‘Fantastic’ Liverpool Star Shines in Draw at Arsenal
Liverpool continued their strong start to the season with a valuable point away at Arsenal in a rollercoaster 2-2 draw. The result leaves Arne Slot’s side sitting second in the Premier League table, just one point behind Manchester City who are currently sitting at the summit.
Some fans were left frustrated with the Reds unable to find a winner in the closing stages, but former Liverpool star Jermaine Pennant remained positive on the result when speaking exclusively to Anfield Index, courtesy of Instant Casino.
Impressive Performances
Pennant was once again to keen to point out the impressive performance from Liverpool defender, Ibou Konate. “I’ve got to give a massive shoutout to Konate, he was immense!” said Pennant. It’s hard to argue with Pennant’s observation, with the French defender being an absolute colossus at the back, making seven clearances, as well as winning three ground duels and making two tackles.
Konate has enjoyed an immense start to the season for the Reds, quickly establishing himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. “He has been fantastic this season,” began Pennant, “Winning headers, making tackles, blocks and being really commanding in that back line.” The quality of Konate has never been under any scrutiny, but his availability record has regularly raised questions. It would be brilliant for Slot if Konate could keep up this impressive run of fitness.
Luis Diaz: Threatening but Frustrating
“I thought Luis Diaz was the most threatening player on the pitch for Liverpool in the first half,” pointed out Pennant. However, despite the Colombian’s strong start in the game, his influence certainly shrunk in the second-half, frustratingly. Therefore leading to Cody Gakpo replacing Diaz with twenty minutes left and the performance seemingly improved from there.
Diaz only completed two out if five attempted dribbles, against a makeshift full-back in Thomas Partey, and also win just six out of 17 ground duels. However, his assist for Virgil Van Dijk’s first-half equaliser was crucial as was his work rate on the left-hand side, as always.
Mo Salah: Bursting into Life
The former Liverpool midfielder was also keen to point out Mohamed Salah’s ability to contribute when it really matters the most, with the Egyptian King scoring an 81st minute equaliser to secure a point for the Reds. “In the last 20 minutes, I thought Salah came to life and he done what he does best and that’s put the ball in the back of the net.”
Perhaps coincidentally, Salah grew into the game as Dominik Szoboszlai came into the bench in the advanced midfield role. The duo have often performer well as a partnership together but either way, Salah’s record in big games is absolutely sensational. He’s simply irreplaceable.
