Alisson Becker – 6.5
Some good saves early on (and later from Kane), but a misjudged attempt on the approaching Son gifted an empty net. Needed a little more protection at times.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 8.0
The world’s best full back was very good across the pitch, and almost sensational in front of goal once more. The strength of this young man’s game continues to astound.
Andy Robertson – 6.5
He lost is head, and that will be the lasting impression of his game, unfortunately. Gave good width for the most part, and a top end delivery for the reds’ opening goal. Sent off.
Joël Matip – 6.0
Couldn’t cope with the fast attacks, and looked uneasy too often. The quick succession of games is a worry, and his performance levels may be dropping as a result.
Ibrahima Konate – 8.0
Another top display of power, with a tremendous block on Kane. Was able to subdue most that came his way and continues to show brilliant defensive abilities.
Tyler Morton – 5.5
Overwhelmed and unable to gain control of the middle, and neither can be seen has his fault. Circumstances saw him start, and his time will come once more. Subbed.
Naby Keïta – 6.0
A makeshift midfield and his own starting return, made this a tough game for Naby. A difficult match, and was part at fault for the opening goal. The minutes will help, but he needs a proper midfield alongside him.
James Milner – 5.5
Simply not equipped for substantial minutes in high intensity games, but was also subject to irregular circumstances in starting. Effort is not in question, but Liverpool needed more control and legs in the middle.
Sadio Mane – 7.0
Couldn’t get into his groove, and the lack of a real midfield left him struggling to create. Subbed
Diogo Jota – 6.0
A very well taken goal, but little else of note. So effective when Liverpool control the game, but often left waiting when not. Subbed.
Mohamed Salah – 6.0
Too bigger ask of Mo, with the midfield unable to support and orchestrate periods of control. His most quiet game, but cannot explode in every game.
Subs;
Roberto Firmino – 5.5
Brought in for a holding midfielder, and the change didn’t cause anything positive. The odd good moment, but still finding his feet.
Kostas Tsimikas – 5.5
Will now have a few games to impress the boss, and this can’t be viewed as one of them.
Joe Gomez – N/A
Came on.
The Manager;
Jürgen Klopp – 7.0
Difficult Pre and in game management would be an understatement. Was rightly incensed with the referee’s performance, and his emotions were understandable. To manage in this climate is almost impossible. To lose Thiago and Fabinho to covid is devastating to the control this team needs.
Summary;
An open game that saw some great moments, but the referee and VAR were so inept. A draw away to Spurs is a good overall result, and the irregular conditions made the game impossible to predict. More clarity has to be forthcoming this week.
Manchester City won the weekend battle.
