Liverpool won their fourth round EFL Cup clash 2-1 against Tottenham on Tuesday night. Both sides fielded rotated starting line-ups, but it was Liverpool who prevailed courtesy of a brace from striker Daniel Sturridge.
Liverpool’s second string impressed, as the likes of youngsters Trent Alex-Arnold, Marko Grujic and Oviemuno Ejaria all enjoyed creditable performances against Spurs. None of the trio are likely to feature for the Reds first team on a regular basis this season, but boss Jurgen Klopp will know they are capable of coming into the team if needed.
Grujic, in particular, is highly-rated and was one of Klopp’s first signings when he arrived at the Merseyside club. The performance of Sturridge will have helped his case of winning his starting spot back in the Premier League.
The 27-year-old has made just four top-flight starts this season and is out of favour with boss Klopp. The former Chelsea star does not fit into the German’s football style of high-intensity and high-pressure football, as he does not work hard enough for the team.
It remains to be seen if Sturridge is restored to the starting line-up for this weekend’s trip to Crystal Palace. It seems likely that Klopp will persist with Brazilian Roberto Firmino as the focal point of the Reds attack.
However, Sturridge is a good option for Klopp to have if he needs a goal or decides that he wants to play with more of an out-and-out striker. Firmino is definitely first choice striker at the moment, though.
No matter what team Jurgen Klopp seems to put out they play the same style of high-pressure football. Every player at the club needs to buy into the German’s football philosophy or he will not be in the team.
Liverpool have looked strong this season and have a good first eleven. It now seems the backup players are not bad either.