Palace’s Van Aanholt Says it’s His Time to Shut Down Mohamed Salah

When Crystal Palace take the pitch an Anfield on Saturday Roy Hodgson’s side will have a steely confidence of leaving with all three points. The Eagles bested Manchester City at the Etihad and will feel that they have what it takes to bring down another giant in the league.

Palace left-back Patrick van Aanholt has already gotten out in front of the game’s hype, sharing with Sky Sports his own personal mission to shut down Liverpool’s attack, especially top-scorer Mohamed Salah.

“I always want to play against the best and Salah is one of the best in the league,” Van Aanholt said.

“It’s my time to shut him down and make sure he doesn’t score or play well.”

Crystal Palace has a decent record against Liverpool. And Roy Hodgson’s presence on the touchline is a heavy, neutralizing mojo in the stadium. Klopp will have to manage the match while simultaneously warding off a dark, pervasive energy to his left.

“It’s going to be hard, especially at Anfield,” Van Aanholt added.

“We know they are going to come at us and press us. We just need to focus on our game and see what happens.

“Wins always give us a boost. To win against the champions was special.

“If we can beat Liverpool like we beat City then I’ll be very happy. As well as the front three, they have (Xherdan) Shaqiri and (Daniel) Sturridge so it’s going to be hard but we’re capable of doing it. We did it against Manchester City so why can’t we do it again?”

Van Aanholt’s confidence is worth a wary glance. His attitude is likely shared throughout the Crystal Palace team. They did beat City in Manchester. They have given Liverpool trouble in the past. But Salah will hopefully dust this dude and Liverpool can step around Palace and on to the next one.