Academy graduate proves himself again during frustrating draw vs Newcastle

Liverpool returned to Premier League action against last night with a quick turnaround, with Jurgen Klopp’s side managing a frustrating 0-0 draw away to Newcastle United, leaving the Reds three points clear at the top of the table going into the New Year.

All over the board, it seemed as though a very stale performance form the club and the forward three were way off the mark during the game, failing to finish a multitude of chances throughout the game and the Newcastle defence and goalkeeper pulling out the games of their careers during the match.

There were a few shining lights for me during the game – Spanish midfielder Thiago made his return to the side featuring during the last 20 minutes of the game and youngster Nat Phillips played another strong game in central defence alongside Fabinho, with the 23-year-old easily being my Man of the Match.

Phillips managed 1 interception, 3 clearances, and 1 block throughout the game and did well alongside Brazilian Fabinho, with him also managing to win 8 aerial duels throughout the game, the most out of any player on the pitch.

The young defender also found himself with the ball at his feet very often throughout the 90, with him averaging retaining 9.1% of the Reds’ overall possession of 73.2% during the game, with only fellow central defender and partner Fabinho retaining more with 9.4%.

It was a strong and dominant game from Phillips with him once again showing his qualities in defence to be a real reliance for Klopp this season, especially alongside makeshift centre-back Fabinho who has also really impressed throughout the season so far.

I think Phillips could become a really big player for the future and the more chances he gets the better – his ability is already there but his growth in experience will aid him even further with his situational awareness already quite impressive given his lack of game time in the Premier League.

What do you think Liverpool fans, did Nat Phillips impress you during the game? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section down below…

Substitutes

Game Statistics
0	Goal attempts	0
	On Target
	Corners
	Fouls
	Yellow Cards
	Red Cards
	%