Liverpool put in a solid performance on Saturday to ensure they came away with nothing less than three points from their latest home fixture. The Reds played host to a struggling Sheffield United, who put the reigning champions to the sword. However, despite their best efforts to nullify Jurgen Klopp’s side, Liverpool were able to resurrect their winning Premier League form.
Thanks to goals from Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota, the title holders are on their way to re-establishing their dominance after their 7-2 loss to Aston Villa threw a spanner in the works. But it wasn’t just Klopp’s attack that had an influence on the match. His makeshift defence did him proud and will have eased a lot of his worries after key man Virgil van Dijk could be out for the remainder of the season.
Joe Gomez impressed against Sheffield United
Despite worry from the fans, Joe Gomez is doing a fine job of stepping into his Dutch partner’s shoes. In the absence of van Dijk’s calm composure and natural leadership, things looked bleak at the back for Liverpool. However, Klopp’s pairing of the England international and Fabinho has proved to be a winning formula so far.
The two were strong at the back against Ajax and continued their impressive displays at Anfield on Saturday. Gomez particularly impressed and will have undoubtedly eased a lot of pressure off Klopp’s shoulders.
According to Sofascore, the 23-year-old maintained a 94% passing accuracy and was successful in 100% of his 12 attempted long balls. Additionally, Gomez made a mighty nine clearances and two interceptions, showing his confidence exactly where it was needed to be put on display.
Fans are thrilled with the £36million-rated centre-back and have waxed lyrical about the VVD-esque shift he put in against the Blades. One supporter has said that he is “proving everyone wrong” amid the doubt over whether he will be able to lead Liverpool’s defence this campaign (via Rousing The Kop).
His teammates, fans and manager will definitely be pleased with both him and Fabinho. Their next challenge will come against Midtjylland in the Champions League, which could be another chance to showcase his presence across the backline.
In other news, Shock Jurgen Klopp revelation could spell a Liverpool return for Rhian Brewster…