Liverpool 'fear losing Salah, Mane to AFCON a week earlier than planned'

Liverpool are reportedly fearful of losing Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane to Africa Cup of Nations commitments a week earlier than planned.

The two attackers are set to represent Egypt and Senegal respectively at the continental tournament, which is scheduled to begin on January 9.

However, the FIFA Club World Cup is due to commence on February 3 - when the AFCON will still be going on - which has supposedly led to Egyptian side Al Ahly requesting a date change.

According to The Mirror, Al Ahly are hopeful of seeing the AFCON begin a week earlier on January 3 in order to welcome their African stars back in ample time for the Club World Cup.

As a result, Mane and Salah could be at risk of missing the crunch clash with Chelsea on January 2, although Egypt are still undecided over whether to let the latter play anyway.

The Reds would not be the only club at a disadvantage, as Arsenal could lose Thomas Partey and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before their New Year's Day clash with Manchester City.