“Liverpool’s game against Brighton & Hove Albion was always going to be centred around Mohamed Salah. Whether he was going to be involved or not, though, it was unlikely any definitive conclusions were going to be drawn about what happens next. Exclusion from the squad may have pointed towards an exit, but the fact he was included leaves the door for reconciliation open. When Slot was asked after the Brighton game if he wants Salah to return from the Africa Cup of Nations and deliver more performances, he said: ‘Yes, I think he’s a Liverpool player and the moment he’s there I like to use him when we need him.’ Supporters did not pick sides, and while the fanbase has held a variety of opinions on the matter, at Anfield, they were united in voicing their desire for Salah and Liverpool’s relationship to continue. …”
NY Times/The Athletic