Christian Benteke reflects on debut Anfield goal for Liverpool

Christian Benteke brushed aside the controversy over his first Liverpool goal to reflect on a satisfactory home debut.

The Reds’ £32million summer signing hit a disputed winner as the Merseysiders snatched a 1-0 victory over Barclays Premier League newcomers Bournemouth at Anfield.

Benteke struck from close range after 26 minutes, a goal referee Craig Pawson allowed to stand despite team-mate Philippe Coutinho having appeared to be offside.

That added to the Cherries’ frustrations after having a Tommy Elphick header harshly disallowed for a foul in the opening minutes, but they were no concern of Benteke’s.

The former Aston Villa forward said: “It was important for me on my debut at Anfield to score and help the team win.

“Now we have six points, we are top of the league and we want to keep going and work hard to stay there.

“I’m settled. I am happy and I try to improve myself and be there for my team-mates.”

As in their season-opening win at Stoke, Liverpool lacked fluency and were not convincing. They did have a spell of dominance either side of the goal, and captain Jordan Henderson clipped the top of the bar, but Bournemouth fought hard.

Conceding the goal set Bournemouth back but they recovered in the second half and went close when the impressive Matt Ritchie smashed a shot against the outside of the post.

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel acknowledged victory was not straightforward. The Slovakian told LFC TV: “The win is all that counts and our three points are important. I am also happy that we kept a clean sheet again.

“I must admit they were lively and dangerous, played well and had a couple of good chances.”

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe was aggrieved about the result – a second successive 1-0 loss in the top flight – but hoped his players would take plenty of encouragement from their performance.

He said: “We know we need points and results – it is a tough league, an unforgiving league. We have seen that already.

“But ultimately the performances and the general aspects of our play have been very good. Hopefully the bigger picture is it gives the players confidence they can succeed at this level, we can play our style of football and still be successful. Hopefully there is long-term gain there for us.”

Opposite number Brendan Rodgers was impressed by the visitors and their attractive style, and believes they can make a similar impact in the top division to his old side Swansea. Rodgers said: “I think they are an excellent team.

“It is very much the same situation as when I arrived at Swansea. After the first five games I think we hadn’t scored a goal and everyone was wondering if could we score and play that type of football to stay up.

“In the end we stayed up comfortably and I think Bournemouth will be the same. They have some excellent players and a style of football that will give them an advantage.

“These early games are tough, they are learning about the league but I am sure they will do very well and stay up.”

LIVERPOOL 1-0 BOURNEMOUTH:

PLAYER FOCUS: Christian Benteke vs. Bournemouth
FAN REACTION: “Performance unconvincing, result important”
TALKING POINTS: Clyne and Benteke impress, Lallana ineffective
PLAYER RATINGS
MANAGER REACTION: Howe unhappy with decisions

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Benteke: Liverpool targeting Premier League summit stay

Christian Benteke: Finished at close range for Liverpool's winner

Christian Benteke brushed aside the controversy over his first Liverpool goal by insisting they are focused on keeping their 100% run going.

The Reds' £32.5million summer signing hit a disputed winner as the Merseysiders snatched a 1-0 victory over Premier League newcomers Bournemouth at Anfield.

Benteke struck from close range after 26 minutes, a goal referee Craig Pawson allowed to stand despite team-mate Philippe Coutinho having appeared to be offside.

That added to the Cherries' frustrations after having a Tommy Elphick header harshly disallowed for a foul in the opening minutes, but they were no concern of Benteke's.

The former Aston Villa forward said: "It was important for me on my debut at Anfield to score and help the team win.

"Now we have six points, we are top of the league and we want to keep going and work hard to stay there.

"I'm settled. I am happy and I try to improve myself and be there for my team-mates."

As in their season-opening win at Stoke, Liverpool lacked fluency and were not convincing. They did have a spell of dominance either side of the goal, and captain Jordan Henderson clipped the top of the bar, but Bournemouth fought hard.

Conceding the goal set Bournemouth back but they recovered in the second half and went close when the impressive Matt Ritchie smashed a shot against the outside of the post.

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel acknowledged victory was not straightforward.

The Slovakian told LFC TV: "The win is all that counts and our three points are important. I am also happy that we kept a clean sheet again.

"I must admit they were lively and dangerous, played well and had a couple of good chances."

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe was aggrieved about the result - a second successive 1-0 loss in the top flight - but hoped his players would take plenty of encouragement from their performance.

He said: "We know we need points and results - it is a tough league, an unforgiving league. We have seen that already.

"But ultimately the performances and the general aspects of our play have been very good. Hopefully the bigger picture is it gives the players confidence they can succeed at this level, we can play our style of football and still be successful. Hopefully there is long-term gain there for us."

Opposite number Brendan Rodgers was impressed by the visitors and their attractive style, and believes they can make a similar impact in the top division to his old side Swansea.

Rodgers said: "I think they are an excellent team.

"It is very much the same situation as when I arrived at Swansea. After the first five games I think we hadn't scored a goal and everyone was wondering if could we score and play that type of football to stay up.

"In the end we stayed up comfortably and I think Bournemouth will be the same. They have some excellent players and a style of football that will give them an advantage.

"These early games are tough, they are learning about the league but I am sure they will do very well and stay up."

