Slot’s Bench Dilemma: Salah Sits Out as Liverpool Juggles the XI Against Sunderland

Context

The Egyptian forward sat on the bench once again.

Arne Slot, Liverpool's manager, explained why star Mohamed Salah was left on the bench for a second straight match, as Sunderland visit Anfield in the Premier League.

The Egyptian international also started the previous game on the bench, in Liverpool's 2-0 win over West Ham.

Before hosting Sunderland at Anfield tonight, Slot explained his choices: 'I left Milos Kirkić out because of muscular pains after a superb display last time; playing him tonight would be a risk'.

The Dutch coach, via Sky Sports, added: 'On the other hand, I kept the same starting XI for balance and continuity, because we need more than 11 players against Sunderland'.

He also noted some regulars might not play the full 90 minutes again, and every bench option may feature, Salah among them. We all know what Salah can contribute, but Sunderland are a strong side in every area.

He concluded: 'We must be at our best for 90 minutes and will need extra help from the subs: Salah or Diaz or Curtis Jones'.

Salah's form has faded this season, with five goals and three assists in 18 appearances for Liverpool. Punchline 1: Salah's bench time could win him a personal fan club. Punchline 2: If bench minutes counted as assists, he'd already have a trophy.