OPINION
Liverpool secured a 3-0 victory over Southampton on Saturday afternoon in the Premier League when they hosted them at Anfield.
The Reds went 3-0 ahead in the first half thanks to an own goal from Saints’ Wesley Hoedt and an excellent header from Joel Matip, who started in the place of Joe Gomez in the defence.
Mo Salah slotted home just before the half time whistle to put the Reds 3-0 in front.
While Jurgen Klopp clearly knows what team he needs to send out in order to secure victory, after his side’s flawless start to the 2018/19 campaign, he still would have learnt a few things following his team’s latest outing.
Live 4 Liverpool has rounded up three things learned about Liverpool after their 2-0 victory over Southampton on Saturday:
Joel Matip is worth his weight in gold
The 6ft 5in [Transfermarkt] defender really proved why Jurgen Klopp selected him to start ahead of Joe Gomez in this fixture. He was excellent all over the pitch, using his height to his advantage in order to put the Reds 2-0 up. Some fans may have doubted his inclusion before the match, but they will certainly be eating their words following his display. Gomez will have to watch his back from now on, and Matip looks to be hot on his heels after impressing on Saturday – and it is safe to say that he proved his worth at the weekend.
Mo Salah silenced the doubters
Salah was absolutely magnificent in this clash. Use whatever positive adjectives you choose – he definitely silenced his doubters after this performance. He was involved in nearly all of Liverpool’s attacking play, and his efforts finally paid off with a goal just before half time to put his team 3-0 in front. Many have questioned whether he can replicate his form from last season as he had only scored two before this match – but we will not hear a peep from those critics after this. Long may this continue – and that we get to watch the Salah that blew people away with 31 goals last term.
Liverpool have some serious depth
The fact that the Reds had the likes of James Milner, Naby Keita and Fabinho on the bench in their midfield department really makes a statement to the rest of the Premier League. However, their starting midfield line up was just as strong with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum on the pitch. Jurgen Klopp was right to rest Milner for the majority of the match – he has been working so hard for the team. Nevertheless, when Xherdan Shaqiri came off, he was the perfect replacement – which only reinforces that Liverpool do not have to compromise on quality, even with their players on the bench.
