John Terry defends Mohamed Salah, accuses Arne Slot of using star as scapegoat

Chelsea legend John Terry has thrown his support behind Mohamed Salah, claiming the Liverpool star is being unfairly used as a scapegoat by manager Arne Slot to divert attention from the team’s poor performances this season, 24NewsHD TV reported on Monday.

Salah, who has grown increasingly frustrated with his situation at Anfield, was an unused substitute during Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Leeds United on Saturday — his third straight match starting on the bench. He has played just 45 minutes across Liverpool's last three Premier League fixtures.

Speaking to journalists after the game, the Egyptian forward said he felt he had been “thrown under the bus” by the club.

“I have done so much for this club over the years, especially last season. It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus. Someone wants me to get all the blame!” Salah said.

Terry echoed Salah’s concerns, saying it was clear the winger was being singled out.

“I think he’d be the first person to admit he’s been out of form this season, but I have to agree with him,” Terry said. “He has been made the scapegoat a little bit. A lot of Liverpool players, including himself, have been out of form recently.”

The former England captain also questioned Slot’s decision to consistently bench Salah — even in situations where Liverpool were chasing games.

“And to leave him out of the squad… If there’s one man who can win you a game, it’s him,” Terry added. “It’s a big call from the manager not to bring him on when you need a goal. If there’s anyone you’d want for the last 15–20 minutes, it has to be him.”

Salah is coming off a historic season in which he became the first Premier League player to finish with both the most goals (29) and most assists (18) while earning the Player of the Year award. This year, however, his output has dipped drastically, with only four goals across all competitions so far.