Arne Slot could not understand why Daniel Munoz's goal for Crystal Palace in their 3-1 defeat at his Liverpool team was allowed to stand

Arne Slot could not understand why Daniel Munoz's goal for Crystal Palace in their 3-1 defeat at his Liverpool team was allowed to stand

Dave Portnoy has questioned John Henry's intentions with Liverpool after reacting to the fan protest over ticket prices, claiming he is ruining the club for a "couple more bucks"

22:58, 25 Apr 2026

John Henry and FSG have been called out by American businessman Dave Portnoy(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

American businessman and social media personality Dave Portnoy has called for Fenway Sports Group to sell Liverpool after reacting to Saturday's fan protest over ticket prices.

Liverpool beat Crystal Palace 3-1 at Anfield on Saturday to move fourth in the Premier League, but the win was overshadowed by Mohamed Salah's injury. The Liverpool legend felt his hamstring and appeared emotional when leaving the field, with only four games remaining until he departs the club.

However, early in the first half, Liverpool fans conducted a protest in the 13th minute after recent price increases were announced. Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan was inside the stadium at the time, and John Henry's face was printed on cards held up by supporters.

READ MORE: What Liverpool fans sang to Freddie Woodman as Arne Slot gets his wishREAD MORE: Liverpool's last four fixtures compared to Man Utd, Aston Villa and Chelsea

Thousands of fans held up yellow cards distributed around Anfield before kick-off. The cards displayed a photo of principal owner John Henry with his fingers in his ears, with the words, "Caution, Anfield’s soul is at risk."

This same message was shown on a van fitted with electronic screens outside Liverpool's training ground as head coach Arne Slot spoke to reporters on Friday. As fans held the cards up in the 13th minute, some chanted: "Enough is enough, enough is enough."

Several fan groups organized the protest, but other demonstrations are already underway. Spion Kop 1906 continued its boycott of pregame flags and banners on the Kop while You'll Never Walk Alone is sung.

Liverpool fans held up cards in protest during the 13th minute(Image: 2026 Getty Images)

Other fans have stopped purchasing concessions at Anfield, with videos surfacing on social media of some being called out for continuing to buy food and drink. Liverpool fans are known for their loyal support, but have protested over concerns about future affordability while also feeling let down by the owners.

Portnoy saw the protest on X and responded to it by calling out FSG.

"I just don’t get why a billionaire needs to get involved in legacy/historic sports franchises and ruin them and make everybody hate his guts to squeeze out a couple more bucks? Stick with commodity trading. #selltheteam," Portnoy wrote.

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The protest has stemmed from Liverpool announcing that ticket prices will increase by three percent next season. The club has also set a five percent annual cap for the next three years, bringing greater uncertainty over future pricing.

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FSG could increase prices for the next three seasons without any communication with fans, and supporters are desperate not to lose their connection to the club. Matchday revenue accounts for a considerable share of Liverpool's income, but it's approximately 16-17 percent.

Protests are expected to continue until the end of the season or until the club responds to the ongoing action. Liverpool has four games remaining, but only two at Anfield.

Liverpool faces Manchester United at Old Trafford before hosting Chelsea at Anfield. The season wraps up with a trip to Aston Villa before finishing the season at Anfield against Brentford.

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Freddie Woodman produced a superb display in his first Premier League start for Liverpool against Crystal Palace, and the Kop made sure he knew exactly what they thought of himRyan Paton Entertainment and celebrity reporter and James Findlater Content Editor

21:54, 25 Apr 2026

Freddie Woodman celebrates following Liverpool's victory over Crystal Palace(Image: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

It may have been his maiden Premier League start for Liverpool, but Freddie Woodman displayed not a hint of anxiety.

The 29-year-old began his youth career at Crystal Palace, and club legend and former England manager Gareth Southgate serves as his Godfather. Facing familiar opposition, the goalkeeper shone brightly, drawing on every bit of his near 300 career appearances.

Woodman remained composed throughout a sun-drenched afternoon in L4 and proved instrumental as the Reds stormed into a two-goal advantage before the break. Following the opening goal from Alexander Isak, overly elaborate play at the back from an otherwise impressive Curtis Jones nearly gifted the Eagles an equalizer.

READ MORE: Liverpool player ratings, winners and losers vs Crystal Palace as Jones and Woodman impressREAD MORE: Salah injury, Isak scores, controversial Palace goal - 6 talking points vs Crystal Palace

Yet Woodman kept his nerve, standing firm to deny Jean-Phillipe Mateta's effort. He was equally commanding from the ensuing corner, thwarting a goal-bound header from the French striker, reports the Liverpool Echo.

This intervention proved all the more crucial as it sparked the rapid counter-attack that culminated in Andy Robertson extending Liverpool's advantage.

An already injury-ravaged campaign threatened to worsen in the second half when Woodman went down while keeping out a shot.

Freddie Woodman stayed down as Crystal Palace scored against Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)

Anfield erupted in fury when Daniel Munoz, in thoroughly unsportsmanlike fashion, slotted the ball into the unguarded net while the keeper lay stricken, handing Palace a route back into the contest.

