Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp named midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri in the starting eleven for the 0-0 draw against Manchester United yesterday evening.
It was the Swiss international’s first league start of the season and, while the Reds didn’t manage to break the deadlock, the 29-year-old was always looking to make things happen.
Fans on Twitter were mostly complimentary about Shaqiri’s performance, although some felt that, like the team in general, his impact on the game faded as the match wore on:
Thought he was excellent, he’s always had a lovely left foot and is looking match fit too.
— Jon Andrews (@JonAndrews2) January 17, 2021
shouldn’t have been taken off
— stace #YNWA (@StaceKershaw) January 17, 2021
Started well, lively, optimistic, forward looking, positive. Like to see more of him.
— *Andy James* (@andyj4mes) January 17, 2021
He looked a threat and he actually tried which is more than I can say for some
— W32 D5 * (@w32d5) January 17, 2021
Had a great game
— Mpinga? (@JwileTheGreat) January 17, 2021
Played well considering he ain’t had much game time. The through ball to Mane was filth
— Sanj (@saaanjju) January 17, 2021
much like the team good first half not so good 2nd
— Sismo (@_Sismo__) January 17, 2021
I think he did really well. Kept the ball moving and provided creativity for the team. Really effective today
— Ozzie (@OzzieFTP) January 17, 2021
Was good in the first half but faded
— Elliot (@CommodoreMudkip) January 17, 2021
Shaqiri is too good to be on the bench .
— Saif (@yemred2005) January 17, 2021
He was good, needs more starts
— peter day (@petertherebel) January 17, 2021
With Jordan Henderson and Fabinho playing as centre-backs, Klopp is looking to be creative with his thinking in the middle of the park. He is looking for players who can provide that spark going forward and the Swiss midfielder does offer something different.
Whether Shaqiri will play once Naby Keita returns from injury, we shall have to wait and see, but his display last night shows he is a genuine option in midfield.
