Alisson Becker – 8.0
A nice solid, and uneventful game for Ali. A great stop towards the end showed his supreme ability to stay focused. Got clattered, but still was great with the ball at his feet and commanded his area. Had a busy last few moments, and the collision probably made him even more determined to keep that clean sheet.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.5
Starting to become bullish and dominant in his defensive work, and clearly, there’s a desire to match his undoubted forward repertoire. A nice and steady afternoon’s work.
Andy Robertson – 7.5
Seemed to see so much of the ball at times, and perhaps could have been more industrious with his final ball. As his fullback partner, lovely and steady and assured in defence.
Virgil Van Dijk – 8.0
Absolutely oozed class and was unruffled throughout. When they pressed he stayed calm, and the inevitable moments where they found a fruitful attack, he just dealt with it.
Joel Matip – 7.5
A steady partner for Virgil, and was able to carry the ball on occasions, and generally had a good old day in the south. A nice assist for the opening goal.
Fabinho – 7.5
Was combative and productively efficient with the ball. Won it when needed, and managed a nice leveller on Maupay (who had clattered Ali). Gives such brilliant relief to his 8’s, and was a constant conduit when Liverpool recycled.
Naby Keita – 7.5
Very much moulding into a smart rotation with Thiago, and it makes sense. He was able to set the tempo, and relief pressure whenever Brighton got their tails up. Moments of Gini are becoming common, and this is a very good thing where control is thereby ensured.
Subbed – 65 mins
Jordan Henderson – 7.5
The presser and more forward thinking 8, he simply played well and showed good energy. In a day when such little intense play was needed, he was able to support his full back and wide forward as required. The final ball or shot needs more perhaps.
Subbed – 86 mins
Luis Diaz – 8.5
Another top performance, and got a goal which showed both bravery and anticipation. Such a live-wire that will continue to grow. The future looks bright for this South American flyer.
MOTM
Sadio Mane – 7.0
Was steady if unspectacular. Tried to do Bobby things, tried to do Jota things. Time will be needed in transition, but he played well here today and worked hard across the line.
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
The goal was well struck, the last few days strange, and the injury a concern. All does not seem ideal since his return from the AFCON, and hopefully all the above come back positive very soon.
Subbed – 65 mins
Subs;
Thiago Alcantara – 6.5 (on 65)
A controller that did just that. Managing his minutes beautifully.
Diogo Jota – 6.5 (on 65)
Was eager, and perhaps looked a little more assured. More minutes will see
James Milner – N/A (on 86)
Came on.
The Manager;
Jurgen Klopp – 8.5
Shuffled the midfield, set our a strong game plan, and let the team control the match. Is doing subtle switches, and maintaining balance by doing so. Certain players have to play, certain players have to be rested, and certain players need form finding minutes. A strong season for the German continues.
Pre-match player to watch – Luis Diaz
Predicted score;
Brighton 0 – 2 Liverpool
