Gerrard: Jacquet is Van Dijk's long-term heir

Steven Gerrard has declared Jeremy Jacquet the long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, praising the French defender’s composure and potential after his move from Rennes ^[1]. The 23-year-old has impressed in pre-season and early fixtures, with Gerrard suggesting he could be ready to step in within two years.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah is rewriting the record books in Turkey. After mutually ending his Anfield career, the 34-year-old has delivered a blistering start with Trabzonspor, scoring seven league goals and providing three assists in just seven matches ^[1]. His hat-trick against Galatasaray and assist in a 3-0 win over Samsunspor made him the first player since 2014/15 to reach 10 goal contributions in a Turkish Super Lig season’s opening seven games, according to Opta.

Liverpool’s recent 1-0 defeat to Manchester City was marred by a controversial red card for Ryan Gravenberch, who was shown a second yellow for fouling Jeremy Doku ^[2]. Jamie Carragher called the decision harsh, arguing the first booking was unjustified, while Gary Neville said the challenge was too soft to warrant a card. The loss comes after City’s appeal over their earlier controversial verdict, adding to the tension.

Off the pitch, Liverpool’s pursuit of 18-year-old Mexican World Cup sensation Gilberto Mora may be over, with Arsenal reportedly making contact with his club ^[2]. Mora, who became Mexico’s youngest ever World Cup player, has a £21.2 million release clause and is free to move in January. His current contract runs until 2029.

What happens next? Liverpool face Brentford this weekend, while Salah’s Trabzonspor take on KPS Kuopio in the Conference League on Thursday. The story was first reported by Mirror and Daily Star.