Egypt coach Hossam Hassan has expressed his respect for Mohamed Salah’s decision to sit out their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Mauritania.
The Liverpool star’s absence comes amid concerns from the club regarding the risks of injuries on the artificial pitch.
Following a meeting last week, it was agreed that Salah would not participate in the match in Nouakchott, especially after concerns about the condition of the turf were raised, along with apprehensions about the expected aggressive defending from their opponents.
Hassan described the Mauritanian defence as “violent.”
Egypt successfully secured qualification for the next AFCON on Tuesday night, achieving a 1-0 victory at Stade Cheikha Ould Boidiya.
After the match, Hassan revealed that Liverpool had communicated their worries about the potential for injury to Salah prior to the game.
Some Egyptian media outlets dubbed the match “artificial hell” after Ibrahim Adel’s late goal clinched the win for Egypt.
Liverpool officials had expressed concerns over their six-goal top scorer participating on a potentially hazardous pitch, especially with a busy schedule of important fixtures looming.
“I respected Salah’s wish because the medical staff at Liverpool were concerned about the possibility of his back and knee injuries recurring due to the artificial turf on the pitch,” Hossam Hassan said after the game.
“I prioritised Salah’s health and didn’t want to risk him, especially in these key qualifiers.
“I must support players and collaborate with their clubs to ensure their long-term fitness.
“Whether we win or lose, criticism comes.
“However, I respect constructive feedback from the media.
“I thank the Mauritanian fans for their presence and all my players players for their efforts despite challenging weather and playing on artificial turf.
“It was not easy for us as some players never played on such turf but we will improve in terms of performance and results in the future.”
Mohamed Salah will participate in Liverpool’s training sessions this week as the team prepares for Chelsea’s visit on Sunday afternoon.
Following the match against Chelsea, the Reds will travel to RB Leipzig for a Champions League clash on Wednesday of next week.
They will then face a significant top-of-the-table Premier League showdown against Arsenal on Sunday, October 27.
Read more: Thomas Tuchel named England manager
Arne Slot accused of directly influencing Virgil van Dijk’s early return to Liverpool
Manchester United looking to part ways with Antony in January
