Liverpool star Mohamed Salah sends traditional Christmas message ahead of South Africa clash

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Liverpool Echo IconSportFootballMohamed SalahThe Liverpool star is currently away with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations but hasn’t passed up the chance to keep a Christmas tradition aliveMohamed Salah has taken to social media to maintain his traditional Christmas ritual, sharing a festive photo. Despite his Muslim faith, Salah has made it an annual traditional to share a Christmas tree photograph and message.This year, the Egyptian star shared a photo of his daughters, Makka, 11, and Kayan, five, sitting beside a Christmas tree decorated with baubles and a large red ribbon.

He captioned the post with a simple heart emoji and the hashtag #MerryChristmas.One follower said: "Been waiting for this all day," while another added: "I mean it's tradition at this point." A third remarked: "It's like waiting for the Home Alone movie every year, The Salah Tree."READ MORE: Ibrahima Konate contract decision nears as Liverpool consider January transfer optionSalah's Liverpool former teammate Dejan Lovren also commented with two love heart and prayer emojis.Content cannot be displayed without consentMany praised Salah for promoting goodwill and encouraging unity across religious divides.The 33-year-old is currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.In Egypt's AFCON opener against Zimbabwe, Salah scored a dramatic last‑minute winner as his side came from 1–0 down to seal a 2–1 victory.Egypt remain the most successful nation in AFCON history with seven titles, but they haven't lifted the trophy since 2010 - a year before Salah broke into the national team.Back at Liverpool, he had only recently returned to Arne Slot's starting XI after publicly voicing his frustration over being dropped to the bench for three games.Salah alleged he had been 'thrown under the bus,' accusing the club of breaking promises made when he signed his new contract last April.He suggested someone within Liverpool wanted him out, and claiming his relationship with Slot had completely deteriorated.After a series of lengthy discussions, Salah was restored to the lineup and registered an assist in Liverpool a 2–0 win over Brighton on December 13 before leaving for AFCON.Egypt are next in action on Boxing Day against South Africa.