Virgil van Dijk lashes out at Liverpool team-mate as classy Diogo Jota gesture makes up for tasteless abuse

Virgil van Dijk lashes out at Liverpool team-mate as classy Diogo Jota gesture makes up for tasteless abuse

The moments you might not have spotted during Liverpool’s 4-1 win at Brentford on Saturday

 

Liverpool’s Dutch defender #04 Virgil van Dijk reacts after Cody Gakpo scores their fourth goal during the English Premier League football match between Brentford and Liverpool at the Gtech Community Stadium

Liverpool ran out 4-1 winners over Brentford on Saturday to clinch their first ever victory at the Gtech Community Stadium and retain their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Goals from Darwin Nunez, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah, and Cody Gakpo clinched a memorable win for the Reds, though injuries to the Uruguayan, Curtis Jones, and Diogo Jota put a slight dampener on celebrations.

And while Arsenal’s 5-0 win at Burnley later that day would cut Liverpool’s lead back down to two points, Man City’s 1-1 draw at home to Chelsea in the evening kick-off prompted further fistpumps as Kopites travelled home. The reigning champions still boast a game in hand on the Reds, but now sit four points behind them in third.

READ MORE: Liverpool handed huge boost by two timely returns as injury list grows to 10

READ MORE: Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, Curtis Jones, Alisson Becker – Liverpool injury news and return dates

But you know all that, of course, having nervously followed proceedings throughout Saturday as the Premier League title-race took its latest twists and turns. But what you might not be aware of are some of the lesser-spotted moments from the Gtech Community Stadium that have perhaps have gone under the radar…

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Maupay mocked

Neal Maupay has emerged as the Premier League’s pantomime villain in recent weeks, becoming a player opposing fans love to hate. Scoring in five successive games in January, the wind-up merchant memorably clashed with Tottenham Hotspur’s James Maddison both on and off the pitch last month.

He was given no such opportunity against Liverpool however, registering just one shot on goal before being withdrawn prematurely in the 63rd minute after the Reds had gone 2-0 in front.

Travelling supporters made sure to strike the first blow against the Frenchman long before his early withdrawal after a quiet showing though, inevitably remembering that although he has suddenly rediscovered his scoring touch in the capital, he is still an Everton player – having been sent on loan in September after scoring just once for the Blues last season.

“Blue and white s***e!” they chanted in the striker’s direction with only six minutes on the clock. Maupay was unable to silence them on a day to forget for the Bees.

End-to-Endo for Wataru

Wataru Endo left Brentford players and supporters fuming after one moment in the first half where he invoked his inner-Diego Maradona.

Midway through the first half, the Japanese flung himself at an attacking corner only to connect with the ball with his outstretched fist.

‘Handball!’ the entire Bees defence exclaimed and gestured. Such was their insistence, you did not need to see a replay to know that the 31-year-old was probably guilty of attempting to recreate the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal at the near post.

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His effort didn’t go in and would have been ruled out by VAR anyway if it had. Yet the fact that the offence went unspotted by referee Michael Oliver was somewhat comical.

Meanwhile, at the other end, Endo earned the wrath of his captain Virgil van Dijk after conceding a late free-kick. Had he not listened to Klopp’s countless warnings about Brentford’s danger at set-pieces?!

Fortunately, it came to nothing as Liverpool saw out their 4-1 win. But not before Van Dijk had clipped Endo round the back of the head in frustration. For the record, the Dutchman also struck out at Mac Allister following the Argentine’s goal, though evidently in much different circumstances!

You stay classy

On a day where Liverpool saw both Jones and Jota forced off in the first half through injury, Brentford’s home support perhaps let themselves down.

“You Scouse b*****d!” fans behind the goal shouted at Jones as he slowly walked around the pitch, back to the dugout, having already been withdrawn following a leg injury. Meanwhile, they’d jeer Jota and the sight of the stretcher coming on in a tasteless move as it slowly became clear that he had potentially suffered a serious knee injury.

Such abuse was stopped in its tracks and replaced by light-hearted jeers when the medics dropped the head support from the stretcher, prompting one of the Brentford players to retrieve it and remove it from the pitch. But this was then replaced with boos and whistles when Salah entered the field in place of the Egyptian.

Jeered both times he missed chances you’d usually expect him to score, the forward at least had the last laugh when responding with a goal and assist for the Reds after getting such rust out of his system.

