Liverpool 1-0 Tottenham: Three things we learned – Roberto Firmino is all class

Jose Mourinho has not changed at all

Every time Mourinho takes up a new role there is talk about how much he has changed, but as genius morphs into mediocrity there is one thing that will never change about the Portuguese gaffer: he’s a stubborn old goat.

We know how he will set up in big games, it’s been the same for years. Don’t lose. But that meant giving the vibrant Reds so much possession in the first 30 minutes that their own defenders had to make 15 clearances between three players – while they were at home!

Davison Sanchez topped the charts with six, Japhet Tanganga made five and then Toby Alderweireld came in with four.

Their home fans can’t be pleased with the way things are going. After a few exciting moments, Mourinho has slipped back to form – especially without Harry Kane. At times, while chasing a result, they had every member of the side back in their half while they let the Liverpool back four pass the ball among themselves.

That’s no way to challenge a top side, and the very best managers would come out with a better plan than that. Mourinho wanted to keep things tight and nick one on the break but that never looked like happening.