The Kopite View

I’m really starting to like what I’m seeing from Rio Ngumoha on the right wing.

For a young player who has spent much of his Liverpool development playing on the left, switching sides was never going to be completely straightforward. The movements are different, the angles change and he has to learn how to get the best out of himself in a new position.

But his performance against Brentford has given me another reason to be excited about him.

Ngumoha is beginning to look comfortable on the right — and that could be very important for Liverpool.

Brentford showed what he can offer

Ngumoha came on in the 52nd minute at the Gtech Community Stadium, with Liverpool trailing 1-0 and needing something to change.

It was not an easy situation for an 18-year-old to enter. Brentford were defending their lead, Liverpool were pushing for an equaliser and the pressure was building.

Yet Ngumoha brought energy and directness to the game. His quick feet and willingness to take defenders on helped Liverpool find ways through a side trying to protect its advantage. This Is Anfield gave him an eight out of ten for his cameo, highlighting his ability to break lines and open up space.

He also helped create a dangerous moment from a short-corner routine, crossing for Virgil van Dijk, whose half-volley flew just wide.

Liverpool eventually turned the game around to win 2-1 through Victor Muñoz and Alexander Isak. Ngumoha did not need to score to make his contribution worthwhile.

What mattered was that he came on, looked ready to take responsibility and gave Liverpool another attacking option.

He has admitted his right-wing game is improving

The most encouraging part is that Ngumoha can see the progress himself.

Speaking after the Brentford victory, he explained that he had improved on the right since Liverpool’s earlier game against Newcastle and was beginning to understand the role better.

He also credited his experience with England, adding that he now enjoys playing on both sides and sees the versatility as another tool in his game.

I like that attitude.

He could easily insist that the left wing is his natural position and wait for opportunities there. Instead, he is embracing the challenge of learning a different role.

That matters because Liverpool need players who can adapt. A winger who is comfortable on either side gives Iraola more ways to change a game without necessarily having to make a substitution.

Liverpool have a reason to develop him there

With Mohamed Salah having left Liverpool, the right wing is an important position to fill.

Ngumoha is not expected to replace everything Salah brought to the team overnight, and it would be unfair to put that sort of pressure on him. But if he can become a genuine option on the right, Liverpool have another young attacker who can help balance the forward line.

He has the pace to stretch defenders, the confidence to take them on and the ability to create something when a game looks stuck.

From the left, he can attack defenders in a way that suits his natural game. On the right, he has different angles to explore and can learn when to drive inside, when to hold the width and when to combine with the full-back.

He will need time to master those details. One good cameo does not mean the job is finished.

But that is exactly why I am encouraged. He is learning the position while still finding ways to influence matches.

Iraola should keep giving him opportunities

I do not want Liverpool rushing Ngumoha or expecting him to become a regular starter immediately.

He is still young, and there will be games when things do not come off. He might lose possession, make the wrong decision or struggle against an experienced full-back. That is part of learning at this level.

What I want to see is the same willingness to take responsibility.

Against Brentford, he came into a difficult game and tried to make things happen. He did not look frightened by the occasion, and his cameo helped Liverpool maintain pressure as they chased the result.

That is the sort of attitude Iraola should encourage.

Give him minutes on the right. Let him make mistakes. Help him understand the tactical side of the position. Then see how quickly he develops.

Liverpool have several players who can operate across the forward line, but Ngumoha has something exciting: he is young, fearless and still learning.

The more positions he can play well, the harder he will be to leave out.

This could open a much bigger door for him

I am not suggesting Ngumoha is suddenly the answer to every question about Liverpool’s attack.

But I do think his development on the right could give him a clearer route into the team.

If he can become effective on both wings, Iraola has more flexibility when selecting his front three. Ngumoha can cover injuries, offer impact from the bench and eventually compete for starts without needing the team to be built around one specific position.

That is a big step for a young player.

And the best thing is that he seems to be enjoying the challenge rather than resisting it.

Liverpool supporters already know what Ngumoha can offer from the left. Now we are starting to see why he could be useful on the right as well.

Brentford might have been another small step in his development, but it was an encouraging one.

I want to see more of him there. I want him to keep learning, keep taking defenders on and keep making it difficult for Iraola to leave him on the bench.

Because if Rio Ngumoha can become a threat on both sides, Liverpool will have another exciting option for the future — and one who might be ready to contribute much sooner than some people expect.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

There are plenty of people who get nervous before a big game at Anfield. But Fernando Roig has admitted that, when Villarreal face Liverpool, nervousness doesn’t even begin to describe how he feels.

“I don’t get nervous. It’s worse: I get worried, very anxious. I suffer a lot.”

That was the Villarreal owner’s honest response when speaking to The Guardian ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Liverpool.

And I have to say, I quite like hearing this sort of thing from the people on the other side.

We spend so much time talking about tactics, team selections, transfers and results that it’s easy to forget what these European nights mean to everyone involved. For Liverpool supporters, Anfield under the lights is something special. But for the people arriving with the opposition, it can be an incredibly intimidating experience too.

Roig has been involved with Villarreal for nearly 30 years. He’s watched more than 1,000 games as president, yet the feeling hasn’t gone away.

If anything, it sounds as though it gets worse.

“It’s emotional to play Liverpool”

Roig didn’t hide how much this particular fixture means to him.

He explained that this will be the fifth time Villarreal have faced Liverpool, and the third time they’ve played at Anfield. The previous two meetings were European semi-finals — including the dramatic Champions League tie in 2022.

He also described the routine around the trip: watching the team’s morning training session, travelling with the squad, eating together and then returning to the hotel before the match.

The following morning, he plans to watch Villarreal’s under-19s before facing the part of the trip he likes least.

The game itself.

As Roig put it, the team will then fly home very late, with the whole experience proving “very stressful”.

I found that detail quite amusing. Here’s a man who has spent decades running a football club, experienced huge European occasions and watched Villarreal grow into a respected force in Spanish football — and he still admits he doesn’t enjoy watching his team play.

I suspect plenty of supporters can relate to that feeling.

You can love football and still find the actual 90 minutes absolutely unbearable when your team is involved.

Liverpool and Villarreal have history

This isn’t just another Champions League fixture for Roig.

Villarreal and Liverpool have met in major European ties before, most memorably in the 2022 Champions League semi-final.

