Leading up to the game against Bournemouth, a lot of people felt a little bit of trepidation. Going to a tough away ground, against an in form team, is always difficult. But it’s even more difficult with several key players missing.
In the end, though, that trepidation proved to be much ado about nothing. Jurgen Klopp’s side cruised past Bournemouth, and recorded a fantastic victory in the process. A victory that helps them stay well clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Speaking after the game, BBC pundit, Danny Murphy was impressed by Liverpool’s performance. Especially by two players, who he signalled out for special praise after the game.
Joe Gomez among players earning special praise
Speaking on the BBC’s Match of the Day 2 programme, Murphy highlighted the performances of Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley in particular. The former Liverpool midfielder was especially pleased by the way they stepped up in their roles.
“I’ve got to mention the two full-backs,” Murphy said.
“Gomez has come in and looked bang at it. Bradley on his first Premier League start. I thought he was terrific. He did well when he came on against Arsenal as well. Without Trent and Robertson in years gone by you would be thinking oh this is trouble, but they looked really comfortable.”
Murphy is right. Joe Gomez has been terrific since he has been asked to play in the left-back role. Meanwhile, Bradley never looked out of place. Both of them also got an assist each on the night.
These kinds of performances will go under the radar. But it’s these performances that will ultimately help Liverpool lift the title. Fringe players stepping up is just as important as the star players delivering when it matters.
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