Aren’t we doing well? 10 points or so ahead of last year’s dismal show, but can we actually challenge for the title? Let’s see how our players are doing. There are bound to be some points of contention, but it’s all about opinions, isn’t it?
Alisson Becker – 9
A couple of games where his distribution has not been up to his normal high quality aside, he’s been top class as we’d expect. I think he’s the best Liverpool keeper I’ve seen, just edging Ray Clemence. I can forgive the odd error when trying to get the ball out quickly; when pushing boundaries you can occasionally cross them.
Caoimhin Kelleher – 7
Give the lad a chance! We know he’s good and that we’re going to miss Ali, but getting slaughtered for Sunday? A really decent second keeper.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 8
So the dilemma goes on. I’ve said in previous articles that I don’t like this hybrid role he’s been asked to play. As in the Fulham game, where they targeted his ‘missing’ position with a lot of joy. Please Jurgen, get a decent right-back so he can be a free spirit in the middle of the park. What a player.
Joel Matip – 6
Solid centre-back alongside Virgil, but broken again apparently. Oh dear.
Ibrahima Konate – 6
See above as per Matip. Seems to be injured rather a lot. Hope his career doesn’t pan out like this.
Jarell Quansah – 9
Well what a player we have here! So young, yet looks like he’s played the game all his life. Strong, composed and a really good passer of a ball. I’d be tempted to put him alongside Virgil for a run and see how he develops – anyone else?
Joe Gomez – 7
I’ve often had issues with Joe Gomez in the past, but he’s been pretty solid when needed, especially when covering at right-back.
Kostas Tsimikas – 7
Again, pleasantly surprised. He’s done pretty well in recent games when replacing the injured Robbo.
Andy Robertson – 9
.. who I seriously miss!! Gives everything, great competitor. Hope he’s back soon. An extra mark to help him feel better.
Virgil van Dijk – 9
A pleasure to see Virgil getting back to near his best. Apart from a very slight drop off in his pace, he’s been imperious in the centre of defence. We do take him for granted and miss him when he’s not playing.
Alexis Mac Allister – 6
Scored a top-class goal at the weekend, which was great to see. I get that he’s been playing out of position, but the game does seem to pass him by at times, and in the early games he gave the ball away a bit often for my liking. I think he’s only going to get better and is probably taking a little time to settle in.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 9
Wow, what a find! Drives the game forward with an eye for goal, but strong and neat when he needs to be. An absolute revelation who has hit the ground running.
Wataru Endo – 7
I like him. He’s strong, reads the game well and the best natural ‘number 6’ we’ve got. Underrated by the supporters, I think.
Curtis Jones – 6
Generally neat and tidy when he plays. I think he’s guilty of taking an extra touch too often, but he’s quietly progressing.
Harvey Elliott – 8
Rarely started, but has certainly provided impetus when coming on. He could still end up a serious player.
Ryan Gravenberch – 6
I’m a little wary here. Can look brilliant when going forward from midfield, but I’m not totally convinced yet. I do see a bit of Ox and Keita ‘drive forward and see what happens without really knowing what I’m doing’ about him. Maybe I’m being harsh, he’s young and he’s certainly with the right manager to help him develop.
Luis Diaz – 6
Again, maybe harsh. I think he’s been a little quiet this season, hence Jota got the starting role before he got injured. Maybe the stuff with his dad has affected him, it must have been awful. When he really is on form though, he’s brilliant.
Darwin Nunez – 6
Yes he’s fun. Yes we love him but, to be honest, I’m not quite sure. We’re all hoping he’s going to calm down a little in front of goal and learn to slot the ball past the keeper rather than trying to break the net. I’m not sure I’d fancy him on a 1-v-1 in a cup final in the 90th minute.
Mo Salah – 8
See the last line re. Nunez. I want Mo to have that chance. He’s just great isn’t he? I compared his work ethic getting back with Rashford over the weekend. One thing I miss slightly is that I’ve not seen him cut inside before curling one into the top corner for a while.
Diogo Jota – 8
Sometimes makes wrong choices, but has a real knack of scoring goals when needed. I like him and hope he’s fit soon.
So where do I see us this season? Personally I think we’re a touch away from really challenging. We’re not defensively tight enough and will be punished for giving away too many soft goals, but our midfield is a massive upgrade from last year and is a pleasure to watch.
I’d like a top class right-back and a forward line that doesn’t squander chances – A Rush or Torres type will do, lol – and maybe a Rob Jones at right-back!
But we’re doing great, near the top of the league and in the last 16 of the Europa League. Incidentally, I’ve just booked a room in Dublin, so maybe catch you all there for a pint of the black stuff in May!
If you like Dr Andy Hershon’s writing, check out his book – 15 Minutes With You: Tips on Medical Consulation and Other Musings
