Opinion

7 tackles, 50 passes: £130,000-a-week Liverpool player’s display goes under the radar

Add as preferred source on Google

Liverpool were left frustrated from their trip to Tottenham, with Jurgen Klopp’s team being forced to settle for a draw. The 2-2 outcome wasn’t ideal but in Naby Keita, the Reds had a player who showcased his class in central midfield.

The Guinean star has endured a frustrating time of things at Liverpool. Since signing for the club in 2018 he’s struggled to stay fit for a prolonged period.

That has seen his form struggle for consistency and this season has been no different. His performance at Tottenham, however, was steady and Klopp will have been happy.

Some statistics showcase just how good he was during yesterday’s game.

Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool - Premier League
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

According to Who Scored, he made seven tackles which was three more than any other Liverpool player. He also made three interceptions and attempted 50 passes with a success ratio of 80%.

Keita played the full 90 minutes and also managed two successful dribbles during his time on the pitch.

The game proved frustrating from a Liverpool perspective. An error from Alisson allowed Son Heung-min to equalise after Andy Robertson had headed the Reds in front.

In Keita, however, Klopp had a player who perhaps proved a point to him during the entertaining encounter.

Challenge: Keita must now give Liverpool boss a conundrum

We’ve been here before. Keita has often showcased his class but then injury has struck and knocked him back to square one when it comes to a regular starting berth.

The 26-year-old has made 13 appearances during 2021/22, scoring three goals and claiming one assist.

With Jordan Henderson and Thiago both missing yesterday, it was vital that someone stepped up and Keita did just that.

Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool - Premier League
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

The £130,000-a-week player has made just 89 appearances since arriving at the club and he will be striving for more.

Klopp will be excited by what he saw against Tottenham and now Keita will hope to stay fit for the foreseeable.