Liverpool, inspired by Philippe Coutinho, pulled off one of the results of the season so far when they trounced Manchester City 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium.
The Reds were defeated at home to Crystal Palace before the international break, and clearly Jurgen Klopp was keen to respond firmly after his first loss at the helm of the Merseyside giants.
He certainly got the response he was looking for…and then some, as goals from Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Martin Skrtel, as well as an early own goal from Eliaquim Mangala, ensured that the Merseyside heavyweights re-inserted themselves firmly into the race for the top four.
But who were Klopp’s key men on the day?
Here are the Liverpool player ratings from their 4-1 victory over Manchester City:
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GK Simon Mignolet – 6.5/10
Had little to do, and couldn’t have done much against Sergio Aguero’s superb effort before half time.
DF Alberto Moreno – 7.5/10
Managed Jesus Navas perfectly during the opening 45 minutes, so much so that the winger was taken off at the break.
DF Dejan Lovren – 6.5/10
Stepped up to replace the injured Mamadou Sakho and delivered an encouraging performance, even if he remains uncomfortable on the ball.
DF Martin Skrtel – 6.5/10
Solid, without being spectacular. Skrtel isn’t world class, but he’s just about good enough for Liverpool right now…the goal was nice too!
DF Nathaniel Clyne – 7/10
Silenced a hyper-motivated Raheem Sterling…not an easy task considering the winger’s recent glittering form.
MF Lucas Leiva – 6.5/10
Largely comfortable despite his booking. Might have done more for the Aguero goal.
MF Emre Can – 7/10
Enjoying something of a new lease of life under Klopp, and demonstrated his attacking and technical capabilities with a role in Coutinho’s opener.
MF James Milner – 7/10
The anti-Sterling had a typically solid game, even if he failed to make the one decisive intervention he clearly sought. A resolute tackler throughout.
MF Adam Lallana – 7.5/10
Started on the right flank, but impressed when he came inside and looked to dictate play. Could he finally realise his potential at Liverpool under Klopp?
FW Philippe Coutinho – 9/10
Continued his magnificent run under Klopp and was the hero of the hour. Liverpool fans everywhere should be delighted at seeing Coutinho’s superb interaction with Roberto Firmino.
FW Roberto Firmino – 8.5/10
Operated as a false nine and starred in this role, moving intelligently and interacting well with his teammates. Found the net, and looks to be warming up nicely.
Substitutes:
Jordon Ibe – 7/10
Menacing presence on the counter attack late on.
Christian Benteke – 6.5/10
Something of a surprise that he didn’t start, and missed a one-on-one chance after coming on.
Kolo Toure
Late replacement for Lallana.