‘Massive’ Salah blow to be softened by two Liverpool stars – pundit
Paul Robinson has insisted Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane’s involvement in the African Cup of Nations is “a massive blow” for Liverpool.
However, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Premier League goalkeeper said the imminent return of Roberto Firmino and Takumi Minamino will help soften the blow.
Salah and Mane jetted off to the AFCON after the 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.
Firmino, Minamino and Divock Origi were all absent at Stamford Bridge as fears grew over a forward crisis on Merseyside.
As reported by the Mirror (31 December), Minamino has missed the last two games with “minor muscle soreness” but is in contention to return against Shrewsbury Town on Sunday.
Firmino’s absence was due to Covid so the Brazilian is also set to return this weekend after isolating.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of the latest, Robinson said: “Minamino and Firmino will come back in soon so the manager will not be too worried.
“Look, it’s a massive, massive blow for Liverpool, losing Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, especially when they are 11 points off Manchester City.
“They have lost their two best players arguably, and [Naby] Keita. That squad is already struggling with injuries and Covid.
“The only slight plus is that Minamino and Firmino should be back. At least they will be at Klopp’s disposal.
“It’s important to remember that this is not a situation that has crept up on Liverpool though. I’m sure Klopp will be prepared for it.”
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