CaughtOffside rates the Liverpool players for their performances against Ludogorets…
Liverpool 2-1 Ludogorets – Steven Gerrard scored the winning goal from the penalty spot, after it seemed like the Reds would be forced to settle for a point.
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Mario Balotelli had earlier scored his first Liverpool goal, only to see his strike cancelled out by the Bulgarian side, who netted through substitute Dani Abalo.
Read the full Liverpool ratings below:
GK) Simon Mignolet – 4
Solid until he needlessly hurtled off his line to allow Ludogorets to score their goal, the Belgian is still worryingly unpredictable.
RB) Javi Manquillo – 7
Another impressive showing from the young Spaniard, whose fantastic show of effort and determination earned the Reds their penalty.
LB) Alberto Moreno – 7
Offered a decent attacking outlet and make one exceptional last ditch challenge in the second half.
CB) Dejan Lovren – 6
A generally comfortable defensive display, but the Croatian is still yet to find top form.
CB) Mamadou Sakho – 5
Another poor showing from the Frenchman, who looked something of a liability throughout. His poor positioning saw him caught out on a couple of occasions.
CM) Steven Gerrard – 8
Kept his cool to net Liverpool’s late penalty, and was a source of calm throughout the night for a young team.
CM) Jordan Henderson – 6
Full of running in midfield, although not always aware of the visitors’ runs on the break. Great drive into the box set up chance from which Lallana should have scored.
CM) Philippe Coutinho – 5
Another underwhelming performance from the Brazilian who continues to struggle this season. He needs more impact in the final third.
RW) Adam Lallana – 4
Made his second start for the Reds but looked short of sharpness. Some sloppy moments and poor finish in the first-half when he should have scored.
LW) Raheem Sterling – 5
Was not at his best tonight, and is perhaps better used at the front of a midfield diamond rather than out wide.
ST) Mario Balotelli – 7
Scored his first goal for Liverpool when they really needed him, showing his strength in the box before producing a lethal finish to open his Reds account.
Manager: Brendan Rodgers – 7
His change of formation mid-way through the second-half worked well, but still needs to find a way to do more without Daniel Sturridge.
Subs:
1) Fabio Borini – 6 – Forced one fine save from the goalkeeper with a header after coming on.
2) Lucas – 6 – Solidified the midfield and allowed Gerrard to get further forward in the closing stages.
SEE ALSO: The Best Liverpool goals.