In a thoroughly professional performance, Liverpool dispatched Derby County 0-3 at the iPro Stadium, advancing to the fourth round of the EFL Cup.
While the Reds pushed ahead after 24 minutes, thanks to Ragnar Klavan pouncing on a loose ball from a corner kick, it took a surge in the second half to see the home side out of the tournament, with Philippe Coutinho and Divock Origi both finding the back of the net within five minutes of each other.
The scoreline could easily have been greater but Liverpool showed the requisite class and ruthlessness to finish the match and cruise to a comfortable victory. As the second half waned and all the substitutes had been made, a sloppiness did seep into the side but a number of players were able to gain some valuable time on the pitch.
Most importantly, the goals continue to come for Liverpool and a clean sheet, even against a lower league team, is a definite positive step for the Merseysiders. There is no doubt that Jurgen Klopp’s team is taking shape.
Here are four findings from the match.
Minutes for Many
A number of players in the squad gained valuable minutes. The starting eleven allowed Roberto Firmino, Ragnar Klavan and Loris Karius to return to action after injury. It was Karius’ long-awaited official debut.
Additionally, Danny Ings, Marko Grujic, Ovie Ejaria, Divock Origi, Alberto Moreno, Lucas Leiva and Emre Can were also given valuable run-outs.
In combination with fellow starters like Jordan Henderson, Nathaniel Clyne, Joel Matip and Philippe Coutinho, the new additions showed the growing strength of the squad’s depth.
Ultimately, this cup tie offered a number players a chance at gaining fitness and others an opportunity to rest. Advancing as easily also lays the foundation for future prospects to get more game time as well.
Karius Commences
At last, goalkeeper Loris Karius made his first competitive start for Liverpool. It was a decent though not definitive performance. So strong were Liverpool that the keeper was almost completely untroubled for the first quarter of an hour. It might be a few more outings before he overtakes Simon Mignolet.
He certainly commanded his area well and ventured closer to the centre circle than the penalty area in support of the attack. Just before the break, the German thwarted Darren Bent just beyond his box with an excellently timed challenge, eliminating any threat.
The second half proved similar, although one awkward looking flap at a corner kick looked eerily familiar to his counterpart.
Given it was his debut, there also may yet be some slight reticence. Considering that he broke his hand punching a teammate’s head in an effort to clear a ball, a miss like the one he suffered might be required before full confidence can return.
Firmino’s Fine
Missing the most recent match against Chelsea was an unexpected break in an extraordinary run of form for the Brazilian. Against Derby, that form readily returned as Firmino resumed his role as the primary playmaker.
He may have missed his chance to score but his quality continues to grow. He is the first name on the team sheet for a reason. He tortured Derby’s defence with his cleverness and quality.
The second goal was just one more example of just how devastating the boys from Brazil can be. After finding a pocket of space between the midfield and defence, he delivered a tantalising through ball for his countryman Coutinho that created the space for an easy strike to all but seal the match.
Grujic Growing
Having made a brief cameo against Burnley, Marko Grujic made his first start as a Red and fared well. The 20-year-old Serbian has stated this will be a year of growth and playing against a Championship side provided a solid education.
Playing alongside Henderson and Lucas gave the youngster a platform that offered both safety and stability to find his way into the match. He started well, distributing the ball with finesse and tackling with determination.
His sheer size offers a presence that cannot be dismissed. He can already impose himself in the middle of the pitch. Yet, hitting the gym and adding some pounds will likely benefit him as it did Origi. His developing combination of skill and steel will be a welcome addition to Liverpool’s midfield.