By Izidoro Twinamasiko
SPORTS
In an evening of Premier League drama, Manchester United, desperate for a win to break into the top half of the table, suffered a crushing blow at the hands of West Ham United. The loss leaves the Red Devils languishing in 14th position, increasing the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag to secure his future at the club.
Meanwhile, Arsenal faced a much-hyped encounter against Liverpool, missing their defender William Saliba, who was suspended following a red card in their loss to Bournemouth last weekend. Arsenal appeared set for victory through goals from the returning Bukayo Saka and new signing Mikel Merino in the 9th and 43rd minutes, respectively. However, Mohamed Salah equalized in the 81st minute, adding to Virgil van Dijk’s first-half goal, to secure a 2-2 draw for the Reds.
The result has left Liverpool’s new coach Arne Slot comfortably continuing his first season at the helm after taking over from Jurgen Klopp at the end of last season. As Liverpool maintain their pursuit of Manchester City for the title, Arsenal’s woes have compounded with defenders Gabriel Magalhães and Jurrien Timber sustaining injuries. They join Martin Ødegaard, Calafiori, Kieran Tierney, and Takehiro Tomiyasu in the treatment room.