A sudden return to the squad and a 2-0 win over Brighton marked the first stage of Mohamed Salah’s rehabilitation at Liverpool.
Salah’s Re‑entry and the Brighton Win
The Egypt forward entered the match as a 26th‑minute substitute, greeted by a standing ovation from the Anfield crowd. He set up the second of Hugo Ekitike’s goals, helping Liverpool move up to sixth in the Premier League and extend their unbeaten run to five games across all competitions. The game ended 2‑0 in Liverpool’s favour.
Salah’s return followed a brief period of exclusion. He had been a substitute for the last three Premier League fixtures before being left at home for the midweek Champions League tie against Inter Milan as a punishment for comments he made to reporters the previous weekend.
“For me, there is no issue to resolve,” Liverpool manager Arne Slot said of the forward’s current situation at the club.
Slot also explained the decision to bring Salah back into the matchday squad: “It was an easy decision to put him in the squad,” he said. “I have said many times before what has been said between us will stay between us.”
The fans’ reaction was immediate. Liverpool’s supporters welcomed Salah with chants and applause when he replaced the injured Joe Gomez midway through the first half.
Liverpool’s Performance and the African Cup Outlook
Liverpool’s 1‑0 lead, courtesy of Ekitike’s early strike, was extended in the 60th minute when Salah’s corner was headed in by the same player. The Egyptian’s presence on the counterattack was evident, and the team’s confidence grew.
Salah could be away for more than a month if Egypt advances through the Africa Cup of Nations. His absence will be felt in the Premier League, but the club’s leadership appears ready to support him.
Arsenal’s Title Push and the Impact of Own‑Goals
Arsenal, who are challenging Liverpool for the title, opened a five‑point lead after a 2‑1 win over last‑placed Wolverhampton. The victory was secured by two own‑goals, the second of which came in stoppage time. Wolves’ Tolu Arokodare equalised in the 90th minute, cancelling out a 70th‑minute own‑goal by goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
Yerson Mosquera then headed the ball into his own net from Bukayo Saka’s cross, giving Arsenal the win. Saka praised the luck that helped the team: “Sometimes you need (luck) and today it went our way,” he said.
Arsenal’s performance keeps them in the hunt, but the reliance on own‑goals raises questions about consistency.
Chelsea’s Victory and Palmer’s Injury Update
Chelsea beat Everton 2‑0, with Cole Palmer scoring his first goal in three months. Palmer said after the game that he was still dealing with an injury: “It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon,” he told the BBC. “Literally, it’s just a day‑by‑day thing. Hopefully it gets better.”
The first half saw Palmer slip a finish into the near post on a pass from Malo Gusto, giving Chelsea the lead in the 21st minute. Gusto added the second goal in the 45th minute, moving the club up to fourth place.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca complained about a lack of support at the club in general, saying the last two days had been his worst time since arriving in the summer of 2024.
Wolves’ Record Losing Streak and Burnley’s Seventh Straight Loss
Wolves suffered a club‑record ninth straight defeat, leaving them with just two points from 16 games. They are on track for the fewest points ever in a Premier League season, with the current record at 11 by Derby County in 2007‑08.
They have conceded more own‑goals (three) than goals scored (two) in seven matches since the start of November.
Burnley’s 3‑2 loss to Fulham marked a seventh straight defeat. Harry Wilson set up two goals and scored the other for Fulham, which climbed to 13th place after its first win at Burnley since 1951. Burnley, promoted last season, remains in the bottom‑two and is five points from safety.
Key Takeaways
- Mohamed Salah returns to Liverpool’s squad, helping secure a 2‑0 win over Brighton.
- Arsenal’s title lead is built on two own‑goals in a 2‑1 win over Wolverhampton.
- Chelsea’s victory over Everton was powered by Cole Palmer’s first goal in three months.
- Wolves face a record losing streak, while Burnley end a seven‑game losing run.
The day’s results highlight the fluid nature of the Premier League, with key players’ availability and unexpected own‑goals shaping the race for the title and the battle for survival.
Closing Thoughts
Salah’s return at Anfield has been met with optimism from both the manager and the fans. Liverpool’s performance against Brighton suggests the team is ready to compete while Salah works on his fitness for the Africa Cup of Nations. Across the league, Arsenal’s reliance on own‑goals and Chelsea’s injury concerns add layers of intrigue to the season’s unfolding narrative.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
