If anyone doubts that Mohamed Salah‘s latest experience of Premier League football has been an instant love affair, take the word of the Liverpool star himself.

“I love it because the football is fast,” Salah said in an interview with Egyptian network ON Ent.

“The Italian league is a very good one but it relies more on tactics so the tempo of play is a bit slower.

“That’s why I prefer the Premier League as its rhythm is faster. I wanted to come from the first day I left.”

Salah’s first spell in England, with Chelsea, was a disappointing one as he rarely got playing time under then-Blues manager Jose Mourinho, and subsequently moved to Italy to revive his career.

“When I came back, it was a challenge, all of it was a challenge. When I was offered this chance, I was told to stay with Roma.

“They said you already had the chance in the Premier League before, it wasn’t as successful as Roma so stay there where the players love you and you are in harmony with the fans the club.

“But I saw something they couldn’t see. Thanks to God every one said I was right and I’m happy with it.”

The physicality of the Premier League was one reason people cited when suggesting Salah could struggle on his return to the league, but the Egyptian’s resilience has been an underrated aspect of his stunning season.

“Some players may kick you intentionally to scare you. You know when skillful footballers who make the difference are kicked once, they get worried or scared.

“I get kicked and overcame it and then just watch for the next one.”