2014 Brazil World Cup: Liverpool Targets So Far....

Article by e-Liverpool Correspondent Franklin Sagini

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They say pass judgement not on a book based on its cover but certainly after the first chapter we can derive a fair ruling, for the reds fans who really want to know how their targets are faring on in Brazil, pay attention.

Xherdan Shaqiri, Switzerland

Started on the left flank but he also got involved in the ‘number 10’ role. He created four chances for his teammates. He had a passing accuracy of 89% four of them being key passes. But he was also frustrating to watch at times, his shooting was erratic and his crossing was highly wanting. His work rate is questionable, too often he failed to track back to help his full back and that saw the Swiss men being overrun. He made just one tackle throughout the game, which resulted in a foul. He still has a lot to improve in the next games to come especially in his decision making. 7/10

Dejan Lovren, Croatia

The Saints man stood up well against the Brazilian pressure with solid displays at the back. He managed to keep Fred out of the game limiting him to only twenty touches of the ball. He won all his aerial duels and completed 7 successful tackles. He was unlucky to concede a penalty for what looked like perfectly legitimate contact on Fred. 8/10

Alexis Sanchez, Chile

The 25 year old flew out of the blocks, registering a goal and an assist. Was involved in almost every attack for the Chilean side. He clearly sent a statement of intent to all his potential suitors. He created three chances in total and completed more take-ons than anyone on the pitch. He was voted man of the match outdoing his fellow teammate Arturo Vidal. 8.5/10

Antoine Griezmann, France

He was neat enough and economic with the ball and managed to get to the box regularly enough. He looked dangerous when drifting into that corridor in front of the penalty area. In terms of the premier league suitability, the physical intensity of the game did not trouble him. But he lacks the work-rate to fit into a tactical system demanding a high press. Before Wilson Palacios’ game changing red card, he found it difficult to influence the game. His opening first half-hour mark was far from remarkable. 7/10

Adam Lallana, England

Missed out on a starting spot but gave a late run out in the game managing only 11 touches in his brief cameo. He was able to win a free kick in a very dangerous position late in the game. In his brief outing he looked comfortable on the ball but failed to unlock the Italian defense. 5/10

Marcos Rojo, Argentina

Picked up a yellow card for persistent fouling and did not add much in attacks despite plenty of forward forays. Solid at the back though. He ran himself into a spot of bother and instead of a pass back to his goal keeper; he took the ostentatious drastic action of a ‘rabona’ to clear the ball. 6/10

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