Liverpool secured a crucial 2-0 Premier League win away to West Ham on Sunday, providing a much-needed boost to their morale. The team, led by Arne Slot, had previously suffered three consecutive losses in all competitions and six of their last seven league matches.
The victory came as a relief, and Slot was questioned about his decision to leave star forward Mohammed Salah out of the lineup during a post-match press conference. Slot explained that the choice was based on the team’s schedule, with four games in 10 days and limited outfield players available. He emphasized the need to select the best lineup for each game, considering the exceptional abilities of players like Salah, Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike.
The match also marked a significant milestone for Liverpool striker Aleksander Isak, who scored his first league goal since joining the team from Newcastle. Isak converted a cutback from Cody Gakpo an hour into the game, ending his high-profile drought. Gakpo added a second goal in stoppage time, following Lucas Paqueta’s dismissal for dissent. This win will likely have a positive impact on Liverpool’s standings in the Premier League, as they continue to compete with other top teams.
The team’s recent performances had raised concerns, but this victory demonstrates their ability to bounce back from challenging situations. With a busy schedule ahead, Liverpool will need to maintain their momentum and make strategic decisions about their lineup to achieve success. The team’s next matches will be closely watched, as they strive to improve their position in the league and build on the momentum gained from this win.