When Liverpool signed relegated midfielder Gini Wijnaldum from Newcastle this summer, many Liverpool fans questioned why we were acquiring a player who had no obvious role in our team.
But Jurgen Klopp already had a plan, using him in his midfield three – maximising his ability to cover ground and contribute defensively and offensively.
In January though we’ll be without Sadio Mane due to the Senegalese’s AFCON duties, and Wijnaldum’s performance v Belgium for Netherlands Wednesday night proves he could cover the right-wing position in the front-three.
For the Dutch, Wijnaldum patrolled this flank with aplomb, playing smart passes, beating players and providing both width and pace.
This, for us, is promising.
Pictures via MrBoyWunder, YouTube