Liverpool won the first leg 2-0 at Anfield, but Villarreal made life extremely uncomfortable in the return leg in Spain, scoring twice before half-time to level the tie on aggregate. Liverpool eventually fought back to win 3-2 on the night and 5-2 overall.

It was a reminder that Villarreal should never be underestimated in Europe.

They may not have the financial power or global profile of Liverpool, Real Madrid or Barcelona, but they’ve built a club capable of competing on the biggest stage.

Roig has played a huge part in that journey. He has invested in the stadium, training facilities and academy, while trying to ensure Villarreal remain financially sustainable rather than spending beyond their means.

That makes his comments about Liverpool even more interesting. He isn’t simply a wealthy owner turning up for a glamorous night. He’s someone who has spent decades building a club and knows exactly how much these occasions matter.

Anfield is still a special place to visit

We Liverpool supporters know what Anfield can do on a European night.

We’ve seen it against Barcelona, Chelsea, Roma and countless other opponents. The atmosphere can change a game, and the players aren’t the only people who feel it.

Roig’s comments are a reminder that the occasion starts well before kick-off. There’s the preparation, the travelling, the build-up and the knowledge that one result can shape an entire European campaign.

Of course, Villarreal won’t arrive simply to admire the stadium. They’ll want to make life difficult for Liverpool and take something from the game.

And Liverpool will need to be ready for that.

But I like the respect Roig has shown. He spoke warmly about how well Villarreal are treated when they visit Liverpool, adding that his club tries to return that hospitality.

That’s how European football should be. Fierce competition on the pitch, respect between clubs away from it.

I hope Liverpool give him something to worry about

There’s a match to win, of course, and Liverpool cannot afford to get carried away by a few nice comments.

Villarreal are experienced enough to punish any complacency, and their previous European meetings with Liverpool prove that.

But I hope the Reds make it a memorable night for their own supporters.

Roig might be dreading the match, but that’s part of football. When your team walks out at Anfield, the nerves come with it — even if you’ve been watching from the directors’ box for 30 years.

His comments have given us a lovely little insight into the person behind Villarreal, and I respect his honesty.

“I suffer a lot.”

I think a fair few Liverpool supporters will be nodding along to that one.

The difference is that, on Tuesday night, I want the only people suffering at Anfield to be wearing yellow.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool fans are understandably eager to know whether Gilberto Mora could be heading to Anfield, but there is one important point to remember before the excitement gets out of hand.

Showing interest in Liverpool is not the same as agreeing to sign for Liverpool.

The Mexican teenager has been at the centre of growing transfer speculation, with reports linking the Reds with a significant move for the former Tijuana youngster.

A statement circulating online now appears to suggest that Mora has tried to clarify the situation, stressing that being open to the idea of joining Liverpool does not mean a deal has been completed.

I have not been able to verify whether the full statement being shared online is an authentic quote from Mora. However, the message behind it is important, particularly given the amount of speculation surrounding his future.

Liverpool links have gone into overdrive

Mora has attracted interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs, while Liverpool have been repeatedly linked with the talented attacking midfielder.

Earlier this month, Mexican journalist David Faitelson reported that Tijuana had received a Liverpool offer worth more than $50 million. However, neither club has officially confirmed that claim. Other reports have also questioned whether a formal offer has even been submitted.

That is why supporters should be cautious about treating every new social media post as evidence that a transfer is close.

There is a clear difference between Liverpool monitoring a talented player, making an enquiry and reaching an agreement to sign him.

At this stage, those possibilities should not be confused.

Why Liverpool would be interested

It is easy to understand why Mora’s name has captured the attention of Liverpool supporters.

He is a technically gifted attacking midfielder who has already gained senior experience despite his young age. His ability to operate in several attacking positions also makes him an intriguing prospect for a club looking to build for the future.

Liverpool have shown a willingness to invest in young talent when they believe a player has the potential to develop into something special.

Mora certainly fits that profile.

However, identifying a talented player is only the beginning. Liverpool would still need to agree terms with Tijuana, settle the financial details and convince Mora that Anfield is the right place for the next stage of his career.

That final part matters.

A move to a club as big as Liverpool would represent an enormous opportunity, but it would also bring pressure and intense competition for places.

The right development plan could be just as important as the transfer fee.

The viral video does not confirm a deal

Mora has already found himself at the centre of a viral moment involving Liverpool supporters.

A clip shared online showed him acknowledging fans who were calling out to him while displaying a Liverpool shirt. The footage quickly attracted attention because of the existing transfer rumours.

However, that interaction did not confirm that Mora had agreed to join Liverpool. His representative, Rafaela Pimenta, has also declined to confirm the reported transfer claims, while no agreement with Liverpool has been officially announced.

That is the reality supporters need to keep in mind.

It is perfectly understandable that a young footballer would be interested in the possibility of joining a club like Liverpool. But even if a player welcomes that interest, there are still several steps between doing so and putting pen to paper.

Liverpool fans have every reason to be interested in Mora, but not every rumour means a deal is imminent.

I would love to see Liverpool make their move

Personally, I can understand why Liverpool supporters are excited about this possibility.

Mora is young, has already experienced senior football and possesses the kind of potential that makes major clubs take notice.

If Liverpool genuinely believe he could become an important player in the future, I would like to see them explore the opportunity.

However, I would also want to know what the plan would be for him.

Would he have a clear pathway into the first team? Would he be given the opportunity to develop without being expected to make an immediate impact? And would Liverpool be prepared to show the patience that young players often need?

Those questions matter far more than any viral clip.

For now, I would not assume that Mora has agreed to join Liverpool, nor would I treat the reported fee as confirmed.

There is clearly significant interest and speculation surrounding his future, but the key details remain unconfirmed.

Liverpool fans can dream about seeing Gilberto Mora at Anfield. Just do not mistake the excitement for a completed transfer.

If Liverpool can turn their reported interest into a genuine agreement, this could become a fascinating story.

Until then, supporters will have to wait and see.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, I’m completely with Graeme Souness on this one.

Liverpool have a huge decision to make over Virgil van Dijk’s future, but I’m not convinced we should be looking at his age and automatically assuming his best days are behind him.

At 35, nobody is suggesting Van Dijk can play forever. Football catches up with everybody eventually.

But have we really reached the point where Liverpool should be preparing to say goodbye to their captain?

Souness certainly doesn’t think so.

