Warnock hails Gravenberch and Jones after Liverpoolโs gritty win over Inter Milan
Warnock highlights midfield excellence
Liverpoolโs 1-0 victory over Inter Milan at the San Siro carried major implications for their Champions League outlook, but it was the midfield unit that drew some of the strongest praise of the night. Former Reds defender Stephen Warnock, analysing the match on BBC Radio 5 Live, identified Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai as the three standout performers in what he described as an โoutstandingโ display across the centre of the pitch.
The match itself offered no shortage of drama. Ibrahima Konate saw a first-half goal controversially ruled out, leaving Liverpool players and staff visibly frustrated. Yet a late VAR review provided the decisive moment as Florian Wirtz was hauled back in the penalty area, giving Szoboszlai the opportunity to strike from the spot. His 88th-minute penalty settled a fiercely contested fixture and lifted Liverpool to 12 points in Group A, putting them on the brink of qualification for the knockout rounds.
Speaking after the final whistle, Warnock made his admiration clear: โIโm just looking down at Ryan Gravenberch, who was the man of the match. I think you could have given that to him or Curtis Jones or Dominik, who were the outstanding performers.โ
Gravenberch shows composure in San Siro battle
Gravenberch delivered one of his most complete showings in a Liverpool shirt. Operating at the base of Arne Slotโs midfield diamond, he dictated the tempo with maturity and precision. His numbers reflected his authority: 100% success rate in dribbles, 93% pass accuracy, five duels won and a string of crucial interceptions and clearances.
His willingness to receive the ball under pressure and progress play through Interโs compact structure gave Liverpool a vital foothold. While the spotlight fell on Szoboszlai for his decisive goal, Gravenberchโs influence throughout the evening was central to the teamโs ability to control the match in long spells.
Jones drives Liverpool forward with intent
Curtis Jones also earned his place in Warnockโs assessment. Aside from a yellow card for dissent, he produced a lively and direct performance, regularly driving at Interโs defensive line and forcing Yann Sommer into a strong save from distance.
Jones completed all three of his attempted dribbles and recorded a 96% pass success rate, combining efficiency with ambition as he continually looked to inject pace into Liverpoolโs play. His five duels won highlighted his defensive contribution as well, ensuring Liverpool were competitive in the physical battles that defined long stretches of the encounter.
His maturity, positioning and confidence in tight spaces have become more consistent features of his game, and they were all evident against elite opposition.
Szoboszlaiโs late intervention seals vital points
While much of the post-match focus centred on the midfield trioโs overall performances, Szoboszlaiโs decisive involvement cannot be overlooked. His 88th-minute penalty provided the breakthrough Liverpool had been searching for, but his impact extended far beyond that single moment.
Throughout the match, the Hungarian international provided crucial defensive cover for Joe Gomez on the right-hand side, worked relentlessly across the pitch and repeatedly carried the ball at pace. His energy and intelligence continually helped Liverpool regain territory during sustained spells of Inter pressure.
Alexis Mac Allister, though not singled out by Warnock, also played a key role in setting the tone. His intervention when Inter players attempted to persuade the referee into a second yellow for Jones reflected the unity and defiance present throughout the Liverpool performance.
This was a night when Slotโs midfield reshuffle paid off handsomely, with all four midfielders contributing to a win that could prove decisive in shaping Liverpoolโs Champions League campaign.
