Liverpool United as Mohamed Salah Returns to Squad
Virgil van Dijk stated that Liverpool "are absolutely united and go forward as one" following the return of Mohamed Salah to the squad for Saturday's victory over Brighton.
Salah made his comeback from the bench for his first appearance since expressing his feelings of being "thrown under the bus" by the club after last weekend's 3-3 draw against Leeds.
The 33-year-old was excluded from the squad during the midweek Champions League match against Inter Milan, but returned for the game against Brighton, where he provided an assist in the 2-0 win.
Salah is set to join the Egypt national team for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday, which could see him miss up to eight matches for Liverpool if his team progresses to the final on January 18.
Van Dijk remarked, "We showed this week that we are absolutely united. We go forward as one." He also celebrated his 250th Premier League appearance for Liverpool on Saturday.
He added, "Mo is going to AFCON, and we all hope that he’ll be successful there and return to be an important player for us for the remainder of the season. However, we understand that in football, circumstances can change rapidly. I hope he stays because he is one of my leaders and remains vital for the club, but there are multiple factors at play here."
Van Dijk also commended manager Arne Slot for his handling of the recent situation, as Liverpool remains unbeaten in five matches since their defeat to PSV at Anfield in the Champions League.
"I believe he has managed the situation very well—calmly and effectively, despite the challenges," said the Dutch defender. "There’s a lot of external pressure and noise, which is justified given our performance levels compared to previous seasons. We must continue to push forward. This club has always been united, and it’s essential we maintain that spirit. We experience the highs together as a team, club, and fanbase, but during tough times, we must also stand together. This period is an important test of our unity."