Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Echo or go back to LFC Live.
Liverpool Press Conference LIVE - Mohamed Salah Return, Andy Robertson Contract, Injury Latest
Liverpool FC head coach Arne Slot held a highly anticipated press conference ahead of the Reds' Premier League clash with Burnley at Anfield, addressing the ongoing saga surrounding Mohamed Salah, contract talks for Andy Robertson, and the latest injury updates.
The session, streamed live from 9am GMT, kicked off with questions on Salah, who was dramatically omitted from Liverpool's Champions League squad against Inter Milan following an explosive interview. In it, Salah vented frustrations after being benched in a 3-3 draw with Leeds United, claiming his relationship with Slot had "broken down" and accusing the club of throwing him under the bus during their poor form—four wins in 15 games across competitions.[1][2][3] Slot admitted he was "surprised" by the outburst, describing their post-interview talk as "short," but insisted he didn't sense issues beforehand and left the door open for Salah's return, saying, "Always a possibility."[3][4]
Liverpool sit 13th in the Champions League table, needing points in Milan, though Salah trained Monday but was excluded with Slot's full backing—no disciplinary action, just a cooling-off period.[2] Speculation swirls over Salah's future, with the star hinting at a January 2026 exit and clubs eyeing replacements like Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo.[5]
On Andy Robertson, Slot confirmed positive progress in contract negotiations. The left-back, out of contract in summer 2026, is in talks for an extension amid his solid form despite injury concerns. "We're close, and Andy's committed," Slot revealed, boosting fan morale.[6]
Injury latest: Key updates included Ngumoha's recovery plan and FA Cup team selections. Slot detailed managed minutes for several players, with no new major concerns ahead of Burnley. He emphasized team focus over personal drama: "I'm the manager; I pick the team."[3]
The conference underscored Liverpool's turbulent season, blending squad discord with optimism for domestic recovery. Fans await Salah's potential reintegration as the Reds aim to climb the table.[1][2]
(Word count: 298)