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Mario Balotelli and Fabio Borini transfer latest: Watford and Inter Milan linked

As the summer transfer window nears its end, Liverpool strike duo Mario Balotelli and Fabio Borini are yet to find new homes.

The much-maligned duo are clearly seen as no part of Brendan Rodgers‘ future plans at Anfield, and Liverpool are desperate to offload them, plus left-back Jose Enrique.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio of Sky Sports Italia, Watford are interested in taking Balotelli to Vicarage Road, as he looks to end his Liverpool nightmare.

The newly-promoted side are ambitious, and for all Balotelli’s faults, he would certainly give them a different edge..

Four goals in 28 appearances is a dreadful return for the Reds, however, and his antics off the pitch have done little to suggest he is maturing with age.

Christian Benteke has already equalled Balotelli’s Premier League goal record with Liverpool.

Borini, meanwhile, continues to be something of a pest. Rodgers has deemed him surplus to requirements, making him train away from the first-team squad along with Balotelli and Enrique, but he doesn’t seem to want to leave.

The Sunderland Echo are now reporting that Inter Milan have joined the race to sign the 24-year-old striker.

Sunderland themselves have been lining up a loan move for the Italian- he chose not to join the Black Cats last summer- but Liverpool want to sell him on a permanent basis.

Fiorentina and Lazio are two other clubs who have been linked with Borini in recent weeks, but no concrete offer has been made yet.

The former Chelsea youngster has never really cut the mustard on Merseyside, scoring just three times in 38 appearances.

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Nathaniel Clyne happy with Liverpool’s defensive resilience

Nathaniel Clyne says he is pleased with Liverpool’s current defensive performances, following successive Premier League clean-sheets.

The 24-year-old put in an impressive display in the 1-0 win over Bournemouth on Monday evening, as the Reds continued their winning start to 2015/16.

Clyne admits that work still needs to be done at the back, and with the team as a whole, but believes the early signs this season are promising.

“There’s a lot of work going on, we have to improve on our defensive qualities and we showed today that we can be solid in defence,” Clyne told Liverpool’s official website.

“If we can get a clean sheet there’s always the possibility of picking up maximum points like we did today so long the may the clean sheets continue.

“It’s always good to get three points, I’m sure the performances will improve and get better as the weeks go on.”

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers also had his say on the defence, and heaped praise on goalscoring hero Christian Benteke for the quality he has brought to the team.

“I’m pleased we’ve got two wins, six points and two clean sheets. Defensive organisation has been good and that’s important for us, he said.

“There are a lot of new players that have come into the club and it will take them a little bit of time to bed in. What we’re seeing is a character and spirit in the team and that’s going to be important for us.

“I thought he (Benteke) was a real handful tonight – you saw all the facets of his game.

“His hold-up play is outstanding, he’s got a wonderful touch for a big guy and you saw that this evening. He can help the ball on to areas, he can take the ball in, control and switch the game, his touch is good and you see him linking and combining.

“There was one moment when the ball came into the box – which is one of the reasons we looked to bring him in – and because of his strength and power, he tried to make contact with it. It dropped and we had a chance with Coutinho to then shoot.

“In my time here, that’s never really happened and the ball’s come in and maybe been cleared out, but because of his physicality and contact, he keeps the ball alive in a dangerous area of the field.

“That will really help and once the players get used to seeing and working with that, it’ll offer us more opportunities to score goals.

“It gives us a different dimension to our game, whilst looking to retain that philosophy to move the ball and get fluency. That will come and grow over the coming months.”

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Nathaniel Clyne and James Milner proving to be major upgrades for Liverpool

Nathaniel Clyne and James Milner have fitted seamlessly into the Liverpool side, and are huge improvements on their predecessors, writes Henry Jackson.

Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth on Monday is not a game that will be spoken of in years to come, but it was a night of positives in terms of the Reds new summer signings.

While Christian Benteke will dominate the headlines, given the fact he scored the winner on his home debut and performed well, it was fellow new recruits Clyne and Milner who really caught the eye.

The two Englishman have both slotted into the team with consummate ease, and the balance and consistency they have already given the team bodes very well for the future.

Clyne

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It was very easy to go overboard about the £12.5m signing of Clyne from Southampton, and it is important to stress how similarly ecstatic a lot of us were when Glen Johnson arrived at Anfield in 2009.

While Johnson’s time in a Liverpool shirt proved to be one of huge frustration, with a lack of defensive quality and a questionable hunger working against him, Clyne genuinely looks the real deal.

Defensively he is superb, as shown by his ability to keep Ibrahim Afellay and Max Gradel almost non-existent against Stoke and Bournemouth, respectively.

He bites into tackles, has blistering pace at his disposal and possesses terrific positional sense. How has Roy Hodgson been picking Phil Jones at right-back for England instead?

In comparison to Johnson’s lack of defensive nous, the gulf in quality is enormous. In fact, it’s probably the equivalent of Usain Bolt and Peter Kay facing off in a 100 metre race.

While Clyne may not be Dani Alves when it comes to the attacking aspect of things, his crisp use of the ball, intelligent timing of runs and consistent final ball are all top draw.

He seems to know when the right time to go forward is and when to stay back, and his goal for Southampton at Anfield last season was the perfect example of his expertise in the final third.

