Salah and Gervinho played together at Roma during the 2015-16 season, during which they finished third in Serie A.
It’s amazing to think that there was a time not long ago when Mohamed Salah could have been considered a flop.
At Chelsea, the Egyptian was seldom utilised and made just 19 appearances in all competitions during the two years that he was on the Blues’ books.
Salah’s subsequent spells in Italy, on loan at Fiorentina and Roma before signing permanently for the latter, saw the forward regain form and confidence.
And despite some initial scepticism from some quarters upon signing for Liverpool, Salah has elevated himself to world-class status with breathtaking performances and a superb goal return.
Now, one of Salah’s former club teammates has opened up on the 26-year-old’s talents and workrate, describing the latter as that of a “madman”.
Gervinho played alongside Salah at Roma during the 2015-16 season, during which the Giallorossi finished a very creditable third in Serie A.
The Ivory Coast international, once of Arsenal, spoke about his former colleague in an interview with The Guardian.
“Salah is a tough guy,” said Gervinho, now playing for Parma in the Italian top flight. “Always calm and strong, with the mentality of a hard worker.
“I’ll never forget his training sessions: very high rhythm, pushed like a madman, you watched him in amazement. He had a sort of positive effect – you saw Salah and wanted to work harder. Talent and sacrifice.”
Salah, in line to start against Watford in the Premier League on Saturday, has eight goals and four assists from 17 games in all competitions this term.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
