Anfield Index
·26 December 2024
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·26 December 2024
As the Christmas celebrations continue to sweep across the UK, the Premier League plays a significant role in spreading festive joy during this period. Despite the fog causing difficulties in the first half, Liverpool appeared a bit predictable in their build-up play and possibly overconfident in their positioning on the ball. When key players were needed to step up and show more aggression and speed, it was Argentina World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister who elevated the game with two crucial assists just before and after the halftime break.
Having joined the club for a mere £35 million in the summer of 2023, the 26-year-old has steadily become the most vital midfielder in Liverpool’s ongoing regeneration. As a powerful and controlling presence, he works tirelessly from box to box, taking up the necessary positions and penetrating the opposition’s third to create goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Against a resilient and well-drilled Leicester team, breaking the lines became essential. Mac Allister was instrumental in delivering a pass that freed Cody Gakpo, the Reds’ initial goalscorer. The Dutch forward’s sensational strike into the top corner was a tremendous moment.
However, it was Mac Allister’s continued endeavour that shone in the second half, where he delivered a low cross to Curtis Jones, who scored to put Liverpool ahead 2-1. Mac Allister’s contributions demonstrated the leadership and determination he brings to the central midfield area, especially against a team designed to disrupt play.
With ongoing speculation surrounding three notable contract rebels on Merseyside, if these players receive substantial deals that match their exceptional stature, it is likely only a matter of time before Arne Slot’s Argentine powerhouse demands similar recognition. Mac Allister is an individual who excels in both intricate play and the hard work required for ultimate success. The coming months will need critical players to step up and deliver impactful performances.
Today, when this title-chasing Liverpool side needed someone to ensure they ended the evening seven points ahead of second-placed Chelsea, the man of the match was there to deliver what his head coach expected. He will surely look to replicate that performance on Sunday afternoon against West Ham.
With 2024 set to end with a tremendous run of form under new leadership, the squad is looking sharp and the outlook even more so. 2025 could turn out to be a special one for all Liverpool fans, especially with match winning performances like the one we saw today.