George Harris
Jan 21, 2024 - 08:05

5 talking points Bournemouth 0-4 Liverpool: Analysis, highlights and key moments

Liverpool's January window isn't defined by calls for a holding midfielder thanks to Mac Allister's standout performance and Nunez's brace.

Liverpool's failure to add a big-money holding midfielder to their squad last summer led many to believe that the January window would be defined by calls to sign one. However, Alexis Mac Allister has been increasingly looking at home in a role that many thought he could not play. His outstanding performance in a recent game showcased his quality on the ball, with an 87% passing accuracy, 11 passes into the final third, and four chances created. He also displayed his underrated defensive skills by winning 12 out of 17 duels and recovering the ball 15 times.

Liverpool's control in the middle was also evident, with Bournemouth consistently running into the brick wall of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, who are arguably the Premier League's best defensive pairing at the moment. Van Dijk made five blocks and four clearances, while Konate won eight out of 10 aerial duels and four out of five on the ground.

Despite a recent barren run in front of goal, Darwin Nunez has been a net positive for the team, racking up assists and making things happen with his runs and hold-up play. However, his return of one goal in 16 appearances is not good enough for a player of his quality. His brilliantly taken brace in a recent game may provide a confidence boost that leads to a purple patch in front of goal.

Liverpool's loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold to injury has been mitigated by Conor Bradley, a more-than-capable replacement from their academy. The 20-year-old made an impressive debut in the Premier League, winning six duels and setting up a goal for Diogo Jota.

The discourse around officials in football has been getting out of hand, with Liverpool feeling aggrieved at the lack of decisions in their favor in a recent win. Despite this, the team's bad luck with decisions hopefully has been used up during this routine win.

Overall, Liverpool's recent performances and the emergence of key players have showcased the team's depth and quality, giving fans hope for a successful season ahead.