Salah’s new record and Gakpo’s change – 5 talking points from Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Brentford

Salah and Gakpo
Salah and Gakpo

Liverpool had their own King to celebrate, as Mohamed Salah set yet another record as the Reds defeated Brentford 1-0 to extend their winning streak to six games

It appears that Liverpool fans will once again be treated as devils!

To no one’s surprise, the national anthem was booed and drowned out before kickoff, as those inside voiced their displeasure with the monarchy.

We all know what happens next, with the entire club likely to be chastised in ‘those’ newspapers for failing to celebrate a rich old man receiving a new hat!

That’s fine if some people like it, but don’t expect everyone to, especially if you’re from a city that has long felt marginalized by the rest of the country.

If only people were educated enough to understand why Liverpool fans react in this manner.

Salah
Salah

Salah is a world record holder.

In 408 fewer appearances than Steven Gerrard!

Liverpool’s Egyptian King had another record-breaking and match-winning performance, scoring his 100th goal at Anfield.

Salah has had a ‘poor’ season in the eyes of some lazy outsiders, but he scored his 30th goal of the season to open the scoring at Anfield.

He became the first Liverpool player in history to score in nine consecutive Anfield appearances. Mo has set yet another record!

Salah is now only the fourth Liverpool player in history to score 30 or more goals in three consecutive seasons, and he is tied for fifth all-time in scoring with Steven Gerrard (186).

Is he playing at his peak all season? No. But we hold him to a higher standard than almost any other player in the world.

gakpo
gakpo

Gakpo’s adaptability was highlighted.

When Liverpool’s starting lineup was revealed, one addition that stood out was Cody Gakpo in what appeared to be a midfield role.

While some questioned whether a 4-2-3-1 formation would be used, the Dutchman slotted into the right-sided No.8 berth that Jordan Henderson invariably occupies, demonstrating his versatility.

In reality, his performance was similar to that of the team; more functional than anything else.

He passed up one incredible opportunity, but he still did a good job, providing work-rate and intelligence.

Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo

Such tactical understanding is impressive, and demonstrates Klopp’s faith in him.

While we’re on the subject of Liverpool’s midfield, Trent Alexander-Arnold once again oozed class, producing some magnificent passes, one of which needed to be converted by Darwin.

Trent now leads the Premier League in assists, chances created, and touches since his role change.

What a player he is.

Nunez has had an odd first season at Liverpool, taking some unfair criticism at times while also failing to light up the world.

The Uruguayan’s recent form has been patchy at best, and he struggled to get going against Brentford.

Nunez fluffed his lines when Trent found him soon after, missing a great headed chance and not even making contact with the ball from Salah’s perfect cross.

Trent now leads the Premier League in assists, chances created, and touches since his role change.

Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo
Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo

Keeping our competitors honest

This wasn’t pretty, but like against Fulham in midweek, Liverpool grinded their way to another three points.

Regardless, it’s now six Premier League wins in a row for Liverpool, who are making Newcastle and Manchester United work for a top-four finish.

The odds are still stacked against Jurgen Klopp’s men, given that their opponents both have two games in hand, but funnier things have happened than either team collapsing.

On Sunday, Liverpool fans will be wearing West Ham and Arsenal shirts as United travel to east London and Newcastle hosts the Gunners.

If both teams win, it will feel like the final nail in the Reds’ coffin, but they are refusing to give up hope, which is encouraging after such a dismal start to the season.

It’s a case of Klopp’s team winning their next three games and seeing what happens – even if they don’t finish in the top four, things will feel a lot better than they did a month or so ago.

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