“He's a player that helps us a lot" - Alisson Becker heaps praise on Liverpool teammate after 2-0 Bologna win
Alisson Becker has heaped praise on Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah, who impressed in their 2-0 Champions League win over Bologna on Wednesday, September 2. The Reds were easily the better side, as their Italian counterparts left Anfield without any points on the night.
Salah was the shining light in Merseyside, as the Egyptian winger was vital for their first goal in the 11th minute. He teased a perfect cross onto the run of Alexis Mac Allister, who scored from point-blank range.
Salah showed up again in the 75th minute to properly seal the deal. Dominik Szoboszlai picked Salah out on the flank, and the winger cut into the area, where space opened up before curling his effort beyond the goalkeeper.
After the game, an elated Alisson, who kept a clean sheet, was pleased with the forward's contributions. The goalkeeper said to TNT Sports (via Liverpool.com):
"He's a player that helps us a lot, sometimes it looks like he’s not in the game but suddenly a perfect touch, he puts the ball in the top corner. That’s his quality, his strength as well.
"We are lucky to have him but we always have to highlight the hard work the team had and a lot to improve but good enough to win the game.”
In the match, the Egyptian legend created three chances, scoring once and providing an assist. While he did not do much in defending, making only one defensive action throughout 90 minutes, his presence in attack was enough to secure the win for Liverpool.
Arne Slot praises Liverpool midfielder for impressive performance against Bologna
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has praised Reds midfielder Ryan Gravenberch for his performance against Bologna. While the headlines were about Mohamed Salah, Gravenberch was also a sight to behold.
After the game, Slot said to TNT Sports (via Rousing the Kop):
"I said [to him] after the game, again a big performance. He played really well. In man v man if you have a player who can turn away [from his man] you can immediately have an overload. That happened in the first minute when Virgil played it in and he turned away. Ryan was again outstanding today."
Gravenberch was indeed a big part of the Reds' 2-0 win. He made only four wayward passes, with 41 meeting their targets, while also creating two chances. He helped drive Liverpool forward, making three successful dribbles and seven passes into the final third.