Liverpool FC played out an entertaining 0-0 draw at the Emirates against Arsenal FC last night. Here we analyse Liverpool FC’s individual performances from the game and rate them.
Simon Mignolet 7 – It was a mixed night for the Belgian, who had little to do in the first half and made a number of good saves in the second to help win a much deserved point for Liverpool FC. However, Mignolet’s aerial and distribution problems came to the fore again and almost proved costly with the Belgian missing the ball during a set-piece. Luckily for him, Gabriel headed it just over. He also got away with another mistake when he was beaten by Aaron Ramsey on his near post, only for the goal to be ruled offside later.
Nathaniel Clyne, 7 – Clyne was up against Alexis Sanchez and with the Chilean regaining his fitness, a strong display from the England defender was needed. Clyne was troubled by Arsenal’s neat passing game early on, especially with Sanchez having a real go at him. The Englishman however, improved as the game went on and played an important role to nullify Sanchez’s impact.
Joe Gomez, 8 – Is he really 18 years old? Joe Gomez put forth another composed and solid performance. The youngster played with immense confidence in the defence and made a wonderful run late into the game.
Martin Skrtel, 8 – Skrtel put forth a tremendous display at centre-back as he made crucial interceptions and tackles to keep Arsenal at bay. The defender did make a heart-stopping clearance in the second half from an Oxlade – Chamberlain cross that could have ended up in the back of his own net.
. Dejan Lovren, 7 – Lovren flattered to deceive for most of the last season for Liverpool FC but he seems to be displaying some sort of consistent solid form lately. It was another strong display, the third this season in as many games, by the Croat. He has been brilliant in the air for Liverpool this season and also showed solid positioning sense throughout the game to thwart Arsenal attacks.
Lucas Leiva, 7 – Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers rubbished rumours regarding Lucas’ exit as showered him with praise, stating that he was still the best defensive midfielder at the club. As always, the Brazilian was solid and reliable. His presence allowed Can to venture adventurously and it is vital that Liverpool FC keep him and ensure that he returns to full match fitness having played his first competitive game.
Emre Can, 6 – Liverpool did miss Henderson’s quality going forward but his energy was not missed owing to Can’s vibrant display. Without impressing much, the German midfielder was decent in the game. He still needs to find his best position and role in the Liverpool FC squad.
James Milner, 7 – With James Milner, you always know what you get – consistently good performances. This was the Englishman’s third solid display in a row since signing on a free transfer this summer. He won a lot of balls for Liverpool in the Arsenal half during the first forty-five minutes when Calum Chambers was at sea. In the second half, he protected the defence with grumption.
Roberto Firmino, 6 – Firmino returned late for Liverpool’s pre-season and was understandably lacking match-fitness. However, he should glimpses of his quality to hint that better things are certainly around the corner as he grows in sharpness and fitness.
Philippe Coutinho, 7 – Coutinho is a dynamite with the ball. He was thwarted once by the woodwork and another time by a stunning Petr Cech stop. His understanding with Christian Benteke was exciting to watch throughout the game.
Christian Benteke, 7 – He is nothing like what Liverpool FC fans feared. Mobile and strong, he is good with the ball at his feet and also has a tremendous presence in the air. Benteke was a constant thorn for Arsenal’s defence and should have probably scored in the first half but a lazy finish gave Petr Cech the opportunity to pull off a world-class save.
Subs
Jordon Ibe, 5 – Ibe, it is fair to say, has been ordinary in all the games he has played this season. He looked woeful at times against Arsenal as he often lost the ball after replacing Firmino in the second half.
Jordan Rossiter, N/A – It was a day to savour for the academy graduate as he was brought on for Lucas. He put forth a committed display that Liverpool FC fans can expect from a Scouser playing for his boyhood club.
Alberto Moreno, N/A – Moreno was brought on late to shore up the left side of Liverpool’s defence with Joe Gomez on a yellow card and Oxlade-Chamberlain running riot. He made one energetic late run which, if he had passed the ball at the right time, could have put the ball on the plate for Emre Can to win the game.