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Liverpool clinched top spot in their Champions League group with a game to spare after an entertaining win over Ajax on Tuesday.
An opportunistic goal from Curtis Jones was enough to give the Reds a slight 1-0 win over the Dutch team.
The result means that Jurgen Klopp’s team has advanced to the knockout stages for the fourth consecutive year under his tutelage.
But there were many things that went unnoticed or under the radar during the 90 minutes at Anfield.
Henderson shouts the way
The limited number of fans returning to Anfield on Sunday will be privy to the delight of hearing Jordan Henderson’s vocal encouragement.
Not even television cameras can really appreciate how the Liverpool captain coaxes his teammates during a match.
And he was particularly prominent during the game-winning setup, as Henderson, who helped start the move, effectively guided Neco Williams through his moves before ordering him to cross for Curtis Jones to score.
Henderson, a future Liverpool manager? Nobody would be surprised. Well, that or a movie director.
Beat the hugger
Jurgen Klopp knew exactly what to do at the final whistle.
He first headed straight for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher after the youngster’s impressive debut in the Champions League.
And then it was the turn of Neco Williams, the right back who had responded to recent criticism with a fine display.
They both received bear hugs from the Klopp brand. If that’s not a sign of playing well, then nothing is.
Dazzling bobby
He may not be having his most consistent season, but few doubt Roberto Firmino’s ability with the ball.
And the Brazilian was at his best during a lively cameo in which only the width of the post denied him a goal.
Firmino does not lack confidence, that’s for sure. And rather than take a punt at the end, he opted to embark on a defenseless run that saw him take on the Ajax side of the middle before nearly sending Sadio Mane cleared.
So bold. Then Firmino. Never change, Bobby.
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Matip turns off
Anyone with common sense recognizes that the Champions League anthem, while not a hit, is a pretty clever tune.
It’s certainly significantly better than the Europa League effort or the downright awful new Premier League song.
But not everyone seems engrossed when they hear it. At least that seems to be the case for Joel Matip, who seemed beyond bored when teams lined up before kickoff.
Fortunately, the defender was significantly more alert for the next 90 minutes.
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