The former Liverpool captain has urged the club to offer van Dijk another year at Anfield, with the option of a second, and described him as a “Rolls-Royce of a player.” Speaking to Mirror Football, he also pushed back against the suggestion that van Dijk never fully recovered from his serious knee injury.

And I think Liverpool supporters should listen to that.

“It’s a lazy thing to say he’s not the same player”

Souness made an interesting point about the criticism van Dijk received after his devastating knee injury in the Merseyside derby in October 2020.

Jordan Pickford’s challenge left the Liverpool defender with an ACL injury that ruled him out for the remainder of that season.

There were understandable questions about whether he would ever return to his previous level.

But Souness believes the criticism that followed was unfair.

> “It’s a lazy thing to say he’s not the same player. I didn’t see that.”

That is a strong statement, but I understand exactly where he is coming from.

van Dijk returned to Liverpool, helped the club win major trophies and continued to be one of the most influential centre-backs in the Premier League.

He has not needed to be the fastest defender on the pitch to remain effective. His reading of the game, positioning, aerial ability and composure have always been among his greatest strengths.

And those qualities don’t suddenly disappear because a player reaches his mid-thirties.

If anything, experience can make a defender even more valuable.

Souness also made a point about Konaté

One of the more interesting parts of Souness’ assessment was his suggestion that playing alongside Ibrahima Konaté had sometimes made things difficult for van Dijk.

He said:

“I think Konaté was a difficult player to be playing with.”

That’s an opinion worth discussing, particularly because centre-back partnerships are about much more than the individual performances of the two players.

One defender might need to cover space behind his partner, while the other has to decide when to step forward and challenge an attacker. If those decisions aren’t synchronised, both players can end up looking worse than they really are.

van Dijk has often been at his best when the partnership alongside him gives him the confidence to organise the defensive line and deal with danger before it develops.

And Liverpool’s emerging partnership between van Dijk and Jérémy Jacquet gives the captain another opportunity to show what he can do.

I’m not saying Jacquet is automatically the perfect partner, but the early signs have been encouraging.

For me, Liverpool should be looking at how van Dijk performs alongside the defenders available to him now, rather than judging his future solely on the difficulties of previous seasons.

“He’s got better the longer he’s been at Liverpool”

This was my favourite part of Souness’ comments.

He believes van Dijk has actually improved during his time at Anfield, explaining that his experience has helped him anticipate danger earlier.

That makes sense.

A defender who understands the game can sometimes compensate for a loss of pace by recognising danger before an opponent has even received the ball.

van Dijk has spent years facing the best attackers in England and Europe. He knows when to step out, when to hold his position and how to organise the players around him.

And let’s not forget what he brings beyond his individual defending.

He’s Liverpool’s captain.

He sets standards, organises the back line and provides leadership in difficult moments. Replacing that influence would be another challenge for a club already trying to build its next generation of defenders.

Liverpool can recruit a younger centre-back, but finding somebody who combines van Dijk’s quality, experience and authority is a very different task.

That’s why I wouldn’t be in a rush to let him go.

A one-year deal with an option makes sense

This is where I think Souness has got it right.

He isn’t suggesting Liverpool should offer van Dijk another massive long-term contract and ignore the risks.

His proposal is straightforward: give him another year, with an option for a second.

That would give Liverpool some flexibility while recognising what Van Dijk continues to contribute.

Of course, the club would need to consider his wages, workload and how his performances develop. There is no guarantee that a player will maintain his level indefinitely, regardless of how good he has been.

But Liverpool also need to think about what happens if they allow him to leave too soon.

They would lose their captain, their most experienced defender and one of the players who understands the club’s expectations better than almost anyone else in the squad.

For me, that is a risk worth taking seriously.

A shorter extension could provide a sensible middle ground: reward van Dijk for what he is still giving Liverpool without committing the club to a lengthy deal.

Liverpool aren’t ready to replace everything van Dijk brings

I like the direction Liverpool’s defence is taking.

Jacquet has been encouraging, Ronald Araújo provides valuable flexibility, and Giovanni Leoni’s eventual return should give Andoni Iraola more options.

But those players still have different levels of experience, and none can simply be expected to replace van Dijk’s influence overnight.

Liverpool need to plan for life after their captain. That is unavoidable.

But planning for the future doesn’t mean pushing an important player out before the time is right.

van Dijk can help the younger defenders develop while continuing to contribute on the pitch. If he maintains his level, there is a strong argument for keeping him around.

And if his workload needs managing, Liverpool should use their defensive depth to give him the occasional rest rather than expecting him to play every minute.

That would benefit both van Dijk and the club.

I’m with Souness on this one

I understand why Liverpool have to be careful. van Dijk is 35, and every contract decision needs to account for what happens next.

But I don’t believe age alone should decide this.

Souness has reminded us that van Dijk remains a defender whose intelligence and experience are hugely valuable. His recovery from that terrible injury was remarkable, and his contribution to Liverpool has been extraordinary.

I would give him another year, with an option for a second.

That gives Liverpool time to develop their younger defenders while allowing van Dijk to continue leading the team if his performances justify it.

He has earned that consideration.

Liverpool should never make decisions based purely on sentiment, but they shouldn’t ignore what they still have in front of them either.

Virgil van Dijk has given this club so much. If he can continue performing at the level we’re seeing, I see no reason to rush him towards the exit.

As Souness put it, he’s a Rolls-Royce.

And I’m not ready to park him in the garage just yet.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’m going to make a bold claim here.

Alexander Isak might not be Liverpool’s best player, but I’m starting to think he could be our most important.

And after watching Liverpool fight back to beat Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, I think there is a very good argument for it.

Two goals at Ipswich. One at Bournemouth. One at Brentford.

That is four goals across those three away games, and the goals against Ipswich and Brentford were particularly valuable in turning difficult matches into wins.

Isak has now scored five goals in six Premier League appearances this season, according to This Is Anfield.

For a striker who has had to deal with injuries and is still building his understanding with his new teammates, that is an encouraging return.

But what interests me most is not simply how many goals he scores.

It is when he scores them.

Isak is delivering when Liverpool need him

Saturday’s trip to Brentford was another example.

Liverpool were struggling to find their rhythm, and Keane Lewis-Potter put the hosts ahead just before half-time. Brentford were organised, aggressive and making life difficult for Iraola’s side.

