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Liverpool 3 – 0 Brentford- PL Player Ratings

Match day twelve began for the reds, with the visit of Brentford. The previous week had been poor followed by even poorer, however, the return to Anfield at least gave the reds an opportunity to make amends in front out their own fans.

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Alisson Becker – 8.0

A recall into the team, as his deputy dropped the ball in his Cup game appearance on Thursday. The requirements of the giant Brazilian were sporadic at best, as his skipper coordinated a solid backline ahead of him. His handling and ball at feet work were simple and assured.

Trent Alexander Arnold – 6.0

Started the game in spite of his abject off the bench showing on Thursday night. His hockey assist allowed Darwin to feed the ball into Mohamed Salah, as the opening goal eased any Anfield nerves. The record-breaking goal scorer was impressive on the ball in a game his side dominated, as his double six initiative with Wataru Endō was an encouraging sight. The hybrid system worked well today, but must be managed and deployed more strategically.

Subbed – 89 mins

Kostas Tsimikas – 8.0

The energetic Greek was woeful in midweek, yet started once more in order to find some rhythm. Looked far more alter and combative, whereas having his skipper at the back clearly did what it has done for some many over the years, which was given unaided assurance.

Joël Matip – 7.0

The Cameroonian came in for the absent Ibou, with a calm and steady performance unfolding, given the assurance beside him. The ideal foil for his marvellous captain, where being alert was more important than physicality.

Virgil van Dijk – 9.0

A midweek rest saw his team overrun and unable to cope without his leadership and control. The world’s best central defender is back to his best and it was his omission in midweek which showed what the leader among men delivers. His sensational performances could drive this team to major silverware this year. Despite Salah also being incredible, I have to award our man of the match award to the giant Dutchman.

Man of the match

Dominik Szoboszlai – 7.0

The Hungarian skipper had an off week, yet was lively and effective today as he continually linked well with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander Arnold. These types of solid and consistent games will suit everyone, as despite some tricky situations in the first half, it was largely one way traffic.

Subbed – 90+4

Wataru Endō – 7.0

The Japan skipper was solid throughout here, as continued instruction from his skipper allowed that hit more confidence in his work. Was alert and energetic in his work and did not look out of place. Good, not great.

Cody Gakpo – 6.0

Earned a start with a raft of midfielders out injured and was composed and far more effective than in previous games. Followed on and off ball instructions well in an understated display that today’s role required.

Subbed – 83 mins

Diogo Jota – 8.0

The Portuguese striker cannot stop scoring at the moment and is making a strong case to stay in this first team elite. Was always busy and the goal threat is a continuing tool for his manager.

Subbed – 84 mins

Darwin Núñez – 8.0

The Uruguayan forward was at his most chaotic best at times, with poor luck stopping him from grabbing a pair of goals in the first half. His assist for the opening goal reaffirmed the strong bond he is building with Salah, as his effectiveness in the game continued to aid all surrounding pieces.

Mohamed Salah – 9.0

The Egyptian King was sublime and superior to all other players today, as he showed what overplaying the world class footballer can do for his output. The first goal was clinical, his play before and after elite, where the second goal was a poacher’s opportunity that he did not pass up upon. A great attacking displays.

Subs:

Harvey Elliott – 5.0 (on 83)

An important player to bring on these days.

Luis Díaz – 5.0 (on 83)

A great sight to see him at Anfield.

Jarell Quansah – N/A (on 89)

Came on.

James McConnell – N/A (on 89)

Came on.

Photo: IMAGO

The Manager;

Jürgen Klopp – 9.0

The German manager went with the best and most effective side available, given the suspension of Alexis Mac Allister had been added to a number of players unavailable due to injuries. The set up was very much built upon brilliant control and direction from his skipper, Virgil van Dijk, whereas his talismanic forward, Mohamed Salah was once again unplayable.

The second successive start of Wataru Endō was welcome sight, as he was able to operate in front of his vocal leader on defence with more assurance.

The changes came late and it was surely a case of giving ample minutes together, for those that have been unfamiliar prior. The international break will be a good moment to get some assets fit and firing for the trip to the Etihad. This was a very good and the perfect way to bounce to the top of the league (joint anyway).

Pre-match Prediction:

Liverpool 2 – 0 Brentford

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