Bradley and Jota feel the love

It took Liverpool fans just nine minutes to start chanting, ‘There’s only one Conor Bradley!” at the Gtech Community Stadium, sharing their support for the full-back as he made his first appearance following the sad passing of his father.

He’d receive similar treatment from supporters late on when withdrawn in the final 10 minutes. But only after prompting the most animated of reactions from his manager on the sidelines.

Having already lost Jones and Jota to injury, Klopp was left with his head in his hands after one heavy tackle on the Northern Irishman. He was then quick to remonstrate with the fourth official when a barge on the young right-back went unpunished.

The German was at least in better spirits come the final whistle as he dusted off his trademark fistpumps celebration for the travelling supporters. But as they celebrated a memorable win by working through the Reds’ song-book, one chant in particular stood out.

In a touching moment, Jota’s chant was the very first sung by supporters as the Liverpool squad, without the injured Portuguese who would leave the stadium on crutches and in a knee brace, went to salute them. While celebrating a win to remember, they are well-aware that it might have come at the cost of serious injury.

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Sad News To Jurgen Klopp open for full story

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‘I may have to leave’ – Liverpool ace drops transfer hint amid Virgil van Dijk admission
Liverpool’s next boss will make some key decisions on his squad for next season but one player already out on loan accepts his future may lie elsewhere.

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ByLiam PrendervilleContent Editor
09:00, 18 FEB 2024
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Sepp van den Berg has hinted he could leave Liverpool in the summer
Sepp van den Berg has hinted he could leave Liverpool in the summer (Image: Getty Images)
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When Liverpool pipped the likes of Bayern Munich and Ajax to the signing of then-teenager Sepp van den Berg in 2019, it looked as though it had snapped up one of the best defensive prospects in Europe. The Dutchman was just 17 when he arrived from PEC Zwolle after one season in the Eredivisie.

Van den Berg, who cost $1.6m (£1.3m/€1.5m), thought the interest from Anfield was a joke, admitting: “I was really happy and, to be honest, I was a little bit scared at first because such a big club had interest in me. I couldn’t believe it.”

But Jürgen Klopp and the Liverpool scouting department clearly saw something as he was handed his debut just a few months later in the Carabao Cup. Van den Berg would also feature in a famous 5-5 draw with Arsenal later in the competition, as well as in the FA Cup, but that has been as good as it’s got.

READ MORE: I played under Jürgen Klopp and it wouldn’t shock me if my current manager took over at Liverpool

READ MORE: What Liverpool fan Ivan Toney said to Jürgen Klopp after win over Brentford

In fact, it is now four years since the 22-year-old’s last competitive appearance for the Reds. Van den Berg did enjoy a decent loan with Preston North End in 2021/22 in the Championship and returned to Merseyside hoping for more opportunities. He did link-up with the first-team squad for pre-season that summer but was shipped out to Germany, first to Schalke and now Mainz.

He has been a regular with Mainz this term, showcasing his aerial ability by winning the second-most aerial duels across the entire Bundesliga. He still has three years left on his Liverpool deal but it appears a parting of the ways may be on the cards this summer.

Liverpool is expected to strengthen in defense with Joël Matip set to leave on a free, while Jarell Quansah’s emergence has seen Van den Berg slip further down the pecking order behind first-choice pairing Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.

“If I go back to Liverpool, it may want me to stay. If I notice that a lot of playing time is not available, then I may have to make the choice to leave. For me, it is really important that I play, ” Van den Berg told Voetbal Nieuws.

“In the years before, I did not have the feeling that I would be in the starting line-up next to Virgil. I don’t know yet what (my prospects) will be like next summer. I think I am doing well. I can handle the level at Liverpool. I can compete. But becoming a starter is, of course, still a different thing. Virgil and Konaté are not small boys. I know it will be difficult.”

If he is to leave Liverpool, Van den Berg has suggested he would like to remain in Germany or join another foreign league, rather than return to his native Netherlands. For now, his focus will be on keeping Mainz in the Bundesliga.

The Dutchman did get himself on the scoresheet on Saturday to secure a much-needed victory over Augsburg, but Mainz currently sits just three points off the bottom and seven adrift of safety.

Liverpool.com says: Van den Berg looked as though he would eventually become a first-team regular at Liverpool but that ship now looks to have sailed. He hasn’t played for the Reds in four years and now has even more players ahead of him in the pecking order. That said, Liverpool’s next manager may fancy taking a look at him in the summer.

He has done well in Germany this season despite Mainz’s struggles and should Xabi Alonso come in to replace Klopp, he will have already seen up close what the Dutchman can offer. He simply has to be playing regularly at this stage of this career though.

