The mid-season point is a good time to take stock on what has been a very underwhelming season so far for Liverpool.
Alisson - for me, hands down Liverpool's player of the season so far and well placed to be considered the top keeper in the league again.
Felt like this season he made a lot of saves (esp. 1:1s) that your average PL keeper wouldn't make. Had a look at his stats and, unsurprisingly, he's top on the post-shot xG stat by a distance.
Statistically, with an average PL keeper instead of Alisson, Liverpool would've conceded 45% more goals this season.
Below him there's a block of 4 players who have done themselves justice so far this season.
Diaz - Was the side's top outfield peformer when they really hit that slump. Seemed like he was taking sides on by himself at times. Didn't think the side would average 2 points per game for the 6 games he's missed but they've rallied in his absence
Firmino - Has turned back the clock a bit this season with some great performances & a healthy goal tally. It's gone under the radar a bit, but he's out of contract in the summer. Big decision to make. A 1 year extension I could get on board with, maybe 2...but he's put his body through a lot for a 31 year old and it'd be hard to justify a 3-4 year contract
Nunez - The most electrifying man in sports entertainment™
Elliott - Featured in every PL game this season, which has come as a surprise - but his tactical flexibility has worked in his favour. Has tended to perform better, understandably, when he's not overburdened with defensive duties. He's a big talent but it's crucial that he learns how to limit how often he gets exposed for his weaknesses, and ensure he makes his strengths count & get his numbers up. He's well capable.
Below them there's 4 players who have done well in patches.
Salah - Had a slow start numbers-wise and wasn't getting the supply line he's been used to. But finished up the pre-WC section with 9 goals in 9 games and looks more like his old self.
Thiago - He's been good when he's played, but he has only managed 50% of the PL minutes. As much as anyone, some dedicated fitness work during this break should help.
Carvalho - Has looked very tidy and encouraging to see him get amongst the goals already. Needs to bulk up, but there's a serious player there once he hits his mid 20s
Tsimikas - Filled in well for Robertson, who has been worked into the ground for a few seasons now. Doesn't have Robertson's drive & physicality but is decent enough to keep him honest.
Everyone else has underperformed what they are capable of.
Some by a distance.
