Liverpool legend John Aldridge’s lively and forthright weekly column on the Reds, Tranmere and Republic of Ireland is always essential reading for supporters.
It may still be very early in the campaign, but Liverpool’s win over Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday felt like a psychological strike in the Premier League title battle.
From a points perspective, Arsenal won’t be too worried as they know they can even things up by winning the return clash later in the season.
But it was the statement that mattered most, one that will unsettle the Gunners and provide a major boost to Arne Slot’s men as they continue adjusting to a refreshed side.
Last week I said I’d happily take Liverpool grinding out a narrow 1-0 win against Arsenal, and that’s exactly what happened.
I can’t criticise Arteta’s approach either. Missing a few key players, he knew a point at Anfield is never a bad result. Their plan was to keep things tight and settle for 0-0, and they came close to pulling it off.
In the end, it was always likely to need either an error or a flash of brilliance – and Dominik Szoboszlai delivered the latter with his free-kick.
What a strike it was. Szoboszlai stood out as the game’s top performer and probably produced his finest display in a Liverpool shirt.
He excelled even from right-back, his energy levels as vital there as they are in midfield. Just look at Newcastle last week when he had the legs late in injury time to dummy the ball for Rio Ngumoha’s winner.
Defensively, Liverpool were far more assured against Arsenal, compact as a group and much better with set-pieces. They attacked crosses with conviction instead of sitting back and waiting.
That victory ensures Liverpool head into the international break with momentum, reinforced by breaking the transfer record to land the Premier League’s top striker.
Considering the summer difficulties, the Reds can be pleased with how things have started.
It was frustrating that a move for Marc Guehi collapsed on Monday, though I fully expect another attempt will be made in January.
For now, we just have to hope Joe Gomez avoids injuries, as his cameo against Arsenal showed he remains a key option.
Gomez was excellent when he came on. His quality has never been questioned, the real concern is whether he can stay fit.
With Van Dijk commanding, Konate showing real improvement, and youngster Giovani Leoni in reserve, Slot does have centre-back depth for the time being.
I was delighted for Konate. Supporters are clever and knew he had endured a rough spell, not helped by contract uncertainty amid ongoing talks.
But after producing a few solid early tackles, the crowd rallied behind him. That clearly lifted his confidence and he grew stronger as the game progressed.
Another who responded well was Milos Kerkez, who had endured some poor outings but defended firmly against Noni Madueke. That’s an encouraging sign moving forward.
