Slot reveals Salah 'frustrated' after PSG substitution | OneFootball

Arne Slot has revealed that Mohamed Salah was "frustrated" by his substitution in Liverpool's Champions League win over Paris Saint-Germain.

Salah made way for Harvey Elliott during Wednesday's last-16 first leg encounter at the Parc des Princes with his replacement scoring the winner in barely a minute.

The Egypt international is enjoying his most prolific season with a direct hand in 52 goals from 40 games ahead of the Reds' Premier League clash with Southampton.

But Slot insists that Salah's reaction to being withdrawn was entirely "normal" and that the pair remain on good terms despite the late second-half flashpoint.

"Mo was not happy I took him [off]," said the Liverpool head coach.

"He can score for us whenever it's not his best game, that is why I hardly take him off.

He added: "It's not the headline Mo was frustrated but his behaviour was normal.

"We shook hands and maybe he thought he'd score the one chance that might come.

"People say [it was a] good sub as Harvey scored but Mo would tell me he would have scored that too! A normal reaction [to being taken off].

"All of them show great character and we need that tomorrow."

Liverpool are still sweating on the fitness of Cody Gakpo ahead of the relegation-threatened Saints' visit as they look to build on their lead in the title race.

"He didn't train yesterday so let's see if he can train with us today," admitted Slot.

"Again, it will be a close call. It's not a long-term injury but he still had a bit of pain yesterday so he was not able to train. Let's see where he is today."

Slot's side can temporarily move 16 points clear at the summit due to Arsenal taking on Manchester United 24 hours after they play.

📸 FRANCK FIFE - AFP or licensors