Liverpool respond to Arsenal message as Arne Slot undroppable emerges – 5 talking points…

Liverpool reacts to Arsenal’s message as Arne Slot’s key player emerges – 5 key points.

LIVERPOOL 2-0 ASTON VILLA: Ryan Gravenberch and Mohamed Salah scored as Arne Slot’s team displayed signs of being Premier League champions.

On Saturday evening, Liverpool returned to form with a solid performance against Aston Villa at Anfield. Goals from Mohamed Salah and the returning Ryan Gravenberch secured the victory, marking the champions’ first clean sheet in 11 matches.

In the early moments, Villa appeared to be the stronger side, with Morgan Rogers and Matty Cash both coming close to scoring. Liverpool believed they had taken the lead when Hugo Ekitike headed in a goal after 43 minutes, but he was ruled offside after receiving Dominik Szoboszlai’s cross.

Just 180 seconds later, Mohamed Salah capitalized on a poor pass from Emiliano Martinez to Pau Torres, scoring with a precise first-time shot. Ryan Gravenberch then extended the hosts’ lead, driving through the center before his shot was deflected past Martinez.

Unai Emery’s team sought a way back into the match but failed to significantly challenge Giorgi Mamardashvili, with Liverpool’s three points elevating them to third place. Here are Mirror Football’s key points from Anfield.

Result over performance

Given Liverpool’s recent struggles, securing three points against Villa was the primary objective, regardless of the quality of play.

The initial 20 minutes hinted at a repeat of previous performances for Slot’s team, but they gradually found their rhythm and were arguably the more deserving winners. After Ekitike’s disallowed goal, it was clear that only one team posed a threat.

While Arsenal, in a different manner, seem to have another level to reach as they rarely appear vulnerable, Liverpool has yet to replicate the heights of last season. However, this match was arguably their most commanding performance in recent months.

Slot’s Indispensable

In recent weeks, no Liverpool player has particularly shone, but it’s important to note that Ryan Gravenberch, having missed a significant portion of that time, should not bear much of the blame. Liverpool appeared significantly improved with him in the starting lineup.

An ankle injury sidelined him for the last three matches, but he returned to play a crucial role against Villa. Although he primarily operates as the deepest midfielder, the Netherlands international frequently found himself spearheading attacks, enhancing Liverpool’s performance in both defensive and offensive situations.

He needed some time to acclimate, as evidenced by Villa’s early dominance, but once he found his rhythm, he arguably became the standout player on the field, winning six duels and completing nine passes into the final third, showcasing his influence across the pitch.

While Slot will want to manage Gravenberch’s workload carefully, it is essential for him to participate in all of Liverpool’s upcoming matches.

Salah in Peak Form

Even though Salah is recognized as one of the top goal-scorers in the Premier League’s recent history, he performs at his most dangerous when he doesn’t have the luxury of overthinking his shot, as demonstrated by his last two goals.

A brilliant touch followed by a first-time finish against Brentford was complemented by a low right-footed shot into an open net after Emiliano Martinez’s error. This goal marked his impressive 250th for Liverpool.

For Liverpool to re-enter the title race, it is crucial for Salah to be positioned in the opposition’s penalty area as frequently as possible. Too often this season, the Egyptian has been pushed wide, limiting his ability to influence the game.

Position Salah correctly, and he will begin to find the back of the net more regularly, which is likely to contribute to Liverpool’s resurgence.

Real Madrid Strategy

Liverpool has begun a demanding eight-day stretch in excellent form, and nearly every aspect of their performance against Villa should be carried over into their Champions League encounter with Real Madrid.

Gravenberch’s return from injury may not allow him to play a full 90 minutes, and the same applies to Mac Allister, who has faced challenges this season.

Nevertheless, if there are no significant injury or fitness issues, Slot is likely to maintain the same lineup for the match against Xabi Alonso’s team.

This would result in another game on the bench for Florian Wirtz, but it can be argued that his most impressive performances for Liverpool have come when he has been brought on as a substitute, making him an intriguing option to consider.

Midfield and defensive challenges continue to be a concern.

Slot reverted to fundamental principles in his team selection, bringing Alexis Mac Allister and Andy Robertson into the starting lineup in place of Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez.

However, this adjustment did not significantly impact the game, as Villa frequently bypassed Liverpool’s midfield, forcing Giorgi Mamardashvili to make several crucial saves.

Morgan Rogers was particularly troublesome for Liverpool during the first half, hitting the post after a brilliant collaboration with Ollie Watkins.

There is no doubt that Villa is a strong team, but it is worrying how easily opponents can penetrate and navigate through Liverpool’s lines.

Numerous instances occurred where Villa players found themselves with ample space, with at least 30 yards separating Liverpool’s midfield from their defense.