Salah and Gravenberch Shine: Liverpool vs Southampton Player Ratings

The Premier League schedule resumed with a Sunday afternoon match on the south coast. After Manchester City lost 0-4 at home to Tottenham the day before, the outcome of this match was crucial for Liverpool’s Premier League title aspirations.

Below are the line-up and subsequent player ratings.

The Irish backup goalkeeper started once again as the Reds awaited the return of their Brazilian number one, Alisson Becker. Kelleher made some important early saves, including a stellar stop against a penalty, but unfortunately couldn’t stop the rebound. After halftime, he was let down by his entire defensive unit as Liverpool fell behind. Overall, it was a solid performance, though it may not keep Alisson out of the starting lineup when he is fit.

The Irish fullback began the match with a desire to push forward and aid the attack, but struggled to build chemistry with Mohamed Salah and had difficulties handling counterattacks late in the first half. After the break, he was more energetic and reliable, although he was caught too high up the pitch for Southampton’s second goal. It was a commendable performance for an understudy.

The Scotland international captain started the match looking to surge forward but failed to deliver the necessary crosses to match the movement in the box. A last-ditch tackle resulted in a penalty towards the end of the first half due to his struggles against the agile Dibling. In the second half, Robertson again had trouble adapting to the hosts’ relentless attack, especially as Southampton took an early lead. However, his game and defensive output improved afterward.

The French defender was overly physical with his opponents in the early stages of the match. After halftime, Konaté struggled to maintain proper positioning, which left a significant gap for the Saints to score their second goal. It wasn’t his best performance, but expectations have been set high this season.

The captain and leader of the team was guilty of overplaying, which led to the concession of a penalty in what should have been a solid first-half performance. After the break, Van Dijk was again out of form as Southampton surged forward to take the lead. Although not a poor game, it was marked by uncharacteristic mistakes.

The Dutch midfielder started as the deepest of three midfielders but often pushed into more offensive roles to initiate attacks throughout the first half. After halftime, the 6-foot-3-inch midfielder was ambitious and industrious on the ball, striving to dominate the pitch. He provided the assist for Mohamed Salah’s first goal.

The Hungarian opened the scoring after a few early attempts, curling a shot into the top corner. Following the halftime break, Szoboszlai’s impressive and energetic pressing play helped his team secure a vital three points.

The academy graduate began the match with the intent to press and his efforts created the opening goal during a solid first-half display. In the second period, he performed well but was a bit lacking on the ball in advanced areas.

The Uruguayan forward was tasked with leading the attack, supported by a talented cast of teammates. His performance in the first half was a mix of energy and power as he sought to create opportunities. He fought hard after the break before being substituted.

The Dutch forward started on the left wing, expected to provide penetration. Aside from a couple of half-chances, his industry and form were lacking, and he struggled to make an impact. His performance after the break was lackluster before he came off.

The Egyptian forward had a superb performance, scoring two vital goals. The first demonstrated his desire to get to the ball first, while the match-winner came confidently from the penalty spot. Man of the Match

Luis Díaz – 6.0 (on 62 mins) Came on to add variety to the attack.

Alexis Mac Allister – 7.0 (on 62 mins) Came on to provide more control in midfield.

Wataru Endō – 6.0 (on 90 mins) Came on to help close out the game.

Arne Slot – 7.0 The Dutch manager aimed to select a side with as few South American players as possible. All substitutions were strategic and had a vital impact, helping him navigate a challenging match following the international break.