The injury threatened to cut short Woodman's impressive afternoon, but Liverpool supporters could breathe a sigh of relief when he signalled that he was fit to carry on.

Woodman recovered and proved vital in holding off a late Eagles fightback as the Reds ultimately ran out 3-1 winners.

In his press conference during the week, Arne Slot urged the Anfield faithful to rally behind the former England Under-21 international in what could have been an intensely pressurized situation.

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The Liverpool head coach will have been delighted as supporters made their feelings about Woodman's display abundantly clear, with the Kop regularly breaking into song in his honor.

Chants of 'England's number one' rang around the ground, along with a cheeky jibe at Jordan Pickford, as fans cleverly reworked the lyrics of a song traditionally directed at the Everton goalkeeper.

The loudest roar of the afternoon came when Woodman made his way over to the Kop at the final whistle, rightfully basking in the acclaim of the supporters after a magnificent performance.

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Liverpool's win over Crystal Palace on Saturday has taken it a step closer to securing Champions League qualification, with four games now remaining for Arne Slot's side

21:12, 25 Apr 2026

Liverpool has moved a step closer to securing Champions League qualification(Image: Getty Images)

The job is almost done for Liverpool, although with four games still to go, the Reds can’t rest on their laurels just yet.

Saturday’s 3-1 win over Crystal Palace, courtesy of goals from Alexander Isak, Andy Robertson and Florian Wirtz, has put Liverpool within six points of wrapping up qualification for next season’s Champions League, and that target may yet come down before its next game.

Arne Slot and his players of course know that a top five finish will be enough for a spot at Europe’s top table, and having moved up to fourth now, their chances of achieving that have risen even more.

READ MORE: Liverpool player ratings, winners and losers vs Crystal Palace as Jones and Woodman impressREAD MORE: Salah injury, Isak scores, controversial Palace goal - 6 talking points vs Crystal Palace

A tricky final month awaits though, and there are still plenty of teams looking to pounce on any slip-up. Here’s a look at how Liverpool’s final four fixtures compare to their rivals for the top five…

Manchester United (3rd - 58pts)

• Brentford (A) - April 27
• Liverpool (H) - May 3
• Sunderland (A) - May 9
• Nottingham Forest (H) - May 17
• Brighton (A) - May 24

United is well and truly in pole position to qualify for the Champions League, given it is yet to play this weekend and has still managed to hold on to third place in the table.

A win over Brentford on Monday will all but do the job for Michael Carrick's side. That would take it out of sight of the Bees and Chelsea, and just two points off being absolutely assured of a top-five finish.

Liverpool (4th - 58pts)

• Manchester United (A) - May 3
• Chelsea (H) - May 9
• Aston Villa (A) - May 17
• Brentford (H) - May 24

The Reds are almost there, and that win over Palace could prove crucial with a tough final month of the season coming up now.

United, Chelsea and Villa in the next three games is certainly a tricky run. As things stand, Liverpool still needs a maximum of six points to qualify for the Champions League, although moving up to fourth affords it a bit more protection now.

Liverpool is just six points away from qualifying for the Champions League

Aston Villa (5th - 58pts)

• Tottenham (H) - May 3
• Burnley (A) - May 10
• Liverpool (H) - May 17
• Man City (A) - May 24

Villa's situation is complicated by the fact that they have a Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest to add into the mix, and no doubt Unai Emery will be thinking about that as he weighs up his teams over the next few weeks.

Like Liverpool, the equation is simple - get six points and the job is done. With games against Tottenham and already-relegated Burnley up next, Villa will expect to be secure pretty soon.

Brighton (6th - 50pts)

• Newcastle (A) - May 2
• Wolves (H) - May 9
• Leeds (A) - May 17
• Manchester United (H) - May 24

Brighton leads the chasing pack at the moment, courtesy of its midweek win over Chelsea, and looking at its next three fixtures, there is every reason for the Seagulls to be feeling confident.

Of course, they will have to rely on at least one of the three sides above them dropping at least eight points over their final fixtures, but Fabian Hurzeler's side look well placed for a spot in the Europa League at least.

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Bournemouth (7th - 49pts)

• Crystal Palace (H) - May 3
• Fulham (A) - May 9
• Man City (H) - May 17
• Nottingham Forest (A) - May 24

Bournemouth missed a great opportunity to turn the heat up on the likes of Liverpool and Villa after conceding a stoppage-time equalizer against Leeds in midweek.

That might prove to be a hammer blow to its hopes of a Champions League spot, but it will hope to wrap up some kind of European place.

Chelsea (8th - 48pts)

• Nottingham Forest (H) - May 4
• Liverpool (A) - May 9
• Tottenham (H) - May 17
• Sunderland (A) - May 24

Chelsea looks as though it is out of the running now, and the Blues may just be worrying about getting any sort of European spot.

Liam Rosenior has paid the price for his side's wretched form, and if Chelsea drops any sort of points in their remaining games, then it really will be the end of its Champions League dreams.

Article continues belowBrentford (9th - 48pts)

• Manchester United (A) - April 27
• West Ham (H) - May 2
• Man City (A) - May 9
• Crystal Palace (H) - May 17
• Liverpool (A) - May 24

Although Brentford sits ninth, it actually has the highest possible tally of the sides sitting below the current top five. That is of course down to the fact that it still has to play this weekend.

