Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp’s decision to bench Mohamed Salah for their recent Premier League clash against Fulham has garnered support from Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, who believes it was the right move considering the team’s demanding schedule.
Salah, the Egyptian forward, found himself sidelined as Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory over Fulham, with Harvey Elliott and Diogo Jota stepping into the starting lineup in his absence.
Carragher, reflecting on Klopp’s decision, remarked, “Yes, on the back of Thursday. There can be a debate about what team he should have played Thursday on the back of them losing three-nil.”
He continued, highlighting the strategic aspect of Klopp’s choice, “Was this game more important? There’s no doubt this is a weakened team.
In terms of rest, there are three big away games, so I get it, he had to make changes with another three away games coming in six days.”
Carragher also addressed Salah’s recent form and fitness concerns, stating, “When you look at some of the players who have been left out you might look at Mo Salah.
Mo Salah is not an issue with tiredness because he stayed here during the international break, he’s been injured in the middle of the season, and he’s not playing well enough at the moment.”
Regarding the potential impact of benching Salah, Carragher suggested, “It might be the case he’ll be better and sharper from the bench.”
Furthermore, Carragher acknowledged the challenges faced by players like Mac Allister due to the intense schedule, stating, “I understand Mac Allister, he’s played an awful lot of football and it was always going to be difficult to play four games in 10 days away from home.”
Klopp’s tactical decision to rotate the squad, including benching Salah, reflects the strategic management of resources amidst a congested fixture list, a move endorsed by Carragher as Liverpool navigates the rigors of domestic and European competitions.
