Liverpool continue winning start with workmanlike performance: 3 takeaways

2. Keita adjusted quickly to the Premier League

This was only Keita’s second game in the Premier League, but it was hard to tell based on his performance. The Guinean midfielder snapped into tackles and quickly adjusted to the speed of the game. However, it was his creative work which was most impressive as he was tasked with supporting the front three from midfield and ensuring the team was able to progress up the pitch.

His quality was on display early in the match when he smartly turned Andros Townsend deep in his own half before advancing and chipping a delightful ball over the opposition defense into the path of Salah. Surprisingly, the Egyptian wasn’t able to convert the golden chance. Nonetheless, it was a reminder of how dangerous the 23-year-old can be even from deep positions.

He often found himself on the left-wing as Sadio Mane drifted into central areas, but he was effective at keeping the ball in tight spaces through his sharp movement and circulating possession effectively as well as being a far post threat due to the majority of play going down Liverpool’s right flank.

Keita may not have a goal or assist to top off his performance, but this was an assured display from the youngster. He effectively highlighted the range of abilities he brings to the side, and it seems a matter of time before he provides his first direct contribution to the team in official competitions.

3. Liverpool showed title credentials

They may have decimated West Ham 4-0 in their opening game of the season, but this result was much more impressive because of how uncompromising Palace were. Hodgson has created a disciplined, physical side who are tough to break down, so the Reds were made to work for this win away from home on a Monday night.

Manchester City are the team to beat and points can’t afford to be dropped in games such as this one if they are to successfully challenge for the title. Pep Guardiola’s side are a model of consistency when it comes to the league with only 14 points dropped in the whole of last season. They are unlikely to repeat the feat of 100 points, but it’s reasonable to expect a minimum of 90 points, which leaves Liverpool a minimum of 15 points to make up compared to last season.

It’s only early days, so it’s hard to properly assess teams due to the small sample size. Nonetheless, this was a tough test and Liverpool were able to deal well with sustained periods of opposition pressure. This resilience will be a useful asset to have during the tough stages of the season such as the hectic winter schedule.

The signing of Alisson looks astute based on this performance because he commanded his area, comfortably dealt with any shots that came his way and was composed on the ball. His distribution was important when Palace pressed high because he was an open passing option for the defence and was able to find players in space over a range of distances. The fact that he didn’t make a mistake is hugely significantly because it’s definitely plausible that a goalkeeping error would have cost Liverpool points in this game in recent seasons.