Liverpool 5-1 Arsenal player focus as Andrew Robertson shines for the Reds

Sooraj Kamath - Writer 00:52 30/12/2018
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  • Andrew Robertson.

    Arsenal were absolutely humiliated by Liverpool at Anfield after a complete performance by the Reds where they came out on top with a 5-1 win.

    With this win, Liverpool stand nine points clear off second-placed Tottenham, although third-placed Manchester City have a game in hand.

    Liverpool’s reply to Ainsley Maitland-Niles came in the form of Roberto Firmino’s hat-trick and a goal each from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. Andrew Robertson added more fire-power to the frontline, while performing his duties at left-back to near perfection.

    We take a look at the Scotland international’s performance as part of our player in-focus.

    Key stats

    Minutes: 83

    Goals: 0

    Assists: 0

    Pass (successful): 69 (63)

    Dribbles: 1

    Tackles: 3

    Dispossessed: 1

    Aerials won: 0

    30-SECOND REPORT

    The fixture was dominated by the Liverpool’s frontline, but Robertson did well enough to earn a mention as an unsung hero of the game. Always at the heart of promising plays, the Scot completed an all-round performance where he played an important role in stretching the play in attack, dropping narrow and converting Liverpool’s attacking trident to a dangerous quartet.

    A slight defensive error can be nit-picked, but it should not be taking the focus away from what was a top-notch performance by the Scotland international.

    GOT RIGHT: Attacking prowess

    Robertson provided a lot of options on the left wing, linking up well with Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum. Always a threat on the left, the left-back always had Stephan Lichtsteiner on his toes. The youngster was allowed a free role as he played high, narrow and even switched to the right side.

    Robertson’s inch-perfect pass to Mohamed Salah started the move for Liverpool’s third goal.

    GOT WRONG: Positioning and decision-making out of possession

    The freedom came with responsibilities and Robertson could have done better defensively. At times, the Scotland international was caught out of position.

    Arsenal’s opener could have been prevented had Robertson stuck to Maitland-Niles.

    The 22-year-old picked up a yellow card and seemed susceptible to pressure on times.

    VERDICT

    Just like Liverpool, Robertson had a near perfect game. The pros overshadowed the cons and the youngster deserves a lot credit for his composed and confident performance against worthy opponents.

    Sure, Robertson has had better days in defence but he was a thorn in the Arsenal’s defence whenever he pushed high.

    A promising performance fetches the Scot an 8/10 in this crucial tie.

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