the Premier League’s top scorer backs Slot’s bold call to bench Salah

30.11.25 FT English Premier League

West Ham

0

:

Liverpool

2

Alan Shearer the Premier League’s all time leading goalscorer delivered frank assessment of Mohamed Salah’s situation after the Egyptian star was left on the bench for the entirety of Liverpool’s 2-0 win over West Ham.

Arne Slot opted to start new signing Alexander Isak who scored his first Premier League goal for the club.. a decision that intensified scrutiny on Salah’s recent form.

The Egyptian has faced heavy criticism from several former professionals this season following noticeable dip in performances.

Speaking on the BBC, Shearer praised Slot for making tough but justified call:

“It was big decision from Slot to leave Salah out and not bring him on at all. But when results are good, those decisions become easier.
When things don’t go well, you have to make big choices.”

He added:

“With everything Salah has done for Liverpool, he still can’t complain. He simply hasn’t delivered the level required. When that happens, you accept the manager’s decision. The choice was right for Liverpool and it helped Isak because he made the difference today.”

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

West Ham

Liverpool

English Premier League