Liverpool: Liverpool manager Arne Slot has downplayed any remaining friction with Mohamed Salah, following the forward's return to the squad during Saturday’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Brighton.

Return to Anfield

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The Egyptian international, who was recalled after a high-profile exclusion, was greeted with a standing ovation at Anfield. Coming on as a first-half substitute for the injured Joe Gomez, Salah provided the assist for Hugo Ekitike’s second goal, sealing the win for the Reds.

The appearance follows a volatile week that began when Salah claimed his relationship with Slot had "broken down" after he was benched for three consecutive matches. The forward had previously told reporters he felt as though "someone doesn't want me in the club." The dispute led to Salah being omitted from the squad entirely for Tuesday’s Champions League win against Inter Milan.

Also Read: Mohamed Salah sets a new EPL record in Liverpool's victory

Slot Dismisses Rift

Speaking after the Brighton match, Slot maintained that the internal conflict had been resolved during face-to-face talks held on Friday.

“For me, there is no issue to resolve. He is now the same as any other player,” Slot stated. “I usually never say anything about what we talk about, I am not going to make an exception now. But I think actions speak louder than what has been said, and he was in the squad again.”

The manager praised Salah's contribution, noting:

“When I had to make my first substitution, I brought him in, and he performed as every fan, including me, would like him to today. The moment he is there, I like to use him when we need him. When he came in, he had the performance like you would want him to give.”

Departure for AFCON

Following the final whistle, Salah was seen applauding the supporters and patting the Liverpool crest on his shirt—a gesture some interpreted as a potential farewell given the recent tension. However, the 33-year-old is now scheduled to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to represent Egypt.

Slot dismissed the notion that the display was a goodbye to the club. “He wasn't the only player who walked around the pitch, thanking the fans because the fans deserved a thank you from us," the manager said. "Mo is going to go to AFCON. I hope he is going to do very well. And in the meantime, we have to play here without him.”

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Season Statistics

Despite the recent friction, Salah remains a cornerstone of the Liverpool offence. During the Brighton match, he set a new record for the most Premier League goal involvements for a single club. This season, he has recorded four goals and 114 career assists in 14 league appearances.

With inputs from PTI