Mohamed Salah’s public assertion that he has been “thrown under the bus” after being benched has triggered a fierce backlash from pundits, who accuse the Liverpool star of causing “carnage” at the club.
Salah was left out of the squad for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Inter Milan, following his omission from the starting lineup for Liverpool’s previous three games. His comments have drawn stinging criticism from former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher and ex-striker Chris Sutton.
Carragher labeled the Egyptian’s actions “a disgrace,” suggesting the statement was a calculated move. “When Mo Salah stops in the mixed zone… it is choreographed with him and his agent to cause maximum damage and strengthen his own position,” he said on Sky Sports.
Sutton echoed the condemnation, telling BBC Radio 5 Live: “Liverpool is carnage because of Mo Salah. He’s been honest and open, but he’s made it all about him and not the team. He’s been extremely selfish.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot said he was “surprised” by Salah’s claim that their relationship had completely broken down and had “no clue” if the 33-year-old would play for the club again. “After tomorrow we will look at the situation,” Slot added.
With Salah set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations next Monday, his immediate future at Anfield remains uncertain. It is unclear whether he will feature in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brighton.
By James Kisoo
