“That’s a normal reaction from a player that’s good enough to play for us, and I say that mildly because he has been so outstanding for this club for so many years and will be for the future,” Slot said.

“He wasn’t the only one who wasn’t happy that he wasn’t starting and that is normal.”

Slot said Salah “handled himself really well” despite being dropped.

“He is so disciplined – he knows what to do to stay fit,” Slot said.

“No matter if he plays well or if he doesn’t play well, if he plays or doesn’t play, he will always be that top professional and that’s what he was in the last two days.

“With all players around their world, there are also phases in your time at the club that they are human. He’s scored so many goals for us and I am sure he will in the future.”

Slot confirmed Liverpool will be without Salah from 15 December, when he leaves for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The final takes place on 18 January 2026.

“We have to find a way to play without him because he won’t be here,” Slot said.

Defending champions Liverpool are eighth in the Premier League, nine points behind leaders Arsenal.

They host Sunderland on Wednesday before Saturday’s trip to Leeds, who are in the relegation zone.