LONDON: Liverpool got back on track after a miserable week as a 3-1 win at Fulham revived their Premier League title challenge while Nottingham Forest hit out at the officials during a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Everton earlier this morning.
Jurgen Klopp’s side were knocked out in the Europa League quarter-finals by Atalanta early Friday morning after suffering a league defeat at home to Crystal Palace last weekend.
The Reds’ desire to give Klopp a wonderful parting gift was somewhat subtle but they roared back into the championship race with a much-needed first win in three league games.
Liverpool are now second, behind leaders Arsenal on goal difference and one point ahead of third-placed Manchester City, who have played one game less than their two rivals.
Next up for Liverpool is a clash of local rivals at Everton early this Thursday morning, while Arsenal host Chelsea the day before and City travel to Brighton early Friday morning.
“Fulham usually cause us problems so it was a good performance at the right time,” said Klopp.
“We want to stay in contention, that’s clear. Arsenal won yesterday, Manchester City will win the remaining one game, so we have to win games and that’s what we’ll try to do.”
Klopp’s side have struggled in recent weeks and he dropped Mohamed Salah to the bench in one of five changes he made.
Trent Alexander-Arnold put Liverpool ahead in the 32nd minute with a stunning free-kick that curled into the corner of the net.
Fulham defender Timothy Castagne equalized from close range after Liverpool failed to clear the ball from the penalty area in first-half stoppage time.
Ryan Gravenberch restored Liverpool’s lead in the 53rd minute with a powerful shot from the corner of the penalty area for his first league goal.
Diogo Jota completed the win in the 72nd minute, curling a clinical finish into the top corner.
Everton took a big step towards continuing their 70-year run in the English top flight with a controversial win over Forest.
Idrissa Gueye and Dwight McNeil scored to keep The Toffees five points above the relegation zone.
Forest remain just one point above the relegation zone and were disappointed to be denied three powerful penalty appeals.
The club’s official account on media site X questioned the integrity of the Premier League by claiming the VAR official was a fan of the club struggling with relegation Luton.
“We warned PGMOL (the governing body of referees) VAR was a Luton fan before the game but they ignored it,” Forest said in a statement.
“Our patience has been tested several times. The NFFC will consider all available options.”
Aston Villa strengthened their chances of playing in next season’s Champions League after a 3-1 win over Bournemouth.
Unai Emery’s men bounced back through goals from Morgan Rogers, Moussa Diaby and Leon Bailey after Dominic Solanke had put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot.