Comeback Call: Owen Urges Salah to Rescue Liverpool After Leeds Draw
2 January 2026
Liverpool Need Salah Back in Form
Liverpool legend Michael Owen has urged Mohamed Salah to return strongly to the first XI as soon as his duties with Egypt finish this month, after a goalless draw with Leeds United at Anfield in the Premier League's 19th round early in the new year. Salah remains with Egypt for AFCON duty this month, delaying his return to the Reds.
Owen’s Take After the Leeds Draw
Liverpool clearly felt Salah's absence, as the attack lacked the edge in a flat display against Leeds.
Owen spoke about Salah's role on SuperSport, making his stance clear after the match. He said, “People who say Mohamed Salah should be rested or sold… this is Liverpool without Mohamed Salah. He makes the difference; even when he's not at his best, he can score. We will forgive you for everything. Come back to us, Mo Salah.”
He also stressed that Liverpool miss a player of Salah's value, noting that in tight matches the team needs inspiration. While he praised a right-back for his efforts on the right flank against Leeds, he added that a defender cannot provide the same threat or presence Salah offers.
“I told Steve McManaman before the game that I like Liverpool's balance, but I don't really see many scorers,” Owen said. “Usually you see Salah, and others around him, so you expect goals. Look at this team today—Firmino is struggling to score, and a right-back is playing in Salah's position!”
End of article—and a couple of light snipes: Punchline 1: If Salah stays away much longer, the Kop will need a GPS to locate the goal. Punchline 2: When Salah returns, even the net will smile a little brighter.
