Egypt assistant boss Tito Garcia has claimed Liverpool's long season left them unable to use their star man as they wanted to in their opening game of the African Cup of Nations.
Salah featured in 52 games in all competitions for the Reds last season as they pushed for the Premier League title and won the Champions League.
He dived straight into international action as his country host the major tournament - but he had a limited impact as they beat Zimbabwe 1-0 in their opener.
Salah was utilised in a wide role but Garcia revealed they are planning to play him centrally in their second game against DR Congo on Wednesday night.
He said: "We considered using him as a striker against Zimbabwe from the game's start, but Salah was not in top form physically due to his long season with Liverpool , so he started in his regular position.
"Salah, with his great capacities, is capable of playing in any position and performing well."
Liverpool were recently warned they will need to rest Salah and Mane in the early stages of the Premier League season when they return from international duty.
“Whatever happens, Liverpool will need to start the season without Salah and Mane, as they will need a good couple of weeks to rest and recuperate,” former Arsenal and Cameroon defender Lauren said.
“Otherwise their level will drop during the season. Players will be mentally and physically exhausted and will need a few weeks to recuperate before heading into the new Premier League season.
“If they don’t get the rest, there will be a chance that their Premier League campaign will be impacted by a slow start as the players are just too tired to play.
“This could be trouble for Liverpool as both Salah and Mane will likely be involved in the latter stages of the African Cup of Nations.”