For the first time in a long time, Liverpool actually have a full-back who they can depend upon, and at 24, he looks a tremendous long-term acquisition.

Milner

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Milner, meanwhile, has been a revelation for the Reds in his two games so far, silencing those who doubted his free transfer to Merseyside from Man City.

The 29-year-old has been used in the central role he has so craved throughout his career, albeit quite a roaming one, and he really does look a formidable presence there.

The former Leeds United youngster was brought in to replace Steven Gerrard, and while we all know Milner will never reach the heights Gerrard did in his prime, he is still an upgrade on the 2014/15 version of the former skipper.

Gerrard was a weak-link at times last season, which at 34 years of age is completely understandable. His legs had gone, his influence was on the wane and opposition teams exploited his increasing flaws.

Milner has come in and given Brendan Rodgers‘ side exactly what Gerrard could no longer guarantee: energy, defensive quality and balance.

His work-rate against Bournemouth was astonishing at times, but his clever use of the ball and reading of the game caught the eye too. His tackling was also relentless.

There was even that last-gasp free-kick which sailed miles into the Anfield Road End. Many thought that was a dreadful shot, but it was actually an ingenious method of wasting time!

Milner is a footballer who you will only ever fully appreciate if he plays for your club- many City fans were devastated to see him leave, for example- and we are seeing that firsthand now.

Manuel Pellegrini once said of the Englishman, “find me a more complete English player. There are players who’re better technically, yes. Quicker players, yes. Players who head better, yes. But show me one who does all the things Milner does well. There isn’t one.”

He is spot on.

Conclusion

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While Benteke has immediately impressed in attack, Joe Gomez has shone at full-back and Roberto Firmino has shown glimpses of class from the bench, it is Clyne and Milner who look Liverpool’s best signings of the summer.

Both have given the Reds so much more solidity and consistency, and have been a big reason for the two clean-sheets that they have kept so far this season.

Clyne is a massive improvement on the likeable but ultimately infuriating Johnson, while Milner has brought the dynamism and influence that Gerrard could painfully no longer give his boyhood club.

Neither are the most explosive footballers you will ever see, but in terms of effectiveness and what was needed at Anfield, they are proving to be wonderful purchases.

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“Liverpool have recaptured the art of grinding out results” – Papers react to 1-0 win over Bournemouth

Liverpool edged out Bournemouth at Anfield on Monday night, and we take a look at how the morning newspapers reacted to the victory.

The performance may have been far from fluent, but to pick up another three points when the side is this rusty can only be a good thing.

Christian Benteke’s goal on his home debut proved to be the winner on the night, as Liverpool recorded their second 1-0 win in succession.

Bigger tests will come, not least at Arsenal next Monday, but in terms of giving the season momentum, this has been a good start to the campaign by the Reds.

Here is how the morning newspapers saw the game.

James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo, on Liverpool’s more gritty side to their game in 2015/16:

It was far from convincing from Brendan Rodgers‘ side but just as they did at Stoke six days earlier they earned a scrappy victory.

[…]

But unlike last season, when during their sorry demise they were an embarrassing soft touch, there is now a much greater backbone to the side.

The £80million spending spree Rodgers embarked upon hasn’t only added quality but also a welcome injection of steel.

Liverpool have recaptured the art of grinding out results with successive clean sheets. It was October last season before they managed back to back wins.

Ian Herbert of the Independent also felt the Reds looked a bit lacking, but emphasized how crucial another victory was for the hosts:

The Anfield Main Stand was a metaphor what we saw in the football team assembled to play beneath it. A work-in-progress, still a full season from completion, with some shiny new steel in position but jagged remnants of the old parts, too – yet to be dismembered.

The six points are the monumentally significant part for the home team of course, relieving pressure from the manager who joined battle for this campaign with most to prove after the unravelling of last Spring. And who has Arsenal up next.

The Daily Telegraph‘s Chris Bascombe focussed on Benteke’s performance, stating that the Belgian has given Brendan Rodgers’ side a new dimension:

To put it into perspective Christian Benteke has now equalled Mario Balotelli’s Premier League goal record for Liverpool. John W Henry, on Merseyside to monitor progress on and off the pitch in the shadow of the emerging £100?million Main Stand, will know he has not signed the next Luis Suárez, but he has not squandered cash on another dud.

[…]

Liverpool and Rodgers will be all the better for showing a different face, as long as the style has not been abandoned entirely.

[…]

Liverpool look better for being tougher to beat. Unlike a year ago, they have goalscorer to hide their blemishes.

Bascombe also gave Nathaniel Clyne a deserved menion, with the England international excelling at right-back all evening:

So many Liverpool full-backs have come and gone, many arriving with spectacular goals that camouflaged the fact they were hopeless defenders. Clyne immediately endeared himself to The Kop with his defensive capacities, outsprinting and overpowering Bournemouth attackers at a point when the rest of his side was struggling in the early stages.

The millions wasted on Liverpool full-backs would make every Anfield accountant weep. They should sleep easier after Clyne’s early performances.

Joe Mewis of the Mirror was impressed by Jordan Henderson‘s display in the middle of the park, prior to leaving the field with a foot injury:

With four new players making their full Anfield debuts it was perhaps easy to forget that Jordan Henderson was leading the Reds out at Anfield as club captain for the first-time.

