Liverpool got a much-needed win in the Premier League, but only just.
The pressure on Arne Slot ahead of this clash would have felt immense as the Dutchman really needed his side to win, but they managed to do just that.
It might not have been the most convincing, but they got the job done, with this result relieving the pressure on him ever so slightly.
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How good was Alexander Isak’s first Premier League goal for Liverpool?
It Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo’s goals that did the job, with the clean sheet also being something Liverpool were in desperate need of. Here are how the players rated.
Defence
Alisson Becker: 6 – Had nothing to do in the first half whatsoever, equally as quiet in the second half.
Joe Gomez: 7 – Got forward on numerous occasions, but also had the positional awareness to be in the right place defensively when needed. Solid performance from Gomez despite so long out.
Ibrahima Konate: 6 – Looked very cautious in the first half and didn’t try anything silly. Looked fairly solid in the second half and, for the first time in a while, didn’t make any mistakes.
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Virgil van Dijk: 6 – Made a few good diagonal passes and tried his best to lead the team forward where he could. The entire backline looked more comfortable and it was a much needed clean sheet.
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool gives the team instructions during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Liverpool at London Stadium
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Milos Kerkez: 6 – Lots of energy as always and looked more comfortable on the ball than in previous matches. In the second half he didn’t attack much but held his defensive position well.
Midfield
Ryan Gravenberch: 7 – Bit more lively than he has been in recent games and had plenty of confidence. Protecting the backline well and took the ball forward where he could.
Alexis Mac Allister: 6 – Got forward where he could and had a few nice passages of play, but still looked a little leggy. Did his job, though, and that is the main thing.
Who was your man of the match during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over West Ham?
West Ham United v Liverpool - Premier League
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Florian Wirtz: 8 – Was the best player on the pitch in the first half and showed some neat pieces of play. Enjoyed playing in the number 10 role, probably should have had an assist, but definitely should have had a goal.
Attack
Dominik Szoboszlai: 7 – Started on the right and had a good understanding with Wirtz. Got stuck in and worked hard, while also being influential, although Wirtz very much stole his thunder this week.
Alexander Isak: 6 – Looked on his heels and a little lethargic in the first half, also didn’t show too much in the second half either. However, he took his goal well and hopefully this will give him the confidence he needs.
How many more is Alex getting this season?
Liverpool's Swedish striker #09 Alexander Isak (R) celebrates with Liverpool's French defender #05 Ibrahima Konate (L) after scoring the opening goal of the English Premier League football match between West Ham United and Liverpool at the London Stadium
Photo by Ben STANSALL / AFP via Getty Images
“Brilliant from Isak. Once Gakpo cuts it back, the finish from Isak is outstanding. It’s on the half volley and it’s brilliant the way he’s controlled it.”
Clinton Morrison on Alexander Isak’s first Premier League goal for Liverpool
Cody Gakpo: 7 – Liverpool wanted to attack down this side where possible in first half, but at times Gakpo was a little predictable. However, he laid off a few good chances for his teammates and did not give up, with his late goal sealing the deal.
Substitutes
Hugo Ekitike: 5 – Worked hard and took the ball forward well on a few occasions. Didn’t do much of note, however.
Curtis Jones: 5 – Also worked hard like he always does, but equally nothing to write home about.
Andy Robertson: N/A
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