Salah out of Egypt game because of artificial turf

Mohamed Salah has been left out of Egypt's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan due to the match being played on artificial turf. The 34-year-old, who now plays for Turkish club Trabzonspor, did not join the squad for the game in Juba. Salah started in Friday's goalless draw against Angola but was substituted by coach Hossam Hassan after an hour.

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) cited the playing surface as the reason for Salah's omission, stating that the technical staff decided to rest him for the South Sudan match scheduled for September 29th. The decision was made in consultation with Salah, prioritizing his well-being. Despite the perception of increased injury risk on artificial turf, studies have shown no definitive evidence of higher injury rates.

Salah left Liverpool at the end of last season after a nine-year career with the club, where he made 442 appearances and scored 257 goals, winning nine major trophies. In his six appearances for Trabzonspor this season, he has netted seven goals and provided two assists.