Alisson Becker – 7.0
Could do little for the goal, if unsighted. Looked angry, and seemed more vocal with Virgil not directing traffic.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 8.5
What a goal. A tough game to really expose Newcastle, but his quality was assured throughout. A goal saving challenge to cement a great game at both ends. Again, what a goal.
Andy Robertson – 7.0
Kept going, but perhaps came inside too often with the game stagnating. A good option off the byline on a couple of occasions, and always a willing runner.
Joël Matip – 7.0
Did well, and without his usual shield and world class partner, he stayed calm and efficient with the ball. Had little to do, and did it well.
Ibrahima Konaté – 7.5
Grew into the game and his physical attributes were a sight to see. What a signing this young man could turn out to be.
Thiago Alcantara- 7.0
Some hairy moments when too relaxed, but some good recycling. Tried to force it when the game got congested, and kept momentum ticking over when space wasn’t at a premium. Subbed.
Jordan Henderson – 7.0
Sometimes out of position (especially for the goal), but it’s hard to replicate the worlds best defensive midfielder. Was good enough, and this type of game is where he can do that role and be efficient.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 6.5
Tried to force the issue, and patience was sometimes lacking. He knows he has to impress, and Naby coming back may have caused a little too much vigour in his game. Subbed.
Sadio Mane – 7.0
Was unlucky at times, and his goal drought continues. Maybe slowed the game a little too much, when he should have tested and drove more at those in front.
Diogo Jota – 7.0
A strikers finish, and often in the right areas for a more offensive centre forward. Could have had more in tight areas. Subbed.
Mohamed Salah – 7.5
Looked dangerous, especially in the first half. A clinical finish, and should have doubled that. Was crowded out often, and he needs others to incite danger in those moments. Would have enjoyed the final period with Naby on the pitch, and hopefully that’ll come. Subbed.
Subs:
Roberto Firmino – 6.5
Good to have Bobby back. Hassled off the ball, and gave more support in the press. Allowed Klopp to see Jota from the right, if the upcoming AFCON goes ahead.
Naby Keïta – 7.5
So good to see this man back. He added class & calmed the game when there was chaos, and the play opened up when he had the ball.
James Milner – 5.0
When the game is won, get Thiago off.
The Manager:
Jürgen Klopp – 8.0
Tough to be critical, with circumstances so difficult throughout life and football. Losing your defensive leader as well as your midfield shield, probably saved Newcastle from a true embarrassment.
Summary:
A tense game, and probably shouldn’t have been if not for Liverpool’s misfiring in the final third.
There was moments when Newcastle looked dangerous, and more moments where you saw that fortune was keeping them in the game. A deserved win and sensational final goal.
Again, what a goal.
