Egyptian fans hail Salah after player of year win

Egyptian soccer star Mohamed Salah bagged the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year award on Sunday, having netted 31 goals in 33 English Premier League appearances during the 2017/18 season so far.

The Liverpool forward has also become an iconic figure in his home country, after helping the Egyptian national team qualify for the upcoming Russia World Cup.

On Sunday night, Egyptian fans gathered to follow the live broadcast of the glitzy London ceremony and were delighted to see their hero land the coveted award in one of soccer’s most competitive leagues.

“I am very optimistic now that we can do well in the upcoming World Cup. Mo Salah is equal to half the man power of the Egyptian National Team. Without him the team is not strong. He’s a star that will make a big difference with any team in the world, not just Egypt,” said one fan.

The 25-year-old Salah becomes the first Egyptian and only the second African to win the accolade, filling his countrymen with a sense of pride and excitement.

“As an Egyptian I am very proud that a fellow citizen won. Mohamed Salah is the best player in the Premier League and before that in Africa. Salah has truly become an icon for Egyptians and for Arab youth and not just for football players. He’s a role model in a time when we need one,” said another fan.

Some also believe Salah’s victory is also a major boost for the image of Muslims around the world, with the player now firmly being a fan’s favorite in Liverpool after joining from Italian side Roma last summer.

“This is one of the most beautiful days in my life. I am proud to be an Egyptian. Mohamed Salah’s victory is an honor to Egyptians and Arabs. Mohamed Salah has given a value to all of us. He improved the perception of Muslims in Europe. he is a great example," said a fan.