Trent Alexander-Arnold, full-back from Liverpool, celebrated a “big victory” as Premier League champions progressed to the verge of winning the championship. Crystal Palace ripped apart with Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Alexander-Arnold, and Fabinho in a one-sided 4-0 win in Anfield, four days after a goalless Merseyside derby, a first 30-year championship is almost in sight.
The British defender told Sky Sports: “I think it’s a big accomplishment. The lads were playing very well. For us it was a difficult game having the drawback on our first game on Sunday was frustrating. Despite what has happened, it’s good to be back in Anfield. It couldn’t have been easier for us, so we’re making up the win.”
The full-back thought his brilliant free-kick had made amends for missed chances against Merseyside rivals Everton.
He said: “I do a lot of work. I had a lot of opportunities where I was frustrated not to score with Everton but I got the opportunity today and I was able to put it away. Seeing the ball rolling out was perfect for the lads and we kicked on from there.”
Alexander-Arnold refused to begin celebrating Liverpool’s first Premier League title victory since 1990 but said: “These are two points and it’s close. A lot the happen in the Premier League but we’re close.”
The only drawback for Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was that the victory inside Anfield was not witnessed by any supporters.
He said: “Imagine if the stadium might have been packed today and people would have been able to experience that life. I don’t think the game would have been better to be honest, because my boys were playing like everyone else in the stadium. We went through by themselves. The atmosphere on the pitch was incredible. I said earlier, when this part of the season began, that I would only like to see some of the best games behind closed doors, and I know that doesn’t happen too often. It was the best game I’ve ever seen to fight the strain behind closed doors. The mentality the boys displayed was impressive.”
“I liked it a lot,” Salah claimed the squad was inspired not only by their imminent title win but also by the urge to play exciting football for the fans who can’t participate.
He said: “It’s nice to go on two points and win the title. We have had great success today and I’m pleased with the result and looking forward to the next games. Everybody’s motivated by those players. The squad is inspired to win the league and play the best sport, behind closed doors. We have been waiting for this for a long time and over the past few years, we have been working together as a team for it. We dreamed of this as a club and are in a decent place, so hopefully, we will get it over the line soon.”
