Arsenal come from behind to draw at champions Liverpool

Mikel Merino scored and was then sent off as Arsenal came from two goals down to draw with Premier League champions Liverpool in an entertaining match at Anfield.

There was a celebratory atmosphere as Liverpool – who wrapped up the title two weeks ago – raced ahead with two goals in two minutes.

They scored the first in the 20th minute when Arsenal’s defence switched off following a quick throw-in and Andy Robertson’s cross was headed in by Cody Gakpo.

The Reds doubled their lead a minute later when Dominik Szoboszlai chased on to a forward pass and squared the ball for Luis Diaz to slide into an empty net.

Arsenal looked as though they were heading for a heavy defeat but rallied after the break.

Gabriel Martinelli headed in a cross from Leandro Trossard to give them a lifeline in the 47th minute before Merino followed into the area to score after Alisson tipped a shot from Martin Odegaard on to the crossbar.

Merino was then sent off for a second bookable offence when he lunged into a tackle on the edge of the Arsenal penalty area after losing possession – and the visitors played the final 10 minutes a man down.

It was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first appearance for Liverpool since he announced he would be leaving at the end of the season and he was booed by supporters when he came on as a substitute.

He almost turned those boos to cheers when his free-kick, following the red card for Merino, curled just wide of the post.

There was drama right at the finish as Robertson had a goal ruled out. The defender found the net after goalkeeper David Raya had parried Virgil van Dijk’s header – but there was a foul by Ibrahima Konate on Myles Lewis-Skelly in the build-up.

The result leaves Liverpool 15 points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who remain in control of their own destiny as they look to secure Champions League football next season.