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Thomas Frank explained Liverpool ‘punch’and make and honest penalty admission after Brentford loss saga

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I saw ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player be the unsung hero vs Brentford, no one is talking about himPhoto by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
I saw ‘exceptional’ Liverpool player be the unsung hero vs Brentford, no one is talking about him
Sun 18 February 2024 09:00
Bence Bocsak
In the end, the performance on the pitch was everything Jurgen Klopp could have asked for from his team. This was a tough away game against Brentford, and Liverpool rose to the challenge. They didn’t just rise; they glided through it putting in an excellent performance.

Undoubtedly, there were plenty of stand-out performers from the Reds’ perspective. The goal-scorers and the assist makers have rightly grabbed a lot of the headlines. But there were others who played a key role and have gone under the radar.

Ryan Gravenberch was quietly impressive with his performance. He definitely proved some of his doubters wrong. But he wasn’t the only one. Then there was also Liverpool’s 25-year-old goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, who put in one of his best displays of the season. And who has previously been described by Jurgen Klopp as ‘exceptional.’

Brentford FC v Liverpool FC – Premier League
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Caoimhin Kelleher was Liverpool’s unsung hero
Despite Liverpool’s comfortable lead there were a few shaky moments in the match for Klopp’s side. Especially when Brentford scored their only game in the game. For a few minutes, the home side look reinvigorated, and they surged forward.

There was one moment in particular when Kelleher had to make a stunning save from close range. But even before the Brentford goal, Liverpool’s 25-year-old goalkeeper did exceptional to stop the initial shot before Ivan Toney pounced to turn in the rebound.

In total, Kelleher helped to prevent 0.35 xG, and put in an Alisson esque performance. Without his contributions this game could have been a lot more difficult for Liverpool. Which is why Kelleher was without a question the unsung hero of the match.

He’s now proven time and time again just how valuable he is to the team. This was yet another proof of the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper’s value.

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Champions League-winning manager ‘interested’ in Liverpool job to realise dream
Liverpool have shortlisted Xabi Alonso as their top managerial target for the summer, but other out-of-work bosses are hoping to receive a call from the Reds.
By CHARLIE PARKER-TURNER
PUBLISHED: 06:10, Sun, Feb 18, 2024
1

Hansi Flick is reportedly interested in becoming Liverpool manager (Image: Getty)
Former Germany manager Hansi Flick is reportedly hoping to succeed Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager this summer. Xabi Alonso is the leading contender to become Reds boss at the end of the season, though other out-of-work coaches are monitoring the situation closely at Anfield in the hope of receiving a call.

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Klopp announced in January that he would be stepping down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season as he felt that he was ‘running out of energy’ in the job. The ex-Borussia Dortmund boss revealed that he felt it was his responsibility to make the decision over this future as he was never truly at risk of being sacked due to his reputation at the club.

Numerous managers have been linked with the summertime vacancy as a result, with the Anfield outfit scouring the market for suitable candidates. Sporting’s Ruben Amorim and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi have both been linked with the position, with Julian Nagelsmann a consideration as well.

Bayer Leverkusen boss Alonso remains Liverpool’s top target though, having witnessed their former midfielder guide the club to 21 games without a loss in the Bundesliga. The Spaniard has remained coy on the situation, though many feel it is likely that he takes up the role.

Don’t miss… Xabi Alonso’s stance on taking Bayern Munich job over Liverpool emerges

 

Liverpool are keen to welcome Xabi Alonso back to Anfield (Image: Getty)

If Alonso does opt against joining Liverpool though, Flick is among those who would be keen to join the Reds, according to the Daily Mirror. The 58-year-old ‘dreams’ of managing a Premier League outfit and is hoping to be approached for the Merseyside role.

Flick had held talks with Tottenham in 2021 but those discussions were unproductive, though it has only fuelled the ex-Bayern Munich boss’ desire to manage in England further.

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Hansi Flick is keen to manage in the Premier League (Image: Getty)
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Tottenham ‘fear’ Ange Postecoglou may quit for Liverpool after Xabi Alonso twist
A return to the Allianz Arena should also not be ruled out by the German given that Thomas Tuchel is starting to come under immense pressure as their manager following a disappointing run of form which has seen reports emerge suggesting that he is losing the dressing room.

Bayern and Liverpool may need to act quickly if they do turn to Flick though given that he has been the subject of enquiries from English sides recently. Barcelona have also shortlisted the ex-Hoffenheim boss as one of their top targets to replace Xavi in the Camp Nou dugout at the end of the season.

