I bet Porto hate us you know. Like what is the point for them? The Portuguese Norwich.
To be fair, they’d have more of a chance if they didn’t spend half the game rolling about on the floor, right?
From Liverpool’s perspective that was very much a professional performance. The team selection was probably a bit stronger than we’d all have gone. We all had the fear of injuries but Klopp, for me, fully justified that pick.
The perfect balance of consistency for players that needed it, game time for others, a bit of youth in there and maintaining rhythm for the likes of Mané and Mo.
We also had the ideal situation of bringing on a few lads from the bench that we were able to integrate to get them up and running ahead of a busy fixture list and Ali got a clean sheet.
Perfect night for a game that didn’t really matter if you ask me.
Here’s the player ratings for tonight’s game.
Captain Alisson – 7.5
Can’t remember him doing much tbh. Had a punch in the first half which didn’t quite work out the way he wanted it to and he did make a huge save in the second making himself big and coming off his line. Had one hairy moment, but lets be honest, it wouldn’t be an Alisson performance without that!
Williams – 8
For all the stick he’s had he should also be credited where it is due. Defensively sound as you’d expect, he won 10/11 of his ground duels! Yes he lost the ball a few times but he’s in a position where he has to take risks. A few long balls, key passes and contributions to his forward play too.
Joel Matip – 8
Flawless. Won 8/9 aerial duels, 3/5 ground duels. Superb positioning mixed with an array of long balls and short passes. An effortless performance.
Konate – 7
Looked a bit behind the pace if I’m being honest. Just a yard behind which to be fair could be lack of competitive games. Got booked for just being a big hard bastard. Felt harsh.
Tsimikas – 7
Sound again from Kostas. Not as effective as usual and he only managed the one cross. He just fell short of Porto players throwing themselves on the floor. Quite a lot.
Tyler Morton – 8
Going forward, on the ball and contributing to attacks he was brilliant, he really grew into the game as well. However, there were a few moments he was passed by a little too easy for me, but he’s here to learn. Excellent Champions League Debut.
Thiago – 9
OH MY DAYS. Forget the rest of the game, forget anything else he did. This rating and words are going to be about THAT goal. Pure unadulterated filth. The balls, the technique, the nutmeg, the kiss on the pitch, the side netting. The reverse angle. FILTH.
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Ox – 8
Very much enjoyed Ox again tonight. The question is, and will still be consistency for him, but I’m loving his movement, his tracking back and his all round game. He doesn’t look leggy anymore. Good stuff!
Salah – 8
Listen, he did what he had to do and he looked like he was enjoying himself. Wasn’t heavily involved or as involved as he has been in recent weeks but sat a lad down, sent another to Stanley Park and gave the goalkeeper the eyes. Excellent stuff.
Sadio Mane – 7
In his defence he did score. And also in his defence, I don’t think that was offside. I won’t dwell on it too much and neither should he. Should just make him more determined to go again on Saturday!
Taki – 7
Can’t fault the lads effort and you know what, it was nice to see him in the mix with Mané and Mo. Again, another forward who hit the back of the net but was ruled out. The important thing for him is the minutes, the confidence and playing with the big boys. We need him in January.
Subs
Hendo – 7
Only played 25 minutes and we got the typical Jordan Henderson; pressing, energy, link up play and he bagged himself an assist. Boss.
Robbo –
Origi – N/A
Came on won a pen, then got moved to a free kick. Like some other players, the minutes for this might be minimal, but seeing his name on the team sheet and him being available is valuable.
Fabinho – N/A
Played 20 mins and had ten touches. Not much to report.
Milner – N/A
Came on, time wasted, got booked, missed the next game. Legend.
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