The reigning Premier League champions have now dropped further points at home, but Slot believes recent performances still show progress.

Reflecting on both the West Ham victory and the Sunderland draw, the Dutchman said:
“In the last two games we were a single deflection away from keeping two clean sheets. I mentioned after West Ham that the positive was they didn’t score from their only opportunity, and the same applied here.

“For me, the goal Sunderland scored wasn’t even a real chance – it came after 93 minutes when they went one-on-one with the goalkeeper. That’s a big step forward considering we conceded seven in the previous two matches.

“We also haven’t conceded from a set piece in either of these games, which has helped us get results again.”

Leeds pose a familiar threat

While Slot feels momentum is building, he knows a revitalised Leeds – fresh from a superb win over Chelsea – will pose a serious test.

He warned that their aggressive approach could be particularly challenging.

“I watched Leeds against Chelsea and it looked like one of our games,” Slot explained. “Chelsea conceded from a set piece and then made a major mistake. Leeds press one-on-one all over the pitch and then drop into a low block – that style is difficult for us, and for many teams.

“We also saw them fight back from two goals down against Manchester City. With their energy and the supporters behind them, we know exactly what to expect.”

On the physical demands the match will bring, he added:
“Every Premier League game is a physical test. The level of athlete in this league is so high, and an away match only adds to that.”

Salah likely to remain on the bench

Mohamed Salah has been a substitute in the last two fixtures, prompting speculation about his future amid rumours of interest as early as January.

Slot understands the attention but hinted the forward could again start from the bench at Elland Road.

“Every player is in my thoughts to start, and Mo is exceptional,” he said. “He’s been hugely influential for six or seven years. It’s normal people talk when he isn’t in the XI.”

He also addressed Federico Chiesa’s limited gametime, praising the Italian’s mentality:
“We have a lot of options in his position, but whenever he comes on he keeps running and keeps trying to affect the game. That says a lot about him.”

Growing confidence in Wirtz

Slot praised the development of Florian Wirtz, who he feels has turned a corner after returning from injury.

“You can see his confidence by how often he wants the ball and how often teammates look for him,” he said. “I’m happy he’s been able to play so many minutes. He deserved to be involved in the goal against Sunderland because he kept trying to create.”

Isak needs more support

The Liverpool boss also defended Alexander Isak despite modest attacking returns since his move from Newcastle.

Isak recently netted his first Reds goal against West Ham, but Slot believes the team must help him get into more dangerous positions.

“He’s not the only No. 9 who struggles for chances at this level,” Slot said. “Even top strikers don’t get many touches – Haaland certainly isn’t hitting 100 a game. But we have to make sure the touches he does get are in the right areas. That’s on my list to improve.”

Elliott loan under review

Finally, Slot addressed Harvey Elliott’s situation at Aston Villa.
The midfielder’s loan includes an option to buy, but reports suggest Villa may cut the spell short in January.

“I’ve spoken to him only once or twice since he left,” Slot noted. “I know his situation and I understand how difficult it was for him here. But his gametime at Villa is something for them to explain, not us.”