Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool returned to winning ways in the Premier League this weekend with a 2-0 victory over Brighton at Anfield. The win was crucial as the Merseysiders look to climb back up the table after a patchy run of results. Brighton, who have been a tricky side this season, had already shown they can challenge the big teams. Yet, it only took Liverpool 46 seconds to take the lead, when Hugo Ekitike pounced on a defensive mistake to open the scoring.
The game had more talking points than just the early goal. Liverpool had struggled to score in their last few league matches, making this a much-needed confidence boost. Brighton responded with some threatening moments, especially through Yankuba Minteh and Diego Gomez, but Liverpool’s defense held firm. The introduction of Mohamed Salah midway through the first half added an immediate spark. Fans had been waiting to see how the Egyptian superstar would respond after recent controversy over his absence from the midweek trip to Inter Milan and his outburst against Leeds. His presence on the pitch clearly lifted the team’s intensity and attacking threat.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot later spoke about Salah’s contribution. He highlighted how quickly the forward adapted to the game after coming on: “He was a threat. I think the first touch was almost an assist for Mac Allister. He was constantly involved in the threat we had. It was pleasing to see but also not a surprise because he’s done that many times in a Liverpool shirt.” Slot also addressed the decision to include Salah in the squad despite recent issues: “It was an easy decision to put him in the squad. I’ve said many times before what’s said between the two of us, for me that stays between the two of us. He was back in the squad and we needed him, he assisted the 2-0 from a corner which is also very nice because we have been so so so many times this season on the wrong side of the set-piece battle.”
Salah’s energy was clear on the pitch. His corner set up Ekitiké for the second goal, cementing the win and giving Liverpool a boost in the league table. While he didn’t score himself, his impact was undeniable. Slot’s comments reflect not only satisfaction with the result but also recognition of Salah’s ability to influence games instantly, reinforcing why he remains a key figure for Liverpool as the season progresses.
Read more: What Mohamed Salah did after he was asked for an interview after Brighton win
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