Liverpool have a big week ahead as they look to build on a much-needed win against West Ham.
The Reds, but specifically Arne Slot, were under a lot of pressure this weekend to get things right, and that is exactly what they did with a 2-0 win.
For the first time in a while, there were a few positives to take from the game, with some in particular feeling imperative given how poor they have been at the start of the season.
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Who was your man of the match during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over West Ham?
Alexander Isak shakes hands with Arne Slot after being substituted during Liverpool's Premier League match against West Ham United at the London Stadium.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Although they do not have too much time to dwell on things, they will need to take certain aspects of this game with them when they face Sunderland on Wednesday.
In fact, there is one element of their clash against the Hammers that is needed once again as if not, it will cost them.
Liverpool need to defend set pieces like they did against West Ham
Andy Robertson and Joe Gomez applaud Liverpool fans after the Premier League match at the London Stadium.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
The Reds’ defence has been nothing short of terrible at the start of the campaign, with there being far too many goals being conceded.
This is in terms of open play and from set pieces, although the latter has been the biggest issue after letting in nine already.
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However, against West Ham, they defended these situations well, with the Hammers getting no joy from their seven corners or any free kicks.
Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate commanded the backline to good effect, while the rest of the team won the large majority of their aerial duels.
This makes a big difference and Liverpool looked a lot more comfortable in this one, something they will need to replicate against Sunderland due to their direct nature.
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They have scored six from set pieces this season, with the height and physicality of their team, particularly the backline, something that could cause them problems.
Joe Gomez’s addition to the defence helped a lot
Joe Gomez playing as the right-back was one of the main reasons why Liverpool were so solid, with the Englishman adding balance to the side.
This has been missing in recent weeks, but Gomez used his experience to help out both offensively and defensively.
His height was also a big factor as teams had been able to exploit this issue in the past, but the 28-year-old can use his stature to good effect.
This will be needed against Sunderland too, meaning he will likely start the game again, so Reds fans will be hoping he can stay fit and put on another excellent display.
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