Arne Slot aims criticism at Trent Alexander-Arnold as Liverpool exit imminent

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has candidly spoken about his dissatisfaction with Trent Alexander-Arnold's training efforts at times, ahead of the full-back's impending high-profile move to Real Madrid.

Alexander-Arnold, who is set to depart Anfield after the season, has been the subject of mixed reactions from fans, including boos during the recent match against Arsenal.

Slot, along with some team-mates, has called for support for the England star, but also acknowledged that there were instances earlier in the season when he expected more from the defender.

"I said a few things in pre-season why he was in my office at the beginning," Slot revealed to the press on Friday. "He said it himself, he is going to leave either way, so why not say: I wasn't completely happy with every single minute he was on the training ground, he could do a bit more.

"To say it mildly and that is what we talked about. I said to him you are a much better defender than everyone tells you and you don't show it all the time, this is a part of your game you need to improve but if you are at it and concentrated, not a lot can get around him.

"It is about showing that every game. It is not the 34 games we play well, we are judged on the 4 we don't. So we spoke about that."

The manager did laud Alexander-Arnold's contributions to the club, especially at this poignant juncture as he prepares for his final game with his boyhood team. Additionally, it's a moment to celebrate their Premier League triumph, an achievement earned by the squad's collective efforts.

"All have worked so hard, not only this season, but throughout their careers to achieve something like this," said the manager. "They did this for themselves, but partly also driven by our fans.

"It would be fantastic, if it's only going to be a positive moment for everyone at the club, and Trent is part of that. I hope I can influence them, but they have their own opinion as well."

The right-back received public backing from team-mate and Premier League top scorer Mohamed Salah after certain sections of the crowd booed him during the match against Arsenal. "The fans have been harsh with him. He didn't deserve that because he gave it all to the fans," Salah commented to Sky Sports.

"We always appreciate the people who came here, even if it was for six months. Imagine someone who gave his all for 20 years. It shouldn't be like this and I hope it will change in the next game - Brighton or the last game of the season - because he deserves the best farewell leaving the club. He has done a lot for the city and a lot for the club."