Liverpool’s goalless draw against Manchester United didn’t live up to expectations, but there was plenty we learnt from it.
The hosts dominated the ball and fired in 34 shots on goal but didn’t really test Andre Onana or create enough clear-cut chances to claim the three points that would’ve sent them back to the top of the Premier League.
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It was a frustrating evening for Liverpool
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag’s men defended valiantly and battled for a hard-fought point that might kickstart their season.
But what did we learn from this encounter?
‘Over-confident’ Liverpool
Before this game, there was a lot of talk that Liverpool were going to replicate their 7-0 demolition of Man United from last season.
Certainly, they were two clubs heading in different directions, and there was almost an expectation from the Anfield crowd that it would be an easy home win.
But when that early goal didn’t come, the atmosphere slowly died off, and the pressure increased on the home players.
Of course, Klopp totally denied any suggestion that outside influence impacted his players, but Gary Neville feels that unconsciously, there was a sense of over-confidence.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, he said: “There was maybe a little bit of over-confidence before the game.
“People [Carragher] wearing Christmas jumpers with 7-0 on them…
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Many were wondering how many Liverpool were going to put past Man UnitedCredit: AFP
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But the Reds were sloppy and Man United claimed an unexpected pointCredit: AFP
“Some of the players were left behind for their European trip. All of the noise around Manchester United was that they were going to get destroyed.
“Sometimes, it just seeps into you, and it may be a bit of that [over-confidence] got into the crowd and onto the pitch.
“But they still should have won the game. United didn’t play well, but they were off it.”
Sloppy Szoboszlai
Hungarian midfield maestro Dominik Szoboszlai has been a revelation for Liverpool’s midfield since joining from RB Leipzig in the summer.
The 23-year-old possesses a great engine, wonderful technique and a sharp mind.
He hasn’t contributed as many goals as he could have, but he’s more than made up for that with his all-round displays.
However, this was a game to forget for Szoboszlai.
He looked tired and misplaced lots of passes, killing several attacking moves. And in the end, he was hooked just after 60 minutes.
Liverpool fans will hope this was just a one-off and not the start of a decline.
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It was an evening to forget for many in redCredit: AFP
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Szoboszlai really struggled at Anfield
McTominay proves his mentality
With Bruno Fernandes suspended and Harry Maguire injured, Scott McTominay was captained Manchester United for the first time in the Premier League.
The Scotland international has been a much-maligned player in his time in the first team.
But this term, he’s the Red Devils’ top Premier League goalscorer and covered every blade of grass for his team at Anfield.
He’s not the best technically and has some flaws, but he’s certainly a leader.
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McTominay turned in a captain’s display at AnfieldCredit: Getty
And he showed that mentality when asked about nearly leaving Old Trafford in the summer after the game.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “There’s always speculation that comes and goes.
“But as long as I’ve got a clear mind and do my best whenever I go on the pitch with no excuses, I don’t really care what anyone else says.
“I just want to play well for this football club, and that’s final.”
Liverpool aren’t ready for a serious title challenge
Liverpool started the game at Anfield in third place and are now second, just behind Arsenal.
However, this performance was evidence that Jurgen Klopp’s new-look side aren’t quite ready for a title challenge.
Before the season started, they weren’t expected to compete in the title race, but with Manchester City struggling and many of the top teams beating each other, they have fallen into it.
But the fact they were unable to defeat a depleted Man United side at home is an indicator that the title will be beyond them this campaign.
Speaking after the game, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher said: “Coming into the game, I was looking at the league table and where Liverpool are and the results. But you see the performances, and you are not fully convinced this is a team that can challenge for the league or win the league.
“I think it surprised a lot of people where Liverpool are, but I don’t think Liverpool will win the league.
“Performance-wise, they’ve had a little bit of luck this season.”
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As well as surrendering their place at the top of the table, Liverpool missed a massive opportunity to pull away from reigning champions Manchester CityCredit: Getty
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