International Watch: Liverpool stars on international duty as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk enjoy successful day out
A number of Liverpool’s stars featured for their country this week. The Reds’ skipper Jordan Henderson made the bench in England’s game vs Italy. His first appearance, albeit on the bench since his hamstring injury against Newcastle United earlier in September.
To give him company on the bench was Trent Alexander-Arnold, who sat out for Reece James in England’s 1-0 loss to Italy. (h/t Liverpool Echo)
The loss sees the Three Lions relegated from their Nations League group, after finishing among Hungary, Italy and Germany. Former England striker Gary Lineker expressed his dismay with Gareth Southgate benching the Liverpool right-back.
Elsewhere, Mohamed Salah found the net twice for Egypt in their 3-0 win vs Niger in an international friendly. His second goal was a spot-kick with 20 minutes to go. It is refreshing to see Salah find the net after his tough run with Liverpool. Hopefully, his form is carried on post the international break.
International Reds
Meanwhile, Darwin Nunez was part of Uruguay’s 1-0 loss to Iran, playing the entire game on the left wing. The 23-year-old found it difficult to get past the low block and hence, did not feature on the scoresheet.
Liverpool’s Samba boys were in action against Ghana. Alisson started the game over Ederson for Tite’s squad and Fabinho came off the bench for Casemiro in the 62nd minute in what was a 3-0 win for the Brazilians. Roberto Firmino was an unused substitute. Liverpool’s other Brazilian, Arthur Melo was not a part of the squad.
Scotland and Netherlands registered wins in their UEFA Nations League encounter against Ukraine and Poland respectively on Thursday. Virgil van Dijk captained the Dutch in their 2-0 win, whereas Andrew Robertson had to miss out due to his knee injury against Napoli earlier this month.
Most Reds had a good outing with their respective countries this international break. Hopefully, their positive form shall carry on to Liverpool and plant seeds for a successful club campaign from here on as well.
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Hopefully, they are back at the AXA Training Centre without any injuries. The Reds next face Brighton &Hove Albion in the Premier League on October 1 at Anfield.
