First half goals to Dejan Lovren and Jordan Henderson were enough to see Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool come away 2-1 victors at Stamford Bridge.
Despite dominating the first half, the Reds were defending for their lives in the second when Diego Costa clawed one back. But, despite it not looking pretty, Liverpool managed to close out the game.
The result moves them into the top four for the time being with 10 points – equal second with rivals Everton.
Jordan Henderson silences the critics
He scored a stunner, but that wasn’t the reason he was so impressive. Now he’s had a run of games to become familiar with playing in a deeper role in central midfield, he looks the real deal. His passing, energy and tackling was key for the Reds on their way to a second successive win at Stamford Bridge under the Klopp regime.
Make no mistake, Henderson is a quality footballer and it’s time for the Reds fans to stop comparing him to former Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard. If the Liverpool faithful can hold their nerve and allow the 26-year-old patience, only then will they see the best from the Englishman on a regular basis.
You can’t have world-class footballers all across the pitch, you do need to have players who can help grind out results and fight for the cause – Henderson is very much that for Liverpool. His pressing game just makes the job of others on the pitch much easier and his teammates are certainly benefitting.
Chelsea were too conservative
Under Klopp a primary facet of their game is to come flying out of the blocks – the best form of defence is attack. Chelsea were simply sitting far too deep, especially in the first half which led to a flat and lethargic showing in the first half.
When the Blues took it to the Reds in the second 45, they looked slightly more vulnerable, although they did begin to cause the visitors headaches. It’s no secret Liverpool have defensive deficiencies and agonisingly for Chelsea fans the opportunity to pressurise the Reds’ rearguard came all too late.
Conte’s decision to play Nemanja Matic in midfield with N’Golo Kante was a poor choice in hindsight, as the Blues lacked dynamism and a crispness to their play. Cesc Fabregas made an immediate impression, but should have been entered the fray much earlier – half-time seemed like a logical choice.
Doubts will grow about Chelsea’s title credentials after a relatively easy run. Next week at the Emirates against Arsenal we will learn more about this side under Conte’s watchful eye.
James Milner proving to be a solid left-back
It’s the most controversial topic in Liverpool’s current lineup. Alberto Moreno remains a liability and a player Klopp simply cannot trust in his side, hence the unconventional change of James Milner slotting in at left-back.
Liverpool fans were crying out for a solution in the summer transfer window, however – and probably against popular opinion – he ignored the attention and placed his faith in the industrious Milner.
It might not be pretty each time Milner looks to cut inside and defend on his right side, but it’s clearly working. Despite the limitations of being right-footed, it’s the work ethic, tracking back, turning defence into attack and cool head of the player which is turning the left-back role into a non-issue.
Yet to put a foot wrong – almost flawless in an uncanny manner – Klopp’s faith has been vindicated so far.
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
