Hoffenheim v Liverpool: Player ratings – Aug 15 2017

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 8

The young Scouser’s star isn’t just rising, it is soaring. A beautiful free kick late in the first half gave Liverpool a crucial lead. While many of the Reds started nervy and mistake ridden, Alexander-Arnold showed no fear. Composed in defense and showed the clever decision making of a seasoned pro. Came out to close down at the right times and was always aware of covering his center backs. A yellow card from frustration shows he still has a little to learn. The edge was taken off his performance  by mis-reading the offside for the Hoffenheim goal.  However he still had a Man-of-the-Match performance. (Sorry Nathaniel.)

Joel Matip – 5

None of the catastrophic errors that his partner committed but failed to organize the back four when we conceded.  He still does not look the imperious presence of last season which has to be a worry for Jurgen Klopp. He is helping Alexander-Arnold with positioning but unfortunately we need him to do that for Lovren and Moreno too.

Dejan Lovren – 3

An awful start to the game for the Croatian. He gave away two early chances before getting nutmegged for penalty. Late on in the first half he got out-muscled in the air which set up another great chance for Hoffenheim that Mignolet managed to keep out. He owes Migs a beer (or four). He was asleep for the Hoffenheim goal and remains a liability.

Alberto Moreno – 5.5

I want to give him 4 for his defending but 7 for his attacking so I’m cheating with a 5.5. he continues to have brainless moments as he is tracking back. Either getting sold easily by wingers or leaping into a tackle where he just needs to stay on his feet. Continues to link up well with Sadio Mane going forward and is able to push the opposition back with his forward runs. If only he had a brain.