Salah Sidesteps Serious Stretch, Sidelined for AFCON Group Stage Finish

Liverpool fans can breathe a sigh of relief: Mohamed Salah's AFCON injury, while unfortunate, isn't a season-ending hamstring catastrophe. While the Egyptian talisman hobbled off in the midst of the 2-2 draw with Ghana, the Pharaohs' FA confirmed a less severe posterior muscle strain.

Though out for Egypt's remaining Group B matches against Cape Verde and a potential Round of 16 clash (should they qualify), Salah's expected return coincides with the AFCON quarter-finals (February 2-3). Jurgen Klopp, initially surprised by the substitution, can now plan for a limited Salah-less stretch knowing his star winger isn't facing an extended absence.

Key Points:

• Salah diagnosed with posterior muscle strain, not a major hamstring tear.
• Out for Egypt's Group B finale and potential Round of 16 match.
• Expected return targeted for AFCON quarter-finals (February 2-3).
• Liverpool fans breathe easier despite Salah's absence for upcoming Chelsea and Arsenal clashes.

Further Considerations:

• Egypt's qualification scenario: currently second in Group B, already cannot win the group, but aim to secure second place or be one of the four best third-place finishers to advance.
• Coach Rui Vitoria still seeking to avoid relying on third-place qualification and aiming for a win against Cape Verde.
• If Egypt are eliminated, Salah could return to Liverpool by the end of January, missing the Chelsea and potentially the Arsenal game.