United could actually do Liverpool a favor by winning Monday's game, and beyond that, trips to the Etihad and Anfield do look quite daunting for Keith Andrews' side.

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Arne Slot met with the media after a 3-1 win vs. Crystal Palace. The boss provided a Mohamed Salah injury update, discussed whether the game felt closer than the scoreline indicated with a 2-0 lead and also shared his thoughts on Daniel Munoz’s controversial goal

Wait And See

Slot and the Liverpool medical staff are taking a wait-and-see approach when it comes to Salah’s injury, but the boss also hinted it could be serious.

“We all know how hard it is for him to leave the pitch. We take him out two minutes before the end, he is still like ‘I could have scored two more,’ so that tells you something, but we have to wait and see how bad it is. "Let's hope for the best and that he is available in the last part [of the season]."

A Nervy Finish?

With the way this season has gone, Liverpool supporters at Anfield and around the world did not feel all that comfortable when Andy Robertson scored to put the Reds up 2-0. Slot shared those feelings to an extent.

“Yes and no. It became much more nervy, and I don’t think we deserved to concede that goal in that particular fashion, but otherwise Palace was much more in the game than the 2-0 lead of us showed, so it wasn’t a complete surprise to me that they could score somewhere in the second half. Because they were getting closer and closer, but yeah, the way we conceded was, of course, not as expected.” 

“I Don’t Blame Him”

Slot refused to blame Daniel Munoz for scoring when goalie Freddie Woodman was injured. Many around the football world say Munoz violated the spirit of fair play by not kicking the ball out of play.

“I don’t blame them, by the way, I think the referee should stop the game, which he did twice or three times earlier in the game, but you can see how I’m talking a little bit frustrated about that goal,” Slot added. “As I said, the amount of times that referees stop play for players that are not even injured, we all know that this happens a lot at the moment in the Premier League, overall in the world it is going to become a tactic to pretend that you’re injured for the referee to stop the play.” 

LFC Globe Verdict

Based on Slot’s comments, I don’t have much hope for him returning to the pitch this incredibly sad season. I also agree that Daniel Munoz is not to blame for scoring for Crystal Palace. The referee should have recognised that it was a legitimate injury and stopped play.

Have Your Say?

What are your thoughts on Slot’s comments? Do you agree? Sound Off below

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Liverpool remembered just who they were with a resounding win against Crystal Palace, though injury to Mo Salah left fans fearing they have seen the last of a legend.

Liverpool 3-1 Crystal Palace

Premier League (34) | Anfield
April 25, 2026

Goals: Isak 35′, Robertson 40′, Wirtz 90+6′; Munoz 71′

Mo Salah’s Liverpool career could be over

It is always strange and somewhat painful when predicting a historic end. Many Liverpool fans will recall it well from the final days of Steven Gerrard – what does this club even look like without him and how does it move forward?

For weeks now we’ve known that the final farewell of Salah in a Liverpool shirt is approaching, and many have slowly started to make peace with that.

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And yet, it may now have already come. Salah going down and clutching his hamstring on the hour mark did not look good.

This is a footballer famous for simply not getting injured. Wear and tear isn’t in Salah’s vocabulary and yet the Egyptian King knew straight away that something wasn’t right so would have to go off.

What came next was most concerning: the delayed exit, the long drawn stare at all four of Anfield’s corners as the applause rained down. Everyone will obviously hope otherwise, but this could have been Salah’s final-ever run out in the famous red shirt.

A legacy all but unrivalled.

Freddie Woodman – an unlikely hero

The role of the No. 3 goalkeeper is a curious one. Most of the time these guys never ever play, they exist in case of a hypothetical that will never happen. Just ask Scott Carson at Man City for so many years.

But on Saturday, Woodman knew well in advance he was going to have to be front and centre, and he certainly did not disappoint.

Huge credit is due to the former Newcastle man, who fed off the energy of the crowd chanting his name and turned in a seriously impressive performance.

Numerous first-half saves had the Kop in voice, before a remarkable reflex save, down low to deny Jean-Philippe Mateta, led to him starting a counter which saw Andy Robertson bag one of his finest Liverpool goals.

Woodman played on valiantly despite injuring himself in the lead up to Palace’s questionable goal, and this game will live on long in the memory once his football career is wrapped up.

Anfield makes its ticket price stance loud

Liverpool fans do things properly – no half measures – and so when the yellow card protest was arranged to take a stand against FSG’s proposed three-year increases in ticket prices, it was always going to land at maximum effect.

Right on the 13th minute, Anfield turned yellow, cards on every seat soaring into the air.

‘You greedy b******s, enough is enough’, boomed the chant for a full minute to follow. TV cameras panned perfectly to the sheepish face of CEO Billy Hogan in the stands, while his entourage shared smiles and forced spontaneous conversation.

Not a good look for the hierarchy, and the huge Boston Globe banner on the Kop imploring John Henry to listen to the fans sure hit the spot. Now we wait to see what comes next.

