Liverpool battled their way to an eventual 3-2 victory over West Ham United at Anfield on Monday evening. The result means that Jurgen Klopp’s side are now only four wins away from securing a first Premier League title. However, it wasn’t all plain sailing for the Reds. Liverpool produced a somewhat dire performance until Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was subbed on.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Vital
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain Shows His Worth
One player who was unlucky not to start against West Ham was Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The England international has been in fine form when he has featured recently, scoring several important goals. Jordan Henderson missed the game through injury, though Oxlade-Chamberlain had to settle for a place on the bench.
Liverpool only returned to their usual selves when Oxlade-Chamberlain was subbed on for Naby Keita.
Naby Keita Needs To Improve
Instead of Oxlade-Chamberlain, it was Naby Keita who featured in the starting line up. Klopp intended to start James Milner in Henderson’s place, though the vice-captain also missed the game through injury.
The Guinean international failed to take his chance to impress. He has impressed in fits and starts, though he seems to be a player who needs consistent game time to find his rhythm. For all the hype that he came with, Keita has been largely disappointing.
Firmino’s Anfield Problem
Bizarrely, Roberto Firmino is yet to score a goal at Anfield this season in the Premier League. However, this does not discredit the work that he does for the team – this Liverpool team would not flow in the same way if it were not for the number nine.
He would have been disappointed with some of the chances he missed, though Liverpool have three world class forwards. Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah helped themselves to a goal each, meaning that Liverpool have matched the record for most consecutive Premier League wins.
Main Photo
