ST: Christian Benteke – 8/10
It is always important for a striker to get off the mark early for their new club, especially when he comes with a big price tag – Sky Sports report that the Belgian cost the Reds £32.5m from Aston Villa. As well as his goal, Benteke brought others into the game with his good hold-up play, and his touch was excellent.
Substitutes
Emre Can – 6/10
Can, who spent most of last season as part of a defensive three, replaced Henderson to play in his preferred central role, but could have done more to help Liverpool control the middle of the park.
Roberto Firmino – 6/10
The Brazilian was given another 20-minute cameo in which he made little impression on the game.
Alberto Moreno – 7/10
The left-back was brought on to help bolster Liverpool’s left flank, but actually ended up being a really good outlet for the Reds to relieve pressure and nearly won his side a stoppage-time penalty.
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