Paul Merson stunned by ‘Phenomenal’ Alexander-Arnold footage in Liverpool v Southampton
Paul Merson couldn’t believe what Trent Alexander-Arnold did as Liverpool faced Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday.
Anfield hosted Ivan Juric’s team on 8 March as the visitors took the lead just before half-time through Will Smallbone, but Darwin Nunez scored one, and Mohamed Salah got a brace to secure a 3-1 win at home.
The Reds came out the gates firing, but the Saints slowly got back into the game and looked the more threatening side in the opening 45 minutes.
With Southampton putting Slot’s team under pressure, Alexander-Arnold produced a magical moment for them in the first half before the first goal went in.
Alexander-Arnold pass to Mohamed Salah phenomenal in Liverpool v Southampton
Merson was left stunned with one particular pass from the Reds’ right-back during the first half.
The Sky Sports pundit was amazed to see the England international control the ball out of the air and volley a pass to Mohamed Salah.
| Competition | Trophies won |
| Premier League | 1 |
| Champions League | 1 |
| FA Cup | 1 |
| Carabao Cup | 2 |
Merson described the pass as phenomenal and termed it the game’s highlight up until that point.
Speaking on Sky Sports News (8 March, 16:45), the 56-year-old said: “Alexander-Arnold plays a pass, and you just couldn’t catch your breath. The ball comes out of the sky, and he waits for it, and he’s about a foot off the floor, and he volleys it down the line to Salah.
“It’s just a phenomenal, phenomenal pass. And that’s probably been the highlight of the game so far, in my opinion.”
Slot needs Alexander-Arnold renewal at Anfield
Alexander-Arnold’s current contract at Anfield expires at the end of the season, and the defender will leave as a free agent if fresh terms can’t be agreed upon.
The 26-year-old has won everything at the Reds, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him opt for a new challenge next summer.
While fans will undoubtedly be unhappy to see one of their academy graduates leave the Merseyside outfit, it seems a likely prospect at this moment.
Connor Bradley has emerged as an effective backup to the England international over the years, and the 21-year-old could be ready to step up to the plate next season.
Slot has relied on Alexander-Arnold on the right-hand side of his defence, and the Dutch manager will evidently want him to stay beyond this season.
The right-back is not the only position the former Feyenoord manager has to worry about, as Salah’s contract also expires in the coming months.
Virgil van Dijk is another leader in the dressing room who may be on his way out unless a new deal is offered to him.
So, Slot needs Alexander-Arnold to sign a new contract now more than ever.