It seems Liverpool are finally beginning to answer to long-running queries over the defensive frailties that have hurt them so dearly in recent seasons.
The Reds have taken meaningful strides at the back since the turn of the year, with the £75million arrival of Virgil van Dijk from Southampton having played a starring role in striking much-needed balance.
Liverpool’s unrelenting front three now find themselves complimented by a blend fresh defensive impetus, organisation and belief.
Jurgen Klopp’s men have lots to prove before convincing a majority, but the statistics are beginning to creep through as evidence of their progression.
Saturday’s 3-0 win over Bournemouth meant the Reds are now joint-second for clean sheets in the Premier League this season with 15. Though it marks the kind of figure expected of a top four side, the discussion surrounding Liverpool’s defensive illustrates it as something of a surprise.
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This weekend’s result also marked the club’s eighth clean sheet in the last 12 games to bolster case for a new consistency.
Whilst Van Dijk has had an obvious impact, Dejan Lovren is worth his plaudits for responding to the challenge of fierce competition and producing arguably his best period of form for the club.
Barring the odd misjudgement, the Croatian has responded admirably to his torrid afternoon at Wembley in October by asserting himself as a leading figurehead.
Either side of the pair, Trent Alexander-Arnold has enjoyed a remarkable surge to stardom in Nathaniel Clyne’s absence whilst Andrew Robertson has surfaced as an Anfield favourite thanks to his defensive vigour and attacking energy.
It’s at this stage of the season where defensive strength really begins to count.