The Uruguay international was at the forefront of Liverpool attempts to break down a deep and well-drilled defensive line. There was still recognisable quality throughout the starting lineup, however, and a centre forward in Darwin Núñez who relished the battle against Brentford’s powerful five-man defence.
The roll call of inexperience included Trey Nyoni, who would have been Liverpool’s youngest player in a league game had he appeared at the age of 16 years and 135 days. Injuries and a suspension for Alexis Mac Allister limited Klopp’s options to such an extent that his bench featured seven players aged 20 or under. Liverpool were stretched, and not only by Brentford’s potency on the counterattack. “Crazy,” was Klopp’s take on the Egypt international’s numbers. When you have a player of that quality it’s good.”įor Liverpool, that is. He must be one of the best offensive players in the world. “Off the top of my head he is the best player in the league,” the Brentford manager said of Salah. Brentford were obstinate and dangerous as they so often are under Thomas Frank, and the hosts required assured defending from Virgil van Dijk, Alisson and company to protect the margin of victory, but they were no match for the quality of Liverpool’s attack. Salah struck twice – the second his 200th goal in English football – before a fine finish from Diogo Jota sealed an ultimately impressive win for Liverpool.
