Chris Sutton: Salah Among Premier League All-Time Greats, Contract Talks Key | OneFootball

Mohamed Salah: Among the Premier League’s Greatest?

In the pantheon of Premier League legends, the debate over who ranks among the greatest is always lively. Chris Sutton, speaking to Instant Withdrawal Casino, has added his voice to the conversation, firmly placing Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah among the best to ever grace the league. Following Salah’s standout performance against Ipswich Town, Sutton’s praise highlights the Egyptian winger’s consistent excellence and enduring influence at Anfield.

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Salah’s Phenomenal Impact at Liverpool

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has been nothing short of spectacular. His goal-scoring prowess, combined with his ability to deliver in crucial moments, has made him an indispensable part of Liverpool’s success in recent years. As Chris Sutton noted, “Mohamed Salah would have to be near the top when talking about the all-time greatest players in the Premier League.” This is no small compliment, considering the calibre of players who have defined the Premier League over the past three decades.

Salah’s contribution to Liverpool’s recent history is undeniable. With every season, he has consistently delivered double-digit goals, often topping the charts and breaking records. His performance against Ipswich was a reminder of what he brings to the table—sharpness, motivation, and a seemingly endless ability to create and finish chances. Sutton’s observation that “he looked sharp, motivated and ready in that game against Ipswich” underscores the point that despite changes, including a new hairstyle, Salah remains the same lethal forward Liverpool fans have come to rely on.

Prioritising Contract Renewals Over New Signings

While much of the focus during transfer windows is often on new arrivals, Chris Sutton has pointed out that Liverpool’s immediate concerns might be closer to home. With key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk nearing the end of their contracts, ensuring they remain at Anfield should be a priority.

“Everyone’s talking about the number six position and strengthening there, but there are other issues that Liverpool have got such as trying to tie down Trent Alexander-Arnold,” Sutton said. The emphasis on retaining these foundational players is a valid concern. Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk have been cornerstones of Liverpool’s success, and their departure would undoubtedly leave significant gaps in the squad.

Sutton’s view that “Liverpool’s squad in forward areas have serious strength in depth” contrasts sharply with his concerns about central defensive midfield, where he notes a lack of depth. This observation brings to light a challenge that new manager Arne Slot must navigate—strengthening weak spots without disrupting the harmony of a squad that, in many areas, is already robust.

Slot’s Tactical Shift: A Departure from Klopp’s Intensity

Liverpool’s transition from Jürgen Klopp to Arne Slot marks a shift not just in management but also in playing style. Sutton highlighted this change, observing that Slot’s approach is less about the “blood and thunder” of Klopp’s high-intensity gegenpressing and more focused on possession-based football. This evolution could signal a new era for Liverpool, one where the team adapts to different styles of play while still maintaining their competitive edge.

Reflecting on Liverpool’s opening-day victory against Ipswich, Sutton noted, “They seem to want to be more possession-based, and I thought it was a good win for them over the weekend.” This change in approach may take some time to fully integrate, but the early signs suggest that Slot’s tactics could provide Liverpool with a fresh dimension to their play.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Chris Sutton’s comments resonate on multiple levels. The recognition of Mohamed Salah as one of the Premier League’s greatest players is something that many Liverpool fans have long believed. His consistent performances, not just in terms of goals but also in crucial matches, have solidified his status as a modern-day legend at Anfield. The fact that he continues to deliver, even as the team undergoes managerial and tactical changes, is a testament to his professionalism and quality.

However, there’s also a sense of urgency surrounding the contract situations of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk. These are players who have defined Liverpool’s recent success, and the thought of losing them to clubs like Real Madrid is unsettling. Fans will be hoping that the club’s management prioritises securing their futures at Anfield, ensuring that Liverpool’s core remains intact.

The transition to Arne Slot’s more possession-based style is intriguing. While Klopp’s intense pressing game brought unprecedented success, it’s understandable that a new approach could be necessary to keep the team evolving. The challenge will be maintaining the effectiveness of Liverpool’s attack while integrating a more controlled style of play. Early results, like the win against Ipswich, offer cautious optimism, but fans will be keenly watching how this new approach develops over the season.

In conclusion, while the road ahead may have its challenges, the combination of Salah’s brilliance, the potential contract renewals of key players, and the tactical shift under Slot could set Liverpool up for another successful era.