This Liverpool team does know how to get things done!
Liverpool passed the "Emirates" test with big success, given the conditions that have been formed for Jurgen Klopp's tactics, with the last-minute absence of Virgil Van Djik.
By KONSTANTINOS ZALIARIS
Liverpool knew they were heading to London for their FA Cup 3rd round match with one particular goal in mind. Avoiding the second leg.
It would be the worst thing for Klopp if there was another match in this crazy schedule, since the German does not want his players to play even 45 minutes more than what is already scheduled.
With Salah gone for the Africa Cup of Nations, Edo gone for the Asian Cup and Dominic Szoboszlai injured against Newcastle, Klopp was called upon to manage yet another very important problem just before "Emirates" match. Virgil Van Dijk fell ill and, as the German coach said, he was "sh&t", that's why he sent him home to recover.
Kloppo's choice was Konate and Quansah at the center back, with Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomes on the wings. And it is not that the guests were not threatened. There was no way it wouldn't happen, even if Van Dijk was there. It's how they managed to contribute to keeping a clean sheet together with Alisson, having seen the crossbar deny Edegaard's goal or the big missed chances of Arteta's players.
Ahead of the EFL Cup first semi-final against Fulham, Premier League leaders do not know if VvD will be available for selection on Wednesday night.
However, Klopp knows that whoever he trusts, will repay him. And that's why he was smiling broadly after the 2-0 win over Arsenal, having seen a team know what they had to do, despite the absences and setbacks...
