Player Ratings: Slot’s Rotated Side Shines in FA Cup Triumph | OneFootball

Liverpool 4 – 0 Accrington Stanley FA Cup 3rd Round Player Ratings

The FA Cup announced itself to the Premier League clubs this week, as the historic tournament entered the third round stage. English League two strugglers, Accrington Stanley, were gifted a tremendous away day at European heavyweights Liverpool, with the magic of the cup arriving on Merseyside for this intriguing encounter between David and Goliath.

The lineup and subsequent ratings are listed below.

Caoimhin Kelleher – 7.0

The brilliant backup Irishman was largely anonymous in the first half, as his teammates dominated the opening exchanges.

After the restart, the academy graduate was alert and smart when the ball was at his feet to ensure the Reds sustained their lead.

Trent Alexander Arnold – 8.0

The England superstar started with ambition and nearly opened the scoring with a blistering low drive from the edge of the penalty area. His role in the opening goal was key as he laid on the hockey assist in a fast-paced counterattack. The captain for the day scored a wonderful long-range effort late in the half, to leave the Anfield crowd jubilant at his top-corner finish.

In the second half, the veteran fullback was effective before leaving to prepare for Tuesday.

Subbed – 60 mins

Kostas Tsimikas – 7.0

The Greek international fullback was always a willing outlet and gave width in a controlled first-half performance.

After the halftime break, the popular backup was up and down to line with guile and energy as he looked to show his worth to the head coach.

Jarell Quansah – 7.0

The England under-21 defender was steady and combative, with a few good moments where he looked to carry the ball forward.

In the second half, the strapping defender was the continuing entity that won his duals and gained valuable minutes on the pitch.

Wataru Endō – 8.0

The captain and leader of this rotated group was diligent and responsibly prepared to be the senior commander, as he defended with experience in the first half.

In the second period of the game, the former Bundesliga man was the captain and organised element that covered ground and won individual battles across the backline.

Man of the match

Subbed – 78 mins

Tyler Morton – 7.0

The young midfielder was positionally correct and screened the rearguard as others looked to engage the visitors.

After the break, the former Blackburn Rovers loanee was mature in his work and showed he could be a reliable deputy.

Subbed – 60 mins

Dominik Szoboszlai – 8.0

The Hungarian captain was energetic and powerful in his running, as he excelled in a vibrant first half.

Subbed – 45 mins

Harvey Elliott – 7.0

The England under-21 winger was effective and bright early on as he took on a wide position on the right-hand side, something which allowed pace inside and around him. A good breakaway allowed him a half chance on goal which was easily saved by the opposing goalkeeper.

In the second half of this game, the former Fulham man was a constant outlet and showcased his talents with a good run out.

Diogo Jota – 7.0

The Portuguese attacker started as the man with the freedom to work between the midfield and attack. His drive and forward-thinking persona were electric and the opening goal showed his desire to get into the box and strike from close range.

After the restart, the former Wolves man was effective and full of running as he looked to increase his match fitness.

Darwin Núñez – 5.0

The Uruguayan forward started brightly and had a couple of good chances to open the scoring. The opening goal showed the best attributes of the strapping centre forward, as he led a scintillating counterattack and assisted Diogo Jota with a fine square ball in the box.

After the halftime break, the former Benfica man was again involved in a lot of good build-up play and kept working for his team.

Rio Ngumoha – 7.0

The 16-year-old started with confidence as he made his first start for the senior side. The footwork and incisive trickery were apparent immediately, as he looked to engage the opposition at will.

After the intermission, the teenage prodigy was excited and will look to gain more opportunities in the next round.

Subbed – 72 mins

Substitutions;

Federico Chiesa – 7.0 (on 45)

Came on to excite and offer an assist and well-taken goal.

Conor Bradley – 6.0 (on 60)

Came on to add a different dynamic to the right-hand side.

James McConnell- 6.0 (on 60)

Came on to offer resilience in midfield and defence.

Jayden Danns – 7.0 (on 72)

Came on to add a goal and some power.

Trey Nyoni – 6.0 (on 78)

Came on to show his ability.

The Manager;

Arne Slot – 9.0

The Dutch manager was keen to get a strong starting eleven onto the Anfield turf, with a desire to outgun their visitors.

All the substitutions were well-timed and utilised the squad to its fullest.

Steven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction;

Liverpool 4 – 2 Accrington Stanley