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‘Wow!’ – Jurgen Klopp says one Liverpool player produced an A+ performance in Brentford victory
Liverpool remain two points clear at the top of the Premier League table after beating Brentford 4-1.
By Will Rooney
Published 18th Feb 2024, 03:00 GMT
Jurgen Klopp manager of Liverpool showing his appreciation to the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Liverpool FC at Brentford Community Stadium on February 17, 2024 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp manager of Liverpool showing his appreciation to the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Liverpool FC at Brentford Community Stadium on February 17, 2024 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp saluted ‘outstanding’ Caoimhin Kelleher as he produced for Liverpool on short notice yet again.

The goalkeeper featured in last week’s 3-1 win over Burnley as No.1 Alisson Becker could not feature because of illness. Alisson returned to training ahead of the Reds’ trip to Brentford and was set to return between the posts. However, a suspected hamstring issue on the eve of the Gtec Community Stadium meant that Alisson was ruled out – and Kelleher stepped in.

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The Republic of Ireland international produced a confident performance in the 4-1 triumph that kept Liverpool top of the Premier League table. He was unlucky not to have kept a clean sheet, having made a superb save from Serge Regulion before Ivan Toney netted the rebound for Brentford’s consolation.

Kelleher could now be set to be between the posts when Luton Town visit Anfield on Wednesday – and is already in line to start against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley a week today.

And Klopp couldn’t have been happier with the 24-year-old’s display at Brentford – labelling it A+. The Liverpool manager said: “Caoimhin had already enough games this year to have kind of rhythm. Goalkeepers are a different breed to other people so it was not in my plans to play [him] in Luton or whatever. How I said, we play the game we play with all focus and all attention and don’t think about other things. It might be not the smartest way. It’s just the only way I know.

“He was outstanding. I don’t know exactly, to be honest, who is the number one [goalkeeper] in Ireland but if they have a better goalkeeper than him I have to say, ‘Respect’. He’s outstanding and this year we gave him more games than he had previously. It’s well deserved because we need him, and we need him with rhythm and now the situation around Ali shows that it makes absolutely sense. We will see how long Ali is out, but Caoimhin is exceptional. Today he was… wow! It was an A+ performance.”

Related topics:Jurgen KloppBrentford
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LIVERPOOL
Barcelona President Seeks More Information On Liverpool Tracked Coach
17/02/2024 – 21:22 GMT

KRIS SANYAL

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has asked for more information on Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi, who is also a Liverpool target, as the club look to bring in a new manager at the end of the season.

 

Xavi Hernandez has already confirmed that he will be leaving Barcelona at the end of the ongoing campaign.

 

Barcelona are in the market for a new manager and the club are looking at several names ahead of making a decision.

 

 

De Zerbi features prominently in their thinking and the club are carrying out due diligence on the Brighton coach.

 

According to the Catalan daily Sport, Barcelona president Laporta has asked his officials to get him more information on the Italian.

 

 

The Barcelona supremo believes De Zerbi is the kind of modern and technical coach the club currently need.

 

Laporta wants to know more about his persona and how he deals with players, along with the people around De Zerbi.

 

 

The Italian is considered as one of the brightest coaches in world football and has earned praise from Pep Guardiola.

 

He also features on the shortlist of targets for Liverpool who are looking to find a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

 

It remains to be seen if the Reds will make a move for him, which could put them on a collision course with Barcelona.

 

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Why Man City’s draw vs. Chelsea gives Arsenal, Liverpool hope
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Nicol: The three-team Premier League title race is on (1:09)

Rob Dawson, Correspondent
Feb 17, 2024, 09:13 PM
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MANCHESTER, England — Manchester City and Chelsea played out an entertaining, and at times chaotic, 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday and afterwards both teams were able to take both positives and negatives.

City showed the occasional vulnerability of their high defensive line to concede the opening goal, scored by Raheem Sterling, and only managed one goal themselves thanks to Rodri’s late equaliser despite having 31 shots. Again, though, Pep Guardiola’s side showed their character and determination to earn an 18th point from a losing position. Only Liverpool have won more after going behind this season.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)

For Chelsea, the big positive was in their performance for the first hour and perhaps it would have been enough to win the game had they taken more of their chances when they were on top. Missing opportunities has been a familiar issue for Mauricio Pochettino this season, but it was still a contender for Chelsea’s best display since the Argentinian took over last summer.

