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The former Watford striker does not consider Mohamed Salah a world class player, especially compared to Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney has stirred debate by suggesting Liverpool star Mohamed Salah is not a world-class player, despite the Egyptian's record-breaking achievements for The Reds.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Deeney expressed his preference for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior over Salah, questioning the criteria for labelling players as "world-class."
Deeney calls Vinícius a better role model for aspiring forwards
Deeney acknowledged Salah’s incredible impact at Liverpool, where the forward has amassed 221 goals and 99 assists in 366 appearances since 2017.
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Yet, the former Watford captain argued that Salah falls short of being truly world-class, particularly when it comes to serving as a model for young players.
“My argument has always been that I just don't think he's world-class," Deeney said, adding, “But world-class is just a different opinion, what I think of world-class is would I want my kids to play like that player? That's what I think is world-class.
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“If I was asking my kids who want to be forwards, I would be saying I would like them to look at what Vinicius Jr does as opposed to Mohamed Salah.”
Salah’s future and legacy in question
Deeney’s comments sparked reactions, especially given Salah’s illustrious career, which includes a Premier League title, a Champions League triumph, and recognition as one of the top scorers in Premier League history.
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Salah currently ranks ninth on the league's all-time scoring list, with 163 goals for Liverpool and an additional two during his stint at Chelsea.
Salah's contributions to Liverpool have placed him among the club’s greatest players, with only Ian Rush (339) and Roger Hunt (263) having scored more goals in its 132-year history.
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This season, Salah has continued his remarkable form, netting 10 goals in 17 appearances under manager Arne Slot.
Yet, the ongoing speculation about his future at Liverpool amidst his contract delays and critiques like Deeney’s highlight the challenges of maintaining a legacy in football.
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