Liverpool shrug off ‘bottlers’ tag to decimate Bournemouth

Following consecutive draws against Leicester City and West Ham, Liverpool found themselves nudged off the top of the table for the first time in two months. However, with rivals Manchester City not playing until Sunday, Jurgen Klopp’s side had the opportunity to return to the summit, even if only for 24 hours. Bournemouth, meanwhile, were looking to improve on their lacklustre away record.

In the end, the home side ran out comfortable winners, showing invention and composure in their pursuit of the title. This analysis will show how the Reds managed to break down their latest challengers.

Lineups

Liverpool lined-up in a 4-3-3 formation for this fixture, although Georginio Wijnaldum was given a fluid role to link the midfield with the attack. Furthermore, the front three rotated throughout the game, with Sadio Mane often the central striker. Full-backs Andy Robertson and James Milner were deployed high and wide, with Fabinho and Naby Keita in front of the defence.

Bournemouth were without key attackers David Brooks and Callum Wilson, with Eddie Howe setting up in a 4-1-4-1. Josh King was left to lead the line on his own, with the support coming from wingers Jordan Ibe and Ryan Fraser on the counter-attack. Jefferson Lerma was given the role of stifling the home sides progressions between the lines.

Bournemouth deep and compact

The image below shows the Premier League home and away tables for the season so far. While Bournemouth would sit in a European spot based on their form at Dean Court, they would be languishing just a point above the relegation places based on their performances on the road. Heading to title contenders Liverpool on Saturday, very few expected the seasiders to return south with any points in the bag.

In light of these struggles, and compounded by notable absentees, Eddie Howe elected for a conservative approach at Anfield. Despite having a squad recognised more for their technical abilities than their defensive nous, he appeared to see no alternative option but to sit deep and defend with a compact unit.

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