Liverpool’s FA Cup game against Norwich was more important because of the drama surrounding Jurgen Klopp than the game itself.This ‘You Never Walk Alone’ pre-match was one of the most emotional in recent memory and the sight of Klopp trying to hold on was enough to turn any fan into a sobbing wreck.
Even after things calmed down and we turned our attention to the actual football, Liverpool still put in an impressive performance. It was a game that showed that quadruple glory is possible this season. Could this happen? Of course not. But their momentum is terrible right now, so you have to wonder if the players will find some extra tools as a parting gift for their legendary manager to further increase their chances of doing legendary things this season.
This is a team that shuts out opponents even when many of their key players aren’t playing. When Mohamed Salah left for the Africa Cup of Nations, there were concerns about how much Liverpool would miss him, with some wondering if he would derail their various attempts to win the trophy. After all, the Egyptian superstar is the Reds’ best attacking player and one of the most consistent scorers and assists of his generation. While Salah’s absence may seem relatively unnoticed, both players have actually improved without him.
Liverpool heroes Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota are two incredibly different footballers, but both he and Klopp can give their best when called upon.The pair were on the scoresheet again in Sunday’s 5-2 home win against Norwich. The former finished well before the break, while the latter showed impressive power that reflected his confidence level. Nunez and Jota were also doubtful, especially against Uruguay, but their performance against the Canaries reminded us once again how good they are.
With Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo currently hot and cold but still contributing positively, their forward counterparts appear to be among the poorest and most dangerous players in the country. Of course, goals at home against Championship opposition are a no-brainer, but when you look at the big picture, especially when you look at Nunes and Jota’s numbers in a Liverpool shirt, their quality stands out.In the Premier League era, the pair are among United’s top five players in terms of goals per minute in all competitions.