Adam Wharton’s Anfield audition shows promise and uncertainty

It is no secret that Liverpool are interested in Adam Wharton. The England international is set to be flogged to the highest bidder by Palace this summer, as they seek once more to ease their financial concerns.

It’s clear Wharton has many, many attractive traits to his game. The sort of player whom managers would love to get their hands on and craft into a multi-functioning high performer.

But here, against a Liverpool midfield which was on the whole rather pedestrian, Wharton failed to grip the battle and bend the game to his will. Mind, the 22-year-old did display several beautifully weighted passes in behind, which is something the Reds could definitely benefit from in the future.

He was also only just returning from an injury, no doubt had one eye on Palace’s upcoming semi final, and still created more chances than any other player on the pitch!

But, given figures of £70-£80 million are being spoken about, it will be interesting to see what transpires in the summer.

Arne Slot’s team are still too slow, but Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz will come good

Stats-wise, it is now becoming boring to say Florian Wirtz will come good.

The Germany international hasn’t had the most remarkable debut season while adjusting to English football, but his data is actually towards the top of the pile. Wirtz is second in the whole division for goal chance creations, and he slowly grew into the match here.

We saw some of the incisive passing and intelligent hold-up play, looking for the run of Isak in behind.

The duo are starting to read each other once more, which we last saw during the mid-season purple patch when each had started to collaborate on a more frequent basis, prior to Isak’s freak injury.

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The Swede took his goal expertly, as did Wirtz, and the Liverpool forward line sure does have the sign of promising shoots growing. The team overall, however, needs to be much faster, more energetic and more ruthless.

For large patches against Palace, it was the familiar story of holding the ball, numerous contained passes going nowhere, a tortoise-pace progression of the ball from the edge of one area to another.

Liverpool have all the tools to scare opponents, but it still doesn’t feel as though they are being used in the correct manner.

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Andy Robertson capped his second start in a row with a brilliant goal as Liverpool beat Crystal Palace 3-1, with Arne Slot then asked if his left-back could still stay.

Robertson has started three of Liverpool’s four games since announcing he would be leaving the club on the expiry of his contract this summer.

It is a surprise shift from Slot who had started the Scot in only 15 of the previous 49 in all competitions (30.6%), with it clear his vice-captain still has plenty to offer.

That was no less evident on Saturday as Robertson scored the second of the afternoon on the way to a 3-1 victory which pushed Liverpool up to fourth.

?? "We're really happy with the win and the gap towards sixth place… We know we have to keep winning our games to qualify for Champions League."

Arne Slot's reaction to Liverpool's 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

? @AndyKerrtv #beINPL #LIVCRY #LFC pic.twitter.com/tSqsRObDXl

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) April 25, 2026

In his post-match interview with beIN Sports, Slot was asked whether there could be a change of plans with the No. 26 staying for next season – and he seemingly left the door open for a U-turn.

“I don’t think it’s the moment to talk about that,” he began.

“I think it’s the moment to talk about how important his goal was and how important the win for the team was.

“The fans appreciate him a lot and he appreciates the club and the fans a lot as well.

“Let’s see what the future brings, but this moment in time should be all about his goal, because he doesn’t score that many of them!”

Robertson is already attracting widespread interest ahead of a proposed free transfer, with Tottenham widely reported to have agreed terms over a deal for if they avoid relegation.

But there is still a sense that the 32-year-old has more to offer at Liverpool, not least with Milos Kerkez yet to show he is completely ready to take over as first choice.

While it has been a solid campaign from the Hungarian, who is 10 years Robertson’s junior, he has only contributed two goals and two assists in 44 games following his £40 million move from Bournemouth.

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With Liverpool having established himself as one of the Premier League‘s best-ever creators with 60 assists – the second-most of any defender in the competition’s history – it is a difficult adjustment to make.

The likelihood remains that Robertson will in fact leave Anfield with his final game coming against Brentford on May 25.

Slot’s response was far from emphatic, however, and it would be no surprise if he was hoping to convince one of his leaders to sign a new deal and stay for at least one more season.

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Liverpool supporters displayed their frustration with the club and its owners, as they protested ticket price rises during the Reds’ 3-1 win over Crystal Palace.

Protests against Liverpool’s announcement that ticket prices will increase for the next three years escalated against Palace.

Ahead of the game, Spion Kop 1906 continued their boycott of pre-match flags and banners on the Kop, and many fans refused to buy club-sold food and drink as part of the ‘not a pound in the ground’ campaign.

Around the ground, thousands of yellow cards were distributed to fans, which displayed principal owner John Henry with his fingers in his ears and the words, ‘Caution, Anfield’s soul is at risk’.

A van fitted with electronic screens carried the same messaging outside the AXA Training Centre as Arne Slot held his pre-match press conference on Friday.

The vast majority of supporters held the cards up at Anfield in the 13th minute of the match, while voicing their frustration by singing: ‘Enough is enough, enough is enough.

‘You greedy b******s, enough is enough.’

Simultaneously, banners were flown on the Kop with similar messaging. One read, ‘Built by Shanks, exploited by Yanks’ and another depicted Henry on the front of the Boston Globe newspaper with the headline, ‘Listen to the fans’.

