Sun Feb 02 16:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Liverpool Extends League Lead, but Alexander-Arnold Injury Casts Shadow Over Victory

**Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth –** Liverpool solidified their position atop the Premier League with a commanding 2-0 victory over Bournemouth, extending their lead to nine points. Mohamed Salah was the star of the show, scoring two goals to bring his league tally to an impressive 21 for the season. However, the win was tempered by a concerning injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who left the pitch clutching his thigh in the second half.

Salah’s first goal came from the penalty spot after Lewis Cook fouled Cody Gakpo, while his second was a stunning curler in the 75th minute, set up by Curtis Jones. This marks Salah’s fifth season reaching the 20-goal milestone in the Premier League, placing him in elite company alongside Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Sergio Aguero, and Harry Kane. With four months remaining in the season, he’s on track to potentially surpass his personal best of 32 goals, achieved in the 2017-18 campaign.

While Salah’s performance was lauded, Alexander-Arnold’s injury is a major concern for Liverpool manager Arne Slot. The right-back, who had a strong defensive game before his substitution, is doubtful for Thursday’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Tottenham Hotspur. Conor Bradley is expected to fill in should Alexander-Arnold be sidelined.

Liverpool’s midfield also saw a tactical shift, with Ryan Gravenberch deployed in a wider role to counter Bournemouth’s attacking threat. While not his most impactful performance, Gravenberch’s disciplined play was crucial in containing Bournemouth’s transitional attacks.

Bournemouth, known for their fast-paced, aggressive style, found themselves matched by Liverpool’s own direct approach. The match was a physical encounter with numerous fouls, but Liverpool ultimately controlled the game, capitalizing on Bournemouth’s vulnerabilities to secure a vital three points. Manager Slot acknowledged the seriousness of Alexander-Arnold’s injury, stating the player requested a substitution due to a felt injury and expressed doubt about his availability for Thursday’s game.

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