Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas believes Mohamed Salah's absence will impact Liverpool's title race.

The Reds are top of the Premier League, but have Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Aston Villa on their heels.

Fabregas believes that Salah being at the African Cup of Nations, even if it is only for a few league games, will hurt the Reds.

Fabregas told the Planet Premier League Podcast: "I don't really know [cope without Salah]. I can't really remember a game without seeing Salah in the starting XI, seriously. The last one I can remember was against Barcelona when they had to do their miracle and they did.

"Sometimes I was talking with a physio and a friend of mine, even when Sadio (Mane) was there and Firmino were there. It felt like every single game of the season they (Mane, Firmino and Salah) were playing. I was like 'how is that even possible'? There is the Carabao Cup, they are in; the FA Cup, they are in.

“I just think they keep playing and playing and playing, which is unbelievable. It shows how fit they are. I am sure it show the methodology of training, it's completely right for the way they want to play. I have always admired that about Mo.

“He's a very special talent. I played with him at Chelsea for six months. He is a top guy as well and has a good mentality. I am happy for him. as he is a very, very hard worker. He believed in his talent, went away and found his way. Now he is showing everyone how good he is."