“So pleased,” said Pochettino after the match. “The effort was massive and the spirit is the way we want to compete with the talent we have. I think we will reach, one day, the levels we expect. To play the best team in the world is never easy and today the character and personality made me very happy.”

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On the other side, Guardiola was unhappy with City’s first half performance but on a different day — with Erling Haaland in top form — they would still have won comfortably. For the first time since arriving in England, Haaland had nine shots in a game without scoring and the Norwegian will not want to see a replay of his chance midway through the second half.

Kevin De Bruyne’s cross from the left was pinpoint and as it curled its way towards Haaland, the Etihad Stadium began to rise in anticipation of the net bulging. But it didn’t. His header went over the crossbar to sum up a day when the 23-year-old, who has scored 21 times this season, looked a little out of sorts.

“It’s good to have nine shots and next time he’s going to score,” said Guardiola. “I played for 11 years and scored 11 goals. One goal a season. I’m not a proper man to give advice to strikers. We create the chances and next time he’s going to score. I don’t blame him. As a team and a group, the first half was not like we are.”

Not only will the first half encourage Pochettino that he can eventually turn Chelsea into title challengers, it will encourage Liverpool and Arsenal that City can be beaten.

Sterling’s goal just before half-time came from a slick sequence of passing on the right and Nicolas Jackson racing into acres of space behind City’s back four. His cross allowed Sterling to dip inside Kyle Walker and score against his former club for the second time this season.

Chelsea probably should have already been ahead at that point when the same move on the same side of the pitch released Malo Gusto but Jackson’s touch in the middle was heavy and Éderson smothered the chance. Chelsea had another opportunity early in the second half, again running beyond City’s defence, and Éderson was required to make a terrific save from Sterling’s point-blank shot.

Liverpool and Arsenal, who won their games earlier on Saturday, both face City in March and you can be sure Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta will be watching replays of this game during their preparation.

“I will invite you to the training ground because it is difficult to explain [our plan] in a few words or sentences,” said Pochettino.

“We know very well how Manchester City play more at the Etihad and it is important [for them] to sustain the capacity to dominate. They force you to go deep. If you are not brave enough after when you have the ball and you force them to run back. For us it was a really important game for us to keep the momentum to realise we are in a good way improving. Still we are not at the level of Manchester City but that is our game.”

Speaking at his pre-match news conference on Friday, Guardiola branded Chelsea’s visit as “one of the hardest games between now and the end of the season” and in the end he was proved right. Still, it took an off day for City and a good day for Chelsea to pose any threat to an unbeaten home record in the Premier League which stretches back to Nov. 2022.

Despite positives and negatives for both teams, the travelling Chelsea fans celebrated the final whistle like it was a victory while the City supporters quietly shuffled out into the Manchester rain.

“We didn’t perform at our level in the first half,” said Guardiola. “When we play teams with the composure and prestige of Chelsea you have to perform at your best for 95 minutes.”

On a good day for Pochettino and a rare off one for Guardiola, Chelsea showed that they’re still playing catch-up and City proved again why they remain the team to beat this season.

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Rodri rescues draw but Chelsea frustrate Manchester City
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Nicol: The three-team Premier League title race is on (1:09)
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Rodri’s late goal salvaged a 1-1 Premier League draw for Manchester City against Chelsea on Saturday as the champions avoided their first home loss in 15 months but had their 12-game winning streak across all competitions ended.

Pep Guardiola’s team, unbeaten in their last nine league games, remained third in the table on 53 points, four behind leaders Liverpool and two adrift of Arsenal, but with a game in hand.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)

“We weren’t great in the first half,” Rodri told Sky Sports. “We conceded another easy goal. We knew about their counter-attacks and fast players, but we have to defend the counter-attack better. From there, it’s always more difficult to come back,” he added.

“We [defended better] in the second half … more spirit, we wanted the ball and wanted to take risks. You have to be brave.”

City’s decision to park in Chelsea’s half proved costly as Nicolas Jackson’s deft flick began a counter-attack in the 42nd minute. He sent a perfect pass behind the defence to Raheem Sterling, who rounded City defender Kyle Walker and curled the ball past keeper Éderson to score against his former team.

“We countered them well so I think it is a fair result in the end,” Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher told Sky. “The lads were brilliant and defensively we were very focused. We were very tired but we saw it through and we are happy with the performance.”

