Anfield was buzzing when the teamsheet revealed the presence of Liverpool’s ‘Fab Four’ this afternoon against Southampton, but, at the same time, the injury concern of Joel Matip left the Reds with vulnerable Dejan Lovren – Ragnar Klavan defensive pair. The name of Virgil Van Dijk in opposition’s lineup added more spice to the game considering the saga of Liverpool’s failed attempt to sign the Dutchman which ended in a public apology issued by club’s management.
The hosts, however, showed sheer dominance shaking off last season’s misfortune against the Saints and the outing proved to a stroll in the park for Liverpool who clinched a comfortable 3-0 win following a dominant display at Anfield.
Below are the Liverpool players rated in their dominating win against Southampton.
Simon Mignolet: 7
Southampton failed to attempt a single shot on target and it was an easy clean-sheet for the Belgian. However, he impressed with his decision making, punching, and outing which are considered as his biggest drawbacks.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: 8
Amazing display by the teenager who never let Ryan Bertrand and Sofiane Boufal trouble with their tricky runs and pace. Was decent going forward and his crosses often caused difficulty in the Saints backline.
Dejan Lovren: 8.5
The Croatian has been heavily criticized following his disastrous display against Tottenham Hotspur. He made his first start since that horror show and did remarkably well against his former employers. Lovren turned the crowd in his favor and the block he made to deny Boufal earned applauds from Jurgen Klopp as well as the supporters.
Ragnar Klavan: 7.5
Klavan was calm, composed and partnered Lovren efficiently in deep defence. The Estonian continues his good run of form for the Reds.
Alberto Moreno: 7.5
Moreno has transformed into a true matured professional with balanced display down the left-hand flank. He was lethal going forward and also performed his defensive duties by tracking back and winning possession on quite a few occasions.
Jordan Henderson: 7
His backpasses agonized the fans at times but the skipper did extremely well to screen the backline and break down numerous Southampton attacks in the middle of the park.
Georginio Wijnaldum: 8
The Dutchman was outstanding in midfield, used his physicality to win back and hold possession. Also made some forward runs and set it up for Mo Salah who broke the deadlock with a sensational strike.
Philippe Coutinho: 8.5
Liverpool’s little magician started the game in midfield, marched forward and kept Oriol Romeu on his toes throughout the game. Set it up brilliantly for Mo Salah’s second and also scored with his final touch of the afternoon after placing it into the back of the net when the ball fell in his path after Firmino’s initial strike was saved by Forster. Was replaced by Emre Can amidst standing ovation from the Anfield crowd.
Mohamed Salah: 9
The Egyptian wizard grabbed another brace for the Reds and took his tally to 14 in 18 appearances for his new side. He is currently the top scorer in the league and his fine form helped the Reds to register their third successive league win. Was replaced by James Milner amidst a round of applause.
Roberto Firmino: 7.5
Firmino again impressed with his work rate and off the ball movements. Did not score any but played his part in Coutinho’s goal.
Sadio Mane: 7
Mane did not score or assist against his former employers but looked menacing with his pace, runs, power and dribbling skills. He changed the flanks in the second half and was part of the build-up in Coutinho’s goal. Was replaced by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with 15 minutes remaining.
Substitutes
Emre Can: 6
Came in place of Coutinho. Was driving from midfield to operate in advanced areas.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: 6
Came in place of Sadio Mane. Constituted a few ambitious moves but lacked end product.
James Milner: 6
Was brought in place of Mo Salah to secure the 3-0 win for the hosts.
