Liverpool's Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah (Photo: Reuters)
Liverpool's Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah expressed his delight at helping the Pharaohs reach the first World Cup since 1990, adding he is proud of this achievement.
The 25-year-old was instrumental in Egypt's reaching the tournament, having netted five goals in the qualifiers so far.
He scored twice, including one penalty kick, in Egypt's decisive 2-1 win over Congo that solidified the Pharaohs' spot at next year's event in Russia.
"It was a great, great feeling to help my country play in the World Cup after a long time," Salah told Liverpool's official website on Thursday.
"That’s something huge for us. I am very happy and very proud of it."
Liverpool to face challenges ahead
But the Egyptian player has not lost sight of coming challenges.
Salah highlighted the importance of Liverpool's anticipated clash against joint-leaders Manchester United scheduled for Saturday, noting that the Reds are looking forward to the game in order to improve their results in Premier League.
Liverpool are seventh in the League table with 12 points, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who hold 19.
"It’s a big game on Saturday, everyone in the world will watch the game. It’s a big game for us too because we have to keep fighting and improve our results, as I said. I hope we can get the win.
"We always fight in each game, but this game is a big game and can make a difference for us. We have to improve our place at the table. We have to fight and try to win the game," he added.
Salah reflected on the absence of his Senegalese teammate at Liverpool, Sadio Mane, who is set to be out of action for six weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury while playing for his home country.
Mane established himself as a Liverpool Key player since his arrival from Southampton last year.
“I texted him when he was at the national [team] and then when he came back. He told me then he was injured, so that’s bad news for everyone.
“But that’s football and anything can happen. Now we have to focus on the game and keep moving forward.”
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