Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has made poignant remarks regarding his team’s performance following a goalless draw against Leeds United at Anfield. The match saw a significant decline in the “Reds'” attack, which managed only a single shot that hit the crossbar and posts during the second half.
Mohamed Salah: An Irreplaceable Difference-Maker
The “Golden Boy,” as he is nicknamed, attributed this offensive decline to the absence of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, who is training with his national team in preparation for the “Morocco 2025” Africa Cup of Nations. Owen emphasized that Salah is a decisive element who cannot be replaced.
Owen stated: “Everyone who said that Mohamed Salah should be sold or removed from the team; look at Liverpool now without Salah. He is a player who makes the difference. Even when he is not at his best level, he is still capable of scoring, and here everything is forgiven. Salah, we forgive you everything, I think we need you; come back quickly.”
Salah’s Absence Evident in Leeds Match
Salah’s absence continues due to his international commitments with the Egypt national team, which is preparing to face Benin on January 5th in a match known as the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations currently being held in Morocco.
Liverpool clearly felt this absence, as the team failed to provide the necessary offensive innovation in a dismal match against Leeds United.
Steve McManaman: Chaos within the Team Ranks
For his part, former England player Steve McManaman highlighted the chaos hitting the team in Salah’s absence, expressing his bewilderment at the head coach switching more than one player to the right-back position, including Dominik Szoboszlai, without any specific plan.
McManaman said: “It seemed like everyone was playing anywhere against Leeds.”
Liverpool in Fourth Place in the Premier League
Arne Slot’s team occupies fourth place in the Premier League standings with 33 points from 19 matches.
It is noteworthy that Mohamed Salah has scored four goals and provided three assists during the 14 matches he participated in this season in the Premier League.
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