Liverpool vs. Burnley: 5 Key Highlights You Need to Know
Liverpool faced off against Burnley in a Premier League match at Anfield on February 10, 2024. The game ended with Liverpool securing a 3-1 victory over their opponents, but there were several key highlights that stood out from the match.
Sluggish start
Liverpool started the game in a sluggish manner, desperately needing a reaction following their disappointment in the previous weekend. Initially, it seemed like they might not get the response they were looking for. Burnley grew in confidence as the first half progressed and managed to equalize just before halftime. Vincent Kompany’s side proved capable of causing problems for Liverpool while also stifling their attacking play.
Forwards still firing in Mo’s absence
Despite the absence of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s attacking players stepped up and delivered an impressive performance. Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez all found the back of the net, bringing Liverpool’s tally to 22 goals in eight games since Salah has been away. The front three, when Salah is added back into the mix, becomes a formidable force that will strike fear into their opponents.
Elliott shines off the bench again
Harvey Elliott, who has primarily been used as a squad player this season, continues to impress whenever given the opportunity. Coming off the bench to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold at halftime, Elliott made an instant impact and was involved in every positive attacking move Liverpool made. While many believe he deserves more starts, his ability to make an immediate impact off the bench makes him an ideal candidate for substitutions. With Dominik Szoboszlai sidelined with an injury, Elliott could soon be knocking on the manager’s door for more playing time.
Suffering on the injury front
The withdrawal of Trent Alexander-Arnold at halftime raised concerns among supporters. Having been planned as a substitute in the previous match against Arsenal, Alexander-Arnold’s early return to the starting XI was a cause for worry. With the absence of Conor Bradley, Curtis Jones had to fill in at right-back, which was not an ideal solution for a team pushing for the title in February. Jurgen Klopp doesn’t believe it’s a serious issue, but the team’s injury woes have been a concern as they compete in multiple competitions.
Endo restores midfield balance
Wataru Endo’s return from the Asian Cup presented a dilemma for Liverpool’s midfield setup. Alexis Mac Allister had performed exceptionally well in the No. 6 position while Endo was away, but Klopp opted to slot Endo straight back into the team. This decision highlighted the manager’s high regard for Endo. Mac Allister was given the freedom to play further up the pitch, and he thrived in a more traditional central midfielder role. Klopp now has more options at his disposal, and with Szoboszlai’s impending return, the midfield options will only increase.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s victory over Burnley showcased the resilience and depth of their squad. Despite a slow start, their attacking players stepped up in the absence of Mohamed Salah and delivered an impressive performance. Harvey Elliott continued to shine off the bench, making a strong case for more playing time. However, injuries remain a concern for Liverpool, and they will need some luck in the coming months. The return of Wataru Endo also provided Klopp with more midfield options, further strengthening their squad. With these key highlights in mind, Liverpool fans can remain optimistic about their team’s chances in the ongoing season.