The game changed when Yehor Yarmoliuk was sent off for a headbutt on Jérémy Jacquet, but Liverpool still had to make their advantage count.

Victor Muñoz levelled the match in the second half, and then Isak produced the moment that mattered.

Bradley Barcola nodded the ball into his path, and Isak controlled it before drilling a finish into the bottom corner in the 70th minute.

It was the sort of finish you expect from a striker of his quality.

No panic. No unnecessary touches. Just control the ball, create the opening and put it away.

Isak later explained that he had not seen many chances coming his way, so he was waiting for his moment. When it arrived, he made the most of it.

That is what good strikers do.

They can be quiet for long periods and still decide a game with one opportunity.

And Liverpool have been crying out for that kind of reliability.

Liverpool have plenty of attacking talent – but Isak gives them something different

Look at the options Iraola has available when everyone is fit.

Florian Wirtz can create chances and find passes that other players simply do not see.

Barcola has pace, trickery and the ability to beat defenders.

Cody Gakpo can carry the ball, cut inside and contribute goals.

Hugo Ekitike offers another attacking option, while Muñoz is already showing that he can contribute in important moments.

There is a lot of talent there.

But Isak gives Liverpool something none of those players quite provide in the same way: a natural centre-forward who can turn half a chance into a goal.

That is why I think he could become so important.

Liverpool do not need every attacker to score in every game. They need different players to contribute in different ways, and they need somebody who can be trusted when a chance finally arrives.

Isak is beginning to show that he can be that player.

His goal at Brentford was also a reminder that he does not need to dominate a match to influence the result.

Sometimes the most important contribution is the simplest one.

Put the ball in the net.

Barcola and Wirtz could make Isak even more valuable

The other encouraging part is that Liverpool are starting to see signs of a partnership developing between their expensive attacking recruits.

Barcola supplied the assist for Isak’s winner, while Wirtz played the pass that released Muñoz for Liverpool’s equaliser. Both contributed to the comeback after impressing in the midweek Champions League victory over LASK.

That is what I want to see more often.

Wirtz finding the passes that open up defences. Barcola stretching opponents and creating opportunities. Isak getting into the right positions and finishing the chances.

It sounds obvious, but these things take time.

Liverpool have spent heavily on their attack, and there will inevitably be pressure for those players to click immediately. I still think there is plenty of work to do, but Saturday offered another glimpse of what might be possible.

The important thing now is consistency.

One good combination is encouraging. Seeing it happen week after week would be something else entirely.

The resilience at the Gtech matters just as much

I don’t want to overlook the wider performance, either.

Liverpool had to come from behind away from home, deal with an awkward opponent and cope with more injury problems during the game.

Dominik Szoboszlai went off before half-time, and Jeremie Frimpong lasted only a few minutes after coming on at the break. Despite those setbacks, Liverpool found a way to win.

Muñoz deserves credit for his equaliser, and Iraola deserves credit for sticking with an attacking approach after Frimpong was forced off. Rather than simply making a like-for-like defensive change, he used Muñoz at right-back and kept Liverpool’s attacking threat on that side.

It paid off.

There were certainly things Liverpool could have done better, and Brentford’s red cards inevitably influenced the game. I’m not going to pretend it was a flawless performance.

But Liverpool still had to take advantage of the situation.

They did that, and they left with three points.

After the disappointment of losing 3–0 to Manchester City, that response was vital.

Good teams have to find ways to win when they are not at their best.

Liverpool did exactly that at the Gtech.

Isak could be the player who makes the difference

This is why I keep coming back to Isak.

Liverpool have players who can excite us, players who can create something out of nothing and players who can change the direction of a match with one clever pass.

But goals remain the currency of football.

You can dominate possession, create promising moves and look dangerous for 20 minutes. If nobody finishes the chances, none of it matters.

Isak is giving Liverpool a focal point and, increasingly, a reliable finisher.

I’m not saying he is better than Wirtz, Van Dijk, Alisson or any of Liverpool’s other top players. That’s a different argument.

I’m saying that his role could be more important than people realise.

If Isak stays fit and continues scoring at this rate, Liverpool will have a much better chance of turning their attacking talent into points.

And with Barcola, Wirtz, Gakpo and the other options around him, there is plenty of potential for the team to become more dangerous as the season progresses.

Isak might not be Liverpool’s best player. But he could be the player who makes the biggest difference to their season.

Four goals across those three away games tell part of the story.

The comeback at Brentford tells the rest.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, but they have a striker delivering important goals, attacking options beginning to contribute and a team that refused to give in when the afternoon became difficult.

That is something worth building on.

And if Isak keeps delivering when Liverpool need him most, I think we’ll soon understand just how important he really is.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I can understand why Liverpool are looking at alternatives to Alex Scott.

I’ve said before that I like the idea of Liverpool bringing Scott to Anfield. He is an energetic midfielder who knows the Premier League, and Andoni Iraola already knows him from their time together at Bournemouth.

But when you’re talking about a potential fee of more than £100 million, you have to ask whether there are better ways to spend that money.

And now another name has entered the conversation.

Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund.

According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool are considering the Germany international as an alternative to Scott, with Bournemouth’s reported asking price making a deal for their midfielder difficult. Nmecha is valued at around €90 million (£76 million), although Dortmund are said to be reluctant to sell.

That is still a huge amount of money.

But it is considerably less than the £110m–£115m figure being discussed for Scott.

And if Liverpool are serious about strengthening their midfield, I think this is a story worth watching.

Why Liverpool are looking beyond Alex Scott

Scott is an appealing target, particularly because of his connection with Iraola.

The Liverpool manager knows what the midfielder can bring to a team, and a reunion at Anfield would make sense on paper.

The problem is the price.

Sky Sports reported on October 15 that Bournemouth could consider offers exceeding £80m with add-ons in January, provided their Premier League position makes a sale viable. Other reports have suggested a valuation closer to £100m or more.

Those figures leave Liverpool with a difficult decision.

Scott is a talented player, but spending more than £100m on one midfielder would be a major commitment, particularly when Liverpool have other areas of the squad to consider.

And that is where Nmecha becomes interesting.

What could Felix Nmecha offer Liverpool?

Nmecha is 26 and has experience in both English and German football.

He spent 12 years in Manchester City’s academy before moving to Wolfsburg and later joining Borussia Dortmund. He also made three senior appearances for City before leaving English football.

