Liverpool played out a nervy draw against champions Manchester City after a missed Riyad Mahrez penalty denied the visitors their first win at Anfield in 15 years. The Reds now extend their winless run to four games in all competitions while the draw also sees them drop to third in the league (on goal difference), following Chelsea’s win over Southampton.
Alisson (7/10): Largely untested for most parts. But the Brazilian had spurts where he was called into action multiple times, and he was on hand to deny City in those moments.
Joe Gomez (7/10): Looked very composed, at times, especially when fending off pressure from Raheem Sterling on the right flank. However, his lack of attacking prowess certainly didn’t help Liverpool as Gomez failed to provide width in the attack.
Dejan Lovren (7.5/10): In what was his first Premier League start of this new season, Dejan Lovren never looked off the pace. He attempted the most number of tackles on the pitch and was refreshingly error-free.
Virgil van Dijk (7.5/10): It was another comprehensive defensive display from the Dutchman, which was unfortunately overshadowed by a mistimed tackle on Leroy Sane late in the game, resulting in a spot kick for the visitors. Fortunately for him, however, Riyad Mahrez failed to convert the penalty.
Andrew Robertson (7/10): As you would typically expect from Andrew Robertson, he was vital in Liverpool’s attacking endeavours in the final third. However, he was often pegged back at times, largely due to the marauding runs of Riyad Mahrez.
Georginio Wijnaldum (7.5/10): Thrived in the role of a transitional midfielder, as he was so often a key figure in Liverpool’s oscillation from defence to attack. He also appeared tireless throughout the game while Henderson’s secure performance at the base of Liverpool’s 4-3-3 enabled him to roam further forward.
Jordan Henderson (8.5/10): Arguably one of the best players on the pitch, Jordan Henderson’s excellent defensive display made it difficult for Manchester City to create scoring opportunities. He ball-circulation in the middle third of the pitch was also crisp while he made three tackles, three clearances and two interceptions, making him one of the most active players in the match.
James Milner (6/10): Started the game on a positive note before a hamstring injury forced him to leave the pitch just before the half-hour mark. He made way for Naby Keita.
Mohamed Salah (6/10): Salah was industrious, but the final product was lacking which was a common occurrence on both sides. Klopp will hope for a quick return to form after the international break for Salah.
Roberto Firmino (6.5/10): Failed to get involved in the match as one would normally expect from the Brazilian international. Firmino struggled to make an impact, largely due to the lack of support from his fellow attackers in the final third. Ended up mustering only 21 touches before making way for Daniel Sturridge late in the game.
Sadio Mane (6.5/10): Following a fiery start to the season, Mane, it seems, has lost his mojo as he produced yet another abject performance against Manchester City. The Senegalese had one or two sparkling moments in an otherwise uneventful game.
Substitutes
Naby Keita (7/10): Tried his best to provide a spark going forward by using his swift movements and pin-point passing. But, much like most of the Liverpool attackers, he also struggled to maintain his consistency.
Daniel Sturridge (7/10): Looked promising with his interplays soon after replacing Roberto Firmino in the 72nd minute. However, he failed to make a significant impact as Liverpool struggled to breach the Manchester City defence.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored