Liverpool ascended to the top of the Premier League table after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against a resilient 10-man Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
In a match where tensions ran high, Mohamed Salah marked a significant milestone, netting his 200th goal for the Reds.
Jurgen Klopp’s squad orchestrated a late comeback, intensifying the pressure on former manager Roy Hodgson.
Despite Crystal Palace initially holding the advantage with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s successful penalty, Salah showcased his prowess by equalising for Liverpool in the 76th minute.
The turning point arrived with second-half substitute Harvey Elliott’s remarkable strike from the edge of the penalty area, securing all three points for Liverpool in a thrilling encounter at Selhurst Park.
For a comprehensive analysis, TalkSPORT correspondent Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) delves into Liverpool’s impressive performance, highlighting the team’s resilience and the notable return of Alisson Becker.
Another three points in the bag for Liverpool. Sum up the Reds’ performance.
Jacobs: It was an important win for Liverpool, but a frustrating game as well. It’s the kind of match a genuine title contender just finds a way to win.
There is no doubt, though, Liverpool weren’t anywhere near their best. Crystal Palace can perhaps feel a bit aggrieved by Jordan Ayew’s sending-off, but it certainly kicked Liverpool into gear. Mo Salah’s equaliser so soon after turned the game.
It’s a magnificent achievement to reach 200 Liverpool goals and 150 in the Premier League (including two for Chelsea).
Harvey Elliott’s winner in injury time was then a wonderful strike. I was surprised one or two suggested Palace’s sub-keeper Remi Matthews could have done better. It was so well hit.
Alisson Becker has been Liverpool’s most in-form player this season. Where will the Reds be without him after impressing yet again on his return from injury?
Jacobs: Alisson’s return is a huge boost for Liverpool. His save from Jefferson Lerma was outstanding. There was no sign of rust.
Allison’s speed of thought and mind was on show from the start. Caoimhin Kelleher has been an able understudy, though. Jurgen Klopp praised him in the dramatic win over Fulham and he also made an important stop at 0-0 to deny James McAtee in the 2-0 victory over Sheffield United.
But Allison isn’t just a top keeper, he’s a leader as well and that’s why his return is so important heading into the busy festive period.
Wataru Endo had a poor game against Palace and was hooked up at half-time. Should Klopp be targeting a new defensive midfielder in January?
Jacobs: Wataru Endo wasn’t at his best against Crystal Palace but has slowly earned increased minutes.
He scored against Fulham and started against Sheffield United as a result of a solid display in that game.
I think he was below-par against Palace, but there is no doubt he’s enjoying and relishing the challenge of playing for Liverpool.
I don’t think Liverpool will necessarily be looking for another midfielder specifically with Endo’s form in mind.
Sources I speak to make it clear they are delighted with the midfield revamp last summer. So much focus was placed on pulling out of the pursuit of Jude Bellingham then failing to land Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.
But that’s quite negative and fails to take into account what a superb job Liverpool’s recruitment did in getting Alexis Mac Allister at a steal alongside the excellent Dominik Szoboszlai.
Then Ryan Gravenberch was a long-term Liverpool target not some kind of consolation price post Caicedo.
Liverpool wanted Gravenberch when still at Ajax and the stars just aligned towards the end of the window.
Endo was essentially brought in for depth and is comfortable in that role, so I don’t think Liverpool will be too concerned heading into January.
There is still talk of Khéphren Thuram, but I know over the summer Liverpool felt Szoboszlai sufficed and didn’t see much logic in having both.
Any changes you would like to make against Union Saint-Gilliose on Thursday in the Europa League?
Jacobs: I think we’ll see a bunch of changes against Union Saint-Gilliose on Thursday.
Liverpool have already won the group and have Manchester United after it. I think Cody Gakpo will start on Thursday and not against Manchester United.
I also expect Ibrahima Konate and most likely Endo to play in Europe and drop out of the side next week.
There’s no way Jurgen Klopp won’t chop and change. No need to take any risks ahead of Manchester United.
Finally, how should Liverpool approach Man United’s game on Sunday and who should start for Jurgen Klopp’s side?
Jacobs: Manchester United come off the back of a dreadful 3-0 loss at Bournemouth.
Liverpool are clear favourites to win the game. Manchester United have conceded so many goals on the road and struggled dealing with target men.
That’s why I think Darwin Nunez might get the start. I don’t think Klopp will be too worried about Manchester United.
He’ll pick an attack-minded 4-3-3 and hope for a fast start.
Personally, I think this is the kind of game Harvey Elliott could play a key role in. And I expect Dominik Szoboszlai to put in a big performance. I can see Liverpool winning 3-1.
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