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In addition, the ‘No to ticket price increases’ banner was walked across the front of the Kop as Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan watched on.

While Hogan himself looked on without too much emotion, the man he was sitting next to appeared to laugh at the considerably passionate protest being made in the 13th minute.

This point in the match was chosen because ticket prices, which will be linked to inflation, could increase by up to 13 percent over the next three years.

The protests were arranged by Spirit of Shankly, along with several other groups that make up the LFC Supporters Board, including Kop Outs, cultuRED, the Liverpool FC Women’s Supporters Club, the Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association, Spion Kop 1906 and more.

Why are Liverpool supporters protesting?

Liverpool recently announced ticket prices will increase by three percent next season, with a five percent annual cap set for the next three years.

The 2026/27 season will see general admission ticket prices increase between £1.25 and £1.75 per person, with a forecast for it to rise between £3 and £4.50 per person, per matchday ticket, over the three years.

It means the club, who cite rising operational costs for the decision, can increase prices for the next three seasons without any dialogue with supporters.

Summary of LFC Ticket Increases Category Increase (2026/27 Season) Three-Year Forecast Adult Matchday (GA) £1.25 – £1.75 £3.00 – £4.50 Adult Season Ticket £21.50 – £27.00 £53.50 – £67.50 Inflation Cap 3% (Current CPI) Max 5% per year Junior / Local General FROZEN (£9) FROZEN (£9)

The club will bank an approximate £1.2 million extra next season from the rises, a splash in the water for them, but everything to supporters during a cost-of-living crisis.

Supporter groups have continually said that if the club don’t come to the table and renegotiate, then they will escalate protests further.

The ball is now back in LFC’s court to respond after fans showed it wasn’t just a small number unhappy with the price rises, as had previously been suggested in the club’s briefings.

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There was a look of disbelief on Mohamed Salah's face as he smiled wryly beneath the Anfield sun - surely it couldn't end like this.

For a moment, it was all so familiar. With Liverpool cruising at 2-0 against Crystal Palace, Salah cut in from the right with a trademark run before delivering a delicate back heel to Dominik Szoboszlai inside the penalty area.

But then there was a hush as supporters began to realise what was unfolding. Salah, reluctantly sinking to the turf and clutching his left hamstring, stared into the cloudless blue sky knowing his third-to-last Anfield appearance was over - and with it perhaps his Liverpool career.

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Highlights from the Premier League match between Liverpool and Crystal Palace.

Anfield rose to applaud Salah and he returned the praise, clapping all four sides and savouring the moment as he departed the pitch. Four hundred and thirty-nine appearances and 257 goals, and this is how it ends?

"We don't know," hoped head coach Arne Slot.

Tim Sherwood summed up the sense of inevitability on Soccer Saturday. "This could be the end of him in a Liverpool shirt," he said. "What a sad end."

Salah has already known for weeks that his time at Liverpool would end on May 24, after agreeing to bring his nine-year stay to an early close. Few would have imagined the final chapter unfolding like this, forced off not on his own terms.

"If we were 6-0 up and I take him out two minutes before the end, he's still like 'I could have scored two more'," said Slot.

"For Mo to leave the pitch, that tells you something, but we have to wait and see how bad it is."

Image: Arne Slot speaks with Mohamed Salah after the Liverpool winger leaves the game with an injury

It has been a difficult season for Salah, one marked by a public fallout with Slot and a campaign that never gathered momentum. Liverpool have failed to mount a serious title challenge or add silverware, and Salah's numbers have reflected that decline.

His 21 goal contributions represent his lowest return at the club, a stark contrast to the extraordinary 34 goals and 23 assists he delivered just last season.

Salah's injury also sums up Liverpool's misfortune. "It's the story of our season," said Slot.

Liverpool host Chelsea on May 9 after their visit to Manchester United on May 3, live on Sky Sports, before what should be Salah's big farewell against Brentford on the final day of the season. He faces a race against time.

"Mo has taken such good care of his body that he will have the minimum time required to recover from an injury and let's hope for the best that he's available for the last part," added Slot.

But if he is not able to raid down the right wing one last time at Anfield, then his Liverpool career will feel oddly incomplete.

And for a player who made a habit of writing his own endings, it would be one he never got to finish.

Liverpool's remaining fixtures

Sunday May 3: Man Utd (a) - kick-off 3.30pm, live on Sky Sports

Satruday May 9: Chelsea (h) - kick-off 12.30pm

Sunday May 17: Aston Villa (a) - kick-off 3pm

Sunday May 24: Brentford (h) - kick-off 4pm

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Liverpool got a huge three points with a tense 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace. The victory moves the Reds even with Manchester United on points and goal difference as Liverpool now sit just outside the Top 3 on the table. The Victory comes at a cost, however, as Mohamed Salah was subbed off due to an apparent hamstring injury. We will look at that and other talking points from today’s match.

Salah Injured

Mohamed Salah was having a brilliant game on the wing, as seen from the player ratings, but an apparent hamstring injury forced him off in the 59th minute. The way he left the pitch made me think that Salah has played his last match in a Liverpool shirt, which is unfortunate given that Arne Slot just said Salah was “Back To Normal” as far as goal-scoring form.