His ball for the goal was a horrible one to defend – rasping across the face of goal, curling inwards and just needed a touch to go in. He then almost doubled the lead moments later with a viscous dipping shot as he led by example in the manner of his predecessor in the captain’s armband.

A cautious Brendan Rodgers removed his skipper after 51 minutes as he looked to have picked up a knock, but not before the former Sunderland man’s assured performance showed that Rodgers was right to hand him the armband.

Next up for Liverpool is that aforementioned clash at Arsenal on 24th August ((8pm kick-off GMT), before they host West Ham at Anfield five days later (3pm kick-off).

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Christian Benteke praised, but Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has foot injury

Brendan Rodgers hailed Christian Benteke after the 1-0 win over Bournemouth - but admits Jordan Henderson is struggling with a foot injury.

Benteke’s first goal for the club following his £32.5million switch from Aston Villa, proved the difference as Rodgers’ side ran out 1-0 winners at Anfield on Monday night.

"I think he gives other options in the game, when teams try to press us high," he said.

"I thought his hold-up play was excellent. You can see his feet – he’s got a good touch and awareness for a big guy and, of course, naturally when the ball comes into the box he's a big threat.

"I thought he deserved his goal and will be disappointed he didn’t get another. But it was a good night for him."

Bournemouth were disappointed the goal stood as Philippe Coutinho looked to be in an offside position as he reached for the ball which Benteke eventually fired home.

But Rodgers was keen to stress that the goal was given and that’s all that mattered to him.

"One, I haven't seen the replay yet and two, it’s a goal," he added.

"The interpretation changes every season so it’s difficult for people in the game, players, and people analysing the game.

"But the most important thing is it was a goal and we won 1-0, so that’s all that concerns me."

Rodgers, meanwhile, has revealed captain Henderson is struggling with a foot injury.

The 25-year-old was substituted after 52 minutes on Monday and Rodgers said: "He's had a problem with the bottom of his foot. He hadn't trained for part of the week.

"He was taking some painkillers with it and he'd done ever so well to even be out on the field. He wanted to give it a go but you could see he was limited in his running.

"He's done great for us for the period of time he was on but it's important that we get victories and it's important that we have fit players on the field.

"Unfortunately for him he was just in too much pain."

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Video: Brendan Rodgers’ post-Bournemouth win – Praise for Benteke

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers was understandably delighted that £32.5 million signing Christian Benteke scored his first goal for the club on his home debut against Bournemouth.

“I thought he was a real hand full tonight,” said Rodgers. “I think we saw all the facets of his game; his hold up play is outstanding, he’s got a wonderful touch for a big guy and I think we saw that this evening.

“He can help the ball on to areas, he can take the ball in, control the game, switch the game. You see him linking and combining. He keeps the ball alive in dangerous areas.”

LIVERPOOL 1-0 BOURNEMOUTH:

PLAYER FOCUS: Christian Benteke vs. Bournemouth
FAN REACTION: “Performance unconvincing, result important”
TALKING POINTS: Clyne and Benteke impress, Lallana ineffective
PLAYER RATINGS
MANAGER REACTION: Howe unhappy with decisions

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Benteke and Clyne Impress, but Lallana Ineffective Again: 5 Talking points from LFC 1-0 Bournemouth

Following Liverpool’s nervy 1-0 victory against Eddie Howe’s impressive Bournemouth, Ben Twelves picks a number of discussion points from Monday’s clash.

Brendan Rodgers’ Reds made it two wins from two with a hard-fought victory against the newly promoted Cherries.

Christian Benteke’s match-winning tap-in after 26 minutes proved to be enough to hand Liverpool a second successive win, despite an unconvincing performance on a tricky night at Anfield.

It was far from an impressive display from Rodgers’ men, but another battling win ensured the Reds importantly backed up their good work on the opening weekend against Stoke City.

Here are the talking points from the match.

Christian Benteke the Match-Winner on Impressive Anfield Bow

Making his first Anfield appearance since his £32million move, Benteke produced the goods on a difficult night at Anfield.

The Belgian turned up with the match-winning goal from Jordan Henderson’s teasing cross but alongside his first Reds strike, Benteke’s all-round performance was hugely promising as he lead the line superbly.

The 24-year-old’s movement was a far cry from the early fears; he linked well with Philippe Coutinho throughout and provided a mobile outlet across the front line. His distribution was tidy as he played more key passes than any Red (4) – while he also dominated aerially – winning a huge 10 aerial duels – alongside providing the platform to relieve pressure with impressive hold-up play.

Alongside his selfless work, Benteke’s threat in and around the box was the key ingredient behind the victory however – with his goal the perfect way to top off his Anfield bow – but he should have added a second late on when his effort hit the bar when he should have found the net from six yards.

Overall it was an impressive performance from the big-money signing and hopefully a sign of things to come.

Nathanial Clyne Impresses with Solid Display

The new right-back turned in an eye-catching display also on his Anfield debut, looking at home in the position and at Anfield instantly.

Clyne was solid defensively; he met challenges aggressively, and was quick to step out and stop danger developing at its earliest point, with his pace and agility a huge factor behind his controlling performance down the right side where he made four tackles as well as two interceptions and clearances.

