Arne Slot has confirmed Mohamed Salah will likely start for Liverpool in Wednesday's Champions League tie against Marseille. The forward last started in November's defeat to PSV Eindhoven but scored four goals at the Africa Cup of Nations. Slot insists their relationship is "as normal as it's always been" after a period of tension.

Salah's explosive interview before departing for AFCON claimed he no longer had a relationship with Slot after being dropped. The manager explained his decision-making, noting Salah was the first substitute against Brighton and is back in the squad after training. Liverpool have remained unbeaten during Salah's absence, with Slot admitting he's "happy" to have the club's record Champions League goalscorer available.

The match at the Stade Vélodrome is crucial for Liverpool's hopes of finishing in the top eight and avoiding extra knockout play-off ties. Liverpool have taken a 20-man squad to Marseille, with Ibrahima Konaté absent due to a family matter. The Reds host Qarabag in their final group game on January 28.