Fantastic Freddie

Third-String goalie Freddie Woodman turned in a top performance in his first EPL start for Liverpool. He made six saves and started the counterattack that led to Andy Robertson’s goal. He was able to shake off an injury during which Crystal Palace scored a cheap empty net goal, which Freddie was on the ground, and cover himself in glory thanks to several other big saves.

Robertson Reflects On Goal

Andy Robertson doesn’t score many goals. In fact, it was only the 14th of Robertson’s long Liverpool career. It could also be his last as Robertson is leaving the club after the season. So the Scotsman took time to reflect on the strike.

“Obviously, our objectives this season have changed during the season due to our form,” Robertson said. “But I've said it all along, Champions League [qualification] is so important to this football club, and I think today we've made a big step. You're constantly trying to finish in the top five. Obviously, we knew Villa dropped points early doors, and we knew if we won, we could go above them. We want to chase the people above us, of course we do, and we want to make sure we secure Champions League, that's so important to this football club, and I think we've made a big step today."

LFC Globe Verdict

It was a bittersweet day at Anfield as Mohamed Salah possibly played his final moments in his Liverpool career, and Andy Robertson scored, nearly, if not his last, goal for the club. But the three points proved to be big as the Reds are now firmly on their way to Champions League qualification. That seems to be the main focus of the club at the moment.

Have Your Say?

Have we seen the last of Mohamed Salah in a Liverpool shirt? Also, what are your thoughts on the Liverpool goal after the Woodman injury? Let us know below. 

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Highlights from the Premier League match between Liverpool and Crystal Palace.

Liverpool jumped out to a two-goal lead, but a controversial second-half goal from Crystal Palace forced them into desperate defending until a stoppage-time goal from Florian Wirtz sealed the 3-1 win and three more points for the Reds

• Woodman (7/10) Very good work in goal and also sprung the counter that led to the second tally
• Robertson  (710) Looked like a striker on his goal
• Szoboszlai (6//10) Solid game but quiet in comparison to others
• Jones (7/10)  Best game in a while. Inch-perfect pass to Robertson for an assist
• Van Dijk (8/10) Strong game in the back. Tracked back well to snuff out dangerous moments
• Konate (7/10) Same as Van Dijk but clearances just did not come in as big of moments
• Gakpo (5/10)  Needed more chance creation  
• Wirtz (8/10) put the game way, and  won possession at critical times
• Salah (710) Did not score, a vinge performance creating chances in what could be his final performance after an injury
• Isak (6/10)  Good goal but got a bit lucky as he scuffed the shot. Not many other chances
• Mac Allister (5/10) Quiet day. Jones had a better performance in the midfield 

The Substitutes

• Frimpong (6/10) Had a chance on a late counter to put the game away but put the shot wide
• Gravenberch (5/10) Bad foul to set up a late chance for the Eagles
• Gomez (6/10) Good defending in stoppage time
• Kerkez (6/10) Popped up in a few dangerous areas after coming on

Man of the Match The Manager

• Arne Slot (8/10)  The boss has settled on a solid lineup and is sticking to it 

LFC Globe Verdict

The only sour note from the match was the injury to Salah but a really impressive showing from Liverpool

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Liverpool are up to fourth in the Premier League after earning a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace, but Mohamed Salah may have played his final game for the club.

Alexander Isak scored his first goal since December and Andy Robertson doubled their first-half lead before Palace controversially pulled one back when Daniel Munoz lifted the ball over stricken goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, but Florian Wirtz struck in stoppage time to secure the points.

However, Salah, who announced he would be ending his nine-year stay at the club this summer, pulled up just before the hour mark after feeling his left hamstring, casting doubt over whether he will feature in the remaining four matches.

"The prognosis is too early to say," said Liverpool head coach Arne Slot on Salah's injury. "We all know Mo, how hard it is for him to leave the pitch. If we were 6-0 and I take him out two minutes before the end, he's still like 'I could have scored two more'.

"For Mo to leave the pitch, that tells you something, but we have to wait and see how bad it is."

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Mohamed Salah pulled up feeling his left hamstring, casting doubt over whether he will feature in the remaining four matches for Liverpool.

Slot's side were still able to take full advantage of Aston Villa's defeat at Fulham on Saturday lunchtime, moving above them on goal difference and level with Manchester United, while building an eight-point lead over sixth-placed Brighton.

Anfield was treated to an incident-filled afternoon which began with thousands of supporters holding up yellow cards in protest against planned ticket price increases, before their side had a penalty overturned.

Salah burst through on goal and went down under Brennan Johnson's sliding challenge, with referee Andy Madley pointing to the spot. Johnson had got a touch on the ball and Madley reversed his decision after a VAR check.

Image: Alexander Isak celebrates after opening the scoring

Liverpool weren't to be denied for long as Isak controlled Alexis Mac Allister's shot that was heading wide, sending a bouncing shot over goalkeeper Dean Henderson into the right corner for his first Premier League goal at Anfield.

