Alisson Becker – 6.0
Two close range efforts left the giant keeper little chance, as the reds gave away the first period of the game. A solid showing all around. Was not his best display with some unsure handling.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0
The best and worst of our much talked about fullback. He was targeted early on, with some high positions leaving him exposed to Martinelli’s pace. The double six endeavour seemed uncomfortable at times, leaving Ibou too much to cover. On the ball, he was very assured and aggressive after the first half clash with Granit Xhaka. Showed how much he is desperate to play further up field. A superb assist for Bobby.
Andy Robertson – 6.0
Like much the team, he struggled in the opening 40 minutes, and even got clouted by the linesman. As Arsenal started to back off, Robbo was able to improve on what was a bad first half.
Ibrahima Konaté – 8.0
Perhaps pulled about too much, as the reds early tactics left him too exposed. Was fierce and competitive with everyone that came his way and was the stand out defender, again. Nearly got the winner deep into injury time. A massive player for Klopp, in every sense.
Virgil van Djik – 5.0
Caught flat footed for the opening goal and lost his man for the second goal. The games, injuries, and international exploits, appear to have taken their toll. Hopefully a summer break and a more refined system will bring the big man back to his best.
Jordan Henderson – 5.0
Another poor showing with the odd glimpse of second half progression. When Curtis left the field, it was amazing that it was not the skipper that was subbed. Part of the issue with so little defensive energy in the middle.
Fabinho – 6.0
Struggled in the first half as the away side set upon the reds tired middle ground. Was composed and able to control key areas as the reds dominated the second half.
Curtis Jones – 6.0
A solid enough game, which should have seen him stay on the pitch. Smart moments on the ball and was the only midfielder able to match the Gunners in the first half. A technically gifted young player that should play each game from now till the seasons end.
Cody Gakpo – 6.0
A solid game of good team play, good positional sense, yet a lack of real conviction. A player is there to be moulded, which will be an interesting watch to see how he develops into next season’s team.
Diogo Jota – 5.0
Usually loves playing the Arsenal. He was keen to make something happen, yet very little paid off. If he’s not scoring, he often struggles to impact games. It’s been a year since his last goal, therefore the summer could see a decision made.
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
His goal aside, he had a game of a sporadic nature. The first goal was able to bring his side back into the game, yet missed a close range effort and penalty in the second half. The class is permanent, yet the displays need consistency still. Moments of danger were created, yet was often surrounded by the Arsenal rear-guard.
Subs;
Darwin Núñez – 6.0 (on 60)
Caused alarm with his raw physicality. Should have scored with a one on one, whilst providing a near goal line chance for Ibou at the death.
Thiago – 8.0 (on 60)
Masterful and infectious. He dominated the game from the moment he entered proceedings. Must start every game, and be managed better next season, with a midfield built to support and allow him the required rest.
Roberto Firmino – 7.0 (on 78)
A lovely last cameo against his old foes, with a beautifully taken header. Nice touches.
The Manager;
Jürgen Klopp – 5.0
Went with much of the predicted line up, but the Trent role seemed unsure, with a double 6 implemented on the ball. It was the crowd that brought life into his side, yet it was strange to see Curtis hooked instead of the skipper.
Thiago was brilliant and Darwin brought an unpredictable nature to the attack.
Must start the players that deserve minutes, with only the league campaign left to play for.
Pre-match Prediction;
Liverpool 2 – 1 Arsenal
