Liverpool finished the season at The Hawthorns with a point. It was a new look team with almost all the first team players rested. Jurgen Klopp clearly had his priorities set for the important Europa League final against Sevilla. The match produced a lot of talking points as the young side managed to get a point against West Brom. The manager would have been happier with three points but he was not upset with his team’s display at the Hawthorns. Here are three things we learned from the game.
1. Ibe gives the end product
Jordon Ibe showed what he is capable of with a brilliant solo effort. He has always been found guilty of not providing the end product. He makes the runs, but lacks the finishing prowess. But in yesterday’s game he gave Klopp a reminder of his capabilities. With the transfer market looming around the corner and the team requiring substantial changes, it was important for Ibe to prove his worth before the end of the season. Jordon Ibe has the talent, but so far has been unable to utilize it. With yesterday’s performance, he has given a glimpse of what he can achieve.
2. Clear focus on the Europa League
Klopp rested the likes of Nathaniel Clyne, Daniel Sturridge, Roberto Firmino, James Milner and Adam Lallana which shows that his focus is only on the Europa League final and will not take any risks. The Europa League is the last chance of silverware and a trophy as big as it in Klopp’s first season in charge of Liverpool will make up for the league position. The team, which started against West Brom showed that Klopp has his sights only on the Europa League. Klopp wants a fully fit and strong team to start against Sevilla.
3. Brannagan – A good prospect
Cameron Brannagan was given the nod for this game by Jurgen Klopp and he made the most out of the opportunity and the faith shown by his manager. The young midfielder was clinical with his passing and also created a few opportunities in attack. His distribution and passing accuracy was also spot-on and he made his presence felt in the game. Brannagan looks like an interesting prospect for the future and under the mentorship of Klopp we can witness a lot of improvement in the player. He should be a good fit in the young side and will be a promising future talent.