After numerous near-misses that had the City fans holding their heads in frustration, Rodri equalised in the 83rd minute after Walker’s shot was blocked with a thunderous shot that deflected off Trevoh Chalobah into the net.

Rodri salvaged a point for champions Manchester City against Chelsea. DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images
Victory would have given City the chance to go top of the table when they host Brentford on Tuesday but the draw with Chelsea means they can climb no higher than second.

“Good game. First half we didn’t perform too good, second half really good,” Guardiola said. “We had chances and in the second half we were better.”

City tested Chelsea’s back line with 31 shots to the visitors’ nine, but only five were on target.

Prolific striker Erling Haaland, who leads the league with 16 goals, was frustrated by nine shots with no goals for the first time in his City career, including an unmarked late close-range header the Norwegian sent over the bar before covering his face in disbelief.

Chelsea had their chances including Jackson’s one-on-one with Éderson and the City keeper saved a point-black shot by Sterling early in the second half.

“I’m so pleased,” Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino said. “I told the players I feel so proud. In the last three games we’ve started to create a very good spirit.

“We only conceded one chance — against a team like Manchester City who, for me, are the best team in the world.”

City have not lost at the Etihad since a defeat by Brentford in November, 2022.

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Man City’s next five Premier League matches compared to Liverpool and Arsenal
Manchester City have entered the business end of the season and will play their game in hand on their title rivals in midweek

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ByJack FlinthamSport Central Audience Writer
19:40, 17 FEB 2024
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Manchester City celebrate their equaliser vs Chelsea
Manchester City celebrate their equaliser vs Chelsea (Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Manchester City have a season-defining run of fixtures coming up as they try to retain their Premier League crown.

City endured a difficult first half, and on another day, they could have been in front through Erling Haaland, but his header went just over the crossbar. The miss came back to haunt them just before the break, when Raheem Sterling cut inside Kyle Walker to fire home.

With less than ten minutes remaining, City’s pressure finally told as Rodri’s strike deflected past the goalkeeper. Despite pouring on the pressure, the Blues just could not find a winner, and they had to settle for a point.

READ MORE: Klopp issues update as Liverpool hit with injury blow

READ MORE: City player ratings vs Chelsea

The draw was a blow to City’s title challenge after Liverpool and Arsenal’s big victories earlier in the day, but it is hopefully just a minor setback. With this in mind, MEN Sport has taken a look at the Blues’ next five Premier League fixtures compared to their title rivals.

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City’s next five fixtures
Brentford (H) – February 20

AFC Bournemouth (A) – February 24

Manchester United (H) – March 3

Liverpool (A) – March 10

Brighton and Hove Albion (A) – March 17

Verdict

After straightforward clashes on paper against Brentford and Bournemouth, City have a trio of tough fixtures before they face Arsenal. The United and Liverpool doubleheader is a nasty banana skin for Pep Guardiola’s side.

The Manchester derby is a trickier prospect than it seemed just a few weeks ago, with Erik ten Hag’s side improving while City are guaranteed a tough clash against Jurgen Klopp’s men. The trip a week later to the South Coast cannot be underestimated either, considering the Seagulls’ qualities, so this period could define how the Blues’ Premier League campaign plays out between now and May.

Liverpool’s next five fixtures
Luton Town (H) – February 21

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Manchester City (H) – March 10

Everton (A) – March 17

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Arsenal’s next five fixtures
Newcastle United (H) – February 24

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Brentford (H) – March 9

Chelsea (H) – March 16

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Jurgen Klopp shares what Liverpool fan Ivan Toney told him after final whistle
Ivan Toney shared a moment with Jurgen Klopp at full time of Brentford’s defeat to Liverpool and wished the German coach well in a ‘nice conversation’ at the Gtech Community Stadium

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Jurgen Klopp hails exceptional Liverpool after Brentford win
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ByScott TrotterSports Writer
19:56, 17 Feb 2024UPDATED20:19, 17 FEB 2024
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Ivan Toney delivered a thoughtful message to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp at full time of the Reds’ clash with Brentford.

The forward was unable to help the Bees to a positive result at the Gtech Community Stadium as Liverpool prevailed 4-1 despite a number of injuries. Toney did score Brentford’s lone goal as he responded quickest to the rebound when Sergio Reguilon’s effort was saved.

H owever, Toney had a kind message for Klopp come the full time whistle with the striker wishing the German coach well in his future endeavours. Klopp is set to depart Liverpool at the end of the season after announcing an end to his time at Anfield last month.

