Liverpool go into the international break holding top spot in the Premier League but questions remain over the contract situations facing three of their biggest stars
As Liverpool manager Arne Slot sends his players off with their assorted international teams, three big question marks continue to hang above the club.
While things couldn’t be much better on the field, issues remain off it. Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk are all out of contract in the summer, with the Premier League leaders yet to resolve any of their situations.
Fans will no doubt hope there’s some more positive news to report sooner rather than later. On the plus side, Slot’s team remain out in front at home and on the continent.
Away from the current squad, there’s an update on former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard during a tough time in Saudi Arabia. Here are Mirror Football‘s latest lines from around Anfield.
Slot’s telling comments
Arne Slot’s earlier comments about Mohamed Salah leave Liverpool with a straightforward decision over the forward’s contract, argues Andy Dunn. The Egyptian international now leads the Premier League for goal involvements with 14 – two more than closest challenger Erling Haaland.
“It is pleasing to have him where he is at the moment and it is not a coincidence because the first day I arrived over here, we had a fitness test and he was our fittest player,” Slot admitted.
“That tells you what his plans were for the season and it also tells you that a player who has so many great seasons at a club like this comes back like that … that tells you a lot about his personality.”
Salah’s vow
Whatever happens with Salah’s longer-term future, the former Roma star has vowed to never forget the good times. If no agreement is reached before January, he will be free to speak with potential suitors over a summer move – potentially leaving for nothing.
Will Mohamed Salah sign a new Liverpool contract? Share your thoughts in the comments section
Speaking in a club interview alongside Andy Robertson and Alisson, he opened up on the positives. “The thing I appreciate the most is the time when I go every morning and I see the guys and share unbelievable moments, especially us three plus Virgil [van Dijk] and Trent [Alexander-Arnold], the senior group,” he said.
“When Bobby [Firmino] left, for example, you realise everybody will leave one day so I don’t take that for granted. When I go [to the training ground], I always try to have a laugh with them and spend good time together. In my head, I always remember the good things we had together.”
Gerrard learns his fate
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been under fire at Al-Ettifaq, but has kept his job for the time being. The same can’t be said for the Saudi Pro League side’s sporting director and assistant manager, though.
“The board of Ettifaq, led by Mr. Samer Almisehal, has approved the recommendations of the football committee, which are as follows: Mark Allen to leave his position as executive sporting director by mutual agreement. Dean Holden to leave his position as assistant manager by mutual agreement,” a club statement read.
“The chairman, Mr Sameer Almisehal, reaffirmed that the board is fully committed to supporting the technical staff and players in their efforts to improve the club’s position in the league and to secure a top spot in the Gulf Champions League. He also expressed his apologies to Ettifaq fans for the disappointing exit from the King Cup.
“The board and everyone at the club deeply appreciate the unwavering support of Ettifaq fans despite recent unsatisfactory results. We remain optimistic that better results are on the horizon.”
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