Need to knowEverything you need to know about our coverage of Liverpool’s FA Cup fourth round victory over Brighton & Hove Albion plus details of the fifth round draw
Mohamed Salah celebrates his goal(Image: PA)
After a successful night for Liverpool in the FA Cup fourth round, here’s a round-up of the ECHO’s coverage of the Reds’ win over Brighton and a lowdown on the draw for the fifth round.
Key Highlights from the ECHO’s Reporting:The “Makeshift” Hero: Much of the focus was on Curtis Jones, who started in an unconventional right-back role due to injury issues (including Wataru Endo’s recent ankle injury). Paul Gorst praised his versatility after he opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, converting a cross from Milos Kerkez.Szoboszlai’s Elite Status: The report highlighted Dominik Szoboszlai’s return from suspension. Gorst described him as “sharp and mobile,” noting his 10th goal of the season (a 56th-minute strike). Connor O’Neill also reported on post-match comments from Mohamed Salah, who labeled Szoboszlai “one of the best players in the world right now.Back to back: We also noted that this win marked a rare moment of consistency for Slot’s side, being only the third time in the 2025/26 season they had secured back-to-back domestic wins (following their midweek victory over Sunderland).Match Summary:
We concluded that while the scoreline was comfortable, a crucial Alisson Becker save from Lewis Dunk at 1-0 was a turning point that prevented a potential Brighton comeback.
In the player ratings, written by Paul Gorst, the focus was on a dominant “8/10 trio” that led the way in the 3-0 victory.
The standout theme was the success of Arne Slot’s tactical adjustments, particularly using players in slightly unfamiliar roles to combat an injury crisis.
The Echo’s Top Performers (8/10)Curtis Jones (8): Described as the “makeshift hero,” Jones was praised for his discipline in an unfamiliar right-back role. Gorst noted he “scarcely made an error” defensively and timed his run perfectly to score the opening goal.Milos Kerkez (8): The summer signing was hailed as “growing in stature by the week.” The Echo highlighted his “spot-on” delivery for the first goal and a thunderous strike that nearly scored earlier in the half.Dominik Szoboszlai (8): Returning to his preferred central role, he was labeled “sharp and mobile.” The report emphasised his work rate, stating he “pressed like he meant it” and took his goal superbly.
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When is the FA Cup fifth round draw?
The FA Cup fifth round draw is scheduled for Monday, February 16, 2026.
The draw will take place during the pre-match coverage of the final fourth-round tie between Macclesfield and Brentford.
How to WatchTime: Approximately 6:35 PM GMT.TV/Streaming: In the UK, it will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1, discovery+, and the TNT Sports YouTube channel.Presenters: Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist will host, with the draw being conducted by Joe Cole and Karen Carney.What is Liverpool’s ball number?
Having already secured their spot with the 3-0 win over Brighton, Liverpool will be Ball Number 1 in the draw.
The fifth-round fixtures themselves are slated to be played over the weekend of Saturday, March 7, 2026.
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