Jurgen Klopp believes Mohamed Salah 'is an even better person than he is a player' after the Liverpool forward scooped the Sporting Inspiration prize at the Laureus World Sports awards.
The prize is given to an organisation or athlete who uses their platform to make a positive contribution for the good of society.
Salah, who scored 23 goals in all competitions last season to help Liverpool win their first league title for 30-years, is renowned for his generosity towards those less fortunate.
One example of Salah’s generosity came last year when he gave an oxygen supply to his hometown hospital in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
The 28-year-old’s endeavours saw him receive the award during a virtual ceremony in Seville.
“When you think about Mo Salah you think, first and foremost, about an outstanding football player, a great goalscorer, super technician and a good-looking guy probably,” Klopp said.
“What you don't see and what you don't know – maybe if you are not too much in detail – is what kind of a good person he is.
“And if I tell you he's an even better person than he is a player, then you might be able to imagine what kind of guy he is.
“So, Mo, to you – well-deserved and congratulations. It's a big one, another big one for you, an individual one.
“I know without other people usually in sport that doesn't work, you cannot win individual awards. In this case, it's your award alone. Congratulations again, well-deserved.”
While the Reds forward said: "I’m very proud to have been chosen by the Laureus Academy for this Sporting Inspiration Award.
"2020 was a very difficult year, on so many levels and for so many people around the world. Some of us were kept away from our family and friends, and others even lost loved ones.
"We need to learn from this experience, support one another, and do our best to look ahead.
"Many times, football players win awards and automatically thank our fans. This time, I will dedicate this award not only to our fans but to all the other sports fans around the world.
"This past year has been a very harsh reminder of the fact that sport, including football, is nothing without fans.
"Everyone in the world of sport can be replaced, fans cannot. I will end on that note. Once again, thank you very much."
