Former Liverpool midfielder Ray Houghton’s critique of the performance of Mohamed Salah during the Merseyside Derby has ignited a debate, despite the Egyptian winger netting two crucial goals.
Salah’s Subpar Start
Houghton, speaking on talkSport, minced no words in describing Salah’s early performance. He labeled it as “unbelievably poor.”
He emphasized Salah’s sluggish start during the match. Houghton said from the talkSPORT commentary box when the game was still locked at 0-0 in the second half,
“He’s had such a poor game Mo Salah, it’s unbelievable.
I never want to take off a player who can win you it but, I’ve got to be honest with you, what Mo has given Liverpool today, or what he’s not given Liverpool, I’ve not seen him play this bad in a long, long time.
🇪🇬 Mo Salah makes the difference again for Liverpool in today’s derby…
…he’s on fire this season after Saudi deal collapsed in August as #LFC didn’t want to sell Mo.
Scoring while not performing at one’s best is a testament to Salah’s scoring prowess. His contribution should not be solely judged by his first-half display.
The Unmatched Brilliance of Salah for Liverpool
Salah ultimately demonstrated why he is a vital asset for Liverpool. Despite what Houghton termed one of his “worst-ever” performances in a Reds shirt, Salah secured a Merseyside derby win over Everton.
His penalty and late goal marked his seventh of the season and his 201st in league career. This illustrates his consistency as a goal-scorer.
Jurgen Klopp’s team may have appeared somewhat sluggish after the international break, but Salah’s goals were the difference-makers in their 2-0 win over a ten-man Everton.
He stepped up when it mattered most, proving his worth even on an off day.
Houghton’s call to keep Salah on the field, despite his underwhelming performance, emphasizes the timeless adage that form is temporary, but class is permanent.
Salah’s eventual impact illustrated his ability to rise above a subpar start and seize opportunities.
However, Salah’s ability to deliver on the big stage, even when not at his best, reinforces his value to Liverpool.
The Merseyside Derby served as a reminder that greatness transcends momentary lapses in form. And Salah’s contribution was pivotal in securing a crucial victory for the Reds.
