Everton icon stunned by Liverpool star who was ‘best player on the pitch’ vs Atletico Madrid
One Liverpool star made all the difference during the Reds’ Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid at Anfield.
Liverpool raced into a 2-0 lead against Atletico Madrid, courtesy of goals from Andy Robertson and Mo Salah inside six minutes.
Robertson started ahead of Milos Kerkez, after the latter was substituted just 38 minutes into Liverpool’s 1-0 win at Burnley.
Salah broke a Champions League record in registering a goal and assist so quickly into the contest, but the visitors responded before half-time with a Marcos Llorente strike.
However, just as they have done so many times this season, it was Virgil van Dijk who popped up with a late winner as Liverpool secured a 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid.
Ryan Gravenberch shines in Champions League clash
Liverpool were dominant for much of the first half against Atletico Madrid, and former Everton midfielder Leon Osman, as per BBC Sport [17 September], believes a huge part of that was down to Ryan Gravenberch.
“Until Atletico scored, that half was Liverpool’s best of the season in terms of being in control,” Osman stated.
“A big reason for that was Ryan Gravenberch, who has been ridiculously good so far. He’s been the best player on the pitch.”
Aside from being suspended for the opening Premier League match against Bournemouth, Gravenberch’s importance has been underlined by him playing 90 minutes in every over match so far this season.
Arne Slot faces two selection issues
Whilst Slot has plenty of attacking options available, keeping Gravenberch fit in the middle of the park will be key to Liverpool’s success.
The Dutchman allows Liverpool’s attack to flourish whilst protecting the defence, and Robertson coming back in at left-back has also helped.
| Ryan Gravenberch | Stats |
| Appearances | 90 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 6 |
Kerkez may face a challenge now getting back into the Liverpool team ahead of the experienced defender following his unconvincing performances so far.
Leaving Hugo Ekitike on the bench for Alexander Isak is another dilemma Slot will have to overcome in the weeks ahead.