Ex-Arsenal star Danny Welbeck’s incredible goal stunned the Liverpool player

Brighton took an early lead thanks to a spectacular strike from Danny Welbeck, shocking Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

The visitors scored an unexpected first goal in the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton at Anfield, just 87 seconds in.

At Anfield, Welbeck’s incredible goal gave Brighton the lead.Regards: AFP

Pervis Estupinan’s incisive run down the left gave way to the former Arsenal player’s fantastic drive from outside the area.

Welbeck’s effort went into the back of the net, leaving Kelleher, who was still filling in for the injured Alisson between the posts for Liverpool, speechless.

And with Arsenal playing Manchester City later today, it might give some Gunners fans a reason to smile to see their former player inflict some damage on their title rivals.

To add an extra cherry on the cake, Welbeck’s goal also saw a visiting side take the earliest lead at Anfield since October 2019 when Harry Kane netted for Tottenham in 47 seconds.

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Speaking on talkSPORT, Micky Gray said: “What an absolute top strike from Danny Welbeck.

“Estupinan works down the left-hand side, it is unbelievable. And when that ball ricocheted out to Danny Welbeck, you just think he is going to have a touch.

“But no. First time, gets his laces through it, Kelleher is just shocked in that Liverpool goal. He dives after it has passed him, what a strike. What a goal.”

Liverpool did manage to strike back through Luis Diaz, who latched on to a deflected Mohamed Salah to grab the equaliser.

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Kelleher was left stunned by Brighton’s goalCredit: Getty

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Brighton have a fine record against LiverpoolCredit: AFP

The Reds have a poor record against Brighton in recent years.

They have not beaten the Seagulls since March 12 2022 in a 2-0 win.

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Since then, Brighton have landed three wins in five, drawing the other two – including a 2-1 win in the FA Cup.

Roberto de Zerbi is one of the favourites to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool this summer.

With the Reds boss calling it a day after nine years at the club, top target Xabi Alonso is staying at Bayer Leverkusen.

It means that Liverpool will have to look elsewhere with De Zerbi already high on the wish list.

Other options include Sporting manager Ruben Amorim and German boss Julian Nagelsmann.

Liverpool started Sunday second in the Premier League with just a point separating them from league leaders Arsenal.

The Gunners face City in the later kick-off on Easter Sunday in what could be a pivotal day in the title race.