Egypt's Mohamed Salah, center, battles for the ball with Congo's Delvin N'Dinga, right, and Tobias Badila during the 2018 World Cup group E qualifying soccer match at the Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria, Egypt. Salah will miss Egypt's final World Cup qualifier against Ghana this month to focus on Liverpool's domestic and European campaigns. Egypt coach Hector Cuper of Argentina has instead called up Mahmoud Abdel-Razeq, better known by his nickname Sheekabala, in Salah's place. (Photo: AP)
Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp revealed that Mohamed Salah has asked Egypt coach Hector Cuper to be rested from the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Ghana next weekend.
Klopp had previously said he wished his star man could take a breather, especially after a very intense month with international duties and club games.
When asked by reporters on Friday if he talked to Cuper Klopp answered: “No, I didn’t speak to Egypt’s manager. Mo did it by himself. It was just common sense. They have already qualified for the World Cup."
The Pharaohs have already secured their qualification to the 2018 World Cup following a 2-1 win over Congo last month courtesy to a heroic brace from Salah.
The 25-year old winger has been initially included in Egypt's squad for Ghana game on 12 November in Accra but has been dropped later and replaced by Saudi-based winger Mahmoud "Shikbala" Abdel-Razeq.
“I think they had planned two games, but one got cancelled so now it’s just one game. It’s a perfect situation for Mo. He can have this little break,” Klopp added.
Salah – who is Liverpool's top scorer in all competitions with 10 goals – endured an intense start of the season as he has started 15 of the Reds 17 matches in all competitions so far and has been a permanent feature for Egypt during the World Cup qualifiers.
He is still expected to play against West Ham on Saturday before enjoying his break.
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