Anfield Index
·24 November 2024
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·24 November 2024
Son Heung-min Praises Mohamed Salah as Premier League’s Best
Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min has delivered high praise for Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, branding him the best player in the Premier League. Speaking alongside teammate Ben Davies, Son’s glowing words highlight the enduring impact of Salah on English football.
The Egyptian forward has been in scintillating form this season, contributing significantly to Liverpool’s current status at the summit of the Premier League under Arne Slot. With eight goals and six assists in just 11 league appearances, Salah continues to demonstrate his value, even amid ongoing discussions about his future at Anfield.
Son Heung-min’s admiration for Salah is not surprising. During an interview, the South Korean said, “I’m a big fan of him, it’s unbelievable what he does. We speak a lot about the players, there is a lot of good players but for many years, Salah has been very very consistent.”
Consistency is arguably Salah’s greatest trait. Season after season, he delivers, as evidenced by his remarkable record last term of 25 goals across all competitions. His Premier League tally of 18 goals and 10 assists in 2023/24 further underscores his reliability and game-changing ability.
Such performances have helped Liverpool maintain their high standards despite losing Jürgen Klopp earlier this year. Under Slot, the Reds have rebuilt with Salah leading the charge, further proving his indispensable role in Liverpool’s system.
Photo: IMAGO
Son’s words also reflect the mutual respect among top players in the Premier League. That Salah remains a benchmark for excellence in a league brimming with talent is a testament to his enduring quality. From breaking goal-scoring records to consistently challenging for top honours, Salah has cemented his place as one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.
Despite this, there are questions over his future. With Salah now 32, Liverpool face critical decisions regarding his contract. His importance to the team cannot be overstated, and retaining him could be pivotal to sustaining their success in the years ahead.
While Salah’s on-field performances are widely acknowledged, his omission from both the Ballon d’Or and African Footballer of the Year shortlists has raised eyebrows. Many feel such recognition is long overdue for a player of Salah’s calibre. His impact at Liverpool, coupled with his influence as one of Africa’s greatest-ever footballers, makes this omission even more baffling.
The debate over individual honours often reflects broader issues in football. However, Salah’s focus remains on contributing to Liverpool’s ambitions. With leaders like Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold also facing contract renewals, the coming months could be decisive for the club’s future trajectory.
Photo: IMAGO
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool’s approach has evolved, and Salah has adapted seamlessly. His ability to score, create, and inspire has been instrumental in Liverpool’s early-season success. Son Heung-min’s comments serve as a timely reminder of Salah’s stature, not just in the Premier League but in global football.
Despite competition from emerging stars like Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Salah remains a class apart. As Liverpool aim to secure silverware this season, Salah’s consistency and leadership will undoubtedly be key to their ambitions.
As Liverpool fans, hearing Son Heung-min’s praise for Salah is heartening. It’s a clear reminder of the respect our talisman commands across the footballing world. Salah’s ability to stay consistent year after year, even as players around him evolve, is something few can replicate.
Son’s admission that Salah is the best in the league resonates strongly. While rivals boast of young talents and big-money signings, Salah quietly delivers. His contributions go beyond numbers—his leadership, experience, and knack for turning games around make him irreplaceable.
However, concerns over his future linger. Salah’s contract situation feels like an ever-present cloud. As fans, we know the importance of securing his services for years to come. Players like Salah don’t come around often, and allowing him to leave would be a mistake.
While individual accolades have eluded him, we know what he means to Liverpool. If he can guide us to another Premier League title this season, it will only further cement his legacy as one of the greatest to ever wear the red shirt.