Liverpool moved closer to Champions League qualification with a 3-1 win over Crystal Palace, but it was soured by a Mohamed Salah injury, while attention was also on the club’s American owners FSG
Liverpool are well-positioned to secure Champions League qualification for next season as Arne Slot’s team now occupy fourth spot with four matches left to play.
The Reds had appeared destined for a tough fight to earn a place in UEFA’s flagship tournament, but three straight victories have virtually assured them of a top-five finish, the latest a 3-1 defeat of Crystal Palace. Alexander Isak broke the deadlock before Andy Robertson added a second ahead of his summer exit, but then Reds talisman Mohamed Salah went off injured.
Daniel Munoz reduced the deficit in controversial fashion when Reds keeper Freddie Woodman was down injured, before Florian Wirtz wrapped up the victory with a stunning strike in added time. This triumph relieves some of the heat on boss Slot, though owners Fenway Sports Group have taken decisive action with one of their other franchises. Here’s all the latest news from Anfield.
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
FSG axe personnel
FSG have opted to make alterations with the Boston Red Sox, the baseball franchise they control, and have dismissed team manager Alex Cora from his position, reports the Mirror.
Alongside Cora, five members of his coaching team have also been shown the door. This follows a disappointing beginning to the campaign, in which the side have managed just 10 victories while suffering 17 defeats.
It brings the curtain down on a glorious era including the Red Sox’s 2018 title winning legends, who became the first Major League Baseball side to post 100 wins and lifted the Wold Series.
In a statement, FSG chief and Liverpool FC principal owner John Henry said: “Alex Cora led this organisation to one of the greatest seasons in Red Sox history in 2018, and for that, and the many years that followed, he will always have our deepest gratitude.
“He has had a lasting impact on this team and on this city. He has led on and off the field in so many important ways. These decisions are never easy, but this one is especially difficult given what Alex has meant to the Red Sox since the day he arrived.
“I want to thank Alex, our coaches, and their families for everything they have given to this organisation. They have been part of this club in a way that goes beyond the field, and they will always have our respect and gratitude.”
It comes as FSG are facing a huge backlash from Liverpool fans who turned Anfield yellow on Saturday in protest against rising ticket prices enforced by the American owners.
Steven Gerrard eyes job
Reds legend Steven Gerrard could be set to secure another managerial position at Burnley.
According to the Burnley Express, the 45-year-old is being lined up for the role at Turf Moor after a disappointing Premier League season for the relegated Clarets.
Burnley are destined for Championship football next term and it’s been suggested boss Scott Parker may soon bid farewell. This would leave the manager’s position up for grabs.
Gerrard is reportedly under consideration should Parker make his exit. His most recent managerial stint was with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq, whom he left in January 2025.
Mohamed Salah injury update
Elsewhere, Mohamed Salah hobbled off in the second half against Palace after collapsing and grasping his left leg.
With the Egyptian poised to depart the club on a free transfer at the campaign’s conclusion, there is now concern that the 33-year-old goal machine has featured for the final time in a Liverpool shirt.
Egypt national team director Ibrahim Hassan has apparently confirmed this. He told Reuters: “He has suffered a hamstring tear and will require four weeks of treatment.”
Manager Slot acknowledged to Match of the Day after the Palace victory: “It’s too early to say but we all know Mo and how hard it is for him to leave the pitch. For Mo to leave the pitch, it shows you something but we have to wait and see how bad it is.”