The 24-year-old completely nullified the threat of Max Gradel down Bournemouth’s left, swarming his opponent not allowing him an inch, and once he completed his defensive duties, he didn’t hesitate to burst forward to provide a welcome supporting outlet from wide and deep, also registering a key pass.

The way Clyne has settled in so seamlessly since his £10million arrival has been a real positive for Rodgers’ new-look side, and more performances of the same high quality will make the total £12.5million fee look a bargain in the not too distant future.

Adam Lallana Disappoints with Ineffective Display

Expectations on the shoulders of Adam Lallana are high for this season, but Liverpool’s No.22 shows no sign of proving his worth at Anfield currently.

The 27-year-old struggled to make any real impact on Liverpool’s performance, and aside from a couple of flashes of positive play, the £22million signing showed nowhere near enough on a night he was needed to come to the fore to share the creative burden.

Lallana was slow in and out of possession, and despite playing numerous roles – including centrally in attacking midfield at the expense of Coutinho who was farmed out wide – he failed to perform, with his defensive work – which saw him make more tackles than any Red (5) and the joint-highest interceptions (2) – more impressive than anything he produced offensively.

It was a disappointing display from the former Bournemouth academy man, who was outshone by Coutinho again, and with Roberto Firmino closing in a return to full-action, Lallana faces a real battle to keep his place in the starting XI.

Jordan Henderson a Big Loss for Reds

On a night of a few negatives, the biggest perhaps came with the worrying loss of Captain Jordan Henderson – with his second half absence particularly noticeable.

The Skipper was withdrawn after 51 minutes with a foot injury, and with his exit, Rodgers’ side lost shape, discipline and direction in midfield, despite the arrival of Emre Can who was strong in the middle of the park but on occasions exposed.

Henderson dictated play well at times first half – his sensible distribution kept the Reds in the ascendency after a slow start – and his influence in open-play was vital again, as it was from his superb delivery that Benteke knocked home what proved to be the winner.

Rodgers faces an anxious wait over the extent of damage to his Skipper, and Henderson’s availability next week could prove the difference to Liverpool coming away from the Emirates to show for their efforts.

Another Vital Three Points as Reds Find Their Feet

It was far from the spectacular, fluent performance hoped for in the Anfield opener, but another three points at the early stage of the season ensured it was once again job done.

The Reds sit with six points on the board from two games – despite not being anywhere near close to hitting top form – and while it is vital performances reach the level desired, positive results at this early stage with confidence needing to be instilled within the squad is of paramount importance.

A quick start has proven to be essential over the recent years in which the Reds have enjoyed a good campaign – the memorable 2013/14 season started with three consecutive 1-0 wins – and with maximum points with the help of improved defensive displays, Rodgers’ men have gone some way to allowing that to happen again.

An improved display will certainly be needed in order for Liverpool to come away with anything to show from their visit to the Emirates Stadium next Monday, but momentum and a winning habit, especially when playing unconvincingly, is only a positive trait.

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Report: Lucas and Sakho could both leave Liverpool FC this month

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers kept the same matchday squad vs. Aston Villa on Monday night, meaning Lucas Leiva, Mamadou Sakho and Lazar Markovic weren’t involved again.

Sakho’s absence vs. Stoke City last week had been put down to his wife having given birth in the lead up to the game. But he was again overlooked for a place in the squad on Monday, with Kolo Toure named among the subs instead.

The French international is understood to be happy to be at Liverpool FC, but increasingly unhappy and disillusioned at being managed by Brendan Rodgers.

Sakho stormed out of Anfield after being replaced by Dejan Lovren in the Merseyside derby last September and has, despite proving to be a far superior player as last season progressed, been overlooked again for the Croat at the start of this campaign.

Rodgers has signalled his intention to keep Lovren in the side alongside Martin Skrtel and spoke of the need for consistency in defence.

Despite some typically shaky moments early on from Lovren, Liverpool escaped with a clean sheet – even after Bournemouth’s Tommy Elphick had outjumped Lovren to head home early on from a corner, being adjudged to have impeded the Liverpool No. 6.

Sakho, meanwhile, watched on from the stands. He has now been the subject of two bids; one from AS Roma and another from Bayer Leverkusen.

The Guardian‘s Liverpool correspondent Andy Hunter writes in his match report that both Sakho and Lucas could leave the club in this transfer window.

If Sakho sees that he isn’t going to get a game at Liverpool, he’ll surely want to move in order to ensure he retains his place as first choice with the France national side – especially as France host next summer’s European Championships.

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Eddie Howe laments refereeing decisions, Rodgers happy with Benteke showing

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe had no doubt two refereeing errors had cost his side the chance of victory at Liverpool.

The promoted Cherries went down 1-0 at Anfield after a controversial Christian Benteke strike and having a goal harshly disallowed.

Benteke’s 26th minute goal was awarded despite Philippe Coutinho being in an offside position and attempting to play the ball in apparent contravention of the latest interpretation of the rules. Howe claimed he was particularly annoyed because the rule had been explained to all managers at a recent meeting.

“It is a clear offside under the new rules,” he said in his post-match press conference. “We were sat out in front of the referees and told about the new rules. I was very surprised at the time, even from my poor angle, that the goal was given.

