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Steve McManaman identified four Liverpool players who he believes were crucial in securing victory against Aston Villa.
Mohamed Salah and Ryan Gravenberch scored on either side of half-time to halt Liverpool’s run of five straight domestic defeats, lifting the team back up to third in the Premier League - though there were some injury setbacks.
It was a vastly improved display from Liverpool, with the midfield dictating play and the defense standing strong to secure a clean sheet. Although the visitors threatened early and applied pressure late on, Liverpool seized control from around the 20-minute mark. Both the players and head coach Arne Slot have faced criticism following their remarkable title-winning campaign last season.
Speaking after the game, McManaman heaped praise on Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk for their performances.
"They are back at Anfield where they are very comfortable" the former Red told TNT Sports.
"I know they lost the last game, but they could have easily scored three or four in that particular game.
"I thought Mo was excellent. [Dominik] Szoboszlai yet again was brilliant. Konate, Van Dijk they looked a lot more assured. The work rate was better, they put in a shift for each other today.
"They were quite comfortable. That's what we've come to expect from them here. But still, they've had to deliver under intense pressure off everybody. And that's what good players do, you have to respond."
McManaman's former Anfield teammate Steven Gerrard praised Liverpool’s return to form, noting that the players looked more committed and energetic on the pitch.
He also suggested that the home side benefited from a few costly mistakes by Unai Emery’s team.
The former Liverpool captain added: "I felt they were physical, the steel was back. The work rate, the intensity in possession. I think all the good stuff came off the back of that.
"I think VIlla were their own victims. Overplaying in the build up, too many mistakes. The tactics weren't wrong from Aston Villa.
"I think the manager got the tactics spot on, started the game really well. Too many mistakes in the build up and Liverpool punished them for it."
Liverpool.com says: Liverpool’s return to form is a promising sign that the team is regaining confidence and cohesion. The midfield’s control and defensive solidity show the Reds can dominate matches again. If they maintain this momentum, Liverpool could quickly climb the Premier League standings and reassert themselves as genuine title contenders.
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