CaughtOffside reports that Liverpool’s recruitment staff regard him as an underrated option who could make an immediate impact under Iraola.

He is a different proposition from Scott, though, and that matters.

Scott is known for carrying the ball forward, driving through midfield and helping his team progress possession. Nmecha offers a different profile, with his physical presence and ability to compete for possession potentially appealing to Liverpool.

A recent comparison published by Sports Mole highlighted Nmecha’s work without the ball, while also questioning aspects of his possession game. The report noted that he has had fitness problems in recent seasons, so Liverpool would need to consider that carefully.

I wouldn’t automatically say Nmecha is the better player.

But if Liverpool want a midfielder who can bring a different balance to the team, I can see why he might be on their list.

The £76m question

Let’s not pretend £76m is cheap.

That is a serious investment in a 26-year-old, especially when the reported fee is not confirmed as an agreed price.

Dortmund are said to insist that Nmecha is not for sale. However, CaughtOffside reports that an offer around €90m could potentially open negotiations.

Liverpool would therefore still need to convince Dortmund to do business.

And there is another question: would Nmecha actually be the right fit?

Iraola needs midfielders who can handle the physical demands of the Premier League while helping Liverpool control matches. He also needs the right balance between winning the ball, progressing play and supporting the attackers.

Nmecha could offer some of those qualities, but Liverpool would have to be certain that his strengths fit the role they want him to perform.

Paying less than £115m doesn’t automatically make a transfer good business.

The player has to be right.

I’d still keep Scott in the conversation

I don’t want Liverpool to abandon the idea of signing Scott simply because another name has appeared.

There is a reason Iraola’s former Bournemouth midfielder is attracting serious interest. He understands the Premier League, has experience in English football and could potentially make the transition to Anfield more straightforward.

But Liverpool must have alternatives.

That is how a sensible recruitment strategy should work.

If Bournemouth demand a fee Liverpool consider excessive, the club should be prepared to move on rather than allowing one target to dictate the entire transfer budget.

Nmecha is one possibility. CaughtOffside also mentioned Monaco’s Lamine Camara as another alternative, suggesting Liverpool are considering different profiles rather than focusing on Scott alone.

That is encouraging, even if none of these links guarantees a January signing.

Liverpool need to get this decision right

For me, the important thing is not whether Liverpool sign Scott or Nmecha.

It is whether they bring in the midfielder who best suits Iraola’s plans.

Liverpool need more options in the middle of the pitch, and I would rather see them carefully assess several targets than spend an enormous fee simply because one player is available.

Scott would be an exciting addition.

Nmecha is an intriguing alternative.

But at £76m, the Dortmund midfielder would hardly represent a bargain, and his fitness record deserves attention before Liverpool consider committing that sort of money.

January is still some way off, so there is plenty of time for this story to change.

If Bournemouth’s valuation of Alex Scott really is pushing beyond £100m, Liverpool need a Plan B.

And Felix Nmecha could be one of the names they seriously consider.

The question is whether he is the right alternative — or whether Liverpool can find better value elsewhere.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I think Liverpool need to get serious about three contracts before they create problems that could have been avoided.

Alexis Mac Allister. Virgil van Dijk. Alisson Becker.

Three very different players, at different stages of their careers, but all three remain hugely important to Liverpool.

And if we’re serious about building a successful team under Andoni Iraola, I don’t think we can afford to let their futures drift without a clear plan.

We’ve already seen what happens when contract situations drag on for too long. Supporters spend months worrying about whether important players will stay, while the club risks losing control of the situation.

Liverpool need to get ahead of this rather than wait until it’s too late.

Mac Allister is the one I’m most concerned about

Let’s start with Alexis, because this situation genuinely bothers me.

Mac Allister has admitted that he was disappointed Liverpool had not offered him a new contract. He also revealed that he had opportunities to leave during the summer but chose to stay because he believes Liverpool can achieve something special.

That tells me plenty.

He wants to be at Liverpool. He wants to win trophies. He believes in what the club can achieve.

So why leave this situation hanging?

Mac Allister has been an important player for Liverpool since arriving from Brighton in 2023. He has intelligence, composure and the ability to dictate the tempo of a game. When he’s playing well, he gives Liverpool’s midfield a balance that is difficult to replace.

I know he had difficult spells last season. I’m not suggesting Liverpool should hand out contracts regardless of performances, and I understand that the club has to consider age, wages and long-term value.

But Mac Allister is 27. He should still have plenty of good years ahead of him.

For me, this is exactly the sort of player Liverpool should be trying to keep.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch have both signed new deals, making Mac Allister’s situation even more noticeable. He has publicly said he will continue giving everything for Liverpool, but I don’t want us to reach a point where another club makes a serious move and suddenly we are scrambling to find a replacement.

Liverpool should be working towards a new deal with Mac Allister, not leaving him wondering where he stands.

van Dijk still has an enormous role to play

Then there’s Virgil van Dijk.

I know some supporters will look at his age and argue that Liverpool should be planning for the future rather than offering another contract.

Of course, we have to plan for the future. Nobody can play forever.

But I don’t believe you simply move on from a player like Van Dijk because he is getting older.

He’s Liverpool’s captain, a leader in the dressing room and an experienced defender who can help the younger players develop. His partnership with Jérémy Jacquet has also given Liverpool an encouraging foundation at centre-back.

Jacquet has enormous potential, but he’s still developing. Having van Dijk beside him can make a real difference, particularly when Liverpool are under pressure in difficult matches.

And let’s not forget the standards van Dijk has helped establish at this club.

He has experienced title races, Champions League nights and the pressure of playing for Liverpool when expectations are enormous.

That experience matters.

Reports in October have suggested Liverpool could be open to extending his contract, although there is no guarantee an agreement will be reached.

I’d certainly explore a sensible extension if Van Dijk continues to perform at the required level.

I’m not saying Liverpool should offer him a huge deal without considering the risks. The length of the contract, wages and his physical condition all matter.

But if he can continue contributing at a high level, why wouldn’t we want our captain to remain part of the project?

Liverpool need to manage his eventual succession properly. They don’t necessarily need to make him leave before that succession is ready.

Alisson is still worth keeping

And then we come to Alisson.

Honestly, I still think we sometimes underestimate just how important he is to Liverpool.

A goalkeeper’s job isn’t only about making saves. It’s about organising the defence, making the right decisions under pressure and giving the players in front of him confidence.