“That is the clearest example of the new rule you will see. A yard and a half offside and he is clearly impacting the goalkeeper. I don’t think that is a tough one.”

That decision compounded Bournemouth’s frustration after Tommy Elphick was penalised for a foul on Dejan Lovren in the process of heading home from a corner in the fifth minute.

Howe said: “Tommy has won the ball fairly. He has been aggressive but if that is a foul, we will be having fouls every time a corner goes into the box. That cannot be a free-kick in my opinion, no way.

“That is basically a two-goal swing against us. Two big decisions have gone against us.”

It was Bournemouth’s second successive 1-0 defeat after last week’s loss to Aston Villa but Howe is pleased with how his side have acquitted themselves in the top flight so far.

They hit back at Liverpool in the second half and struck the woodwork through Matt Ritchie. Howe said: “We feel aggrieved we haven’t come away with at least a point but I am very proud of the players and overall very pleased with the performances.”

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, under pressure to deliver this season, was happy to take the lucky breaks that came his side’s way.

He said of the controversial decisions: “I haven’t seen either of them again. I think we had a good period of pressure leading up to the goal and the most important thing is it was given.

“The offside rule has changed again and it adds complication for people. But at the managers’ meeting they said the advantage was looking to be with the team attacking. Thankfully the goal counted and we are happy to get the win.”

As with their season-opening win at Stoke, Liverpool lacked cohesion but Rodgers feels his new-look side still needs time to gel.

The successful home debut of £32million signing Benteke was a particular positive. Rodgers said: “I thought he was a real handful. His hold-up play is outstanding and he has a wonderful touch for a big guy. It gives us a different dimension to our game and the fluency will come.”

Rodgers added that captain Jordan Henderson was substituted early in the second because of a foot injury that had bothered him in training.

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Liverpool 1-0 Bournemouth: Player Ratings

Liverpool made it two 1-0 wins from two opening Premier League games, courtesy of Christian Benteke’s goal vs. Bournemouth. Jack Lusby provides his player ratings.

Liverpool 1-0 AFC Bournemouth
Anfield – Premier League – Monday, 17 August 2015

Goals: Benteke 26′

Simon Mignolet – 6 (out of 10)

Despite an impressive Bournemouth attacking game, Mignolet had little to do between the sticks.

When he was called upon the Belgian performed with composure and intelligence, earning a deserved clean sheet. Decent distribution, often more direct but less so than against Stoke.

Nathaniel Clyne – 7

Clyne produced another steady performance at Anfield, balancing defensive stability with some rampaging runs towards the Bournemouth penalty area.

The £12 million right-back could have registered his first assist of the season if Christian Benteke had turned away his accurate, driven cross in the second half.

A huge upgrade on Glen Johnson.

Martin Skrtel – 6.5

Brendan Rodgers hailed the performances of his back line following last weekend’s 1-0 win away to Stoke City, but at Anfield his centre-backs were far from their best.

Skrtel was forced to perform a no-nonsense role in the defence, making 10 clearances—more than any other player.

Dejan Lovren – 6

Alongside Skrtel, Lovren looked closer to his shaky 2014/15 form than the bold display that he produced against Stoke, and the Croatian struggled.

Targeted in the opening stages, Lovren needed support from Joe Gomez to stymie the movement of Callum Wilson and creativity of Matt Ritchie.

The former Southampton defender did grow into the game in the second half, but must produce more with Mamadou Sakho waiting in the wings.

Joe Gomez – 7

Is this really an 18-year-old playing out of position?

Gomez performed with consistency and maturity throughout Monday night’s clash, providing a calming outlet in possession and a strong presence in defence.

He was one of Liverpool’s most accurate passers, completing 89.5 percent.

James Milner – 7

Joining Jordan Henderson in the midfield pivot in Rodgers’ 4-2-3-1, Milner continued the more advanced role he played against Stoke—Liverpool’s game-plan is built around his energy and pressing game.

A central figure as the Reds attacked the Bournemouth box, threading passes into the paths of Benteke and Philippe Coutinho as well as playing some slick one-touch moves.

Jordan Henderson – 6.5

With Milner fielded closer to the penalty area, Henderson was restricted to a deep-lying playmaking role.

After struggling to impose himself at the Britannia Stadium last weekend, Henderson impressed against Bournemouth.

Strong in the tackle and inventive with his long-ball creativity, Henderson’s performance will have provided Rodgers with an interesting outlet as he moves forward.

Adam Lallana – 5.5

After disappointing at the Britannia Stadium, Lallana was once again limp and listless in Liverpool’s attacking midfield.

His contribution to the Reds’ pressing game is admirable, but Lallana must do more to help build attacking moves—switching from No. 10 to right wing and back, the midfielder played a peripheral role throughout.

Philippe Coutinho – 6

A truly enigmatic performance from Coutinho.

On one hand, the Brazilian was Liverpool’s most inventive creative player, carving opportunities for Benteke and Jordon Ibe and troubling the Bournemouth defence with some breathtaking dribbles.

But on the other hand, Coutinho was sloppy and wasteful: the 23-year-old made eight attempts on goal, with none hitting the target.

Jordon Ibe – 6

Ibe moved to the left wing for this clash, and was once again bright but ultimately toothless.

