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Tsimikas and Williams find it difficult
How do you replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson?
The duo have become an integral part of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, a creative force on the flanks redefining the role of winger.
But they can’t play all the games. And with Alexander-Arnold still with a calf problem and Robertson among those resting on the bench, the supporting cast had a chance in this Champions League clash.
It was not easy. The summer signing of Kostas Tsimikas has become a curiosity, so rare have been his sightings with the first team.
With just a second start here, the evidence suggests that the Greek can make a decent shot from the left flank, while a long fight for possession on the touchline underscored that he is not averse to getting involved in a fight.
Defensively, however, he is still getting used to Liverpool’s ways – Klopp constantly in his case in the first half – and was caught for Atalanta’s opener, while on the other wing teenager Neco Williams was attacked by Atalanta and suffered a difficult night, even if he remained undeterred.
Replacing Alexander-Arnold and Robertson, particularly after so little action with the first team this season, was always a difficult task for the duo.
But, as the hectic schedule progresses, Tsimikas and Williams will be needed in the weeks ahead. This ordeal will not be in vain.
Origi slipping out of sight
Divock Origi’s name in the annals of Liverpool’s Champions League history has long been secured.
However, past glories are of little consequence to the forward as he struggles to revive his career at Anfield.
Origi made only a third season start here, a surprising inclusion given that Klopp had spoken of Takumi Minamino in preparation for the game.
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But, as against FC Midtjylland last month, the Belgian did not seize his opportunity.
It didn’t help that there was little protection from regrettable Spanish referee Carlos Grande, Origi hit from behind several times during the first half.
However, the 25-year-old seemed lacking in confidence, led the line with little conviction and was the subject of a mouthful from Klopp regarding his lack of movement.
In truth, Origi wasn’t the only one struggling to impress in Liverpool’s strangely moderate attacking effort.
Mohamed Salah, back from his period of self-isolation, was calm as the sheer number of games has taken the lead off Sadio Mane, who again looked tired in the second half and would benefit from a break in Brighton on Saturday with Diogo Jota again. animated in his 30 minute cameo.
Origi, however, may be waiting for some time before being seen again.
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Fans being missed
Jurgen Klopp outlined a number of reasons when asked to assess what went wrong for Liverpool.
But there was one that he forgot to mention.
After Liverpool’s victory over FC Midtjylland last month, James Milner, against Atalanta in his 50th European appearance for the Reds, lamented the absence of fans.
And there’s no question that Klopp’s team would have benefited from the backing of a raucous Anfield here.
Liverpool have done well to maintain their unbeaten streak in the league at home and set a new club record in the process.
But the cup matches in the spotlight, be it in the League Cup against Arsenal or in the Champions League campaign, is when the absence of the fans has been felt most strongly.
European nights don’t feel different from the rest, and they’re even poorer for it.
On numerous occasions Liverpool have been woken from a collective slumber by their fan base. And how his teenage triumvirate of Rhys Williams, Neco Williams and Curtis Jones are missing out on the entire experience.
A decision is expected to be made this week to allow fans to return to Anfield next month, although it will most likely be only 2,000.
However, it is a start. Liverpool is now losing its twelfth man.
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