#2 Defensive bedrock: Ragnar Klavan
Match: Everton vs. Liverpool
Liverpool kept a third clean sheet from four away games played, and Estonian Ragnar Klavan played a massive role in clinching the deal for the Reds at Goodison Park.
Tempers simmered throughout Monday night’s Merseyside derby but Klavan, cool as a cucumber, dealt with Romelu Lukaku in simple and effective fashion.
The Belgian was restrained and given no room; on the one occasion he managed to get sight of the net, the Reds centre-back put in a goal-saving tackle.
He also made a host of clearances, was involved in building up play from the back and also covered for James Milner when the latter bombed forward to attack.
The summer arrival from Augsburg was never hustled or harried into making mistakes or lunging into challenges. Deputising for the injured Joel Matip, Klavan played his part to perfection and was a solid, assured presence alongside the immense Dejan Lovren to ensure there were no hiccups for the visitors.
Honourable mentions: Nathan Ake (vs. Southampton), Jordan Pickford (vs. Watford), Marcos Rojo (vs. West Bromwich Albion), César Azpilicueta (vs. Crystal Palace), Seamus Coleman (vs. Liverpool)
