Before Saturday’s away match at Leeds United, Slot started by discussing the concerns surrounding yet another two points dropped at home by the reigning Premier League champions.

Reflecting also on last week’s victory at West Ham, the Dutch coach explained: "In the last two matches, we were just one deflection away from securing two clean sheets. I said after the West Ham game that the positive for us was they didn’t convert their only chance, and the same happened again in this match.

"They missed the only opportunity they had, and the goal they scored, in my opinion, was not a real chance—it came after 93 minutes when they faced the goalkeeper one-on-one.

"That’s progress compared to conceding seven goals in two games.

"We didn’t concede from set pieces in either game, which was also important, and maybe that helped us get two results."

Leeds’ style poses a threat

While Slot insists there is some momentum behind his squad, he acknowledges they will face a Leeds team buoyed by their impressive midweek victory over Chelsea .

Indeed, Slot admits Leeds’ playing style could present challenges for his defense tomorrow.

The manager commented: "Yesterday I watched Leeds against Chelsea and I saw a Liverpool match: Chelsea conceding from a set piece followed by a huge mistake. Leeds played very aggressively in one-on-one situations and then dropped into a low block to limit chances. That style is tough for us and many other teams.

"We saw them come back from two goals down to Man City. Foden made the difference with a moment of brilliance there, and Leeds were very strong against Chelsea. What to expect is similar to what we have faced in many other matches."

Slot, on the physical challenges Leeds will impose, also reflected: "Every game is a physical test, especially given how teams approach us, but also because the Premier League features some of the best athletes in the world. So every match is physically demanding, especially an away game with fans strongly supporting their team."

Salah’s bench role

In the last two matches, Mohamed Salah has started on the bench, sparking speculation that the Egyptian star is considering his future options—even possibly as soon as next month’s transfer window.

Responding to the rumors, Slot suggested his key forward is likely to again begin on the bench at Elland Road.

He stated: "In my mind, every player can start, and Mo is an exceptional player for us. I always consider him either to start or come off the bench.

"The speculation, yes (I understand it) because he deserves that—he’s been so influential for me over six or seven years. It’s completely normal for people to talk when he isn’t playing."

Regarding fellow attacker Fede Chiesa and his limited minutes, Slot added: "As I just mentioned, every player has a chance to start but we have many options in his position.

"Many times, he has made an impact. Usually, you bring in a striker to score, but in this case, he keeps running when others might stop and think they can’t succeed one-on-one, which speaks volumes about his mentality and determination not to concede."

Wirtz’s confidence

Meanwhile, Slot commented on the recent influence of Florian Wirtz, insisting the German player is now delivering more consistently.

Indeed, the Reds’ boss is convinced confidence is flowing through the German attacker and believes he has turned a corner.

He explained:"You can see his confidence by how often he demands the ball and how often it’s given to him. He has a lot of confidence but clearly came back injured from Germany, so I’m pleased he can play so many minutes. He has performed well.

"I’m not surprised he was involved in the goal against Sunderland, he was one of the players who kept trying and was creative throughout."

Slot also defended Alexander Isak’s form, insisting his teammates could do more to support him.

Isak scored his first goal for Liverpool in last week’s win at West Ham, though Slot admits their striker could improve his stats.

He said: "He’s not the only number 9 struggling with limited chances. I watched the second half of Leeds vs City and the full game against Chelsea, and at this level, the number 9 isn’t involved in many chances each game, but clearly, we want to get him into more threatening positions.

"We haven’t created many chances lately because we have been less offensive, and it’s on my list to improve—getting the number 9 more involved.

"It’s not ideal (averaging 14 touches per game). He had 22 against Newcastle, so strikers don’t get many touches. I’d be surprised if (Erling) Haaland has 100 touches a game. We must ensure he gets the ball at crucial moments."

Elliott’s future

Before concluding, Slot was asked about Harvey Elliott’s situation at Aston Villa.

The midfielder’s loan includes an option to buy, but there is now speculation Villa may return him to Anfield in January.

Slot said: "I haven’t been in much contact with him, maybe once or twice before and after the Feyenoord away game. I am aware of his situation, of course. I knew how tough it was here, so I understand how he feels now, but you should ask those at Villa about his playing time, not me."