“There’s Nobody Better!” – Dave Hendrick Praises Liverpool Midfielder After Newcastle United Victory | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Tactical Dominance Over Newcastle United: Insights from Anfield Index

Liverpool continued their relentless Premier League pursuit with a commanding display against Newcastle United, showcasing their tactical superiority and squad depth. The Anfield Index podcast, featuring Dave Hendrick and Trev Downey, dissected the match in detail, offering insights into Arne Slot’s evolving Liverpool side and the challenges facing Newcastle.

Liverpool’s Control and Newcastle’s Lack of Ambition

The conversation between Hendrick and Downey highlighted Liverpool’s dominance, particularly in controlling possession and restricting Newcastle’s attacking opportunities. Hendrick noted:

“We had three shots on target and they had three shots total and none on target, which goes to show the gulf between them.”

Newcastle’s lack of attacking urgency frustrated the podcast contributors. Downey observed:

“I think Newcastle tonight, if they want to get in the Champions League and they want to start winning things, it’s times like this when they’re going to look back at games like this and think, did we do enough? And I certainly don’t think in that first half they did anywhere near enough.”

This sentiment encapsulated the broader theme—Liverpool were proactive, while Newcastle seemed content with damage limitation.

Photo: IMAGO

Mac Allister’s Brilliance and Midfield Contributions

The podcast lavished praise on Alexis Mac Allister, with Hendrick describing him as arguably the best midfielder in the Premier League this season:

“There’s probably nobody better at the moment in that department in the league. He’s outrageous. He’s so talented, his attitude is outrageously positive all the time.”

Beyond just creativity, Mac Allister’s all-around game impressed Hendrick:

“We often lament the lack of a traditional hard man type, but whereas Mac Allister is a lovely fella, he’s a right bollocks on the pitch.”

Photo: IMAGO

Mac Allister wasn’t alone in making an impact. The midfield as a whole was instrumental, with Dominik Szoboszlai’s goal further reinforcing Liverpool’s strength in that area. Hendrick pointed out the historical importance of midfield contributions at Liverpool:

“Seven goals now on the season for Szoboszlai. That matches the best returns of midfielders under Klopp.”

With additional goal-scoring threats from Curtis Jones and Mac Allister, Liverpool’s midfield looks well-equipped to support their attacking line.

Mo Salah’s Influence and Darwin’s Work Rate

Despite not being awarded Man of the Match, Mohamed Salah’s contribution did not go unnoticed. Downey was particularly impressed with Salah’s effortless brilliance:

“Salah was playing like an exhibition match, like the Harlem Globetrotters of football, just trying to show off all the things that he can do.”

Meanwhile, Darwin Núñez’s work rate became a talking point, especially after recent comments from Arne Slot about his effort levels. Hendrick acknowledged that Núñez responded well to the criticism:

“When he came on, he worked his arse off, so I think Arne Slot was right. Some players need the stick, not the carrot.”

This insight highlights the fine balance between motivation and criticism in modern football management, with Slot seemingly getting the best out of his striker.

Photo: IMAGO

The Title Race and Liverpool’s Momentum

Liverpool’s win solidified their position at the top of the Premier League, and the podcast contributors were bullish about their title credentials. Hendrick laid out the situation:

“We’re 13 points clear. Beat Southampton, that’s 16. Arsenal would need to beat United away and Chelsea at home to go into the international break only 10 points behind. I don’t fancy them to beat both.”

While the hosts refrained from declaring the title race over, the sentiment was clear—Liverpool are in control. However, as Dominik Szoboszlai himself put it in his post-match comments:

“When I came to Liverpool, I wanted to win everything in my first season… so I don’t want to talk about it.”

This measured optimism reflects the club’s mentality—one game at a time, but with an eye on the ultimate prize.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s victory over Newcastle United was more than just three points—it was a statement. Slot’s tactical flexibility, Mac Allister’s midfield dominance, and the unwavering commitment of players like Szoboszlai and Salah all point to a team built for success.

With Newcastle lacking ambition and Liverpool hitting their stride, the Premier League title looks increasingly within reach. However, as the Anfield Index podcast emphasised, nothing is won in February. The real challenge is maintaining this level until May.