The Liverpool boss highlighted Toney’s Liverpool affiliation and admitted it was nice to hear from Brentford’s star. Klopp also noted it was not the first time players had shared their well wishes.

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Peter Crouch and Joe Cole in stitches after risque TNT Sports question – “Ask the missus!”
He said: “It was like I was smiling at him, as he’s obviously quite a handful and really tricky to play against – although I used a different word. Am I right that he’s a Liverpool supporter and he’s not shy of saying that?

“I can admit it as well. We spoke a little bit about that and he wished me good luck for my time after. A lot of people have said it, a lot of players. It’s not necessary, but it’s nice when you hear it.

“Nobody has to worry – I will find something, a place to watch the Premier League. It was a nice conversation.”

Jurgen Klopp speaking after Brentford v Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp speaking after Brentford v Liverpool
Klopp will have an opportunity to continue to build upon the legendary status he has earned at Liverpool in seven days time. Liverpool face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley looking to lift the trophy ahead of the Blues as they did in 2022.

His task could have been made more difficult with Curtis Jones, Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota all leaving the field early due to injury, and Alisson Becker and Trent Alexander-Arnold already missing.

“It is mixed emotions, we lost players which we don’t know how serious it is,” Klopp told TNT Sports. “It doesn’t look great for either of them [Jones and Jota].”

He added: “I think there was a knock on Curtis [Jones]. It was a challenge with Diogo [Jota] as well and Darwin [Nunez] we are not sure if he has something or not, he felt something. We will see.”

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80 touches, 100% duels won: Liverpool star was Klopp’s hero vs Brentford
BY
ANGUS SINCLAIR
PUBLISHED 2 HOURS AGO
This Reds star’s display preserved the club’s position at the Premier League summit.

Virgil van Dijk for Liverpool.
Liverpool players appeared to be falling like flies, with Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota both leaving the Gtech Community Stadium pitch in the first half with injuries.

But Jurgen Klopp’s side prevailed, producing a delightful attacking performance that maintains pole position in the Premier League after 25 matches, dispatching Brentford 4-1.

The injury-hit Reds are indeed scrapping for fitness right now but it did not matter against Thomas Frank’s team, who were brushed aside by some clinical finishing, not exactly helping themselves with some questionable defensive awareness at times.

Darwin Nunez opened the scoring with a delicious chipped finish after latching onto Jota’s placed header in the centre, with the returning Mohamed Salah lapping up a goal and assist apiece after the break to remind English football of his world-class ability.

There were some lovely attacking sequences and even nicer goals to take Liverpool one step closer to the Premier League title, but for all the offensive efforts it was the unseen work of Virgil van Dijk in central defence that secured victory, standing firm and stamping his dominance into the defensive third.

Virgil van Dijk’s performance vs Brentford
On his 250th appearance for Liverpool, Van Dijk produced a colossal display in the rearguard, captaining his side to a convincing victory over a Brentford side desperate for some respite, pulled ever closer to the dreaded dotted line after a dismal run of form.

In the later stage, Ivan Toney might have bagged his fourth goal in five Premier League matches since returning from long-term suspension, but it was too little too late as Liverpool’s incisive attacks overpowered the Bees.

Van-Dijk-Klopp-Liverpool-Arsenal
Vital was the command of Van Dijk in defence, allowing the Salah’s and Nunez’s of Liverpool’s team to bypass Mark Flekken’s net.

As per Sofascore, the Netherlands star won 100% of his aerial duels and lost possession just seven times on a successful afternoon in the capital, completing 90% of his passes from 80 touches and creating one big chance for his forward-surging peers.

The towering titan also rattled the crossbar with a last-gasp header following Andy Robertson’s corner in what would have cherry-topped a commanding effort, but it wasn’t to be on this occasion.

Nonetheless, Van Dijk illustrated once again why he stakes a very good claim for the accolade of the Premier League’s finest centre-half, with The Athletic’s James Pearce heralding him as Liverpool’s “most transformative signing” in modern history post-match.

Writing in his post-match player ratings, the Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle handed the 32-year-old an 8/10 match rating for his display, writing: ‘Solid enough and helped Liverpool repel Brentford threat at set-pieces first half and initiated opener. No-nonsense when required after break and dominated in the air, hitting crossbar in injury time.’

It is concerning that Liverpool have been hit with a deluge of injury concerns in the prelude to next weekend’s Carabao Cup final against Chelsea, but with Van Dijk producing such iron-clad showings in defence, there is every chance that the Reds will succeed in their silver-laced ambitions this term.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angus Sinclair • Opinions & Feature Writer
(2000 Articles Published)
Angus is a freelance analytical writer for Football FanCast.

