Liverpool legend Michael Owen has urged Mohamed Salah to return in top form to the Reds’ starting lineup as soon as he finishes the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt this month.
His comments came after Liverpool’s flat 0–0 draw with Leeds United at Anfield in the 19th round of the Premier League, a match that exposed the team’s lack of attacking edge without their Egyptian star.
Salah remains away on international duty as Egypt prepare to face Benin on January 5 in the last 16 of AFCON 2025 in Morocco. Liverpool clearly felt his absence, struggling to create real danger in a game that lacked inspiration in the final third.
Speaking on SuperSport, Owen said: “People who say Mohamed Salah should be dropped or rested or even sold… this is Liverpool without Mohamed Salah. He is the difference-maker, even when he is not at his best he can score goals. We will forgive you for everything. Come back to us, Mo Salah.”
Owen stressed that Liverpool miss a player of Salah’s caliber, especially when matches become tight and the team needs a spark. He praised Jeremie Frimpong’s effort on the right flank but noted that, as a natural defender, he cannot offer the same goal threat or physical presence Salah provides.
Owen added: “I told Steve McManaman before the game that I like the balance of Liverpool’s team, but I don’t really see many goalscorers.”
He explained that with names like Salah, Ekitike, Isak and Gakpo on the pitch, goals are expected, whereas in the current lineup Florian Wirtz is struggling to score and convince, and right-back Frimpong is effectively playing in Salah’s place.
