Hossam Hassan says he respects Mohamed Salah’s decision to sit out their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Mauritania. And the Egypt boss has revealed Liverpool’s concern over their star man picking up injuries on the artificial pitch.
After a meeting with Hassan last week, it was decided that Salah would play no part in the game at Nouakchott after fears around the state of the turf were made public alongside the expected robust nature of their hosts’ defending, something the Pharaohs coach described as “violent”.
Egypt were able to qualify for the next AFCON on Tuesday night, courtesy of a 1-0 win at Stade Cheikha Ould Boidiya, and Hassan revealed after the win that Liverpool had expressed their fears over the potential of injury for Salah before the game.
Some Egyptian media labelled the match as “artificial hell” after Ibrahim Adel’s late goal settled the game in favour of the visitors and Anfield officials had been worried about their six-goal top scorer playing on a potentially dangerous pitch before so many big fixtures in the coming weeks.
“I respected Salah’s wish because the medical staff at Liverpool were concerned about the possibility of his back and knee injuries recurring due to the artificial turf on the pitch,” Hassan said after the game.
“I prioritised Salah’s health and didn’t want to risk him, especially in these key qualifiers. I must support players and collaborate with their clubs to ensure their long-term fitness. Whether we win or lose, criticism comes. However, I respect constructive feedback from the media.
“I thank the Mauritanian fans for their presence and all my players players for their efforts despite challenging weather and playing on artificial turf. It was not easy for us as some players never played on such turf but we will improve in terms of performance and results in the future.”
Salah will be part of Liverpool training this week as they continue their preparations for Chelsea’s visit on Sunday afternoon.
The Reds then travel to RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Wednesday week before a huge top-of-the-table Premier League match at Arsenal on Sunday, October 27.