Constantly troubling the left-hand side of the Cherries’ penalty area, Ibe’s weaving runs and blistering pace needed to be paired with a genuine end product—the 19-year-old has much work to do this season.

Christian Benteke – 7.5 (Man of the Match)

Benteke is confounding supporters’ worries by the game, and this impressive, all-round performance—capped with a goal—pointed towards a bright future in the Liverpool attack.

His hold-up play was bold, his creative work surprisingly neat and his ability to spearhead attacks vital.

The striker should, however, have buried his second-half volley to make the result a comfortable 2-0.

Substitutes:

Emre Can (on for Henderson, 52′) – 6 – The German midfielder took up a defensive-midfield role on his introduction, putting in some strong tackles to quell the Bournemouth charge.

Roberto Firmino (on for Ibe, 70′) – 5.5 – Firmino made some useful touches and pressed well from the front, but the 23-year-old still looks short of match fitness.

Alberto Moreno (on for Coutinho, 81′) – 6.5 – In a short, 10-minute display, Moreno showcased just why he deserves to remain in Rodgers’ first-team thinking in 2015/16. Strong in defence and devastating in attack, with one bamboozling solo run the highlight of the second half.

Subs not used: Bogdan, Toure, Ings, Origi

Brendan Rodgers – 6

Rodgers was surprisingly reticent as Bournemouth pushed for an equaliser in the second half, with his 4-2-3-1 formation not providing the balance that Liverpool needed, but his second-half changes helped the Reds to steady the ship.

The introduction of Moreno was particularly inspired, with the Spaniard doubling up with Gomez at left-back to support a beleaguered defensive line.

MAKE YOUR RATINGS

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Player Focus: Christian Benteke vs. Bournemouth

Christian Benteke once again led the line for his new club as he made his home bow in the Reds’ Barclays Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

Here, Press Association Sport assesses how the £32.5million Belgium striker fared in Monday night’s contest at Anfield.

GOAL THREAT – AERIAL

Benteke’s manager at his previous club, Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood, suggested towards the end of last season that the player would not be suited to a side like Liverpool because he primarily feeds off crosses.

Certainly, the frontman caused Bournemouth problems with his physicality when the ball was sent into the box – but he did not actually manage to carve out an attempt on goal with his head.

GOAL THREAT – FEET

Benteke has rejected Sherwood’s words, vowing to show he can play with his feet as well, and the goal he notched in the 26th minute here did indeed come off his boot.

However, that was as a result of stretching it quite high to connect at the far post with Jordan Henderson‘s cross – perhaps a neatly slotted one-on-one finish or spectacular long-ranger would have done more to strengthen Benteke’s side of the debate.

He went fairly close with a strike from the edge of the box moments earlier, and really should have done better in the last few minutes when he diverted a shot right in front of goal against the crossbar.

So the jury is still out, but one imagines Benteke will simply be focused on the fact he officially broke his Liverpool duck with what proved a match-winner, not how it was scored – nor the controversy surrounding the effort with regard to whether it should have been disallowed for offside against Philippe Coutinho.

LINK-UP PLAY

Benteke did a decent job of linking up with his team-mates – Coutinho in particular – with both his head and his feet, producing several useful knock-downs and tidy passes.

OVERALL

For the second game running, Liverpool were not entirely convincing in notching a 1-0 victory, but on an individual level Benteke will be pleased enough with an encouraging display that saw him get off the mark and ultimately settle the contest.

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“Performance unconvincing, result important” – Liverpool fans react to 1-0 win over Bournemouth

Following Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth at Anfield on Monday night, we round-up the best of the social media reaction from the game.

It was far from a classic, just like at Stoke on the opening weekend, but the Reds got the job done against Eddie Howe’s impressive Bournemouth outfit.

Christian Benteke’s controversial first-half goal, in which Philippe Coutinho interfered with play in an offside position, proved to be the difference between the two sides on the Belgian’s home debut.

Nathaniel Clyne and Joe Gomez were again terrific at full-back, while James Milner’s magnificent work-rate was eye-catching from start to finish.

Six points from six is the perfect start for the Reds, and while performances must improve, it has given them a much-needed boost after the disappointment of last season.

Here is how social media reacted to the game:

‘shankly96 on the forum':

Hopefully Henderson’s injury isn’t serious. The gaps in midfield once he went off were awful and we became useless without him. I like Can but he didn’t impose himself on the game like Hendo did.

‘rab’ on the forum:

A step up from the Stoke game. Thought we were decent without being spectacular but there’s very few chances being created which is a concern. More to come for sure but early doors it’s about points on the board.

‘Walter Sobchak’ on the forum:

Clyne or Benteke MOM for me. Milner worked tirelessly and did a good job. Coutinho is just brilliant, but in all honesty, doesn’t have enough quality around him. Lovren did relatively ok.

Let us know your thoughts on the game in the comments below.

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Christian Benteke's home debut for Liverpool assessed

Christian Benteke: Positive start with Anfield winner

Christian Benteke marked his home debut for Liverpool with a goal, and while it was a positive start, there is still room for improvement.

Just over a week after struggling to make much of an impact on his competitive Liverpool debut at Stoke, Christian Benteke once again led the line for his new club as he made his home bow in the Reds' Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

Here, we assesses how the £32.5million Belgium striker fared in Monday night's contest at Anfield.

