Liverpool's hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League received a significant boost on Saturday after a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace in the Premier League. The Reds now sit in fourth place with only four games remaining in the campaign.
Arne Slot's side had seemed destined to face an uphill battle to secure a spot in UEFA's premier competition, but three consecutive wins have put them in a strong position to finish inside the top five. Against Palace, a team that had already beaten Liverpool twice this season, Alexander Isak opened the scoring before Andy Robertson doubled the advantage ahead of his summer departure. Daniel Munoz pulled a goal back in controversial circumstances before Florian Wirtz sealed the three points in stoppage time.
FSG Make Changes at Red Sox
This win eases some of the pressure on manager Slot, but owners Fenway Sports Group have taken decisive action with one of their other teams. FSG have chosen to make a change with the Boston Red Sox, the baseball team they own, and have relieved team manager Alex Cora of his duties. Along with Cora, five members of his backroom staff have also been let go. This comes after a poor start to the season, during which the team have only mustered 10 wins whilst being beaten 17 times.
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."
Steven Gerrard Eyes Managerial Return
Reds icon Steven Gerrard could soon land himself another managerial role at Burnley. According to the Burnley Express, the 45-year-old is in line for the job at Turf Moor. Burnley will play Championship football next season, and it has been alleged that manager Scott Parker could soon wave goodbye. This would leave the hot seat vacant. Gerrard is reportedly being considered if Parker does depart. He last managed Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, leaving them in January 2025.
Mohamed Salah Injury Update
Elsewhere, Mohamed Salah limped off in the second half against Palace after going down and clutching his left leg. With the Egyptian set to leave the club at the season's end, there is now a worry that he has played his last game for Liverpool. Egypt national team director Ibrahim Hassan has seemingly confirmed this. He told Reuters: "He has suffered a hamstring tear and will require four weeks of treatment." Manager Slot admitted to Match of the Day after the Palace win: "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."
