Liverpool Poised For Glory As West Ham Arrive: Salah Stays, Rivals Slip, Title In Sight
Liverpool stand on the brink of a momentous Premier League triumph, as West Ham United arrive at Anfield this Sunday in a fixture that could decisively shape the title race. Just weeks from the season’s end, the Reds find themselves tantalisingly close to glory, thanks to a combination of contract breakthroughs, key player returns, and stumbles from their closest challengers.
The significance of this match looms large following Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Brentford. With second-place Arsenal faltering, Liverpool now have a chance to stretch their lead to a remarkable 13 points at the Premier League summit should they secure victory over West Ham. Two more wins could seal the championship, provided the Gunners continue to drop points—a prospect that has the red half of Merseyside on edge with anticipation.
Off the pitch, Liverpool have gained a major boost from Mohamed Salah’s contract extension, a headline that has electrified fans. The Egyptian forward, whose previous deal was set to expire in June, is now committed to Anfield until 2027. Manager Arne Slot praised Salah: “He is humble, works hard and puts so much effort into becoming the player he is. He keeps up that effort every single day … and apart from the other things, that [mental strength] is probably what stands out for me.”
Salah’s commitment sends a clear message: Liverpool aren’t satisfied with their current standing—they aim to compete for honours well beyond this campaign. Slot is eager to follow up by securing contracts for defensive stalwarts Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, though the latter remains the subject of summer speculation with links to Real Madrid. Slot, notably calm amid the excitement, trusts the club’s leadership: “They will do what is best for the club. If that is extending, then it is, if not, they will find a solution.”
On the team front, Liverpool bounce back from a surprise 3-2 defeat at Fulham, but have been buoyed by the returns of Alisson Becker and Conor Bradley. Alisson, back after concussion protocols, will reclaim his place in goal, while Bradley is tipped for a starting berth following his encouraging cameo and assist at Craven Cottage. The squad is near full strength, though absences persist—Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez are sidelined with ankle and hamstring injuries respectively. Tyler Morton remains a doubt, but the rest of the preferred XI is fit and ready.
West Ham, meanwhile, arrive in dire need of form. Sixteenth in the table but with a 15-point cushion from the drop zone, the Hammers are winless in their last few outings and face a daunting task against their rampant hosts. They will be without Michail Antonio, Aaron Cresswell, and Crysencio Summerville; however, forward Niclas Fullkrug is expected to play after injury worries. Manager Graham Potter remains cautious with his squad rotation, especially in light of a “really complicated” season for Fullkrug.
History offers little solace for West Ham: Liverpool have dominated this fixture recently, winning both previous encounters this season with an aggregate score of 10-1, including a 5-0 win in London. Sunday’s clash will be the 152nd meeting between the sides, and all signs point to another chapter written in Liverpool’s favour.
With the hard work of contract negotiations, the return of star players, and an unassailable point advantage, Liverpool supporters sense that destiny could soon be fulfilled. Will this be the platform for a new era of dominance? Or could the unpredictable drama of the Premier League yet have a twist in store?
Let us know your thoughts below—how do you see the title race panning out, and what does Salah’s extension mean for Liverpool’s future? Share your opinions and join the debate!
