WHEN I look at Liverpool’s team this season, the thing that stands out is every player has been made better by the guy next to him.
They complement each other.
Liverpool players all complement each other perfectly – it’s why they’re champions
They have very rarely strayed from a 4-3-3 but some slight positional changes have turned them from bridesmaids to brides.
The flexibility within each zone of the pitch, as well as how they blend together, sees them form a unique and outstanding Premier League-winning squad.
GOALKEEPER
Alisson arrived in the summer of 2018 – a huge reason for Liverpool’s recent successesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Alisson is one of the best in the world.
His shot-stopping is brilliant but it is his distribution that has transformed Liverpool.
His pin-point passing accuracy has put them on counter-attacks they have no right to exploit, avoiding a high press with one breathtaking ball up the pitch.
DEFENCE
Virgil Van Dijk’s influence at Liverpool cannot be understatedCredit: Instagram @joegomez5
The only question at times has been who will play alongside Virgil van Dijk.
Normally in a central partnership you have one dominant ball player and one passive sweeper.
The beauty of Van Dijk is he can play either role.
As for the full-backs, Trent Alexander-Arnold has added a maturity and discipline to his game.
Yet he and Andy Robertson have still had permission to cause havoc up the other end.
MIDFIELD
Boss Klopp and captain Henderson will go down in Liverpool folklore
In the big games Klopp has varied it up in the middle and always gets it right.
It’s either two sitting with one attacking or the other way around, meaning they always have a makeshift back-four in preparation for a counter.
It was evident in their 3-1 home win over City in this campaign.
With TAA more reserved and focused on Raheem Sterling, the width came from Jordan Henderson.
He got an assist for Sadio Mane that day.
ATTACK
Roberto Firmino is key to all of Liverpool’s successes
With Henderson flying past him more and more, Roberto Firmino’s false nine role has been more vital.
The difference this season has been the trust shown from the front three to the rest of their team-mates.
They are very rarely frustrated with service and have developed a patience to unlock teams.
HOW CAN THEY IMPROVE?
The one issue nagging Klopp this summer will be the goal threat from midfield.
The highest scorer behind the attacking trio is Van Dijk, with four.
But after walking the league, they will find it difficult to find that one player to improve this team.
They will be forced to fish in a smaller pond.
Jurgen Klopp says he is overwhelmed with Liverpool winning the Premier League and pays tribute to staff and players
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