Having graduated from Southampton Solent University with a degree in Sport Journalism in 2022, Angus found a home at FFC after previously writing for Vavel and OurSoundMusic.

A passionate Liverpool supporter and a lover of statistics, Angus also holds a fondness for MMA and Tennis.

Outside of football, he is a voracious reader with a particular love for fantasy and historical fiction.

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Darwin Nunez shares six-word Instagram post after being taken off at half-time against Brentford todayPhoto by Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images
Darwin Nunez shares six-word Instagram post after being taken off at half-time against Brentford today
Sat 17 February 2024 18:00
James Brooke
Liverpool will have to wait to find out the extent of the issue that forced Darwin Nunez off at half-time today.

Nunez was a livewire for the Reds at Brentford, scoring the game’s opening goal with a lovely chipped finish. However, the 24-year-old didn’t come back out for the second-half, with Jurgen Klopp admitting that his striker had ‘felt something.’

Nevertheless, it has since been reported that Nunez was walking without the aid of any support while boarding the team bus after the game. He appears to be okay.

That will come as a relief to Liverpool fans, but we’ll still have to hold on for official confirmation that Darwin is fine. In the meantime, the Uruguayan took to Instagram to express his delight at the win today.

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A post shared by Darwin Nuñez Ribeiro (@darwin_n9)

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“Good victory in a tough stadium!” Darwin wrote, alongside a few pictures from today’s win.

Darwin in good spirits
This isn’t of course proof that Nunez is free from injury. But it’s still good to see that Liverpool’s No.9 is in good spirits following the game this afternoon.

And why shouldn’t he be? The goal was Darwin’s fourth in his last five Premier League games. After a bit of a lean period – and a record-breaking haul of missed chances – he’s back on top.

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As they now look set to be without Diogo Jota for a time, it’s important that Nunez continues his good form.

Mohamed Salah’s return and subsequent brilliance at the Gtech Community Stadium is a reminder that the Egyptian is still the main man at Anfield.

Darwin Nunez
Photo by Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images
But in terms of importance, Nunez should now be considered not too far behind Salah.

Ever since the Uruguay international arrived from Benfica in 2022, he has been a menace to opponents. His goal record hasn’t always reflected that, but Nunez has been a handful from the get-go.

Now that he has started to add consistent goals to his game, he could be about to become unstoppable.

Darwin’s finish today means that he’s scored in back-to-back Premier League games for the first time this season. Time will tell whether he’s back fit to try and make that three from three on Wednesday. Let’s hope so.

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BRENTFORD
DARWIN NUNEZ
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Thomas Frank says Liverpool did something to Brentford no other team managed for two years
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Posted by Farrell Keeling1 hour ago
Thomas Frank says Liverpool did something to Brentford no other team managed for two years
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Brentford’s prowess from set pieces has been well-documented in recent years, though few may have perhaps expected Liverpool to expose the hosts using the same tactic.

Thomas Frank praised the visitors as ‘the best team on the counter’, noting that Darwin Nunez’s opener was the first effort they’d conceded from a counter on a set piece in two years.

“For me the best team on the counter, also from set pieces,” the Danish manager told TNT Sports.

“Of course, we knew that. We know we are one of the best teams on offensive set pieces, so it’s a risk I will take.

“That was something we normally do better [with]. It’s the first goal we conceded on a counter from a set piece in the last two years. So it just happened to drop for them there.”

The Merseysiders widened the gap at the top to five points ahead of Manchester City’s meeting with Chelsea.

 

READ MORE: Ibrahima Konate now weighs in on possibility of internet-breaking Liverpool transfer

READ MORE: ‘It doesn’t look great’: Jurgen Klopp makes crushing injury admission as Nunez update issued

Liverpool finding ways to win
It’s a hugely positive sign that we managed to secure the lion’s share of the points at the Gtech Community Stadium for myriad reasons.

Firstly, it hadn’t escaped notice that our last two visits to the Bees’ hive (sorry) had resulted in us dropping points.

Salah, Liverpool, Frank
Salah was on target from the bench – (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
To still coast to a victory despite losing two key stars in Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones also speaks of a resilience worth highlighting.

Very impressive on all accounts from a side that keeps finding ways to win this term.

🚨 EOTK Insider with Neil Jones: Jurgen Klopp’s potential successors, reviewing Arsenal vs Liverpool and much more!

 

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