match_ratings_ident

FEELS a bit churlish to have a moan after beating the champions comfortably, doesn’t it? So I’m not going to.

Could’ve been six, though.

Simon Mignolet: 7

Nothing of note early on, but flapped at a long throw at the worst possible moment. Great ball for Daniel Sturridge late in the first half. Followed that with a brilliant stop from Jamie Vardy early in the second half. Bang into him making saves that count, and it did. Got stuck in as well, which was nice.

Nathaniel Clyne: 7

Looks to be playing much further forward when Milner is on the opposite side. Links up well, and as consistent as ever. Anything else would just be padding.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 10, 2016: Liverpool's Nathaniel Clyne in action against Leicester City during the FA Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Lucas Leiva: 8

Going to stick up for him, here. Made an awful mistake, granted. But it’s not a habit he’s got, so I’m going to completely ignore it. Soz. Flawless from the Brazilian.

Joel Matip: 8

Aerially dominant — who knew? Looks so smooth on the ball. Had a bit of a worry about him being bullied as it’s something he’s spoke about himself but showed good strength and awareness.

James Milner: 7

Great ball for the opener. Drifted inside when offered the opportunity. Didn’t really notice him which, considering how Leicester play, can only be a compliment.

Georginio Wijnaldum: 7

Paid a bit more attention to him than maybe I should, as I don’t really see what he does. Found out that he offers a physicality and takes up good covering positions. Did a good number on Danny Drinkwater and was clever in possession, moved the ball well in possession too.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 10, 2016: Liverpool's Georginio Wijnaldum in action against Leicester City during the FA Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Jordan Henderson: 8

All about intent after some big words in the week.

Constantly in the ears of his teammates and the ref, and always looking to make a forward pass as early as possible.

Horrific miss when the game was safe, needs to start tucking them away, get the sense that if he gets one he might go on a little run of goals.

Adam Lallana: 8

Didn’t notice him at all first half and then he blasts a worldie in to make the game safe.

Stood out more second half, kept the ball after the break when the game was in the balance and you can see why Klopp rates him.

Roberto Firmino: 8

Smart turn and finish after sending Robert Huth to Germany and back for the opener. Looked to have his eye in and a little more strength and determination than we’ve seen on occasion.

Probed well and could have had a handful of assists. Fourth was on a plate for, but they all count.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 10, 2016: Liverpool's Roberto Firmino celebrates scoring the first goal against Leicester City during the FA Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

Daniel Sturridge: 8

Unlucky on two occasions in the first half, twice thwarted by Kasper Schmeichel, brilliant backheel assist for Sadio Mane’s goal.

Could have had a hat-trick and will be disappointed not to have got at least one, despite hitting the target every time.

Has an under-appreciated awareness in tight spaces and displayed good link-up play. Looked more relaxed than of late.

Sadio Mane: 11

Sloppy early on, but grew into it. Looks like he links well with Sturridge. Arrogant finish to put Liverpool two up.

Feel’s like we’ve found some mad cheat code to unlock ‘ridiculous skill’ mode that we found in a variety pack, far, far better player than I thought we’d be getting, puts the fear of god into opposition defenders.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 10, 2016: Liverpool's Sadio Mane celebrates scoring the second goal against Leicester City during the FA Premier League match at Anfield. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

SUBS

Philippe Coutinho (On for Sturridge): 6

Desperate for a goal, but didn’t really get into it. A little over eager.

Kevin Stewart (On for Wijnaldum): 7

Sat in a bit deeper when he came on, allowing Henderson a little more freedom to get forward, a good change from the manager and a more than competent outing for England’s Kevin Stewart.

Alberto Moreno (On for Mane): N/A

READ: Liverpool 4 Leicester City 1: How It Happened

READ: Liverpool 4 Leicester City 1: Match Review

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