Alisson has done all of that for years.

He has been one of the most important signings of Liverpool’s modern era, helping the club win major trophies and providing world-class performances when they have mattered most.

Yes, Liverpool have Giorgi Mamardashvili waiting for his opportunity. He’s an important part of the club’s long-term planning, and Liverpool need to give him a pathway into the team.

But that doesn’t automatically mean Alisson should be moved on.

There is a difference between preparing for the future and rushing it.

I’d love Liverpool to keep Alisson for another couple of years, provided the terms make sense for both sides. He can continue performing at the highest level while Mamardashvili learns from one of the best goalkeepers around.

Liverpool’s manager, Iraola, has already made clear that he wants both Alisson and Mac Allister to remain at the club.

That is an important signal. These are players the manager values, and recruitment decisions should reflect that.

Three contracts, but three different decisions

I don’t think Liverpool should approach all three situations in exactly the same way.

Mac Allister deserves clarity about his future and a serious discussion about an extension.

van Dijk’s deal should reflect his importance, his performances and the need to plan for the next generation.

Alisson should be retained if Liverpool can agree terms that protect the club while allowing him to keep contributing.

Those are sensible decisions, not sentimental ones.

And that’s the distinction I want Liverpool to make.

I’m not asking the club to pay whatever these players demand. I’m asking it to recognise the value of experience, quality and continuity.

Liverpool have spent heavily on new players and are trying to build a team capable of competing for major honours. That investment will mean very little if we allow the experienced players who hold the side together to drift towards the exit without a proper succession plan.

Liverpool cannot afford another contract headache

What frustrates me is that these situations should be manageable if the club plans early.

Mac Allister’s unhappiness is already public. van Dijk’s future needs to be addressed. Alisson’s long-term role must be clear, especially with Mamardashvili waiting.

None of this means all three players will leave. Nor does it mean Liverpool should offer contracts without thinking carefully about the financial consequences.

But it does mean the club needs to make decisions.

For me, Mac Allister, van Dijk and Alisson are all worth keeping if the terms are right.

They bring different things to Liverpool, but each has a role to play in helping Iraola build a successful team.

Mac Allister can help control midfield. Van Dijk provides leadership and defensive experience. Alisson gives the team a goalkeeper capable of changing the outcome of a game.

Those qualities are difficult to replace overnight.

Liverpool should be building for the future without throwing away what already works.

Get the contract strategy right, give these players clarity and make sure the next generation is ready when the time comes.

Because keeping your best players is every bit as important as signing new ones.

And I really don’t want Liverpool learning that lesson the hard way.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’m going to say it: Jérémy Jacquet might just be the signing of the summer in the Premier League.

And after watching him against Brentford, I’m struggling to think of many new arrivals who have made a better impression.

Liverpool won 2–1 at the Gtech Community Stadium, coming from behind to take all three points. But while Alexander Isak grabbed the winning goal and Víctor Muñoz scored the equaliser, I thought Jacquet deserved enormous credit for another seriously impressive performance.

The Frenchman looks completely at home in English football already.

He doesn’t look frightened by the physical side of the Premier League. He doesn’t look overwhelmed by the pressure of playing for Liverpool. And he certainly doesn’t look like somebody who needs months to settle in.

He looks like he belongs here.

Thiago tried to make it a battle. Jacquet was ready for him.

One of the things I loved about Jacquet today was the way he stood up to Thiago.

Thiago is an experienced, physical striker who knows how to make life uncomfortable for defenders. He wants to get into their heads, use his strength and turn a contest into a battle.

But Jacquet didn’t appear interested in backing down.

He met the challenge, stood his ground and showed that he isn’t going to be bullied just because an opponent tries to make things physical.

Liverpool’s own match coverage praised his powerful early challenges and highlighted a key intervention to stop Thiago.

That is what impressed me.

There is a difference between being an aggressive defender and being a reckless one. Jacquet looks like he understands how to compete without losing his head.

And that is a valuable quality in a Liverpool centre-back.

We’ve seen defenders struggle when opponents target them physically. They start making rash decisions, get dragged out of position or become too eager to win every individual battle.

Jacquet looks comfortable with that side of the game.

You want to have a go at him? Fine. He’ll have a go back.

This is why Liverpool spent so much money on him

Liverpool reportedly paid around £60 million to bring Jacquet from Rennes, and there were naturally questions about whether such a young defender could justify that investment immediately.

He had made only 33 senior appearances for Rennes before joining Liverpool. On paper, that was a relatively small amount of experience for a player arriving with such a price tag.

But the early signs have been excellent.

Jacquet has settled alongside Virgil van Dijk, looks composed in possession and is willing to defend on the front foot. He has already shown that he can compete physically while also helping Liverpool move the ball forward.

Opta Analyst highlighted his impressive duel numbers, progressive carries and ability to play passes into the final third earlier this month.

That combination is exactly what you want.

A centre-back has to defend first. There is no point being comfortable on the ball if you cannot handle an opponent running directly at you.

But the best defenders offer more than that. They read danger, anticipate passes, win duels and help their team build attacks.

Jacquet is showing signs of being that type of player.

And he’s doing it while still so young.

The best French centre-back in the Premier League?

Now, I know that is a big statement.

There are other excellent French defenders in English football, and Jacquet has only played a relatively small number of Premier League games.

I’m not pretending a handful of impressive performances automatically settle that debate.

But if we’re talking about the impression he’s made so far, Jacquet has every reason to be in the conversation.

He has earned praise from Zinedine Zidane during his first senior appearances for France, and his performances for Liverpool have continued to attract attention.

What I particularly like is that he doesn’t seem to need a spectacular moment to have a good game.

Sometimes a centre-back’s best work goes unnoticed. It’s the early interception that stops a counterattack, the positioning that forces a striker away from goal or the physical challenge that prevents an opponent turning.

Jacquet is beginning to make those contributions look routine.

And alongside van Dijk, he has a fantastic opportunity to keep developing.

Van Dijk has seen just about everything football can throw at a defender. Playing alongside him should help Jacquet learn when to be aggressive, when to hold his position and when to let the game come to him.

Liverpool could have a formidable partnership on their hands.

Liverpool have found something special

The biggest compliment I can give Jacquet is that I’m already comfortable seeing his name on the team sheet.

That might sound obvious, but new signings don’t always inspire that confidence so quickly.

