Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has praised Mohamed Salah’s significance to the team after the Reds’ 2-0 win against Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield, also hoping that the Egyptian attacker stays with the club after the AFCON.
Salah rejoined Liverpool’s matchday lineup on Saturday following a week during which his candid remarks about the club fueled renewed doubts about his stay in Merseyside. The 33-year-old entered the game in the minute, coming on for the injured Joe Gomez, and received a standing applause from the Anfield supporters.
The striker had an effective delivery of the assist for Hugo Ekitike’s second goal, which contributed to Liverpool’s decisive victory. After the game, Van Dijk commended Salah’s impact and leadership while also recognizing the ambiguity regarding his future.
“Mo is heading to AFCON, and we all wish him success and hope he returns crucial for us for the remainder of the season, ” Van Dijk stated. “I wish for him to remain because he is one of my leaders and continues to be very important for the club. However, there are parties concerned.”
Salah’s comeback came after a post-game rant following last weekend’s 3-3 tie with Leeds United, during which he stated that his rapport with head coach Arne Slot had deteriorated and blamed the club for abandoning him.
The Egypt international will now join his national team for AFCON, which runs until January 18, before Liverpool returns to Premier League action away at Tottenham Hotspur on December 20.
