‘Grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck’ – Danny Murphy says 22y/o Liverpool player was simply ‘exceptional’ v Southampton | OneFootball

Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table by eight points after they secured a 3-2 win against Southampton at St Mary’s on Sunday.

Mohamed Salah scored twice, and Dominik Szoboszlai added another as the Reds fought back from 2-1 down to snatch all three points.

Southampton played really well, but defensive frailties haunted Russell Martin’s men once again. Liverpool took full advantage of individual errors to pick up a crucial win.

Salah was outstanding once again, but one player who really impressed Danny Murphy was Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

Speaking on Match of the Day 2, the former Reds midfielder hailed Gravenberch as “exceptional”, and he praised his bravery and willingness to play out forward passes.

Ryan Gravenberch has been outstanding this season

The 22-year-old midfielder has been arguably one of the best players for Liverpool this season. He is oozing in confidence.

Under Arne Slot, he has not only nailed down the starting role but has been imperious in most of the games he has played this season.

In the second half, Liverpool needed to improve and show more intensity. Most importantly, they needed key players to rise to the occasion.

Gravenberch, whose defensive work gets noticed mainly, took the responsibility of driving forward with the ball.

His brilliant pass to Salad led to the equaliser. He made 96 touches and managed 83 passes with 93% accuracy.

Gravenberch made three key passes and won five duels. He also made one tackle and two interceptions.

What Danny Murphy said about Gravenberch

Murphy said: “That man today was Ryan Gravenberch. He has had a terrific season.

“Mainly applauded his defensive work, but I think his attacking work and willingness to take risks today were exceptional.

“He is brilliant at this, skipping by players, running forward with the ball. I know he gives the ball away but he is always trying to find somebody always.

“What great about this next pass that gives Salah the goal the equaliser, he has just give two away but he is still prepared to take responsibility. Great mentality in top players. Beautiful pass, great touch from Salah.

“Overall in the second half, he is the one that grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck.”