Life after Jurgen Klopp is not turning out to be too bad as Ibrahima Konate’s header and a Mohamed Salah penalty either side of Rayan Ait-Nouri’s equaliser made it five wins from six league games. Defeat at home to Nottingham Forest a fortnight ago remains their only blip after have also winning in the Champions League and Carabao Cup in a promising beginning to Slot’s reign. The Reds’ ascension was facilitated by Manchester City, who could only draw 1-1 at Newcastle to leave them second but level on 14 points with third-placed Arsenal after two late Gunners goals sealed a 4-2 victory over Leicester.
Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard appeared to have sent Arsenal on their way, but James Justin’s deflected header and brilliant volley after the interval – supported by an inspired Mads Hermansen in goal – left the hosts rocking. However, Trossard’s volley from a corner cannoned in off Wilfred Ndidi to win it for Arsenal in the fourth minute of added time before Kai Havertz struck an even later fourth. Anthony Gordon celebrated his impending new contract early as he struck from the penalty spot to hold the champions at St James’ Park.
The England international, who revealed before kick-off that he was close to agreeing an improved deal, made no mistake from 12 yards after being brought down by keeper Ederson to cancel out Josko Gvardiol’s first-half opener. City began life without injured midfielder Rodri in confident fashion, but for the second time in .
