A Liverpool pundit was barred from LFC TV discussions following disrespectful remarks about Mo Salah yesterday.

The football world is often divided when it comes to assessing the true greatness of a player, and Mohamed Salah is no exception. Despite his staggering statistics and consistent performances for Liverpool, some, like former Liverpool defender Gary Gillespie, still question whether Salah truly belongs in the upper echelons of world-class footballers.

In a recent interview on LFCTV, Gillespie remarked, “We often refer to Mohamed Salah as a world-class footballer, but is he really world-class? I’m not so sure. However, his stats tell a different story because they are simply outstanding.” This statement, filled with contradiction, perfectly encapsulates the ongoing debate surrounding Salah’s status in the footballing world. On one hand, Gillespie questions Salah’s inclusion among the elite; on the other, he can’t deny the forward’s exceptional numbers.

This skepticism about Salah’s place among the world’s best is puzzling, especially when you consider his incredible achievements since joining Liverpool in 2017. With over 300 goal involvements in just 350 appearances for the club, Salah’s impact on the pitch has been nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to consistently find the back of the net and create opportunities for his teammates has been crucial to Liverpool’s success, including their Premier League and Champions League triumphs.

Yet, despite these achievements, Salah’s status is still questioned. This could stem from a variety of reasons. Perhaps it’s the high standards that are often set for players deemed “world-class,” or maybe it’s the constant comparisons to other top talents in Europe, like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, or even Kylian Mbappé. These comparisons, while inevitable, often overlook the unique qualities that make Salah an exceptional player in his own right.

To understand why some still doubt Salah’s world-class status, it’s important to examine what “world-class” truly means. Is it purely about natural talent, or does it also involve the ability to perform at the highest level consistently over time? If it’s the latter, then Salah’s case becomes even stronger. Not only does he possess incredible skill and athleticism, but he also maintains a level of consistency that few can match. Season after season, Salah has been one of the top performers in the Premier League, a league widely regarded as the most competitive in the world.

Moreover, Salah has delivered on the biggest stages. Whether it’s scoring in the Champions League final or breaking Premier League records, he has consistently shown up when it matters most. This ability to rise to the occasion is a hallmark of any world-class player, and Salah has done it time and again.

It’s also worth noting that Salah’s contributions go beyond just his goal tally. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to create chances for others make him a complete forward. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a player who can change the course of a game in various ways. This versatility is another reason why he should be considered among the elite.

Yet, for some, there remains an undercurrent of doubt. Perhaps it’s because Salah’s journey to the top wasn’t as straightforward as that of other stars. Unlike Messi or Ronaldo, who were hailed as future greats from a young age, Salah had to work his way up, facing setbacks and doubts along the way. His failed stint at Chelsea, followed by his rise at Roma and subsequent move to Liverpool, paints a picture of a player who has had to prove himself at every step. This unconventional path might lead some to underestimate his achievements.

But as the numbers continue to stack up, it becomes harder and harder to deny Salah’s greatness. At 32, he’s still performing at an elite level, defying the usual decline that comes with age. His longevity and sustained excellence further bolster his case as one of the world’s best.

In conclusion, while some may continue to debate whether Mohamed Salah is truly “world-class,” the evidence in his favor is overwhelming. His record, both in terms of goals and overall contributions to Liverpool’s success, speaks for itself. Salah has consistently proven himself against the best, and his place among football’s elite is well-deserved. Whether or not everyone chooses to recognize it, Salah’s legacy as one of the Premier League’s greatest players is already secure.