Former Liverpool defender Jose Enrique believes that Mohamed Salah returning to Merseyside early after being away with Egypt is positive news for the Reds.
The Athletic reported yesterday that Salah will not feature for his national team against Liberia, as he has been granted a rest.
Egypt’s coach Rui Vitoria made the decision, enabling the forward to return to Melwood earlier than initially planned.
The Egyptian FA released the following statement: “The technical staff of the Egyptian national team preferred to rest Mohamed Salah and Mostafa Mohamed for the Liberia friendly after both took part in the previous match against Niger.”
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Salah netted twice in the game against Niger on Friday, as the North African side ran out 3-0 winners.
These goals would have represented a welcome boost for the 30-year-old, who has endured a difficult start to the new campaign, only scoring four times in his first nine appearances thus far.
Avoiding the risk of picking up a potential injury in the friendly against Liberia will be seen as a smart and positive move for Liverpool as they prepare to enter a congested schedule.
Former Liverpool full-back Enrique agrees with this sentiment, taking to twitter to make his feelings known on the decision, describing it as “great news for us reds.”
Enrique featured for Spain at youth level, so is likely to understand the value of receiving much needed rest during international breaks mid-season.
Indeed, this means Salah will get an extra couple of days to settle back into the North West and train with his club.
This will help Jurgen Klopp in his preparations for the home game against Brighton this Saturday and the German boss will be eager to revitalise his Egyptian starman.
Salah scored 31 times for the Reds last season, so getting him back to his best form will be integral to Liverpool climbing up the table.
The Merseysiders currently sit 8th, nine points behind leaders Arsenal after six games.
Topics: Liverpool, Mohamed Salah
Alfie Culshaw