**Mohamed Salah has rallied to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defence over the backlash he received from Liverpool fans.**
Alexander-Arnold was [audibly booed after coming on](https://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/57985-liverpool-2-2-arsenal-three-talking-points-trent-alexander-arnold-conor-bradley-luis-diaz/) during last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal due to intimating his plans to leave as a free agent this summer.
The 26-year-old is expected to leave his boyhood club for Real Madrid which has only served to intensify the frustration voiced by sections of the Anfield faithful.
But Salah, who extended his own stay last month, believes the reception for his outgoing teammate was uncalled for ahead of the Reds’ final two games of the season.
“I was surprised because it is not how we react as Liverpool fans,” Salah told Sky Sports
“We shouldn’t react this way with anyone. We always appreciate the people who came here, even if it was for six months. Imagine someone who gave his all for 20 years.
“It shouldn’t be like this and I hope it will change in the next game – Brighton or the last game of the season – because he deserves a farewell.”
He added: “He deserves the best farewell leaving the club. He has done a lot for the city and a lot for the club.
“He was probably the best homegrown player in the club’s history and he needed a new challenge. He spoke to me about it. It is his decision, for sure.
“He is 26 years old and a league title winner twice. What more could he have done? He needs to change and challenge himself.
“People do not know about it much, but he is 20 years in the club. It is so tough mentally for someone to be 20 years in a club. It is the place you love, yes.
“I love the place. But going every day to the same place, mentally you could be depressed. I really wish him the best. I will always be in contact with him.
“The fans have been harsh with him. He didn’t deserve that because he gave it all to the fans.”