Georginio Wijnaldum seemed an obvious start for Liverpool against Ajax in the Champions League. Thankfully, Jurgen Klopp obliged.
The Dutchman showed why he has been one of Liverpool’s outstanding players of the season so far, partnering Jordan Henderson in midfield.
It was a perfectly balanced approach and one which paid off. Wijnaldum was integral to Liverpool’s success.
He persistently worked hard to close down space and win the ball back in the opposition half, and was quick to to keep it moving and set Liverpool on the attack.
Wijnaldum made 48 touches in total, while he boasted an impressive pass success rate of 92 per cent – the best from a Liverpool perspective.
His defensive qualities were just as impressive. In total, Wijnaldum made four interceptions, one tackle and one clearance, as per WhoScored, to cap off another imperious display.
“Gini – I have no words for him to be honest,” was Klopp’s final assessment of the irreplaceable 30-year-old Anfield icon.
A hallmark for consistency
This was yet another stunning performance from a player who has become invaluable to Klopp once again this season.
The fact only Andy Robertson has clocked up more minutes this season than Wijnaldum tells a story in itself.
Importantly he showed he can mainstay his breathtaking standards in both Europe and the Premier League despite the gruelling physical demands of the chaotic fixture schedule.
Wijnaldum is good enough that he can be effective wherever he plays. This deeper role is one which he and Henderson can effortless dictate the tempo and flow of the game.
This weekend’s clash against Wolves will be a tricky one, but Wijnaldum has demonstrated he should be one of the first names on the team sheet come Sunday evening.
He is Liverpool’s tidiest player both on and off the ball, and Wijnaldum will be best suited to cope with Wolves’ pressing tactics similarly to how he did with Ajax.
Wijnaldum is a class act and his display against Ajax showed why fans have been screaming for the club to get his contractual situation sorted, and offer him a new deal.
Reaction to Wijnaldum performance
Here is a look at the reaction to his outstanding performance.
- Peter Crouch reacts to the performance of Caoimhin Kelleher
- Five things we learned as Liverpool beat Ajax 1-0
- Harry Wilson and Sheyi Ojo impress on loan again in Cardiff win
- Jota closing in on Christian Benteke’s Liverpool goal tally
- Liverpool stars react as Paul Glatzel confirms injury fears
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