Liverpool already led through Luiz Diaz’s 30th minute goal and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s long-range strike was deflected in ten minutes into the second half, before Salah danced with the ball from halfway to lay on a fifth Liverpool goal (for Diogo Jota) and ensure a comfortable victory that cemented their lead heading into 2025.

Liverpool thrashed West Ham United 5-0 at the London Stadium to stretch their Premier League lead to eight points on Sunday with Mohamed Salah once again in irrepressible form.

Credit where it's due, Julen Lopetegui did at least try something different in the hope it might stop Mohamed Salah. West Ham approached the planet's best player on current form with at least a best guess at what might be required.