A stunning performance from Philippe Coutinho at the Emirates overshadows even Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s Premier League debut as Liverpool hit four in Arsenal’s backyard. Here’s the Stock Check following Sunday’s matches.
On the Rise
Philippe Coutinho
We thought the debate on Jurgen Klopp’s midfield was settled. However, Coutinho’s display at the Emirates already threatens to change matters and have us reconsider Roberto Firmino as our top target.
Coutinho simply sparkled, fetching a pair of breathtaking goals and is likely to end the Gameweek as the leading points scorer. He is already officially first transfer bandwagon having soared to the top of the “transfers in” ranks.
Worryingly, he limped off in the second-half having dealt the damage, although Jurgen Klopp has since confirmed that his withdrawal was caused by cramp rather than a hamstring injury.
We’ve always had concerns on Coutinho’s consistency as an FPL asset but should he profit from the trip to Burnlye in Gameweek 2, he will already become difficult to ignore.
Sadio Mane
Mane also came out of the Arsenal victory with plaudits. A superb solo effort capped an effervescent performance and offered a reminder of his explosive qualities. Mane looked at home in Klopp’s line-up on the right of a front three and, like Coutinho, if he delivers again at Burnley, his stock will close further on Firmino.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
It was almost inevitable that Ibrahimovic would score on his Premier League debut. Again, the Swede often dropped deep at Bournemouth and both his attempts on goal were from outside the box. That won’t bother his 42% ownership or the 21% who handed him the Gameweek captaincy.
Wayne Rooney
While Ibrahimovic will get more attention, the United skipper emerged from the Vitality Stadium with a goal in a busy display of some promise. We’re not convinced just yet but, based on these early signs, it’s possible that Rooney could outperform his 9.0 price tag.
Anthony Martial
Another stand-out performer in Jose Mourinho’s ranks – Martial looked sharp and positive on the left-flank and came out with two assists and a share of the maximum bonus. With Henrikh Mkhitaryan used from the bench once again, if Paul Pogba’s raids are curtailed by a role in the double pivot, Martial could yet be the most attractive of the United midfield.
Antonio Valencia
Once again the Ecuadorian offered far more going forward than Luke Shaw on the opposite flank, confirming that he is our favoured route into the United backline. Eric Bailly was impressive but Valencia’s quality going forward is enough to keep him firmly in place at the top of of Watchlist, despite United’s failure to earn a shut-out.
In Decline
Roberto Firmino
Let’s not panic. However, there’s no doubt that the performances of Coutinho and Mane took a nibble out of our confidence in Firmino. It’s possible that we have to live with every Liverpool midfield asset taking turns to come to the fore. However, if Klopp’s side win at Burnley in Gameweek 2, Firmino really needs to get amongst the points to restore our faith.
The Arsenal Defence
The injury troubles were well publicised and we expected today’s encounter to test Arsenal’s resolve. However, the nature of the Liverpool performance indicated that it could take several weeks for Arsene Wenger to restore stability. Hector Bellerin at 6.5 and with 30% ownership already looks a liability.
Alberto Moreno
If it wasn’t clear that James Milner was Klopp’s first choice at left-back heading into today’s game, Moreno’s performance at Arsenal fixed that. The Spaniard’s desperate lunge on Theo Walcott went unpunished when the penalty was saved but, just a minute later, Moreno was exposed for Arsenal’s opener. He is surely destined for cameo roles this season.
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