A terrific win away to Antonio Conte’s Chelsea side saw Liverpool lift themselves into a top four position in the Premier League. Here are my player ratings from a glorious night in London for the Redmen.
Starters
Simon Mignolet – 8/10
Another very strong performance from Mignolet against Chelsea. He wasn’t tested particularly frequently, but made two or three saves. Distribution and claiming of crosses was very good and his improved form continues.
Nathaniel Clyne – 8/10
Such a good performance from Clyne. Incredible engine and work rate down the flank and to track back. Did a good job on Eden Hazard and limited the Belgian’s influence.
Joel Matip – 9/10
Source: liverpoolfc.com
Tremendous display from the rock that is Joel Matip. Made several great blocks and tackles to prevent Chelsea from scoring, and together with Lovren managed to keep Costa’s influence minimal. Definitely could’ve done better for the goal but other than that it was a superb performance.
Dejan Lovren – 9/10
The Croatian defender put in a performance that any centre back in the world would be proud of. Dominated in the air, played the ball comfortably, denied game time to one of the world’s best strikers, and goes and scores the opening goal with a calm first time volleyed finish. Absolutely magnificent, one of the first names on the team sheet.
James Milner – 9/10
My word, how hard does this man work? Up and down that left flank like a yoyo. Just like with Mahrez, Willian couldn’t get past Milner at left back. Important to remember that this is not Milner’s position, but his performances are still admirable. Supported the attack all night long with some good ball retention high up the field but wasn’t caught out of position once.
Jordan Henderson – 9/10
What was that? You don’t think Henderson is good enough? What a display from the skipper. Controlled midfield from the deeper role, a position which he has struggled with so much lately, but this was one of the ex-Sunderland man’s best games in a red shirt. Scores an incredible goal from long range, works his socks off, dominates the centre of the park, and cements his place in the side. Superb.
Adam Lallana – 7/10
Source: liverpoolfc.com
A much less action packed display from Lallana than we have seen in recent matches, but equally impressive nonetheless. Worked hard in midfield and pressed all night long, supporting the front three when necessary.
Georginio Wijnaldum – 8/10
The Dutchman has got better with every game he’s played so far, and the upward trajectory continued at Stamford Bridge with a dominant display. Found great positions and offered a good outlet for the breakaway. Worked really hard to support Henderson in his defensive role, and received a well deserved applause upon being substituted.
Sadio Mane – 7/10
It was more subdued than sublime this time from Mane, but he was just as effective as he has been all season. Very good to see him tracking back and helping the defence out. Helped create space up front despite not being centre stage as he has been so far this season.
Philippe Coutinho – 7/10
Like Mane, Coutinho wasn’t stealing the headlines, but he still put a shift in and was crucial to the success in the first half. Glorious ball into Lovren for the first goal, and worked hard down the left hand side, occasionally moving into the centre to drag Luiz out of position.
Daniel Sturridge – 7/10
Another impressive performance from Sturridge. Worked hard to find space and had a few opportunities, which he did okay with. Showed some nice interplay with the midfielders, and can consider himself unlucky to be taken off so early.
Substitutes
Divock Origi – 7/10
Certainly had an impact upon his arrival, offering a more aerial threat as Chelsea chased the game. Haven’t seen much of him this season and to me he still looks a little undercooked. Makes an awful decision to play an offside Mane in when he could’ve gone himself in a 2 on 1 situation. Arguably should score his header, but it’s a great save from his countryman.
Lucas Leiva – 7/10
Unsurprisingly earned himself the obligatory Lucas booking for a daft challenge, but was otherwise excellent and helped see the game out. I noticed his defending was much more route one than usual after his ball playing antics against Leicester!
Kevin Stewart – N/A
Didn’t have any time to make an influence, but Klopp trusts him enough to put him on in the last few minutes of a big game.
Daniel Daykin
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