Some need time. Some struggle with the pace of the league. Others take months to understand what their manager expects.

Jacquet has had his own challenges, including an injury setback during the international break, but he has returned and continued to impress.

Against Brentford, he showed the same front-foot attitude that has made him such an encouraging signing.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, and today’s comeback wasn’t perfect. But Jacquet is one of the reasons I feel positive about the direction of this defence.

He has the physicality, the confidence and the willingness to compete.

And he doesn’t appear to be intimidated by anyone.

For me, Jérémy Jacquet is already one of the signings of the summer.

Is he definitively the best French centre-back in the Premier League? It’s too early to make that call with certainty.

But if he keeps performing like this, Liverpool supporters are going to have a lot of fun watching him develop.

Thiago found out today that Jacquet isn’t somebody you can simply bully.

And I suspect plenty of other Premier League strikers are going to discover the same thing.

Liverpool might have found an absolute monster at centre-back.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, there is something about Víctor Muñoz that reminds me of Diogo Jota.

It isn’t about comparing their careers or suggesting Muñoz is already at Jota’s level. He has plenty to prove at Liverpool, and I don’t want to get carried away after a handful of appearances.

But when I watch Muñoz play, I see some of those qualities that made Jota such a brilliant player for us.

The bravery. The work rate. The direct running. And that determination to get into positions where he can score.

Those things matter at Liverpool. Sometimes they matter just as much as the fancy footwork or the spectacular goals.

And I think Muñoz could become a very popular player at Anfield if he keeps showing them.

He isn’t afraid to take players on

One of the things I loved about Jota was how positive he could be around the penalty area.

He didn’t always need to do something complicated. He could turn, drive towards goal, get a shot away and make life uncomfortable for defenders.

Muñoz has that same willingness to attack.

He wants to run at people. He wants to get forward quickly. He doesn’t seem interested in taking the safe option every time he receives the ball.

That is exactly the sort of football I want to see from Liverpool under Andoni Iraola.

Muñoz arrived from Osasuna after an impressive breakthrough season in Spain, and his dribbling and progressive running were among the qualities that attracted attention. He completed 12 dribbles in one La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano during the 2025-26 season — an extraordinary number.

Of course, beating a defender is only part of the job. He still needs to improve his end product and make the right decisions in the final third.

But I’d much rather see a Liverpool winger take responsibility and try to make something happen than constantly turn backwards and allow the opposition to get organised.

Muñoz gives us that willingness to attack.

The industry is what really stands out to me

This is where the Jota comparison becomes particularly interesting.

Jota wasn’t simply a goalscorer. He worked relentlessly for the team, pressed defenders, chased lost causes and made life difficult for opponents even when he wasn’t getting on the scoresheet.

Muñoz has shown similar energy.

He doesn’t look like somebody who believes his job ends when Liverpool lose possession. He is prepared to track back, compete and put the work in for his teammates.

Liverpool’s own assessment of Muñoz highlighted his unselfishness and willingness to contribute defensively, alongside his explosive pace and ability to play on either wing.

That is important because Iraola wants his forwards to work for the team.

You can’t build an aggressive pressing side with attackers who only want the ball at their feet. You need players prepared to sprint, close down defenders and make repeated runs, even when they don’t receive a pass.

Jota understood that.

And I like what I’ve seen from Muñoz in that respect.

He brings energy, but it isn’t just running for the sake of it. He wants to make things happen, whether that means carrying the ball forward, attacking the box or helping Liverpool win possession back.

Those are the sorts of things supporters notice.

And then there’s his knack of finding the net

The other part of the comparison is the most exciting one.

Jota had an excellent instinct for getting into scoring positions. He could appear in the right place at the right time, react quickly inside the box and finish chances before defenders had time to recover.

Muñoz has shown signs of that attacking instinct too.

Before joining Liverpool, he scored seven goals and provided five assists in all competitions for Osasuna during the 2025-26 campaign. He also scored on his senior Spain debut against Serbia after coming off the bench.

Those numbers don’t make him the finished article, but they show there is more to his game than pace and dribbling.

I want to see him attacking the far post, making runs beyond the striker and taking chances when they fall his way.

A winger who can beat his man is useful. A winger who can beat his man and then threaten the goal is even more valuable.

That is the next step for Muñoz at Liverpool.

He needs to turn his energy and directness into consistent goals and assists. If he can do that, he could become a very important part of Iraola’s attack.

Liverpool could do with another player like Jota

I don’t think supporters ever fully appreciated how useful Jota was until he wasn’t there.

He could play through the middle or out wide. He worked hard, offered a genuine goal threat and gave Liverpool another way to hurt teams when matches became difficult.

Those qualities are not easy to replace.

I’m not saying Muñoz will become the new Jota. Every player is different, and Jota earned his place in Liverpool’s history through years of outstanding contributions.

But Liverpool could certainly use another forward with that combination of aggression, industry and a willingness to get into the box.

Muñoz has the raw ingredients.

He is quick, direct and prepared to work. He has already shown that he can score, and at 23 he still has plenty of room to develop.

The challenge now is consistency.

He will have quiet games. He will make mistakes. There will be occasions when he runs into trouble or chooses the wrong option.

That comes with being an ambitious attacking player.

I don’t want Iraola coaching the instinct out of him because one or two things don’t come off. I want Muñoz to learn when to release the ball, when to take on his opponent and how to make his runs count.

Keep that bravery, improve the decision-making and the potential is there.

I’m excited to see what comes next

There is something refreshing about watching a forward who wants to make things happen.

Muñoz doesn’t strike me as a player who wants to hide when a match gets difficult. He wants to run at defenders, compete and get involved.

That reminds me of Jota, and I suspect I’m not the only Liverpool supporter who sees it.

We should be careful with the comparisons, because Jota gave us so much and Muñoz has a long way to go before he can be mentioned in the same breath in terms of achievements.

But the similarities in their approach are there for me.

Bravery. Industry. A willingness to attack. And that hunger to score goals.

Those are qualities Liverpool supporters appreciate, and they fit the sort of football Iraola wants to build.

Now I want to see Muñoz keep developing, get more minutes and turn those promising signs into regular contributions.

If he can do that, Liverpool may have found a forward who gives us something we have missed since Jota.

Not another Diogo Jota.

But a player with some of the same qualities that made us love watching him play.

