Some Liverpool players might have been preoccupied with the upcoming Champions League match against Southampton at Anfield.
The Wednesday game at Parc des Princes was tough for the players and nerve-wracking for the fans, possibly affecting the team’s initial performance against Southampton.
However, as often seen in the 2024/25 season, Liverpool managed to secure a victory, earning three points and extending their lead in the Premier League to 16 points, although Arsenal has two games in hand.
Liverpool’s Performance Against Southampton
Liverpool started slowly and without much inspiration. Southampton, who are at the bottom of the league, grew confident as Liverpool possessed the ball but did little with it.
Arne Slot watched from the stands due to a touchline ban and appeared concerned as his team struggled.
Eventually, Liverpool’s superior quality prevailed. Darwin Nunez scored after good play from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah, who then converted two penalties, bringing Slot’s team closer to the title.
While Nunez and Diaz needed to step up after recent dips in form, Salah continues his impressive scoring record, now with 27 goals and 17 assists in 29 Premier League games in 2024/25.
He is undeniably a key player, but he is not the only one demonstrating exceptional quality on the field.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: As Crucial As Salah
Salah frequently dominates headlines for Liverpool, but the team’s success is a collective effort as they aim for the Premier League title, reach the Carabao Cup final, and hold an advantage in the Champions League round of 16.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has long been recognized for his creativity and playmaking abilities. Despite facing criticism regarding his defense, often unfairly, his overall impact is undeniable.
Against Southampton, Alexander-Arnold showcased both his offensive and defensive skills. He consistently drove the attack forward and defended effectively against Southampton. He had 122 touches, completed all four dribbles, and won seven out of nine duels.
Ian Doyle of The Liverpool Echo praised Alexander-Arnold, giving him an 8/10 rating and stating that he was denied by the goalkeeper in the first half, consistently challenged Southampton’s defense with his passing, and was defensively solid.
| Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Recent Performances | ||
|---|---|---|
| Key Stats | vs PSG | vs Southampton |
| Minutes played | 90′ | 89′ |
| Touches | 45 | 122 |
| Shots (on target) | 0 (0) | 5 (1) |
| Accurate passes | 13/22 (59%) | 82/93 (88%) |
| Key passes | 0 | 2 |
| Possession lost | 15x | 16x |
| Dribbles | 1/3 | 4/4 |
| Tackles + interceptions | 6 | 5 |
| Clearances | 3 | 0 |
| Duels won | 4/14 | 7/9 |
| Stats via Sofascore | ||
Despite PSG’s aggressive play against Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold remained solid defensively against players like Bradley Barcola and Khvicha Kvaratskelia.
While Conor Bradley might be seen as a more natural defender and potential long-term replacement, Alexander-Arnold has recently shown his unique and irreplaceable qualities.
Alexander-Arnold is developing into a complete player. Real Madrid’s strong interest in signing him when his contract ends this summer is understandable.
Liverpool and FSG will undoubtedly strive to extend his contract. His current performance level makes him indispensable and crucial for Liverpool’s future success under Slot’s management.
Vihaan Mehrotra