Definitely odd. I can only assume Konate and Gakpo have been spared more through lack of alternatives in their positions, rather than blindness of their failings.

Hopefully bridges can be mended and Salah can get back somewhere close to last season's form. The team certainly needs that.

when he hasn't being playing that well (and other players have also been dropped), his reaction seems disproportionate, given he must have known how it would be blown up. The stuff about not having to fight for his place "because I earnt it" doesn't sit well, for any player, no matter how great.

Slot says they spoke twice last week, so it sounds as though someone is not being totally honest, or there are different expectations of what talking means.

I understand that the club would benefit from demonising a popular player they want to force out. But if the provocation is being dropped

Do you think the club are trying to force him out because they feel his output doesn't justify his wages now? And if so, is there more to it than just being on the bench for 2.5 games (eg he's been told that he has no future)?

take care. looking forward to reading more on substack - an analysis of your lyrics would be fascinating.

That's a shame, but thanks for replying Tony. I will try to read it soon.

Is there any chance of Collusion being a paperback please? I've really enjoyed all your other books, but don't enjoy reading a screen so haven't started this yet. I will read online if it isn't going to be published in physical form.

He was injured in that Leeds game (and then didn't get his place back when he was fit) rather than just being dropped.

Is it possible to get a paperback copy somewhere other than Amazon please?

Here it is, to save people searching: youtu.be/rlOg7XEBTag