Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp confirmed striker Mohamed Salah to return to the squat against Leicester City on Thursday.
Egypt team were defeated in a penalty shootout against Senegal in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final in Cameroon.
It was a dreadful final to end a largely dreadful tournament but in the end it came down to a moment of the purest drama and the great redemption of Salah’s teammate Sadio Mane. He had missed a penalty in normal time.
“Mo is now back, I spoke to him. Of course he was very disappointed, but the first thing Mo said to me was: ‘I’m ready’. He’s an experienced player to be able to overcome situations like this.” Klopp said.
“Physically, to be honest, he’s a monster. Mo will have a little recovery session today and we’ll see how he feels tomorrow, and from there I’ll make a decision.” Klopp added.
Klopp on the other hand, said Sadio Mane will not return in time after attending in the celebration of the first African championship of the Senegal team in his homeland.
“Sadio can only depart on Wednesday, so will be here on Thursday so of course he will not be involved in the game against Leicester. This championship means a lot to Sadio, to the people of Senegal and we respect that very much.” Klopp said.
“So I would never think of forcing him back anytime soon, let them enjoy this moment because they deserve it.” he added.
Liverpool restarted the holiday with an easy 3-1 victory over Cardiff City at Anfield to progress to the fifth round of the FA Cup.
In the Premier League, Klopp’s side is currently sitting on second in the table with 48 points after 22 matches, 19 points less than the top of Manchester City.
