In Video: “We will probably see the same for Van Dijk” | Jamie Carragher on Mo Salah's contract
Liverpool’s Salad Deal: Mo Salah Signs Contract Extension as League Title Nears
It’s been a relief-filled day for Liverpool fans as Mo Salah finally put pen to paper on a contract extension, all but ensuring the Reds will win the Premier League title. But what impact does this news have on the team, and what can we expect from their match against West Ham today?
According to Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, the overriding emotion amongst Liverpool fans is relief. "I think watching the Arsenal game last night, I think most Liverpool supporters feel that they’re going to win the league, but they almost just want to confirm it as quickly as possible," he said.
The Salah contract saga has been a long and winding road, but it’s finally done. And according to Carragher, this news is likely to have a bigger impact on future Liverpool players than those who are already at the club. "It’s always helpful to say Mo Salah at the club next season, so I think not just the players inside the club, more the players that Liverpool will maybe acquire in the summer."
But what about Virgil van Dijk’s contract situation? There’s been no news yet, but Carragher thinks we might see something next week. "Maybe not trying to do two players on one day and maybe steal a little bit of the thunder of either of the players."
The Hammers have a dreadful record at Anfield, and Carragher thinks they’ll be looking to spoil the party. "West Ham are like one of those teams that’s almost got nothing to play for, but the manager won’t be saying that before the game and he’ll want to come here and try and spoil what Liverpool fans might be thinking, a little party."
Liverpool will be looking to score plenty of goals, particularly after their 5-1 thrashing of West Ham earlier this season. "They’d love to do that today, wouldn’t they?" said Carragher. And Mo Salah will be looking to make it a memorable day with a hat-trick or two.
But before the match, there’s the emotional tribute to the 96 fans who lost their lives in the Hillsborough disaster. It’s a huge part of Liverpool’s history, and Carragher thinks it will inspire the players. "Any player coming to this club will know about it, and it’s not just about the trophies, it’s a lot more to it than that."
So, can Liverpool nail down the title today? Carragher thinks they’re favorites, but you can never count on certainty in the Premier League. "It’s not nailed on, but Liverpool at home at Anfield playing West Ham, you’re expecting to win, but they’ve still got to do the business."