Optimism returned to Liverpool's ranks after the big 4-0 win over Galatasaray and their qualification to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, but the biggest challenge lies in regaining this level locally. Despite achieving three consecutive league wins in February, the performance has recently declined after the loss to Wolverhampton and the draw with Tottenham, which affected the team's path in the European qualification race.

The team is preparing to face Brighton, amid questions about the readiness of some players. Coach Arne Slot spoke at the press conference before the match, revealing the latest technical and medical updates within the team.

Slot confirmed the absence of star Mohamed Salah due to a muscle injury, explaining: "It's unusual for Salah, but he won't be available for tomorrow's match. The good news is that we are approaching an international break, but this is bad news for the Egyptian national team as he won't join them. We hope he recovers quickly as we are used to due to his high professionalism."

The coach also addressed the condition of Joe Gomez, saying: "Gomez hasn't been able to train fully. I spoke with him before the Galatasaray match about the possibility of his participation if necessary. He might be available, but not for starting."

Regarding the inclusion of Dominik Szoboszlai as a right-back, he said: "He is a midfielder, and I always repeat that. His participation in this position is not a tactical genius, but because he is the best available option at that moment. When players are available in their positions, he will return to the midfield where the team is stronger."

On the impact of Salah's absence offensively, he explained: "It is the tactics that make the difference. In open games, we always create chances, but in closed matches, it becomes more difficult. Our goal is to put players in the best position to score, and Salah has the mental experience to deal with that."

Slot criticized the timing of the matches, saying: "Playing at noon on Saturday after a Wednesday evening match is extremely difficult, and this has happened several times this season. I don't mind the timing itself, but the problem is the short rest period, and this is not ideal for any coach to protect his players."

On his future with the club, he said: "We win a match and then talk about a new contract? My full focus is on the Brighton match and achieving the best possible result this season. We don't talk about contracts at this time."

He concluded his remarks about the opponent: "Brighton is a team that plays attacking football and creates many chances. We faced them twice this season, and both matches were fast and enjoyable. Sometimes they lack luck, and we hope that continues against us."