Currently beating Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea on away form there is much to be positive about in Liverpool’s camp. In a comprehensive win away to Aston Villa the Reds stretched their unbeaten run to 10 games and cemented their recent form. Manager Brendan Rodgers eased the pressure on himself and his team as Liverpool gained confidence and kept that often elusive clean sheet. Liverpool have added momentum to their motion.
Away form
It’s going well when the only disappointment is that more goals should have been put away and unfortunately this has been Liverpool’s story of the season. Yesterday’s match saw a team effort, where they once again dominated the play and the result flattered the home side. Dropping Steven Gerrard has had a positive impact on the road and this was reiterated at Villa Park.
Henderson as Captain
What a leader Henderson is shaping up to be. Wearing the armband brings out his best qualities and we saw him commanding the pitch and thriving in midfield. His passing was superb, deservedly grabbing a brilliant assist for the first goal. We saw Henderson’s vision for the game and his contribution to the match was impressive. Henderson’s professionalism wherever he is played is exemplary and this is what makes him such a special player.
Borini grabs a goal
Borini has had a very tough start to his Liverpool career and although his passion and commitment have been second to none, his quality has not been. All fans wish him well but the jury is still out on whether he has enough of the right attributes to make it in Liverpool’s first team consistently. Age is on his side, however. Let’s not forget that Borini was playing for Liverpool’s under 21 side not so long ago. It is important that he got his name on the score sheet, hopefully this will be the moment that directs his future contributions at Liverpool.
Defensive system does its job
What was particularly impressive about the away performance was our clean sheet. Playing three at the back seems to work for the side where Can and Sakho really shone. Their authoritative presence and poise gave the whole team more self-assurance and Mignolet more certainty. This display was convincing and seeing Enrique and Moreno make a start and playing well will give the team a boost.
New signings show their worth
It is important to note that Moreno, Can and Markovic have repaid the faith the manager had in them over recent fixtures. It could be said that Rodgers has finally found a system that works for them, coinciding with a peak in form and a boost in confidence for the young Markovic. Most fans can’t help but associate his performances with his costly £20m price tag, however the young Serbian is showing real quality and at times, glimpses of outstanding technique.
Consistency, direction and determination
According to the Rodgers Liverpool have “…regained their identity.” Based on recent form most will agree. The system used against Aston Villa worked and although the second half wasn’t the best in terms of quality, the result was a clean sheet and 3 points. The team are playing with more compactness and clear direction. With a clinical striker Liverpool will have a complete side capable of competing for a top four spot. The transfer window is still open for business so let’s hope that those behind the scenes will add ammunition to Liverpool’s armour.