Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has shown his 'cheeky' side in the build up to facing Southampton by joking about Trent Alexander-Arnold's often-questioned defensive ability.
Amid what has been a largely frustrating season at Anfield and beyond, their late charge for Europe has coincided with the recalled England international being moved into a hybrid role. Alexander-Arnold has impressed there, too, as he steps into central midfield when Liverpool are in possession.
From the outside, the 24-year-old regularly has to face up to criticism for the defensive side of his game - despite his obvious qualities in other areas. However, in a light-hearted dig before making his true feelings on the talented defender known, Salah waded into that debate.
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During an interview with Stadium Astro, the Egyptian was pressed on what the Liverpool squad say to their right-back whenever he's criticised. He replied: "We just confirm that he cannot defend! I'm just kidding..."
Salah added: "He's a really professional guy, I'm always with him in the gym, and in training we just speak. I always say; 'If you want to speak about anything, just come to me'.
"I'm sure Hendo [Jordan Henderson] does the same and other players. We know how good he is and he knows that about himself as well. It doesn't matter about someone's opinion, it doesn't change anything - just don't let it affect you, that's always my opinion."
On how the tactical shift has changed things for him, Salah added: "Every role he plays in his club affects me.
"I'm still scoring goals, still giving assists. It's a little different, it's a different system, but I'm still close to their goalie, I'm not dropping really, really deep. As long as the team's winning, I'm playing good and everything is good I'm fine."
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