Every reason to believe I'll stay with Liverpool - Slot

Liverpool manager Arne Slot says he has "every reason to believe" he will remain in charge of the club next season.

The Dutchman guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season in charge but has received criticism for the team's performances and results this campaign.

The fourth-placed Reds will end the season trophyless and are not yet guaranteed a place in next season's Champions League with two fixtures remaining.

Despite fan discontent, the club's hierarchy have not indicated that they are considering replacing Slot this summer.

Discussing his future on Thursday, Slot said: "I don't think I am deciding that alone by myself but I have every reason to believe I am the Liverpool manager next season.

"First of all, I am contracted to this club and second of all from all the talks we are having. That is my take on it.

"If you don't have the best season, especially if you compare with last season - if you compare it with other seasons you might have a different debate, but if you compare it with last season - this has definitely not been a great season, then it is also normal that criticism comes.

"We have all had our share, and with all I mean the players have had their share, the manager has had their share and other people in the club have had their share. That is how things work nowadays if you don't win the league."

Liverpool can confirm their place in next season's Champions League with victory at fifth-placed Aston Villa on Friday.

Slot confirmed Mohamed Salah is available to return for the penultimate game of his Liverpool career after a hamstring problem but "only for a few minutes".

They missed the chance to qualify for Europe's elite club competition last weekend when they drew at home to Chelsea, during which Slot's decision to substitute 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha was booed - while jeers also greeted the full-time whistle.

After winning the league by 10 points last season, Liverpool are guaranteed to end this campaign with at least 19 fewer points than 2024-25 after losing 11 of their 36 games.

"I think the world has gone to if a manager or a club doesn't have their best season there is always a debate about that - it is not only , it is all around the world," said Slot.