Takumi Minamino scored the only goal of the first half, and the game, in the 14th minute. It was a good finish from Minamino, who smashed a volley on the turn into the bottom corner. Xherdian Shaqiri showed great technical ability to dink the ball in to Minamino, who beat the offside trap.

It was a very well-worked goal and Liverpool created other good chances, but failed to take them.

The Brazilians, Alisson, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino all made their first appearances in pre-season during this game. Fabinho, in particular, looked very sharp. It was great to see him back in the six position, and used his height to win back possession with ease as well as deliver passes to the wingers.

All three were replaced after the opening 30 minutes by Adrian, Divok Origi and Leighton Clarkson.

Joe Gomez, who also made his first start since his injury benefitted from the minutes. Him and Ibrahima Konate did not have too much to do, but utilised from the gametime. Gomez was given 43 minutes to help his return to Premier League football. He was replaced by Nat Phillips.

In the 45th minute, Origi had a chance to double Liverpool’s lead from the penalty spot, but missed, hitting the post. It was won by Ben Woodburn, whose quick feet took him away from Gary Medel.

The remainder of the game fizzled out a little, with a number of youngsters and senior players who haven’t played too much pre-season football being used in this game.

 

  • Tsimikas impresses again

Kostas Tsimikas once again impressed during the game, and continued his good pre-season. After a quiet opening season with Liverpool, it looks like he is ready to be given more responsibility in the team.

He often played high up the pitch and delivered some very inviting crosses into the box. His performance replicated those that we are accustomed to seeing Andy Robertson play. He certainly showed that he is ready to play more this season and offer some much-needed rest to Robertson.   

  • Klopp wants attacking midfielder

Something that was noticeable in both friendly games was the use of an attacking man in Liverpool’s midfield. During the first game, Harvey Elliott played in midfield and drifted forward repeatedly.

In the second friendly, both Curtis Jones and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain played and offered added men to the attack. In previous seasons, Jurgen Klopp has gone with less attacking midfielders, using the midfield as the engine of the team. This allows the fullbacks to push forward as well.

However, it seems that Klopp is trying to evolve this midfield a little bit more and aims to have an attacking man in it to contribute both goals and assists.

Having another player to contribute goals is something that Liverpool have missed for a couple of seasons. They are extremely reliant on the front three to get the goals and as seen last season, when they dry up for them, they dry up for the entire team. It will be very important to have that extra attacking man who can hopefully add to this.   

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