The German midfielder had a solid game today
Midfield
Lucas Leiva – Took some flak for not attacking the crosser for the first goal but was generally solid throughout and was far higher up the pitch than we’re used to seeing him in the second half. Unfortunate not to give the away side a consolation late on. Rating – 6
Emre Can – The midfielder gradually grew into the game and was very fiery in the second half, but his quality on the ball was lacking again. It’s good to see him show some fight but he needs to show the quality to go with it. Rating – 6
how does Benteke get 3? 0 or -3 would be more like it, biggest waste of money ever!
Absolutely disappointing performance. Achieving greater possession stats doesn’t win matches, taking your chances and scoring is what wins matches. We are really pathetic against any side that plays a physical game and employs high and/or long balls.
Lack of quality in the side is making the likes of Coutinho feel like they are untouchables. He can put in a half hearted shift and knows he won’t be dropped in the next game as there is no quality on the bench to replace him and do better. This is the same attitude we got from Sterling last season, but at least there were a few other options on the bench like Markovic, and Ibe to replace him with. Coutinho and Sterling used to fight for a place in the starting line up, or to come on as substitutes in the 2013/2014, when Suarez and Sturridge were dominating upfront, and the midfield mainly comprised of Gerrard, Henderson, and Lucas/Allen. At some point, before falling out with Brendan Rodgers, Suso was another young player Coutinho and Sterling competed with for places.
I hope Klopp has now seen enough of this disjointed play to change his mind about bringing in new players in this transfer window. If he doesn’t and persists with wanting to give the current dead wood a chance to prove themselves, then we will be lucky if we finish the season in the top half of the table