Liverpool only managed to draw 1-1 versus Southampton yesterday, but there were positives fans can focus on going into League Cup fixture midweek and the crunch Premier League clash with Chelsea next weekend.
For us, these three players impressed most.
Alberto Moreno
Lung-busting, is how best to describe Moreno’s all-action Sunday afternoon showing. The Spaniard, out of the team at the start of the season, has quickly established himself as one of our best players. There were previously worries about his defensive contribution, but he’s starting to allay those fears – putting in one jaw-dropping tackle on Sadio Mane after tracking him down into our penalty area. Going forward, Moreno always got himself in the right position, and if his end product had been a little better he could’ve registered both a goal and an assist. But his recent performances have been very promising, and he may well prove himself to be one of the best transfers signed during the Brendan Rodgers era.
Lucas Leiva
The Brazilian was utterly composed in central midfield yesterday. He won the ball back on plenty of occasions, and chose the correct passes all afternoon. In fact, he won eight tackles in total and made four interceptions – outstanding statistics – especially combined with his 85 successful passes. Lucas almost left to join Besiktas at the end of the summer, but we’re mighty glad he didn’t, as his experience and calmness is vital alongside Emre Can, who’s far more raw and unpredictable. When playing like he did against the Saints, Lucas can rightly be described as one of the best anchorman in the top flight, but he needs the attackers in front of him to start performing on the platform he creates.
Christian Benteke
Our Belgian powerhouse only came on in the second half, but totally transformed our attack, replacing the woeful Divock Origi. It looked like Benteke had won us the game of course with his brilliant header from James Milner’s cross, but unfortunately, Sadio Mane levelled to leave a jubilant Anfield waiting for Jurgen Klopp’s first win. The fact Benteke is fit and firing again is great news for the German, and he should be ready to start our next Premier League fixture – away to Chelsea next weekend. Hopefully Daniel Sturridge will also be available by then.