Liverpool v Everton – Van Dijk stars; Player Ratings

Below are the player ratings for Liverpool’s 2-1 victory against Everton. Please note these are my personal opinion and all fume should be directed to me. You can do that through Twitter (@jpflfc).

Loris Karius – 6

Had very little to but looked a bit shaky at times. Result means Everton’s goal will most likely be forgotten about.

Joe Gomez – 7

Looked very solid, especially on the ball. Looked a bit rattled as the second half wore on and it was a good decision to bring him off.

Virgil van Dijk – 9

What can I say? A debut goal to seal the Merseyside Derby victory. An excellent performance in his first game for the Reds; commanding in the air, fantastic on the ball and the leader that this Liverpool side has been crying out for.

Joel Matip – 7

Didn’t do anything wrong and looked generally okay next to Van Dijk. Was a bit 50/50 in aerial battles but at the end of the day nobody will care.

Andy Robertson – 9

Absolutely fantastic in the first half especially, he had Yannick Bolasie in his pocket for the entire game. He was strong and committed in the tackle and did well going forward. Fantastic performance.

Emre Can – 7

Controlled the midfield when needed and was a driving force going forward. Protected Van Dijk and Matip who didn’t have that much today.

James Milner – 6 

Whilst he scored the penalty he was largely anonymous in midfield and generally struggled to have any authority on the game. Slowed the game down when it needed stepping up.

Adam Lallana – 5

A return from injury excuses in reality a very poor performance. Won the penalty which was soft, but it was his only meaningful contribution in the game.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7

A quiet night for Ox but the intent to create was there. His set piece delivery was impressive and got the assist for Van Dijk’s goal with a good corner.

Sadio Mane – 7

Drifted in and out of the game but there were flashes of brilliance as he kept Jonjoe Kenny on his toes. Decision making was lacking at times but we saw more of the Mane that we’ve grown accustomed to.

Roberto Firmino – 6

Very quiet game and was involved in a heated bust-up with Mason Holgate. Work rate off the ball was good as usual, but it wasn’t vintage Bobby.

 

SUBS

Gini Wijnaldum – 6

Gave more drive than Lallana but only had 20 minutes to make a difference

Dominic Solanke – 6

Again, didn’t have the time to make an impact.

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7

Played well in his cameo and showed why he’s so highly regarded at Anfield.