Woodman, making his first start and standing in for the injured Giorgi Mamardashvili and Alisson, was faultless and denied Jean-Philippe Mateta twice in a matter of minutes. The second stop from a close-range header launched a Liverpool counter-attack which ended with Curtis Jones sliding in Robertson, who finished expertly on one of his final appearances at Anfield.

Image: Andy Robertson celebrates after scoring Liverpool's second goal

Palace couldn't find a way past Woodman in the first half with Maxence Lacroix's downwards header kept out by a mixture of Woodman and the right post.

The second half was defined by injuries. Salah pulled up at the end of a trademark run inside and was given a big ovation by the Anfield crowd. Woodman then also appeared to be hurt, jarring his knee when saving from Sarr before Munoz lobbed the ball over his head and into the net.

The third-choice goalkeeper was able to continue and was lucky not to concede an equaliser when substitute Jorgen Strand Larsen's shot stayed out after hitting the inside of the left post before Wirtz made sure of the result by smashing in off the woodwork late on.

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Crystal Palace's Daniel Munoz scores with Liverpool's Freddie Woodman down injured as play continued.

Player ratings

Liverpool: Woodman (8); Szoboszlai (7), Konate (7), Van Dijk (7), Robertson (9); Mac Allister (7), Jones (7); Salah (6), Wirtz (7), Gakpo (6); Isak (7).

Subs: Frimpong (6), Gravenberch (6), Gomez (n/a), Kerkez (n/a).

Crystal Palace: Henderson (6); Richards (6), Lacroix (6), Canvot (7); Munoz (7), Wharton (7), Kamada (7), Mitchell (5); Johnson (6), Mateta (6), Sarr (6).

Subs: Sosa (6), Pino (7), Strand Larsen (6)

Player of the Match: Andy Robertson

Robertson: Munoz didn't see injured Woodman

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson:

"To be fair to the boy (Munoz), I was the one closest to him and I don't think he looked up until he hit the ball. I think he looked up when Freddie was back on his feet and then he went back down. In a game like this, you just hope it doesn't punish you because it could have done, it could have been 2-2 just after.

"I don't think anyone's to blame, it's part of football."

Woodman: I didn't know whether to stay down

Liverpool goalkeeper Freddie Woodman:

"The grass was really dry and my knee got stuck in the ground. I felt pain on the inside of my knee. I was unsure what to do really. I didn't know whether to get up and hobble towards the goal or stay down.

"It's a bit of an unclear moment if the goalkeeper goes down. I thought naturally the game stops, but luckily it didn't punish us in the end."

Slot: Referee should have stopped game for Woodman injury

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot:

"Because of the [Palace] goal, it became a lot more nervy and I don't think we deserved to concede that goal in that fashion. But Palace were a lot more in the game than the 2-0 lead showed so it wasn't a complete surprise to me they could score in the second half.

"The way we conceded was not as expected. Is there a game we've played where there isn't a talking point about a referee's decision?

"The amount of times I've played a game when we've been in a promising position and a player is on the floor and the referee has blown his whistle, I cannot even count, and for simulation.

"We've showed we are a fair team. We don't go to the floor if nothing is wrong. That happened against Man Utd when Macca (Mac Allister) was on the floor and Michael Oliver kept on playing and we conceded a goal. Macca had five or six stitches afterwards.

"I find it hard that referees don't go into the game knowing we are not a team that pretends we are injured. If we're on the floor something serious has happened. I don't blame them (Palace). The referee should stop the game."

Glasner: We'd have given Liverpool a goal

Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner on Daniel Munoz goal:

"We discussed with the fourth official, with Arne Slot and (Virgil) van Dijk (what to do). We had watched it back.

"The keeper gets up. If he doesn't and he has to be subbed then they could have definitely scored in our goal because then it would have been a serious injury."

"The ball goes to Daniel Munoz and the keeper raises his arm. He didn't really see it or it is the same time," he said.

"The referee has to stop the game if he believes it is a serious injury but you see the keeper ends the game.

"To demand the referee has to stop the game can be very dangerous for the future. It was not so clear but I think it was the right decision in the end."

Story of the match in stats What's coming up in the Premier League?

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Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images

A loss Thursday would be a devasting blow in an already frustrating 2024/25.

As is the case for any (sobs) 14th-place team, Tottenham Hotspur's season hinges on competitions outside the Premier League. A bye into the Europa League Round of 16 keeps that avenue open, and the FA Cup remains a possibility as well, but the most immediate and realistic path to silverware is the League Cup. Yes, the road is brutal, with a trip to Anfield before a final against Newcastle, but only 180 minutes separate Spurs from ending their long-standing trophy drought.

That makes Thursday the biggest match of the season so far. Tottenham impressed in the semifinal's first leg, grinding out a 1-0 win despite ceding possession, absorbing pressure, and deploying a makeshift backline. Now, the battle shifts to Liverpool, where the country's best team will be confident in its ability to overcome a one-goal deficit. Spurs enter as clear underdogs but must find a way to advance.

