Aston Villa 1 – 3 Liverpool – Premier League Player Ratings
Starting XI
Alisson Becker – 7.0
The big man is back and had to be alert to some chances in the first half, but became more of a spectator the longer the half went. Got little help from his defence for their goal and was a steady influence amongst the edgy moments.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 8.0
Took only a few minutes to show his world class playmaking ability, with a fine ball into Robbo to assist the opening goal. Was brilliant on the ball from that opening bell, and it just showed what he can give you when Liverpool have control. Spent the entire second half defending as the Villa comeback kicked in.
Subbed 78 mins
Andy Robertson – 7.0
A very busy and productive opening few moments culminated in a nice the opening assist. Was busy and lively through the opening 45 minutes, and had to be alert to some pressure Villa as the second half got under way. Defended well and helped drag us through.
Joel Matip – 7.0
Looked far happier with a more familiar surrounding cast. Followed Virgil’s lead and looked very assured despite Villa posing some threats through parts of the first half and early in the second. Lost Watkins for his headed goal, as the home side ramped up the pressure.
Virgil van Dijk – 8.0
Our most influential defender waltzed back into the side and immediately it made us look harder to get at. His strike late in the first half was a lively sight, and he held a high line to perfection to continually catch Villa out. Showed great leadership through the Villa renaissance.
Thiago Alcantara – 7.0
A rather quiet game as the reds tried to slow the game after a vibrant start and goal. Kept the play ticking over and recycled well as the reds looked more dangerous. As the midfield tired and got overrun it again pointed to the additions that are needed. A great first half and tough second.
Subbed – 67 mins
Fabinho – 8.0
Nice and steady through the opening spell, with the aggressive intent as it was required. Had a great strike on the second half, and had to be on hand to put out fires throughout the second half. A good solid day for a defensive midfielder.
Jordan Henderson – 6.0
Came in to add experience and a more physical presence and nearly had a wondrous assist for Mo, midway through the first half. Got through lots of work as the midfield started to get overrun in the second half.
Subbed – 79 mins
Mohamed Salah – 8.0
Straight away he showed his predatory ways, as Liverpool took that early lead. Showed great movement and a directness in behind that really rattled the Villa rear-guard. Assisted smartly for Virgil’s goal, and had a solid first half. A great ball for Darwin should have closed the game.
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain – 6.0
Allowed a more dynamic and powerful approach on that flank, and was able to show a direct nature to cause danger from the off. Faded as the game went by.
Subbed – 67 mins
Darwin Nunez – 7.0
Caused problems early on with his pace, and had a delightful first-time volley saved well. The chances and movement where there for all to see, and really should’ve have scored as the half came to a close. Despite the frustration, his pace and lower created the 3rd goal.
It’s coming.
Subs;
Naby Keita – 6.0 (on 67)
Came on to offer more energy in a flagging midfield.
Harvey Elliott – 6.0 (on 67)
Interesting to see him as the wide left winger.
Stefan Bajcetic – 7.0 (on 78)
Took the pressure off with a lovely finish.
Joe Gomez – 5.0 (on 78)
The more defensive switch made sense.
Doak – N/A (on 88)
More minutes.
The Manager;
Jurgen Klopp – 8.0
Went full strength, and put out perhaps the most experienced and powerful looking team he could. He would have been delighted with how well his troops started, with a work rate and desire to match the opening score.
Saw his team flag as Villa ramped up their pressure, but was good in his substitute choices and their timing.
Points are what count here, and the manager excelled within limited options.
Pre-match Prediction;
Aston Villa 1 – 2 Liverpool