Jürgen Klopp’s men were yet again held to a tame draw at St James’ Park as they failed to take their chances against the Magpies who did well to pick up a point from the game. The defensive frailties once again cost Liverpool points but their dreadful rate of chance conversion has now given them more problems than before.
The Reds are currently seven points off the top of the table, just seven games into the season but need just a point to break into the top-4. They have a decent squad at their disposal but not every player has been able to show consistency so far this season.
Klopp will need his players to hit some form after the international break. Here are three players who need to quickly step up and be counted for Liverpool to turn things around this season:
Roberto Firmino
The Brazilian star made a decent and productive start to the campaign but in the last few games in all competitions, he has been wearing a grim figure, which led to him being dropped for the trip to Newcastle.
He still remains Klopp’s first choice striker and he will quickly have to start converting his chances if Liverpool need to break teams down and start scoring goals. He is also the most important cog in Liverpool’s pressing game and having him back in form will be the best thing for the side.
Georginio Wijnaldum
The Dutchman put on one of the best performances by a midfielder in the league in Liverpool’s 4-0 victory over Arsenal but ever since, he has failed to show any kind of promise in the middle of the park.
He has often been lethargic and cost Liverpool a few points in a month where they played a few games away from home. He is rarely effective on the travels but is the link between midfield and attack for Liverpool and they need to him to find some rhythm during the international break so that he can come back and make an impact in the league.
Joel Matip
Though being partnered with Dejan Lovren does not help, Matip has not been at his best himself. The goal he conceded to Joselu recently can be written off as bad luck but the Cameroon ace has not been able to dominate his box like in the previous season and this has only compounded Liverpool’s problems at the back.
He is the senior figure in a distorted backline at Anfield and if he does not step up soon, Liverpool will only fall further into the abyss.
