Slot praises remarkable Salah for equalling Liverpool assist milestone
Arne Slot commended Mohamed Salah following the Egyptian forwards exceptional performance, where he matched Liverpools Premier League assist tally by providing the key pass for Virgil van Dijks decisive goal in their narrow 1-0 triumph over Sunderland on Wednesday.
The managers emphasis on Salahs precise corner delivery, which Van Dijk converted with a header in the 61st minute, highlighted the ongoing mending of ties between him and the attacker.
Earlier, Salah had accused the team of undermining him and indicated strained relations with Slot after being benched for multiple matches during a prolonged slump in his play this term.
This led to rumours of a potential departure, yet Salah soon reconciled with Slot to reclaim his spot in the starting eleven.
This most recent contribution in Salahs illustrious tenure at Liverpool brings his total to 92 assists, tying the legendary Steven Gerrard.
"He holds numerous accolades at this club, yet sharing this particular one with such an outstanding figure. The pair were extraordinary talents here," Slot remarked.
"Regrettably for Steven, I anticipate Mo surpassing him. Not anticipate, but hope to see him exceed it."
Liverpools latest success, marking their second victory in eight league outings, shattered Sunderlands flawless home record in the elite division this campaign.
This result propelled Slot's side, sitting sixth, to just two points behind fifth placed Chelsea and three from fourth placed Manchester United.
"Crucial result. We showed resilience, with merely two days recovery. Facing a tough fixture on the road. We demonstrated our prowess with possession once more," Slot noted.
"The determination displayed across the match was impressive, securing our 1-0 departure from here.
"In the second period, we created plenty of promising chances and positioned skilled players effectively.
"From a work ethic perspective, the display was truly solid."
Slot faced setbacks regarding injuries, as Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo was carried off on a stretcher during the opening half.
Endo had been filling in for sidelined right backs Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, with Dominik Szoboszlai out due to a ban.
"We arent optimistic about his recovery. As mentioned, well need to assess further. Hes likely sidelined for an extended period," Slot stated regarding Endos condition.
"This isnt the initial issue with our right defenders. Weve grown accustomed to it. Solutions must be found to maintain our level."