Liverpool have been warned that Mohamed Salah’s reduced defensive duties could be contributing to the club’s disappointing season. The Reds are languishing in eighth place in the Premier League table and have already been eliminated from the Carabao Cup.
Salah has scored just five goals for Liverpool so far this season, four of which have come in league matches. The Egyptian scored 34 goals in all competitions last year, leading the Reds to their 20th top flight title. Arne Slott’s side have already lost five league games this season, more than they lost last season en route to the title.
Liverpool trail leaders Arsenal by eight points after losing to Manchester City before the international break.
Former Liverpool player Danny Murphy highlighted past comments made by Salah last season, which could be one of the explanations for the team’s struggles this term.
“There’s a reason why last season when Mo Salah was asked about the difference playing down the slot, he had a big grin on his face and said, ‘He told me to defend less,'” Murphy told talkSPORT.
“That’s fine when we’re scoring and winning games, but at the moment it’s taking its toll.”
Murphy’s assessment was linked to comments made by Salah towards the end of last season about the contrast of working in the slot compared to Jurgen Klopp. “If you look at the numbers, you’ll understand,” Salah told Sky Sports in April.
“Now I don’t have to defend as much.The tactics are completely different.
“I said, ‘As long as I can rest up defensively, I’ll contribute offensively,’ so I’m glad I was able to do that. He (Slot) listened well and you can see it in the numbers.
“I said when you play in the Premier League you have to defend, but I can gamble and I can make a difference in some way. My assist numbers show that. I can also create chances.”
Liverpool need to reignite Salah’s scoring ability after losing 3-0 to title favorites City before the international break. Upon his return, the Reds will host Nottingham Forest.
