Liverpool manager Arne Slot says the club’s decision to sign Jeremie Frimpong this summer was influenced by several factors.
Frimpong, who was born in the Netherlands to Ghanaian parents, brings versatility that Slot believes can help Liverpool navigate Salah’s absence.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield fixture against Crystal Palace, Slot explained that Frimpong was targeted not only for his ability at right wing-back, but also because he can contribute in more advanced roles.
“We have definitely thought about that and we have brought in Jeremie Frimpong because we think he can play as a right full-back but I also think and feel he can play as a right-winger,” he said.
Slot underlined the significance of Salah’s likely absence, which could stretch to as many as six Premier League games depending on Egypt’s progress.
“We have thought about the fact we are going to miss Mo, I think as a maximum for six games, but that is quite a lot in the Premier League – especially when you see how well he did last season,” Slot said.
While acknowledging the club considered other solutions, Slot noted Frimpong’s profile gave him a tactical edge.
“Signing Jeremie Frimpong was for multiple reasons but one of them was that he could replace Mo if he was not there. There are other options to replace Mo with as well but Jeremie is definitely one of them.”
Frimpong joins Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen, where he played a key roles, including in their Bundesliga title win under Xabi Alonso.