Mohamed Salah has avoided inquiries about his muscular ailment, stating that the attention should be on those who are fit to play for Egypt against Cape Verde on Monday.
And the Liverpool forward denied that his high profile had a negative affect on his national teammates as they prepare for the crunch encounter, knowing they may be eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations at the group stage.
Salah was pulled off midway through Thursday’s 2-2 draw with Ghana, and the Egypt FA later revealed that the Reds’ 18-goal top scorer had sustained an injury that will keep him out for the next two games.
“I’d love to win it. I have won everything [with Liverpool], but not this one yet. I believe it will happen because I believe I can achieve it. Sooner or later, it will occur.
“You see, the levels here are very close; you go to every game and you have no idea who will win.” Football is thriving, with players competing at high levels across Europe. So I believe African football is improving significantly, as seen by Morocco’s performance at the World Cup (semi-finalists). All of Africa was behind them, therefore I believe things are improving significantly.
“African football is improving, as evidenced by Morocco’s semi-final performance in the World Cup. The level of competition is close, and it’s difficult to predict who will win a game. Despite criticism, I believe African football is improving.”
Salah continued, “I hear the criticism [of Egypt]. When we lose a match, people are really critical. I believe in both my team and the players. I believe we will continue to improve on our performance.
“It is true that I am the captain, but I wish people would be more flexible and recognise that players are giving their all, even if the outcome differs from what is expected.
“I want supporters to rally behind the team. Football isn’t easy. We have some first-time competition participants. The pressure is not on the supporters, but on us as players. We are open to criticism. However, as pros, we understand what is expected on the field. I value everyone’s opinions. I do my best, but I don’t consider what others are saying on social media.
“I don’t believe my presence adds any extra strain on the players. It is not required to play alongside Mohamed Salah. Any player can be removed, and the others will increase their open performance, but this does not imply that the person has harmed the performance of other players. I believe we are a team, and that is all I have to say about your question.
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