Liverpool players do their parts in the goalless draw against Manchester United
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp fielded his best possible XI against arch-rivals Manchester United. The starters were as expected. Alisson started in goal with Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk guarding him in central defence. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kostas Tsimikas flanked the centre-backs. Wataru Endo, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai had Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez start in front of them.
The Reds started on the most positive of starts as they attacked United from the get-go. Liverpool had more possession, created more chances, and were easily much more superior on the field than their rivals for the entirety of the first half. The only thing the Reds probably lacked in the first 45 was conviction.
The pair of centre-backs for the Reds came close on two different occasions but Andre Onana in the goal for Man United kept them both at bay. The second half only demanded Liverpool to trust themselves and back their positive start and they did that but without avail. This game served as a strict reminder that scorelines like 7-0 are probably just one-offs and not something we can expect week in and week out. The first 0-0 of the season for the Reds could have easily come in any other fixture, but not this though.
Here are our match ratings for the Liverpool players against Manchester United:
Alisson: 7/10
Did not have a lot to do in the first half. Calm in building out from the back as well. Huge save to deny Hojlund and that was the first time he came into action.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: 8/10
Top quality game from TAA. Created a decent number of chances including from corners and set pieces. Put in a wonderful challenge against Alejandro Garnacho early in the second half preventing what otherwise seemed like a goal for the visitors. Moved into the midfield as the game progressed replacing Dominik Szoboszlai on the right side of central midfield. Close to scoring almost immediately after transitioning into midfield as well.
Ibrahima Konate: 7/10
Ibou came close to scoring in the first half. He showcased his defensive prowess as United’s attackers were nowhere to be seen in the first 45, excelled in winning the ball back from United’s attackers. Turned like prime Johan Cruyff in the box to take a shot, but went straight at Onana. Luke Shaw should’ve been sent off for a literal chop on Ibou but yellow it was.
Virgil van Dijk: 7/10
The skipper also came close to scoring in the first half and demonstrated his defensive prowess, keeping United’s attackers at bay as they were absolutely invisible in the initial 45 minutes. Van Dijk’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively highlighted his positive impact on the game.
Kostas Tsimikas: 7/10
The Greek Scouser had a strong first half, delivering a solid attacking display that was well-balanced with effective defensive actions. His performance showcased versatility and contributed positively to both ends of the pitch.
Wataru Endo: 6/10
Much better in possession compared to previous games. Would outperform himself easily if he committed to the cause and built just a little bit of strength to tackle the level of physicality in the Premier League. Good signs from him though. Hoping for better to come from the Japanese international as the season goes on. Drew a foul as well.
Ryan Gravenberch: 6/10
The former Ajax man excelled in retaining possession on the left side of central midfield, showcasing excellent ball control and recycling the ball effectively. His ability to maintain control in the midfield contributed thoroughly to the team’s overall performance. Down hurt and came off for Cody Gakpo around the hour mark of the game. It’s extremely sad considering his impact on the game until that point.
Dominik Szoboszlai: 6/10
Dom displayed an exceptional level of work rate, covering all areas of the pitch with constant movement, contributing both in the attacking and defensive phases of the game. The Hungarian international’s performance was top-notch, underlining his commitment to the cause and he also showcased his versatility throughout the game. Surprisingly, Joe Gomez replaced him in the 60th minute of the game.
Mohamed Salah: 7/10
Mo remained a constant goal threat, as expected. While there were moments where he could have done better, it’s challenging to fault the impact of a player of his calibre. Salah’s presence on the field consistently posed a threat to the opposition. Not at his best, but not utterly disgraceful as well.
Darwin Nunez: 6/10
Darwin Nunez found himself at the end of a few good chances but was unable to capitalise on them. There’s a growing expectation for a more effective performance from the Uruguayan, and it’s hoped that improvement comes sooner rather than later. Was eventually replaced by Harvey Elliott.
Luis Diaz: 6/10
A constant threat in the early phases of both halves. Should have won a penalty but Michael Oliver decided not to give that the Reds’ way. Could have and should have done better in moments. Curtis Jones came on for him in the 77th minute.
Substitutions:
Joe Gomez: 6/10
Gomez injected a significant amount of pace into the game after coming on as a substitute. He came close to scoring at the near post, adding an attacking threat to his contributions.
Cody Gakpo: 6/10
Came extremely close to scoring the winner. He did not have a lot of impact on the game otherwise. Did his part as expected.
Curtis Jones: 6/10
Not enough impact.
Harvey Elliott: 6/10
Not enough impact.
