Player Ratings: Liverpool vs. Sunderland

omidbasir- **Alisson Becker (6/10):**
Demonstrated reliable handling during the few times he was called into action.

**Wataru Endo (5/10):**
Displayed discomfort in an unfamiliar right-back position and struggled to contribute offensively. Despite his efforts, he had to exit due to injury in the second half.

**Ibrahima Konate (9/10):**
Exhibited commendable physicality in duels against Brobbey, delivering a standout performance with one exceptional block in the first half and a crucial goal-saving challenge in the second. This was arguably his best display of the season.

**Virgil van Dijk (8/10):**
Provided strong leadership in the Liverpool defense and opened the scoring with a well-placed header from a corner.

**Andrew Robertson (6/10):**
Was involved frequently, particularly in the first half, but failed to create significant chances despite his industriousness.

**Ryan Gravenberch (6/10):**
Sunderland appeared content to let him control the ball, resulting in a lack of creativity in his play. He was steady, though not particularly impressive, in midfield.

**Alexis Mac Allister (5/10):**
Has not yet reached his peak form, misplacing several straightforward passes and not performing well defensively either.

**Florian Wirtz (8/10):**
Central to Liverpool’s positive play, he was unfortunate not to score in the first half, showcasing some dazzling skills and flicks.

**Mohamed Salah (4/10):**
Continued to struggle, with most of his crosses and shots being blocked. His set-piece deliveries were one bright spot, contributing to Van Dijk’s goal.

**Hugo Ekitike (5/10):**
At times, he stretched the Sunderland defense, but his final ball often fell short. He also missed a prime headed opportunity for the second consecutive match.

**Cody Gakpo (4/10):**
His tendency to cut inside from the left became predictable, and he inadvertently blocked teammates on multiple occasions.

**Joe Gomez (6/10):**
Made a timely return from injury to replace the injured Endo, performing admirably against Sunderland’s attacking efforts.

**Curtis Jones (5/10):**
Substituted in for Gakpo and played on the left, resulting in a mixed performance, although he did display moments of impressive skill.

**Federico Chiesa (N/A):**
Came on for Ekitike in the final minutes of the match.

**Arne Slot (6/10):**
Although he did not significantly influence the match tactically, he managed to uplift his players after a disappointing previous performance, guiding them to a victory in a challenging environment.