Mo Salah eyes new Premier League records as Liverpool narrowly beat Wolves 2-1 in title chase | OneFootball

A record-equalling 20th championship is drawing closer as Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory against Wolves at Anfield this afternoon.

Arne Slot’s men were made to sweat by the relegation-threatened club, with a familiar face once again earning the admiration of their home supporters. It has been a while since every praise or adjective to describe Mohamed Salah has been exhausted. The Egyptian forward, who many questioned last season regarding whether he had reached his peak, is on track to have his most prolific campaign in the Premier League.

He has now been directly involved in 37 goals in 25 league games for Liverpool this season, with a total of 23 goals and 14 assists. The only other season in which he was involved in and scored more Premier League goals was his first season with Liverpool in 2017-18, when he was involved in 42 goals, scoring 32 and providing 10 assists.

Salah played a key role in the build-up to Luis Diaz eventually bundling the ball into an empty Wolves net, breaking the deadlock and ending his personal 10-game goal drought. Salah then successfully converted a penalty. With this goal, he equalled Steven Gerrard’s record of 32 successful Premier League spot kicks. Only Alan Shearer (56), Frank Lampard (43), and Harry Kane (33) have scored more from 12 yards in the history of the competition.

It was a landmark moment, one that he could celebrate with Liverpool’s passionate supporters. Only Thierry Henry at Highbury (114 goals) and Sergio Agüero at the Etihad (106 goals) have scored more goals at a single venue in the Premier League than Salah at Anfield, where he has netted 101 goals.

In a season where he has already achieved significant milestones and broken numerous records, there are two more goals that Salah can look forward to pursuing before the conclusion of this season. His remarkable accomplishments are achieved in remarkably cerebral ways, with Liverpool’s number 10 often appearing unhurried. For instance, three players, including goalkeeper Alisson, in the first half, had fewer touches than the Premier League’s Golden Boot leader. This is not an uncommon sight this season, as Salah has noticeably lacked energy and intensity on the pitch, especially when compared to Luis Diaz, who effectively takes on the responsibilities of two players.

A player must be exceptionally talented to maintain such a lack of intensity. This is reminiscent of Lionel Messi’s playing style during his later years at Barcelona, where he turned walking into an art form. Given his unmatched ability in England’s top division and possibly even in Europe, Salah has likely earned the privilege of pacing himself during matches. This approach does not seem to reduce his effectiveness on the field; it may enhance it.

However, it’s essential to understand that Salah is not disengaged. He remains actively involved, constantly moving his head from side to side, staying aware of the unfolding play and anticipating what might happen next. Although he may not be running, Salah is always cognizant of his surroundings and can identify weaknesses in the opposing defence. The truly great players develop a mental map of the game within just a few minutes on the pitch. They know precisely which spaces are available and can visualise the entire play.

Soon after the break, Salah had a goal disallowed for offside, but it was yet another example of showcasing his ability to capitalise on errors made by the Wolves backline. Diogo Jota believed he had won another penalty, but that decision was overturned. Shortly after, Matheus Cunha, who Slot had mentioned before the match could play for a top-five Premier League club, pulled one back from a long range. This season, no player has scored more goals from outside the area in the Premier League than Cunha, who has now netted five such goals.

Cunha’s effort put a disjointed Liverpool on the backfoot, but Wolves were unable to find the equaliser they craved. Liverpool managed to hold on for the win, even though they went the entire second half without registering a single shot on goal. This is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time they have done so in a Premier League match since Opta began tracking these statistics (since 2003-04). In fact, it was the first time in this period that the Reds went an entire half of football without attempting a shot in a home league match.

With a busy schedule ahead, Liverpool will be playing four Premier League matches in an 18-day span. This includes away games against Aston Villa and Manchester City, as well as a home match against Newcastle. These games could be crucial in shaping the title race. Slot felt relieved when he heard the full-time whistle, allowing his men to regroup and prepare for the upcoming challenges.

*Using Bookmaker/Affiliate links on squawka.com may earn us a commission, at no additional cost to you. 18+ only. T&Cs apply. Please gamble responsibly. For more information, visit gambleaware.org.