Liverpool player ratings vs Chelsea: Thiago pressures Fabinho

Liverpool player ratings – defence

Alexander-Arnold got off to a fairly rusty start against Leeds but was improved against Chelsea. He put in a good defensive shift, passed the ball well and supplied the forwards better than he did last week.

After nearly no preseason, the defender will take a bit of time to get up to speed but things are looking up for the world’s best right-back.

A big part of his game is those switches to Andy Robertson, and those were on point, while Trent’s support of Mohamed Salah was good as well.

Fabinho got into the side at the expense of Matip and Gomez, who were both ruled out of the clash due to injury.

The Brazilian had an outstanding game and played better than he had any right to. The defensive midfielder looked natural alongside van Dijk and dominated Timo Werner.

Will Matip and Gomez struggle to get back in the side now? It might not be easy, especially after the arrival of Thiago.

Van Dijk was back to his best here as he ordered around his team with authority and nullified the threat Chelsea had going forward.

He didn’t have much to do and wasn’t really bothered by Timo Werner. Crucially, he kept his game error free. A much better showing.

Once again Robertson was excellent going forward and sturdy at the back. He spent much of the second half attacking down Reece James’s flank, and linked with Mane well.

In one eye-catching moment, the Scot sent Jorginho for breakfast as he left the Italian sprawled on the floor as Robbo burst past him. Overall, it was a very solid performance.