Semifinals (2nd Leg): Liverpool (0) vs. Tottenham Hotspur (1)

Date: Thursday, February 6
Time: 3:00 pm ET, 8:00 pm UK
Location: Anfield Stadium, Liverpool
TV: Paramount+ (USA), Sky Sports Main Event (UK)

Since the first leg, Liverpool has gone 5-1-1, with the lone defeat coming in a meaningless Champions League contest with a rotated lineup. With a Premier League title in sight and a strong European campaign underway, one might assume this competition sits lower on the priority list. Unfortunately for Spurs, there are no significant matches on Liverpool's immediate horizon, meaning Arne Slot is likely to field a strong XI at Anfield.

Both teams were relatively cautious in North London, though for different reasons. Tottenham's approach was shaped by a defense missing three of its four preferred starters, alongside a newly introduced Antonin Kinsky. Ange Postecoglou now has the opportunity of choosing from options like Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel, though plenty of important names like Micky van de Ven remain injured.

For Liverpool, the decision to play pragmatically was likely strategic — returning home with just a one-goal deficit seemed an acceptable trade-off. Having made that decision, Slot's side will now bring intensity reminiscent of December's league fixture. Players like Luis Diaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dominik Szoboszlai were all absent from the first leg's starting lineup, but may be called upon Thursday with the objective more clear.

A few moments of greatness

Tottenham will not see much of the ball at Anfield. Liverpool will dominate possession, generate the bulk of the chances, and apply relentless pressure in Spurs' defensive third. That is a daunting prospect for cobbled-together squad; the number one priority is minimizing mistakes, especially with a lead to protect.

That said, Spurs must be willing to attack when opportunities arise and will not need much possession to be dangerous. Both Dominic Solanke's narrowly disallowed goal and Lucas Bergvall's successful strike in the first leg came via direct play over the top. Exploiting Liverpool's high press with quick, vertical attacks could be Tottenham's best path to maintaining the advantage.

If Spurs can capitalize on a pressing opponent and snatch an insurance goal, the tie will come down to their ability to weather the inevitable storm. Recent form does not inspire much confidence in their defensive resilience, but Tottenham has produced surprising performances against top teams this season. Postecoglou will need another one to keep his second-season trophy promise alive.

Liverpool fans will have seen the social media stories circling that both Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk signing a new contract, something Arne Slot was asked to comment on.

Speaking (via 90min.com), our head coach said: "We have some contractual situations that you don't probably don't know about.

"But Trent, Mo and Virgil haven't extended yet. So we are aware of the fact that we have to be sharp and ready for things that can happen.

"My life is mainly short term but we have so many quality people at this club that look at the longer term as well.

"You always have to be prepared for all the new things coming up.

"The players that don't play a big part at the moment; will they be able to do this another year? Will they fight for their place or will they [want to] go somewhere else?

"So we have to be prepared for the next window and what we can do."

The Dutchman doesn't really like to provide a direct answer on these topics, as it's not something he's directly involved in and prefers to allow time to pass.

However, confirmation that contracts have not been signed is a clear indication of the current situation and does debunk Robbie Fowler's theory.

Salah, Van Dijk and Trent have not yet signed a new contract Pictures via @MoSalah on X

John Barnes has stated that if he were in charge of the new deals, he would select our captain as the most important of the trio.

Many fans have their own opinions as to who they would or wouldn't allow to leave the club but it does feel that the overwhelming majority want all three to commit their future to staying on Merseyside.

You would assume the club can afford to do this but whether the financial model allows it is another question.

It's the same situation we've been in all campaign but we can take from this that no deals have yet been signed and it doesn't feel like we're close to them being done either.

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Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all out of contract in the summer, with Liverpool at risk of losing all three of their stars for nothing

Liverpool are set to face Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg tonight.

The Reds lost the away first leg 1-0 controversially courtesy of Lucas Bergvall's late goal but he really should’ve been sent off earlier.

Newcastle United have reached the final by beating Arsenal in the other semi-final so the winner of this tie will take on the Magpies at Wembley on 16th March.

As per team news, Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota have returned to full fitness after recovering from their injury problems but Trent Alexander-Arnold has sustained an issue since featuring against the Cherries. So, he has been ruled out.

Predicted Liverpool lineup vs Tottenham

Caoimhin Kelleher has been playing in the cup competitions but Alisson Becker started in the previous leg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Brazilian may continue in goal for the hosts tonight.

Jarell Quansah has started all the Carabao Cup matches thus far this season but considering the importance of the fixture tonight, Ibrahima Konate is expected to be called upon to feature alongside Virgil van Dijk in the CB position.

Conor Bradley would replace injured Alexander-Arnold and Kostas Tsimikas might get the nod to start in the left-back position ahead of Andy Robertson.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are likely to continue in the engine room with Dominik Szoboszlai in the CAM role. Therefore, Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones could be among the substitutes.

Cody Gakpo has also played all the League Cup games and should continue in his preferred left-wing position, while Mohamed Salah would be on the opposite side.

Luis Diaz may start again in the CF role, therefore, Darwin Nunez and Jota could feature off the bench if needed. Here is how Liverpool could line up vs Tottenham:

The post 4-2-3-1: How Liverpool could line up against Tottenham – Carabao Cup appeared first on Paisley Gates.

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