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It appears that Mohamed Salah's lack of defensive contributions has turned into a slight problem for Liverpool, especially when facing stronger opponents.

It's understandable if manager the Liverpool boss has directed Salah to avoid defensive duties, because positioning himself advanced on the right flank when regaining possession has made him one of the world's most dangerous strikers.

However, the players in support fail to offer adequate cover, causing numerous issues for anyone has been at right-back in recent matches.

Whether it's Conor Bradley or another player, they often find themselves in trouble due to dealing with a 2v1 overload on that flank.

It proved a clear weakness in the recent match, leading to Chelsea's decisive goal – and the concern is that more teams will smartly exploit this weak spot.

{'Salah Is Given Freedom to Avoid Defence Duties'

Primarily, I doubt that the manager is telling the attacker to help defensively and support his right-back.

Should he had been instructed to follow Chelsea's defender his direct opponent, then it was extremely obvious he did not comply, and Slot would not accept that.

Rather, the manager is allowing him the freedom to concentrate solely on offensive duties, which is acceptable – there are numerous instances of different clubs using similar approaches, with players who prefer to conserve their energy for forward moves.

Certainly, there are always certain moments in a game when the team is conceding chances and you might take it upon yourself to help out.

It's known he can do it, because when they won at a top rival previously, his work rate was among the best observed from him.

But, he likely been instructed to do so on that day, which is why I am not criticizing him if he is told to stay forward.

'The Real Issue Is How The Team Are Structured Behind Salah'

The concern with Salah is more about how the side set up in defensive support, especially against stronger opponents.

His teammates must offer better and faster help, because it seemed like the opposition were moving the ball forward and subsequently switching it to their left, because that's where the gap was.

When a Liverpool central player moved wide too late – whether it be Alexis Mac Allister – then he created openings in the middle in front of the back line because Liverpool were losing a player from the midfield.

All this is less of a problem when playing opponents that you dominate the ball against – as we've seen their past league wins using such tactics – but they need to improve because the top sides will capitalize.

'Liverpool Are Losing Control of Games'

It isn't as if he has altered his role this season, but since he is failing to find the net at the other end, perhaps the defensive side of his performance is more noticeable.

I am not too concerned about his form, as he will return to form – history shows – in terms of his finishing.

He got into great positions against their opponents but maybe shot when he could have assisted, and vice versa, but those chances will keep coming and the scores will come.

The biggest concern with the team currently is their reduced control in games relative to the previous campaign.

This has been a disappointing week for them, of course, not only to lose three matches in a row in the Premier League and Champions League but because the performance levels have fallen below expectations.

There are extenuating circumstances, of course, with the numerous squad adjustments in the summer and the several of players who did not have preparatory training, but previously Slot's side seemed so effective at managing games and that is no longer the case.

It felt like their organization was solid, and Slot's more ball-retention style provided better command.

It was an aspect that people instantly saw he had introduced to the squad, in contrast to what it was like under previous management.

Now, though, I watch them and it looks a bit disorganized. The final 30 minutes of the recent game was hectic it felt like a cup tie – they had chances to win it, but gave away many opportunities too, which is why they ultimately losing.

{How Can Slot Address The Team's Problems?

There are a few aspects that are off about the club, and repeatedly notice them giving the ball away, but I don't see an hopeless scenario.

Even though Liverpool have some new additions – and different types too – they should not need to change their playing style. They simply require to return to being a bit more composed and calm.

The positive aspect is they are just one point behind leaders Arsenal and have time to correct the things that are underperforming.

Fitness aspect they are lacking will improve as the players who missed a full pre-season, like key attackers and defenders, will attain optimal condition soon.

Building proper relationships on the field requires patience too, be it between the defender and the forward or other key combinations.

So, there is no reason to overreact. It feels like at the moment in the top flight, and not only with this team but with every side, you are a single match away from 'catastrophe' and scrutiny.

The truth is the recent results to Liverpool recently will likely occur at some point to Arsenal and Manchester City this season.

I had not previously believed City would be in the title race, but if their star striker remains this hungry and fit they will be in contention.

Arsenal, in defence, look superb again and, in general, after several matches they seem very comfortable in what they are doing across the pitch – it seems a extension of their previous form, with an added layer of quality and depth.

For them it feels like more of a rebuild right now. But although there is ongoing work to do for them to establish the optimal balance and partnerships, it is expected everyone expects them to improve as the season unfolds.