'He's a robot' - Mohamed Salah contract complaint prompts scathing attack on Richard Hughes as Liverpool sporting director is accused of lacking 'any sense of empathy'

Salah dropped a bombshell after scoring in Liverpool's win over Southampton by revealing that he was "more out than in" at Anfield and still waiting on a contract offer. The Egypt international's existing deal expires at the end of the season, meaning he will be able to talk to overseas clubs from January 1st and move on a free transfer in the summer if the situation remains unchanged.

Salah's comments will be of deep concern to Liverpool fans who will be eager for the superstar to continue his career at Anfield. His comments have also drawn criticism of Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes. Experienced agent Rob Jansen, who represents Arne Slot's assistant Johnny Heitinga and has dealt with the club recently, says Hughes lacks the empathy needed in the current situation.

Jansen told the Kieft Jansen Egmond Gijp podcast: "One thing Richard Hughes doesn’t have is any sense of empathy. Zero. He’s a robot. I know that because I negotiated with him, for Heitinga. There’s zero feelings in him. That may well be the reason. Especially with a player like Salah, who has emotion, has a different culture and is sensitive to warmth."

Salah has also been criticised for his comments, with Jamie Carragher saying he is being "selfish" for voicing his complaints during a pivotal week for the club. The Reds take on Real Madrid in the Champions League next and then face defending champions Manchester City in the Premier League.