When we saw the team-sheet last night, we expected Sadio Mane to play from the left and Divock Origi up top – but Jurgen Klopp decided to try something new…
The Belgian began on the left-flank, while Mane was our no.9 in the absence of Roberto Firmino.
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Not only did Mane bag a brace, including a world-class second, but he put in an extremely cultured performance, offering a threat in behind and holding the ball up smartly to boot.
Mane enjoyed the new role and will be happy to stay there should Klopp require.
“It was my first time since I came to Liverpool I played centrally. I always said I’m here for the team, so I try to play any position the coach asks me to play to help the team,” he told the official website.
“We started fast in the game, we moved quickly with and without the ball and created many chances. We scored five goals and we deserved the win.
“The team was fantastic, everybody played well. It was the key.”
It’ll be interesting to see what lineup Klopp goes with for the Merseyside Derby, now.
If Roberto Firmino is even 80% fit, you’d expect him to return to the XI – even if we don’t think he’s actually enjoying a superb season individually.
The Brazilian’s ankle problem may keep him out, however – meaning Mane could again lead the line at Goodison.
Another option is deploying Xherdan Shaqiri on the right, Mo Salah up top and Mane on the left.
How would you do it, Reds?