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Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table with victory over Manchester United on Sunday and although Nathaniel Clyne put in a solid performance, he couldn’t match the contribution that is usually made by Trent Alexander-Arnold.
On the chalkboard
With Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez and the versatile James Milner all ruled out through injury, Klopp included Nathaniel Clyne in his starting line up for the first time in the Premier League this season.
The 27-year-old former Southampton man has had a torrid time with injuries over the past few seasons, and it was hugely impressive that he managed to contain the in-form Marcus Rashford against United and last the whole 90 minutes despite not being match fit.
However, although he did his best to get forward, Clyne’s lack of involvement and attacking contribution did hinder the home side. In fact, none of his three crosses in the game found a Liverpool player.
Attacking full-backs
Without wanting to criticise Clyne too much, and still recognising the fantastic job that he did, Jurgen Klopp and his team will be keen to see the return of Alexander-Arnold. The youngster has flourished in recent seasons and his style of play now perfectly suits the way that the German boss wants to play.
This approach relies so heavily on the full-backs getting forward and being creative players, as the wingers will be so narrow that all of the space is on the flanks.
Its effectiveness was proven in the second half against United, when Andy Robertson began to fly forward and create much more for Liverpool, who at times during the game looked like they might not be able to break United down.
Defensively Clyne was fantastic, but Klopp will need to work with him on his attacking decision making and final ball if he is to truly challenge for a starting spot at Anfield once again.
FFC’s James Jones has identified the one thing that could cost Liverpool the title. Find out what it is in the video above…
