Liverpool 3-0 Southampton - 5 Talking Points and Tactical Analysis, Premier League 2018-19

#4 Jurgen Klopp's tactical tweaks work wonders

In his first Liverpool start, Xherdan Shaqiri was impressive

Anyone that has watched Jurgen Klopp's teams play over the years would know that it is generally difficult to see him employ anything other than a 4-3-3 system. But in this game, it was more a 4-2-3-1, as Shaqiri was employed in a free role behind the much-feared Liverpool front three.

That worked wonders for Liverpool, as they were afforded possession by a Southampton side, that was clearly not comfortable dealing with the pace and movement in the final third. Shaqiri, in particular, was elusive and caused them plenty of problems.

His movement ensured that he was always between the lines while he received passes, and his pace and trickery on the ball ensured that he could provide a presentable threat in the final third as well.

The first goal was a clear example of Shaqiri's cleverness with the ball at his feet. Sadio Mane's through ball to him was beautifully worked, and then the Swiss cut in on to his weaker right foot, and unleashed a shot at goal that struck Shane Long, before ricocheting into the back of the net off the unfortunate Hoedt.