Alan Shearer has questioned whether Mohamed Salah deserves a place in Liverpool’s starting line-up following a run of below-par performances. The former Newcastle striker suggested that manager Arne Slot may consider dropping the Egyptian after 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha impressed as a substitute against Nottingham Forest.
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'There is a question mark over Mo Salah and whether he deserves to be in the team or not. I guess we'll have to wait and see, but he hasn't been anywhere near what he has done in previous seasons.' Despite the criticism, Salah has managed seven goals and eight assists across all competitions this campaign, though his recent form has dipped.
Salah was substituted during the goalless draw with Forest, with Ngumoha replacing him for the closing stages. The youngster caught the eye, and Liverpool scored while he was on the pitch. Shearer noted: 'Rio Ngumoha does look a talent... it would be a huge call to leave out one of Liverpool's greatest ever players for a youngster that's knocking on the door.'
Slot, however, has backed Salah ahead of the West Ham fixture, stating: 'We are used to Mo scoring a lot of goals... I know in the end he always starts scoring again.' The Dutchman added that Salah’s high standards mean any dry spell attracts attention.
