Diogo Jota scored twice to help Liverpool defeat Nottingham Forest 3-2 despite Liverpool making a feast of their return to Anfield.
Goalkeeper and Defenders
Alisson (6.5/10)
The finest goalkeeper in the world, Alisson, can be slack in possession at times. This was the case against Forest when he carelessly allowed a throw-in for the game’s second equalizer. However, due to massive deflections that diverted their attention away from him, he had little chance of successfully stopping Morgan Gibbs-White or Neco Williams.
Alexander-Arnold (9.5/10)
As to be expected in his new position, the No. 66 was quite active, and Liverpool’s performance benefited much from his inventiveness. In particular, the pass that led to Mohamed Salah’s score was exquisite. Trent, welcome back.
Konate (6.5/10)
Fought hard against Taiwo Awoniyi, a type of old teammate, and found it difficult to control the Nigerian who was a challenge the entire time. Konate was more effective than his center-back partner while in possession, especially with his straight passes to the left wing, but he will be glad not to have to play with such a strong presence every week.
Van Dijk (5/10)
Not Van Dijk’s greatest performance as he managed a back line that was frequently disorganized; yet, it could be claimed that they are still adjusting to this new system. He was occasionally a liability in possession, similar to Alisson, which gave Gibbs-White an opening early on. Thankfully, Forest’s two-goal comeback was ultimately meaningless.
Andy Robertson (6.5/10)
Alexander-Arnold’s job may be a hybrid one, but Robertson’s function as a wandering left-back and backup center-back is one as well. Although the defensive line needs some fine-tuning, the Scot was a willing participant in that area while still offering Liverpool a forward push.
Midfielders
Fabinho (7/10)
A by-the-numbers performance by Fabinho, who confidently prowled the base of the midfield knowing that a booking in this or the following game would result in a two-game suspension. He also provided a shrewd assist by heading the ball back across the goal mouth for Diogo Jota to head in for a 1-0 score.
Henderson (5.5/10)
Although it sometimes seemed as though he wasn’t contributing, the skipper was crucial in filling the holes created by Alexander-Arnold’s excursions forward. Although there was still something wanting, it does in some ways fit his frenzied energy. He was perhaps more important off the ball than he was on it.
Curtis Jones (6.5/10)
Jones, who was given the opportunity to start the fourth straight game on merit, dribbled about in his left-sided No. 8 position and composed passes with ease. His style of play has Gini Wijnaldum-like elements, but perhaps this system needs more. With a lavish assist against Leeds, he demonstrated it, but he is still far too reflective while in possession.
Forwards
Diogo Jota (8/10)
Jota, who is making his fifth straight start after ending his goalless streak, obviously has the manager’s trust—and for good reason. After missing an early opportunity, he immediately made up for it by nodding in from close range minutes after the break before a spectacular touchdown and finish for his second. What a change for a player who has long battled.
Gakpo (6/10)
Such a delight to see in football. Soon, he’ll become the favorite player of many fans. Although Saturday’s performance wasn’t his best, he still had an impact because of the way the ball stays to his feet and the fact that he possesses the center of gravity of a player one foot shorter than his 6’4″ stature.
Salah (7/10)
It was evident that a determined Mo Salah can offer Liverpool an advantage as he made the effort to go in front of Remo Freuler to make the score 3-2. Salah scored the goal that brought him even with Robbie Fowler as Liverpool’s sixth-highest goalscorer of all time in an otherwise diligent display.
Substitutions
Thiago (6.5/10)
Ineffective as a replacement, yet tidy.
Luis Diaz (7/10)
Having him back at Anfield is wonderful. A brief magical moment served as a reminder of what we’ve missed.
Nunez (6/10)
Missed a great chance to score 4-2 points. Between roles, he appeared a little disoriented.
