After defeating Burnley 2-0 at Turf Moor on Boxing Day, Liverpool ascended to the top of the Premier League standings.

When Cody Gakpo found Darwin Núñez at the edge of the box, the Uruguayan international directed a crisp finish past James Trafford for his first goal in 13 games, giving the visitors an early lead. Later in the first half, Gakpo had the ball in the net, but Nunez was called for fouling Burnley defender Charlie Taylor, therefore his attempt was disallowed. The next player to go closest to doubling the lead was Mohamed Salah, but the crossbar stopped his shot after Gakpo’s ball.

Harvey Elliott’s pass from Ryan Gravenberch into the corner gave Liverpool the impression that they had scored again in the second half, but VAR determined that Salah’s offside position was interfering with play.

Burnley was encouraged by the fact that the game was still in the balance at 1-0 down, but Liverpool’s replacement Diogo Jota delivered a superb goal from a close range to secure all three points for Klopp’s team after Jóhann Gudmundsson and then Jacob Bruun Larsen missed the mark.

Defensive advantages were highlighted.

Alisson Becker, a perfect 7.0, is the best custodian in the world, and any success this season depends on his staying healthy. During the first half, he mostly watched and remained attentive when called upon. Good.

Joe Gomez – 8.0: Given the injuries to both of the senior left-backs, this may serve as Joe Gomez’s new home, at least temporarily. He helped every player around him and exuded determination and energy at both ends of the pitch. enjoying an excellent campaign.

Trent Alexander-Arnold- 7.0 The England player and vice captain is essential to the hybrid project; his increasing impact occasionally makes the team smile. Even though he wasn’t at his best, he still tried to provide opportunities and good passes from his hybrid position.

Jarell Quansah – 9.0: A valuable defence group player makes a comeback to the team. A fantastic performance both on and off the ball for the 20-year-old, who occasionally projects an air of calm. A star is created.

Virgil van Dijk – 9.0: This team’s captain and leader, he relies heavily on his availability due to the presence of a world-class custodian behind him. When called upon, his command of the pitch is unparalleled; he was just enormous. He might win the player of the year honour.

MIDFIELD DYNAMICS

Ryan Gravenberch – 6.0: Despite having a very subpar performance against Arsenal, the young Dutch midfielder started this game ahead of Curtis Jones. It was a dynamic game, and he felt as though the time was flying past. Simply put, doesn’t seem prepared for a regular starting job. replaced in the sixty-sixth minute.

Wataru Endō – 7.0: With his ability to take back possession and fortify his defence, the captain of Japan is rapidly turning into a manager’s most valuable asset. was excellent at what he did and did a great job of covering ground. The occasional careless pass is excusable, but in the closing moments, it almost cost a goal.

Harvey Elliott- 7.0: Replaced the Hungarian captain on the right with an inventive role to help the assault. It was unfortunate that Mohamed Salah missed the second goal, since he went offside and into the keeper’s line of sight. His contribution to the team is now guaranteed due to his exceptional energy and skill. replaced in the sixty-sixth minute.

SUBS IMPACT AND STRIKING FORCE

Cody Gakpo (6.0): This young Dutch forward, who plays a centre role meant to bind the front line together, took the place of the Colombian forward on the team. He attempted to be a little bit more aggressive and astute in his overall play, which made this performance better than his one against Arsenal. replaced in the sixty-sixth minute.

Darwin Núñez (8.0): After being benched against Arsenal, the Uruguayan bull returned to the starting lineup. A demonstration of aggression and passion was exactly what was required, and it began with a wonderful goal. Served as the primary attacker and a great complement to the attacking line. replaced in the minute eighty-four.

Mohamed Salah – 7.0: The King of Egypt is expected to start every game from now till his departure because he is soon leaving for the 2024 AFCON. The tempo and intensity bursts were brief but crucial for extending the game when necessary. His ability to take on several defenders made room for others to flourish.

SUBS: 6.0 (on 66) for Curtis Jones: Was eager to demonstrate why he ought to begin, but perhaps he was also required to aid calm the game’s state.

Szoboszlai, Dominik – 7.0 (on 66): was swiftly resolute and strong in his play to help calm the seas.

Luis Díaz – 7.0 (at minute 60): Started.

Diogo Jota – 8.0 (on 60): The return of the fox in the box resulted in the goal his team needed to win.

Jürgen Klopp, the manager, scored 9.0

The German manager made the appropriate rotations, obviously rolling the dice on a few important players, considering that the next game isn’t until New Year’s Day (at home against Newcastle). It is impossible to dispute his choice of squad and the ensuing adjustments because every player he selected gave what was required. The outcome was mostly due to some excellent defensive work, and he is currently doing a great job of timing his adjustments. It was a brilliant move to bring in Jota in the last few minutes to assist seal the victory.