Liverpool’s Dominant Performance Against Chelsea
Liverpool 4 – 1 Chelsea Premier League Player Ratings
Matchday 22 saw the Reds entertain their historic Premier League and cup rivals, Chelsea, in a battle under the Anfield lights. After Arsenal closed the gap on the Reds to just two points, a home win was vital for Jürgen Klopp and his top-of-the-table side, which was achieved with an emphatic and lung-busting display.
Alexis Mac Allister absolutely controlled the midfield tonight.
– Won the most tackles on the pitch (7).
– Won the most duels (11).
– The most touches for #LFC (95).
– 91% pass accuracy.
– Made 4 recoveries.Such a brilliant midfielder. He has been in great form… pic.twitter.com/78WdOg1CS1
— AnfieldIndex (@AnfieldIndex) January 31, 2024
Player Ratings: Liverpool’s Key Performers
Alisson Becker – 7.0
The world’s greatest goalkeeper was largely a spectator in the opening half, as his team mounted a full-on assault. The goal conceded was crisp and the giant Brazilian was in no way at fault.
Joe Gomez – 8.0
A continuing role at left back is more than deserved for one of Liverpool’s players of the season. His defensive diligence was in full effect here, as he was the more reserved of the two fullbacks in the brilliant first half. The second half was much the same, however, the need for solidity was again shown in abundance.
Subbed – 68 mins
Conor Bradley – 10.0
The inclusion of the young Northern Irish fullback was a testament to his recent form and he started very aggressively. Finally, a brilliant tackle that won back possession ended in a solid assist for the opening goal. If that assist was good, his goal was incredible, as he galloped away and slotted the ball into the bottom corner from a distance. The second half was another masterclass of energy and delivery, as he supplied the perfect cross for Dominik to score the third and vital goal.
Man of the match
Subbed – 68 mins
Ibrahima Konaté – 9.0
The France international defender has been superb of late; therefore, it was a blessing to see him start. His early composure and strength were apparent from the opening bell, as his team looked to pin the visitors into their half. His overall performance was again of the highest standard, as he allowed whichever right-back was on the pitch the freedom to attack.
Virgil van Dijk – 7.0
The captain and leader of this team, his inclusion is vital to season success. Was unlucky not to have had a penalty awarded against him early on, yet the referee waved play on. The big man collected himself to enjoy a strong first half where he was committed and authoritative. The second half was about being altered and recycled, until the inevitable surge by the Blues, which was weathered after the goal was conceded.
Curtis Jones – 8.0
The future England midfielder started very well, with probing movement and varied play. Was reliable and efficient when needed, as the forwards began to express themselves. His continual improvement is remarkable, with an in-game intelligence that allows so many others to thrive.
Subbed – 83 mins
Alexis Mac Allister – 9.0
The Argentina World Cup winner looked to assert his control from the outset. Was a keen facilitator of possession and covered Bradley when needed in a very good opening 45 minutes. The second half was more hard work, as Chelsea started to creep into the game. The intensity matched the game state in another fine showing.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 8.0
The Hungarian skipper was brought back into the starting lineup after recovering from injury, with dangerous intent from the opening whistle. Was busy and efficient throughout a good first half back. A well-headed goal was the standout moment for the number 8, who is still working his way back to full throttle.
Subbed – 68 mins
Luis Díaz – 8.0
The Colombian flyer started as the wide left wingman, with an immediate desire to run his fullback. Needed to be a little decisive in the first period, yet was a constant outball and offered good width in the first half. The second half was good and his goal is another sign that the real version of his game is back.
Darwin Núñez – 8.0
The Uruguayan raging bull had a couple of early sighters as he looked fired up for the battle. Hit the bar and the post, as he caused huge danger to the West London rearguard. Was unlucky (again) with the penalty, as the woodwork once again denied his much-deserved goal. More woodwork was required to stop the committed striker from scoring before a contribution arose with a nice assist for the fourth goal. Unplayable at times.
Diogo Jota – 8.0
The Portuguese attacker kept his starting role after a brilliant run of form, starting from the right-hand side. After some great domination, the venomous goal scorer scored a tremendous goal as he bundled his way into goal. His work rate and tenacious endeavour were apparent throughout and he will be back for the Arsenal game.
Subbed – 68 mins
Subs;
Cody Gakpo – 6.0 (on 68)
Came on to offer a much-needed rest for Diogo Jota.
Ryan Gravenberch – 7.0 (on 68)
Came on with a buzzing excitement.
Andy Robertson – 7.0 (on 68)
Came on to add bite.
Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0 (on 68)
Came on to help balance play and offer more creation.
Bobby Clark – 6.0 (on 83)
Came on to add energy.
The Manager;
Jürgen Klopp – 9.0
The German manager picked his strongest possible eleven, which was very quickly proven correct. Klopp would have been delighted with the first-half endeavour, as his team ran rampant and controlled every area of the pitch.
Reflecting on a Commanding Performance
The substitutes perhaps left the Reds stuttering for a moment, with four replacements causing a little period of recalibration. The result and ability to rest key individuals was key though, with vital minutes offered to those that needed them.
An unbelievable game from Conor Bradley tonight.
– Created the most chances on the pitch (6).
– Won 2/3 tackles.
– Won 7/12 duels.
– Made 4 key passes.
– Won the most fouls on the pitch (4).1 incredible well taken goal and 2 assists on top of that. Simply sensational.… pic.twitter.com/Fq6MeJAdg6
— AnfieldIndex (@AnfieldIndex) January 31, 2024
A very well-managed game, again.
Pre-match Prediction;
Liverpool 3 – 1 Chelsea