Rotation remained the rule for Liverpool as they headed to Stoke-on-Trent for a midweek league match. Six changes to the side ultimately made little difference as the Reds rolled over Stoke City 0-3 at the bet365 Stadium.
After a more-than-mediocre midfield display at the weekend, Jurgen Klopp swapped the whole lot and replaced them with a much more effective trio of Emre Can, Gini Wijnaldum, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Additionally, Mo Salah finally received a spell with Dominic Solanke joining Sadio Mané and Roberto Firmino.
The result was a more patient and professional performance, especially in attack. There was more probing from Liverpool. There was a clear push to make more penetrative passes forward and over the top. Yet, there was a sloppiness to the scheme that saved Stoke some blushes to a home side more than content to sit deep for much of the first half, until Liverpool forced the first goal.
Falling behind forced a change of shape and Stoke started to get a foothold in the match. Nevertheless, the Reds should have been three goals clear before half time. After the break, it proved more of a slog. Even a welcome shred of cynicism crept into Liverpool. Then Klopp made some suitable substitutions and Mo Salah ensured an easy victory.
Here are four findings from the match.
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