Alan Shearer has weighed in on the ongoing discussion regarding Mohamed Salah's performance for Liverpool after manager Arne Slot opted to substitute him during a pivotal match against Nottingham Forest. Salah, who is experiencing a goal drought in the Premier League, was replaced by teenager Rio Ngumoha, whose impressive performance helped Liverpool secure a 1-0 victory. This has raised eyebrows, particularly about Salah's current form compared to his previous seasons, where he was a consistent standout.

Despite netting seven goals and providing eight assists across all competitions this season, Shearer argues that Salah's recent contributions do not match the high standards expected at Liverpool. Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, Salah's performance has included just two goals and four assists in eight games, prompting discussions about his role in the starting eleven moving forward. The substitution has fueled speculation that he may need to be rotated out, particularly with a promising young player like Ngumoha now making an impact on the pitch.

While Salah remains a key player in Liverpool's lineup, the debate about his current state of play reflects the broader expectations of the club and the pressure placed on top players in high-stakes matches. Shearer’s critique highlights the fine balance managers must navigate between trusting established stars and recognizing when to invest in emerging talent to maintain a winning edge.