Alisson Becker – 6.0
Our player of the season, he was always going to be vital to a positive result. Could do nothing for the opening goal, whilst making a key stop shortly thereafter. Was given little chance for the Son goal or the equalizer, but was able to make crucial moments count.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0
The recent productive run sees him irreplaceable right now. The assist for Curtis’ opening goal was perfection and he is now drifting into that middle with assurance and confidence. Was caught a little high for the Harry Kane strike in the first half, though he was let down by a midfield that lacked energy later on. Still in fine form.
Andy Robertson – 5.0
His form had increased in line with the Reds’ recent run of wins. Robbo was keen to add width whilst still maintaining his defensive responsibilities, as the Reds started in rampant fashion. As the game opened up late in the first half, he was a little haphazard in possession with Tottenham looking to exploit their overconfidence. The second half was a game of inconsistent game management, as he lost his way.
Ibrahima Konaté – 6.0
His importance shows as he came in to replace Matip. Was combative and front-footed in his work, with a desire to impose himself on the Spurs’ front line. His physicality and pace was important through the opening stages, yet the defensive awareness seemed to slip away, as he got pulled about by a resurgent opposition.
Virgil van Djik – 6.0
The big man looked eager to dominate and control his backline, especially after his recent remakes regarding his inconsistent season. Was left outnumbered and was unlucky to fall down against the break to take the score to 3-1. The game slipped away from him from there, as control of key areas disappeared.
Curtis Jones – 7.0
Continues to impress and scored the opening goal with a beautifully taken strike across the keeper. Was a magnet for the ball as the Merseysiders took control. He had a solid outing and can really immerse himself into next year’s plans.
Subbed – 86 mins
Fabinho – 6.0
Kept his game and positioning very simple, with a more refined role to cover the cerebral area. Was maybe a little flat-footed for the first-half Harry Kane goal, with a quick break catching the home side out. Tried to stay decisive as the pace picked up through a frenzied second half.
Harvey Elliott – 6.0
Came into the team, with a more natural position for him at the front of the on-ball box midfield. Struggled to truly impact as the off-ball work is slightly altered.
Subbed – 63 mins
Cody Gakpo – 7.0
Started through the middle once more, as the central facilitator between the midfield and attack. Was able to link so much of our play and was able to win the penalty. Becoming a seriously good player under Klopp.
Subbed – 73 mins
Luis Díaz – 8.0
It didn’t take the Columbian flyer long to make an impact, with a tenacious run allowing him Jo stab home the Reds’ second goal. His impact and ability to change the rhythm of the game was clear, with a desire to attack the visitors. His importance over the coming years will continue to grow.
Subbed – 73 mins
Mohamed Salah – 7.0
Looked very much up for the occasion, with an unsure array of defenders against him. Was keen ti take his penalty and launched a ferocious strike beyond Forster for 3-0. Drifted in and out of the game as low blocks became counters. Was always a threat.
Subs;
Diogo Jota – 7.0 (on 63)
Came on, kicked someone in the head & scored a winner.
Jordan Henderson – 3.0 (on 63)
He was a key reason as to why Spurs came back into the game. So out of sync with the midfield type we require.
Darwin Núñez – 5.0 (on 73)
Was lost in the latter game of confusion and bad play.
James Milner – 5.0 (on 86)
Came on to kick a Spurs player.
Football, eh. 😁 pic.twitter.com/AaHYPaycP3
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 30, 2023
The Manager:
Jürgen Klopp – 7.0
Chose to select Harvey when Thiago became unavailable. The start was blissful and overwhelming, which soon changed when Spurs realised that the home team could not defend. The switch to bring in Jota clearly worked, yet adding the skipper to the mix only made matters worse.
We need desperately to get to the end of the season so that this system and the players that are needed can improve this group.
The pulled hamstring for Klopp would have been worth it, within a very strange and exciting contest.
Pre-match Prediction;
Liverpool 3 – 1 Tottenham