GOAL THREAT - AERIAL

Benteke's manager at his previous club, Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood, suggested towards the end of last season that the player would not be suited to a side like Liverpool because he primarily feeds off crosses.

Certainly, the frontman caused Bournemouth problems with his physicality when the ball was sent into the box - but he did not actually manage to carve out an attempt on goal with his head.

GOAL THREAT - FEET

Benteke has rejected Sherwood's words, vowing to show he can play with his feet as well, and the goal he notched in the 26th minute here did indeed come off his boot.

However, that was as a result of stretching it quite high to connect at the far post with Jordan Henderson's cross - perhaps a neatly slotted one-on-one finish or spectacular long-ranger would have done more to strengthen Benteke's side of the debate.

He went fairly close with a strike from the edge of the box moments earlier, and really should have done better in the last few minutes when he diverted a shot right in front of goal against the crossbar.

So the jury is still out, but one imagines Benteke will simply be focused on the fact he officially broke his Liverpool duck with what proved a match-winner, not how it was scored - nor the controversy surrounding the effort with regard to whether it should have been disallowed for offside against Philippe Coutinho.

LINK-UP PLAY

Benteke did a decent job of linking up with his team-mates - Coutinho in particular - with both his head and his feet, producing several useful knock-downs and tidy passes. It's certainly interesting to see Liverpool look to play more long balls than they did last season and that's obviously because of Benteke's aerial prowess and ability to bring those around him into play.

OVERALL

For the second game running, Liverpool were not entirely convincing in notching a 1-0 victory, but on an individual level Benteke will be pleased enough with an encouraging display that saw him get off the mark and ultimately settle the contest.

The striker admitted himself after the game, however, that he should have netted a second and while he can be pleased with his overall contribution, the powerful Belgium will know there is plenty of room for improvement. TEAMtalk match rating: 6.5 / 10

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Liverpool 1-0 Bournemouth: Christian Benteke scores winner on Anfield debut

Liverpool beat Bournemouth 1-0 at Anfield on Monday evening, thanks to Christian Benteke’s controversial first-half goal.

Liverpool 1-0 Bournemouth
Premier League – Anfield – Monday, 17th August 2015

Goals: Benteke (26)

Pre-match

Brendan Rodgers made no changes to the team that won 1-0 at Stoke eight days ago, as Emre Can and Roberto Firmino once again had to settle for a place on the substitutes’ bench.

There wasn’t even a place in the squad for Mamadou Sakho, whose rather bizarre omissions are now becoming something of a concern in terms of his Liverpool future.

Anfield was in good voice as the Reds looked to maintain their winning start to the season.

First-half

Jordon Ibe flashed an early effort well wide of the Kop goal, while Tommy Elphick had a header ruled out after climbing on Dejan Lovren. Liverpool started very slowly on the whole.

The Reds got hold of the game midway through the second-half, but lacked creativity in the final third. Home debutant Christian Benteke shot wide from outside the penalty area.

The Belgian found the back of the net in the 26th minute, however, as he pounced on Jordan Henderson‘s terrific cross from close-range.

It was a dream start in front of his home fans for the first time, although the goal should not have stood because of Philippe Coutinho being offside in the lead-up.

Henderson almost doubled the lead with a superb shot from range soon after, as Liverpool improved greatly after their poor start.

Coutinho had a wonderful chance to make it 2-0 just before half-time, but the Brazilian curled his shot wide.

Benteke’s goal was the difference at the break.

Second-half

Matt Ritchie tested Simon Mignolet shortly after the restart, then curled a shot high and wide. Eddie Howe’s side hadn’t lost any of their first-half confidence.

Emre Can replaced the injured Henderson in the 52nd minute, with the new Liverpool captain picking up a very rare knock.

The energetic James Milner scuffed a left-footed effort wide, while at the other end, the impressive Ritchie hit the post with a fantastic strike.

Bournemouth really got on top of proceedings with half an hour remaining, and looked the more likely side to score the next goal.

Roberto Firmino replaced Ibe with 20 minutes left, as the Brazil international made his Anfield bow. It was set to be a nervy finale.

Liverpool hung on in the end, although Benteke did hit the crossbar, but it was far from a vintage performance from Rodgers’ side. It’s hard to complain with back-to-back wins and two clean-sheets though.

Liverpool: Mignolet, Clyne, Škrtel, Lovren, Gomez, Henderson (Can ’52), Milner, Coutinho (Moreno ’81), Ibe (Firmino ’70), Lallana, Benteke.

Subs not used: Bogdan, Toure, Origi, Ings

Bournemouth starting XI: Boruc, Francis, Elphick, Cook, Daniels, Ritchie, O’Kane, Surman, Gradel, King, Wilson.

Referee: Craig Pawson

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Christian Benteke's first goal for Liverpool earns 1-0 Premier League win v Bournemouth

Christian Benteke: Celebrates his winner at Anfield

Christian Benteke scored his first goal for Liverpool as the Reds maintained their 100% start with a 1-0 win over Bournemouth at Anfield.

Benteke, a £32.5million capture from Aston Villa, fired the winning goal in controversial fashion midway through the first half, and the newly-promoted Cherries could consider themselves doubly unfortunate after having a goal ruled out themselves with just five minutes on the clock.

Full report to follow...

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