It’s Time To Move Joël Matip On…
Throughout the Liverpool career of our Cameroonian defender, it’s always been apparent that the fanbase holds huge affection for Joël Matip. For a player that signed on a free transfer from Schalke 2016, it’s undeniable that he’s been a solid success story throughout his 136 games as a red. There are obvious caveats that come with the 6ft 5inch player, but for the most part, he has to be considered a player that’s had a very good Anfield career.
When …
Crystal Palace 0 - 0 Liverpool - PL Player of the Match
Crystal Palace 0 - 0 Liverpool - PL Player of the Match
Virgil van Dijk
A very unspectacular game from the giant Dutchman, yet his role was more about offering coverage and control, as the surrounding cast struggled to carry out their duties.
Was vocal and largely untroubled, as Palace looked to target Matip & Trent. He was assured on the ball throughout, as the defensive leader that allowed the reds to try and condense the pitch.
…
All Change at The Back This Summer: 2 In, 2 Out
There’s always one attribute for elite players that can get ignored - availability. Consistency is the obvious one that gets mentioned and often used as an argument against footballers when debating their level. Liverpool fans could see both those charges levied against a couple of their centre backs right now and it would be very difficult if not near impossible to defend them. Ibrahima Konate looks to be fully recovered from his pre-season injury sustained against Stausbourg and his recent …
Liverpool 3 - 1 Manchester City - The Man Of The Match
Thiago Alcantara
One of the best midfielders to ever grace the game, and he was on another level once again yesterday. His control of tempo and space is unparalleled, with everyone now willing to work to his pace.
When the game required possession, Thiago reacted. When the game required a game-breaking pass, Thiago reacted. His decision making is beyond anyone else’s, and it must be a delight to be an attacker and see Alcantara on the ball.
Off the ball …
Joe Gomez & The Bigger Picture
I recall the summer that Liverpool signed the likes of Jordan Henderson, Stewart Downing & Charlie Adam, they were also heavily linked with Blackburn Rovers starlet, Phil Jones. Jones would have been 18 years old back then, and I still recall the huge hype surrounding his massive potential. Back then, John Terry was probably the most well known English defender, and in the midst of a hugely successful Chelsea career. Jones was a dominant, imposing and talented central defender that …
Southampton 1 - 2 Liverpool - The Player Ratings
Alisson Becker - 7.0
Could do nothing for the opening goal, given the deflection. The first half was pretty routine from there. Did everything correct through a nervy last few minutes.
Joe Gomez - 6.5
So disappointing to see this young man injured, again. Was lively and unlucky for the goal. Was part of the equaliser.
Subbed - 45 mins
Kostas Tsimikas - 7.5
Gave good width, as Liverpool dominated the first half.His second half corner brought about Liverpools second …
Observations: Liverpool grind past Southampton
It's never easy these days is it? Seems as though every single match some random slice of misfortune strikes to put Liverpool on the back foot. In this game it was a freakish deflection looping past Alisson after one of the most blatant fouls you'll ever see wasn't given at the other end of the pitch. The Reds overcame the deficit to win 2-1 courtesy of goals from Takumi Minamino and Joel Matip, but it should never have gotten to …
Observations: Heroes and Villans
Liverpool made it through a very chaotic game to manage a 2-1 victory against Aston Villa, but it was far from easy. This was incredibly stressful watching, and it started right from the off. Jurgen Klopp will be very irritated by the manner in which the game began, however, as the Reds conceded after just 3 minutes. In the build-up to the goal, Ollie Watkins was clearly offside, but the assistant didn't flag it and play continued. About a minute …
Aston Villa 1 - 2 Liverpool - The Player Ratings
Alisson Becker - 7.0
A frenetic start saw Liverpool go behind, and Ali could probably have done little more to stop it. Nearly gifted an open goal, with an amazing pass into Watkins early on. Had little else to do in the second half as the Reds controlled, but was alert to stop Ings late on.
Trent Alexander-Arnold - 7.0
Showed good defensive awareness, as Villa looked to exploit the wide areas. His dangerous delivery started to explore the Villa …
Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool - Man Of The Match
Joel Matip
Virgil, Fabinho and Alisson all could have won this, which showed the utter strength through the defensive middle. In a game where Martinelli was so dangerous, Matip was able to offer great coverage when they broke. Was dominating aerially throughout, assured in possession, and carried the ball forward with his usual threat.
A great season, and a brilliant partner for Virgil. When moments arose, he was able to stay resolute and helps make this team so hard to …