Leeds United 3-3 Liverpool: Hugo Ekitike double but Ao Tanaka’s late goal denies Arne Slot’s visitors

For the third game in a row, Slot chose to bench Salah, with Szoboszlai starting down the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Liverpool had positive spells in the first half and were comfortable in possession but struggled to get past the Leeds low block.

The likes of Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz and Ekitike failed to test Lucas Perri in the first half, though Curtis Jones did strike the woodwork with a curling effort from outside the box.

Slot could easily have been tempted to turn to Salah at the break, or Alexander Isak, who also started on the bench,

But he resisted and Liverpool were handed an early Christmas gift in the form of a woeful pass from Joe Rodon just three minutes into the second half.

Ekitike still did brilliantly, with his first touch taking him past Ethan Ampadu before finishing.

It was the 23-year-old’s first Premier League goal since September 20, but in a season where Slot’s side have struggled, Ekitike has undoubtedly been one of their brighter sparks.

His second goal showed his instincts as he bundled in from close range to become the first Liverpool player to score twice in a game this season.

Liverpool only had themselves to blame for letting Leeds back in the game, but the fact Slot didn’t turn to Salah told the story of his recent lack of form.

The 33-year-old had started 53 Premier League games in a row but has been benched for the past three matches and will leave for the Africa Cup of Nations after next weekend.

Unhappy Salah appeared to hint next Saturday’s game against Brighton could become a farewell to Liverpool, although that is far from certain to be the case at this stage.

Regardless, with four wins in their last 15 games, Liverpool and Slot’s problems are much deeper than the form and feelings of just one player.

From two goals up and then leading 3-2 with time running down, they should have seen this out. Their problems continue.