'Mo Salah willing to cheat just like Cristiano Ronaldo': Former Chelsea star slams Egyptian for diving antics

What's the story?

Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino has slammed Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah for his diving antics during the games leading up to the Reds' victory over Crystal Palace over the weekend.

In case you didn't know...

Mo Salah has had a remarkable journey in the Premier League. The Egyptian went from being a Chelsea reject to winning the Premier League Golden Boot in his debut season with Liverpool and being nominated for numerous individual awards.

The 26-year-old forward scored his 50th Premier League goal last Saturday, helping his side overcome a half-time deficit and register a crucial win over Crystal Palace.

In recent weeks, however, Salah has made the headlines for reasons other than his goal-scoring abilities. Pundits like Garth Crooks, Richard Keys and Andy Gray have all come out to slam the Liverpool favourite for his recent diving theatrics during games.

The Egyptian has been involved in a number of incidents inside the box in the last month alone, with deserved penalties against Arsenal and Brighton but controversial moves against Newcastle United and Crystal Palace.

The heart of the matter

Cascarino joins an increasing line of people who are slamming the Egyptian forward for diving, even comparing Salah's cheating to that of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Writing in his Times column, the former Chelsea man said, "He has crossed the line when it comes to his diving. There have been a few contentious incidents with Salah winning penalties this season but on Saturday, in Liverpool's win against Palace, he blatantly dived in the penalty area."

"It seems as though there is an added ruthlessness in his game, which is why he is crossing into doing whatever it takes to win games."

"Perhaps it stems from the pressure that Liverpool players potentially feel in terms of winning a trophy this season and if so, Salah certainly won't be the first star name willing to cheat to gain an advantage. Cristiano Ronaldo's willingness to go to ground easily in the area only increased as his career progressed."

What's next?

Despite the controversy, Salah remains one of Liverpool's most important players, whose goals, together with that of Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have helped the club to the top of the table.