what has been said between us will stay between us. We needed him and he assisted to the 2-0 which is nice for us. We have been so many times this season on the wrong side of the set-piece battle.

“He goes to the Afcon and that means for us another player down. This is what we knew before the season started. Hopefully one or two players can come back from injury.”

Next up for Liverpool is a trip to Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday before hosting bottom club Wolves on 27 December.