Player Analysis: Ben Davies

Many feared that Virgil van Dijk’s long term injury had the potential to derail Liverpool's title defence. The fall out from that clumsy Jordan Pickford lunge in a controversial Merseyside derby was messy, to say the least. Emotions were running high, the goalkeeper was met with a barrage of online abuse and rival fans rejoiced in Liverpool’s despair. This felt like it had the potential to be a season-defining moment for The Reds.

There’s no doubt that Van Dijk’s injury was a huge blow to their title chances, but Jürgen Klopp’s well-oiled machine marched on, even without their defensive juggernaut. They successfully navigated their way through a tricky Champions League group, losing just once, and continued to pick up points in the Premier League. Liverpool were still finding ways to win, even after Joe Gomez suffered a potentially season-ending injury in England training, as Fabinho seamlessly slotted into the back four alongside Joël Matip. The defending champions were sat top of the table come Christmas.

However, as the fixtures began to pile up, so did the casualties. The hectic festive period took its toll on Klopp’s relatively small squad, with Matip and Fabinho picking up injuries, as well as makeshift centre back Jordan Henderson. 

Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips were called upon to deputise; a decision made out of necessity rather than choice. The inexperienced pair had just one Liverpool appearance between them before the start of the season. Williams, who was on loan at National League North side Kidderminster Harriers in 2019, quickly appeared to be out of his depth with Phillips also showing signs of vulnerability, despite impressing in a 3-1 victory away at West Ham United.