Arne Slot Discusses Alisson and Salah's Availability for Manchester United Derby

Liverpool will be without Mohamed Salah for Sunday's trip to Old Trafford. Alisson Becker's participation hasn't been entirely ruled out, though the Brazilian, who hasn't played since March 18, has yet to resume training with the squad. This means that in the crucial derby against Manchester United, which is also a direct clash for third place in the Premier League, third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman might once again start between the posts for the Merseyside club.

"As we know, Mo always works hard. Not just when he's fit, but also when he's injured, to return as soon as possible. We expect him back for the final part of the season, but not for Sunday. In every respect, it's a huge relief that his injury is minor, so he can play for us and at the World Cup. If there was ever a player who deserved a big send-off, it's definitely Mo."

"Alisson is still not training with us, although he's very close. I expect to hear from the medical staff whether he'll be able to train with us today, tomorrow, or early next week. We never take risks," Slot stated.

When asked if there was still a chance Alisson could play on Sunday if he resumed training today or tomorrow, the Dutchman didn't give a definitive answer: "I think there's a difference between goalkeepers and outfield players. An outfield player has to run much more than a goalkeeper. When he's missed four or five weeks, he hasn't forgotten how to play football, but his fitness level simply doesn't match the intensity required by the Premier League. So there's a difference between a goalkeeper and an outfield player."

"We're aware that this is a big game, not just because it's Manchester United, but because it's important for the Champions League and for finishing as high as possible in the Premier League. We wanted to win the league. That's not possible, but we're trying to finish as high as we can in the standings. That's what we'll try to do on Sunday."

"We know how important Champions League qualification is for our club. It's an important step. Is it a step forward? It's certainly not a step backward, but it's an important step that needs to be taken."

"When we played United last season, they weren't in the position they are now. Back then, I said their players were better than their league position suggested. After that, there was another transfer window where they added quite a few players. Now we finally see how good they are. We always knew they were really good, but now they're showing it in the standings too. Perhaps it's a slight advantage that they only play once a week. Under Michael Carrick, they've become more consistent in their results."

"I'm positive after the three wins, but these weren't our best performances. We can play much better. This team is capable of much more, but it would be helpful if everyone was available from time to time. Now we only play once a week. I would have preferred to be playing a Champions League semi-final this week, but since that's not the case, at least those who constantly have to play are better rested," Slot commented.

The Dutchman added that Milos Kerkez, who also had a minor injury, will be available for Sunday's derby.