Firstly,
apologies for those who expected Bordeaux player ratings. Not being in front of
a computer prevented me from posting, so grovelling apologies, folks. Onto more
pressing matters…
On the
back of the midweek success in the Europa League, it was important to continue
the momentum in the Premier League and although Swansea City had been
struggling, nothing’s a given in this league and when the elements also play a
part, this point can’t be stressed enough.
The 1-0
victory wasn’t pretty. The penalty was dubious and although it will polarise
opinion, I think it was a decision lucky to be given the home team’s way. You
take what you get in this league, though. Like all wins, you look for the
positives. Firstly, there’s little doubt that Liverpool deserved the three
points. They dominated possession and created more chances than their
opponents. Secondly, a clean sheet is always a welcomed aspect in any victory
and, of course, the return of English duo, Jordan Henderson and Daniel
Sturridge.
With the
majority of Liverpool’s rivals dropping points this weekend, it was imperative
the Reds secured the win at home. Without counting those chickens, having
already played away against the top five teams of last season (and let’s not
forget Stoke!), it appears Liverpool are in an encouraging position, provided
they can continue to secure maximum points at home.
Ratings
as follows:
Simon
Mignolet - 6: The Belgian didn’t have a lot to do, but
worryingly, he appeared rooted to his goal line on set pieces during the second
half. The inclement weather conditions didn’t help his cause.
Nathaniel
Clyne - 7: Didn’t put a foot wrong all evening and linked up superbly with Jordan
Ibe. The only concern is the amount of games he is involved in. The lack of
competition for the right back position may be an area which Jurgen Klopp
intends to strengthen in January. This hinges on Jon Flanagan’s return, of
course.
Martin
Skrtel - 7: Once again solid, yet largely untroubled for the
most part. Having Clyne to his right is a good insurance policy for the
Slovakian who continues to grow in stature.
Dejan
Lovren - 7: Whisper the following: Dejan Lovren is starting to look like the
player Liverpool acquired in the summer of 2014. He is soundly going about his
business and once again gave a solid account of himself, with several timely,
no-nonsense challenges.
Alberto
Moreno- 7: Like Clyne, the Spaniard produced a very solid display at both ends of
the pitch. His defensive ability appears to be growing as each week passes. The
little man is really thriving under Klopp.
Emre Can
- 7: The
German started the game in brilliant fashion, dominating the midfield with
several key challenges. He almost turned provider for Christian Benteke with a
delightful ball into the box. Faded a bit as the game wore on, but overall
provided a very able display in Lucas’ absence.
James
Milner – 8 (C) Man of the Match: Like Can, bossed the midfield in the early stages
and overall, got through a mountain of work off the ball. He took his penalty
with consummate ease. The former Manchester City man is starting to kick on,
which is required given Henderson and Sturridge are back in the reckoning and
vying for starting positions.
Jordan
Ibe - 7: Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking threat with his trademark mazy
incursions throughout the evening. He is starting to use his body a little
better in shielding the ball, too. Constantly developing and, like Moreno,
the young Englishman is blossoming under Klopp’s management.
Roberto
Firmino - 6: Pressed well and won the ball in crucial areas of
the pitch. Like Thursday evening, his passing was a touch off. It will be
interesting to see him develop alongside Coutinho and Sturridge, should the
latter manage to stay fit.
Adam
Lallana - 6: Like Firmino, the former Southampton man
pressed very well, but lacked the cutting-edge in the final third. Could
perhaps do with a spell midweek against his former employer’s in order to
recharge the batteries.
Christian
Benteke - 6: Lacked the service from the outset. His touch
proved too heavy for his only clear cut chance, which was provided by Emre Can.
A handful for the opposition and now that Sturridge is fit, it will be
interesting to see how Klopp utilises the big man.
Substitutes:
Jordan
Henderson - 6: A very much welcomed return for the Liverpool
skipper, who was introduced just after the hour mark. Klopp will no doubt ease
Henderson in, but it’s great to have him back. He shored up the midfield after
Milner’s match-winner and will be happy to get some game time into his legs.
Daniel
Sturridge – N/R: Like Henderson, it’s great to see Liverpool’s
number one striker back on the pitch. When Sturridge plays, Liverpool’s chances
of success are far greater. It really is that simple.
Kolo
Toure – N/R: Came on in the last minute of the match to
run the clock down.
By Simon
K.
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