And I’d be absolutely delighted if Muñoz could give us even a little bit of that again.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, that was harder work than it needed to be.

Liverpool went to Brentford, fell behind, struggled to make the most of their chances and then found themselves playing against ten men after Jérémy Jacquet was headbutted by Yehor Yarmoliuk just before half-time.

The Reds eventually got the job done, though, coming from behind to win 2–1 thanks to goals from Víctor Muñoz and Alexander Isak. Brentford finished with nine men after Vitaly Janelt was sent off late on.

It wasn’t perfect, but three points away from home are three points away from home.

Here are my Liverpool player ratings.

Starting XI

Alisson Becker – 7/10

A reassuring presence when Liverpool needed calmness at the back. He was authoritative on set-pieces and couldn’t do much about Brentford’s opening goal, with Keane Lewis-Potter’s header finding its way past him.

Ronald Araújo – 6/10

Solid enough defensively, but he struggled to make much of an attacking contribution down the right. His afternoon ended at half-time when Jeremie Frimpong came on, although that change didn’t exactly go to plan.

Jérémy Jacquet – 7/10

Another encouraging performance from the young defender. He communicated well with Virgil van Dijk, made some strong early challenges and produced an important intervention to deny Thiago.

The incident with Yarmoliuk was a strange end to the first half, but Jacquet kept his composure and Liverpool benefited from the red card. He’s becoming a seriously important player for Iraola.

Virgil van Dijk – 8/10

My pick of the defenders. He looked commanding for most of the afternoon and produced a superb last-man interception to prevent Brentford from getting a clear chance at goal.

There were a couple of misplaced passes early on, but he settled things down as Liverpool took control. Exactly the sort of leadership you need in a difficult away game.

Milos Kerkez – 6/10

He brought plenty of energy but had some uncomfortable moments against Dango Ouattara, particularly when Brentford looked to attack down the flank.

His work-rate became more valuable later on, stretching the opposition and helping Liverpool find space. Still, I’d like to see him become a little more composed defensively.

Alexis Mac Allister – 7/10

This looked like a better performance from Mac Allister. He seemed sharper on the ball and more willing to drive into dangerous areas.

His late first-half run ended with a penalty appeal that was overturned by VAR, but I liked the energy he brought to Liverpool’s midfield. I’d like to see more of this from him.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 6/10

A frustrating afternoon. Szoboszlai clearly wanted to make an impact after returning from injury, but he lasted only 32 minutes before being substituted. Liverpool will be concerned about another injury setback.

He also held on to the ball too long during one counter-attacking opportunity. It’s a small detail, but Liverpool need quicker decisions in those situations.

Víctor Muñoz – 8/10 — Man of the Match

What a performance from Muñoz.

He didn’t see enough of the ball early on, but he kept making runs and looking for opportunities. After Frimpong’s brief appearance, Muñoz was pushed into a deeper role at right-back, yet he still managed to make a decisive contribution.

His equaliser was brilliantly taken. He showed pace, confidence and composure when Liverpool needed somebody to step up.

I particularly liked that he didn’t let the tactical changes disrupt his performance. He kept going, kept looking for openings and delivered when it mattered.

Florian Wirtz – 7/10

Wirtz deserves credit for his contribution to the equaliser, producing the assist for Muñoz. He created a record nine chances according to the ratings report you supplied, and he looked more involved as Liverpool gained the numerical advantage.

I’d still like him to impose himself more consistently, but this was a useful contribution. The assist matters, and so does the creativity behind it.

Bradley Barcola – 6/10

A mixed afternoon. Barcola worked hard defensively and showed flashes of the pace and directness that make him such an exciting player.

However, he missed chances and made some poor decisions when Liverpool had opportunities to break forward. Those moments will frustrate him.

He did, though, play a part in the winner, with his contribution helping Isak finish the move. He also came close to scoring himself. There’s plenty to work with, but the final decision needs to improve.

Alexander Isak – 8/10

That’s what Liverpool signed him for.

After another spell out, Isak returned to the starting XI and scored the winning goal. He wasn’t involved in everything, and Liverpool will want more consistency from him, but his instinctive finish proved decisive.

I don’t want to gloss over the recurring injury concerns, because Liverpool need him available regularly. But when the chance came, he was in the right place and did his job.

Substitutes

Trey Nyoni – 7/10

Thrown into the game earlier than expected after Szoboszlai’s injury, Nyoni handled the occasion well. He looked comfortable and didn’t allow the circumstances to overwhelm him. Another encouraging outing for a young player trying to earn more opportunities.

Jeremie Frimpong – N/A

A difficult one. He came on at half-time but lasted only around six minutes before being forced off with an injury. Liverpool simply cannot afford another prolonged absence at right-back.

Rio Ngumoha – 8/10

I really enjoyed his contribution. Ngumoha brought energy, quick feet and the willingness to take defenders on. He helped Liverpool stretch Brentford and gave the attack a different dimension.

For a young player, he looks remarkably comfortable taking responsibility. I’d like to see Iraola keep finding opportunities for him.

Joe Gomez – 7/10

A steady contribution after replacing Muñoz late on. He helped Liverpool see out the game and added some defensive security when the points were still to be protected.

Lewis Koumas – 7/10

Used his minutes well after coming on for Isak. He worked hard, got involved and gave Liverpool another option late in the game. Nothing spectacular, but a useful contribution.

Andoni Iraola – 8/10

Iraola deserves credit for getting the win, particularly after Liverpool went behind and lost Szoboszlai early.

The introduction of Ngumoha gave Liverpool more energy, while Muñoz’s adjustment to right-back showed the manager was willing to find a solution when Frimpong went off.

There will be questions about Liverpool’s finishing and the injuries, but the team kept pushing and found a way to win.

My verdict

The biggest positives for me were Muñoz, Isak and Ngumoha.

Muñoz took his opportunity brilliantly, Isak showed why Liverpool need him fit and firing, and Ngumoha once again demonstrated that he deserves minutes.

Van Dijk and Jacquet were strong at the back, while Wirtz’s creativity helped Liverpool get back into the game.

But the injuries are a worry. Szoboszlai’s early withdrawal and Frimpong’s brief appearance are not what Liverpool needed, especially with a busy run of fixtures ahead.

Still, Liverpool went behind and found a way to win away from home.

It wasn’t pretty, but it was a valuable three points — and Víctor Muñoz was the star of the show.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)