Liverpool player ratings for the 1-0 win against Sunderland…
Sunderland 0-1 Liverpool – Lazar Markovic’s early goal was enough to secure three points in a dominant performance against a poor Sunderland side, who struggled to create opportunities.
Despite the absence of Raheem Sterling, the Reds were in control throughout the match, and the closeness of the scoreline perhaps didn’t fully reflect the one-sided nature of the game, with the hosts only really threatening in the closing stages.
Read the full Liverpool player ratings below:
GK) Simon Mignolet – 6
Had a quiet afternoon, but his distribution was poor once again, and is now letting him down more than his handling.
RCB) Emre Can – 8
Made the goal, adjusted well to being repositioned to wing-back in the second-half, an excellent all round performance.
LCB) Mamadou Sakho – 6
Given an easy afternoon by the Sunderland forwards, but coped well with the half-time re-shuffle that saw Lovren replace Gerrard.
CB) Martin Skrtel – 7
Helped keep Sunderland very quiet, and made a couple of important clearances, but in truth had an easy game along with his fellow defenders.
DM) Lucas Leiva – 7
Another workmanlike performance from the Brazilian whose importance is continuing to grow in this side. Rumours of his potential sale must be unfounded.
CM) Steven Gerrard – 6
Decent in the first half, playing a role in the goal, and looked ready for another big performance before being withdrawn at the break due to a minor knock.
RM)Jordan Henderson – 6
A proud moment for the midfielder has he took the captains armband against his former side, and let the troops well in the second half.
LM) Alberto Moreno – 7
A constant threat down the left hand side, and was another youngster to impress in a Red shirt today. Steadily improving for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
AM) Philippe Coutinho – 8
The focal point once again in Liverpool’s attack, and the Reds’ December Player of the Month was hugely impressive as he controlled the play.
AM) Lazar Markovic – 8
Scored the goal and impressed throughout. Should have had a penalty in the first-half and nearly scored a screamer when he instead hit the post.
ST) Fabio Borini – 6
Worked hard, but the ball just wouldn’t fall for him at the crucial moment. Probably lacks the quality to make it at this level, despite his efforts.
Manager: Brendan Rodgers – 7
Deservedly got the three points he was after, and the top four is very much back within touching distance. A good day for the Northern Irishman.
Subs:
1) Dejan Lovren – 6 – Looked solid enough coming off the bench, although he wasn’t particularly tested.
2) Mario Balotelli – 5 – His second-half slip when seemingly through on goal summed up his Liverpool career.
SEE ALSO: Liverpool transfer news
