Liverpool to be hit hard by AFCON
Premier League clubs up and down the country are set to be hit hard by their players departing for the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on January 9th in Cameroon.
And while Chelsea will lose Edouard Mendy and Manchester City will wave goodbye to Riyad Mahrez, it is hard to find a side that will be hit harder than Liverpool.
Both Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, as well as midfield Naby Keita, will be joining up with their respective nations in order to take part in the competition, depriving Jurgen Klopp’s side of goals, attacking verve and pace.
The loss of Salah will be particularly felt, with the Egyptian currently leading the goals and assist charts in the English top flight.
Most #FPL assists 2021/22:
10 – Mohamed Salah
8 – Trent Alexander-Arnold
7 – Gabriel Jesus, Paul Pogba & Jarrod Bowen
6 – Joao Cancelo & Emmanuel Dennis pic.twitter.com/NSzQOYOpdc— Fantasy Premier League (@OfficialFPL) December 24, 2021
But, as for the length of their absences, Liverpool have been dealt a massive boost.
Salah to stay for Chelsea clash
Now, as per journalist Rob Harris, Liverpool will be able to keep hold of their African trio for the key tie against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, due to take place on the 2nd of January.
As per latest news, the players will be allowed to remain with their clubs until the 3rd January 2022, before joining up with their respective national teams.
Exclusive: Player release for African Cup of Nations can be delayed by clubs to allow them to play up to January 3 before joining up with their national teams.
Tournament begins on January 9 in Cameroon.https://t.co/cEMrQiLXEZ
— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) December 26, 2021
With Liverpool currently 3 points off the pace set by Manchester City, and three points clear of Chelsea, this news comes as a massive relief in what is shaping up to be a must-win clash for both sides to keep their title hopes alive heading past the midway point of the season.
Will Salah ultimately make the difference?
