Jurgen Klopp makes a huge statement on Mohamed Salah despite the ongoing goal drought.
Liverpool have not been convincing in some games since the turn of the new year, but they have been able to scrap out results and keep up the pace with Manchester City. The Reds are fighting against Pep Guardiola’s side for the Premier League title and made sure about securing all three points against Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Sunday.
The hosts looked assured in the display during the first half of the game and deservingly lead through their striker Roberto Firmino. They had a chance to put the game to bed, but Mohamed Salah was not able to find the back of the net in the second half. Spurs, who were effective in their gameplan, came from behind to equalize through their forward Lucas Moura in the 70th minute.
Jurgen Klopp made a couple of substitutions in the hope of finding a late winner in the game. Fabinho and Divock Origi gave the much-needed energy, taking the game to opponent’s half and cause trouble to Spurs defense. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s early corner was cleared by Toby Alderweireld and Andy Robertson passed the ball to the English full-back again.
The 20-year-old found Mohamed Salah in the far post who took a gamble by heading the ball towards goal. Thankfully, Hugo Lloris’ mishandling deflected off Toby Alderweireld to divert it to the net and hand over the lead to Liverpool in the injury time.
Mohamed Salah, who had a glaring chance in the second half could not divert it and beat the Spurs goalkeeper. With that game, the Egyptian has failed to score in last seven Premier League games, but Jurgen Klopp is not concerned about his ongoing goal drought.
Speaking in the pre-match press conference, the German International said Klopp: “It was an own goal but it was Mo’s header which forced it. It felt like it was his goal. That Mo was in that situation was off the training ground with a cross from the second ball. I was really pleased when I watched it back.”
“People talk about how many games he hasn’t scored in but he doesn’t seem bothered. It’s about work rate, doing it again and again, and one day the ball will bounce in your direction. We have 79pts – you can’t have that if you have major problems in a season.” added Klopp.
Since the turn of the New year, Salah has found the back of the net four times in the Premier League alone. The 26-year-old has hit back at criticism by quoting that he is just two behind the leading scorer Sergio Aguero in the top scorer’s list this campaign.
The Reds received a huge boost with the fitness of Virgil Van Dijk. The defender has been passed fit for the game against Southampton after picking up an ankle injury on Sunday.
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Liverpool will face off Southampton in the Premier League at St.Marys Stadium on Friday as they tussle out for the Premier League title.
