Liverpool and the League Cup. It's just right!
I thought the performance was outstanding from an attacking point of view. Defensively, almost the complete opposite. We looked a shambles at the back.
Also, think we got a few decisions going our way for once. Gakpo easily could have been given offside for our opener. I think the Gomez handball was a blatant pen and if we hadn't been given it then I'd be proper pissed off.
The red card obviously changed the momentum of the game back in our favour. And we needed it to because it was yet another game where after taking the lead and looking comfortable, we step off the gas and allow the opposition plenty of the ball and plenty of chances to give us defensive headaches. It's the one thing since Slot has come in that has irked me.
Kelleher - had no chance with the goal, was more disappointed with his play in the disallowed goal. Ball just went straight through him. But he was generally solid yesterday, another decent performance.
Bradley - like Kelleher, his involvement in their disallowed goal was a concern. Looked far too weak as Summervile went through him. And overall he wasn't great defensively. Did alright going forward, more so once Mo came on. So far this season he hasn't looked like competition for Trent in the way he did last season.
Quansah - didn't have a great game and was topped off with the own goal, which admittedly he couldn't do anything about. It was his poor attempt at winning the original header that I was annoyed with. I want a centre half to go and demand the aerial battles. But I'll forgive his performance on the basis that he grabbed hold of that mouthy c**t Antonio and ragged him to the floor. All that was missing was a good F***ing kick while he was down there.
Gomez - as the leader of the backline yesterday, we needed him to step up and guide the others through. And I don't think Joe did that. From an individual performance, I don't think he did too much wrong but from a captain's perspective he wasn't quite there in my opinion. And as I've said, I thought he got away with the handball.
Tsimikas - I don't remember groaning about the Greek too much. Thought he done quite well in keeping Bowen quiet as well.
Endo - didn't offer the protection to the back four that he should have done. I mean that's what he's supposedly in the team for, so it's the one thing he should be providing. Also didn't do his usual thing of just kicking people. Game just passed him by unfortunately.
Jones - still guilty of dallying on the ball too long, even the run that lead to Jota's second was started by him nearly getting caught in possession. But he was lively throughout the game. Some glimpses of the player we know he has the potential to be. Also needs a mention that he sh*t out of a tackle that lead to their disallowed goal.
Chiesa - wasn't really involved in the game and is still yet to catch the eye in a Liverpool shirt. But it does look like he's settled in quite well. Seems to be playing with a smile on his face, which is a good thing. Think it was the second goal, he joined in the celebrations, said something and pissed himself laughing. Also looked quite chatty with Jota after the match. So nice to see him settled in quickly.
Jota - I've been critical of him this season for not getting the goals, well yesterday he did. Two proper goalscorer finishes. The header showing the bravery needed to get the finish in and around the six yard box. And the second just knowing where to put it first time. No thought needed. Was instrumental in the build up to the first goal. Rest of the game, was fairly quiet - which is fine when you pop up with two goals.
Nunez - like Jota, was fairly quiet for most of the game but unlike Diogo he didn't pop up with two goals so will be questioned on his performance. The one position that seems up for grabs right now is the centre forward and you'd think because of that Darwin would be going all out to cement his name on the team sheet but didn't. He just laboured through the game. It was a nice touch off him for Gakpo's first though.
Gakpo - the other end of the spectrum to Darwin. He knows his position, the left wing, is nailed on to be Lucho's due to the form of Diaz but instead of sulking - Cody is doing everything he can to say "nah, I'm the first choice left winger". Yet again, he was outstanding yesterday. Not just the goals but his all round game. I was adamant last season that he was of no use out wide and if he wasn't playing centrally then he shouldn't be playing at all. This season, he's proven that wrong. Constantly causing trouble cutting in on that right foot. A clear man of the match.
Mac Allister - should have scored but it wasn't costly because Salah knocked the rebound in and could have another screamer to his name if it wasn't for a great save from Fabianski. His calmness just seemed to give us control back, especially after the red card. Hasn't been at his best under Slot but yesterday he showed a few signs that his form was coming back.
Salah - what a F***ing showing from the lad. Was outstanding for his 30 minute cameo. And is so often the case, Mo scored against West Ham. That's a dozen against the Hammers now. I think I've said it previously but I don't know if he's playing out of his skin to force a new contract from us or to prove to other suitors that he's still the best player in the world. Either way, the form he's shown so far this season has been magical. And long may it continue.
Robertson - came on and got the captain's armband. Other than that, very little else from Robbo.
Morton - nice to see him back in a Liverpool shirt and getting a few minutes under his belt. Probably won't feature too much more unless injuries get the better of us but still nice for him to get a run out. I've always liked him as a player, neat and tidy on the ball.
Overall, it's a good convincing win yet again and we're into the next round. Minutes in the legs of a number of squad players. A few others rediscovering their best form. A bit shakey at the back but nothing a bit more concentration wouldn't solve. Onto Jimmy Milner and Brighton in the next round.
Well done Reds.
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